A science-backed review of my favorite skincare products this year. Though I have normal skin and hormonal acne, these products are all great for all skin types. Keep reading to learn about how to reduce texture, fade scarring, and get the glowiest skin of your life.
By Jayne Turner – Staff Writer
Hypochlorous Acid
What used to be found in the first aid aisle has now hit the skincare aisle. Hypochlorous acid has been a hot topic in skincare this year, but what is it? Hypochlorous acid has antimicrobial properties, meaning it can kill acne-causing bacteria. It reduces inflammation, promotes wound healing, and is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Sold as a spray, these products are great to use after cleansing and before applying other products or over your makeup throughout the day.
My preferred brand is Magic Molecule because it is FDA-cleared, versatile, and has a longer shelf life than other brands.
Retinoid
Retinol is a well-researched skincare product. Derived from Vitamin A, retinol promotes cell turnover and stimulates collagen production. It can fade dark spots, reduce breakouts, and improve skin texture. It’s no wonder that dermatologists so highly recommend this product! When applying retinol, it is crucial to include an SPF in your morning routine and limit the use of retinol to nighttime, as it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
My tried and true retinoid is Mad Hippie Super A Serum. This formula contains three forms of retinoids and boasts clinically proven results. It’s strong, so don’t use it every night until your skin gets used to it! I like Mad Hippie products (check out their Vitamin C Serum, too) because they are cruelty-free, sustainable, and use natural ingredients.
Recently, I discovered Good Molecules 1% Retinol Night Oil. It’s easier on the skin since it is suspended in oil. It has never dried out my skin. The formula also contains plum oil, which helps plump and nourish the skin. Good Molecules is another brand I like, since they are transparent about their ingredient lists, cruelty-free, and affordable.
Retinol is an active ingredient, which is how it can increase sun sensitivity. Read more about skincare actives here!
Pimple Patches
Pimple patches have gained significant popularity in recent years. They are great for targeted treatment, rapid results, and convenience. They are discreet; some patches even disappear under makeup, allowing users to treat their breakout throughout the day. Since their rise to popularity on social media, some brands even release patches in special shades, meant to be seen. I like pimple patches for quick flattening of breakouts. They draw out impurities, and overnight, all that’s left is a flat spot.
The brand I use is once again, Good Molecules. They are hydrocolloid patches, and they’re the cheapest ones at ULTA. When I first wanted to try out pimple patches, I didn’t want to dish out too much money, in case I didn’t like them. Lucky for me (and you), these ones work great!
Into Korean skincare? Check out this guide with the best affordable products.
Moisturizer
Every winter, my skin needs extra TLC. This year, Ponds Daily Skin Cream is saving the day. It has a lightweight, yet creamy texture, which makes it the perfect moisturizer for everyday use! In contrast with the Ponds Cold Cream, it is less thick, which I prefer. Thick moisturizers tend to feel heavy on my skin and eventually clog my pores. This is not the case with the daily skin cream! Where Pond’s Cold Cream is better for dry skin types, the Daily Skin Cream is great for all skin types. I use it morning and night and I get compliments on my “glow” daily!
Scar Treatment
If you’ve ever struggled with acne, you know that the battle isn’t over once you’ve cleared the breakout. Your skin needs extra support and love to regenerate skin cells. For this, I love Bio Oil. It helps reduce the appearance of new and old scars, improve skin tone, and hydrate the skin. Apply twice daily to affected areas for maximum effectiveness. A lightweight blend of plant oils, PurCellin oil, and vitamins promotes the health of your skin. It’s not greasy and it doesn’t clog my pores, making it great for nightly and daily use. I also find that it makes my makeup sit more smoothly on my skin!
Skincare is incredibly personal, and with an oversaturated market of products, it can feel like an uphill battle trying to find the right products for you. I have experienced hormonal acne myself, but my skin isn’t especially dry or oily. If your skin is, you might need a heavier product or find a toner beneficial. Skincare is a journey, and I’m still on it! But for now, these are my best of 2025.
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Author: Jayne Turner is a freelance writer from Orange, California. She has a bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience with an emphasis on language and cognition. She has ten years of musical theatre experience and a lifelong love of reading. Utterly excited by the brain, she brings a fresh Gen Z perspective to the topics that intrigue us most
