41 premium beauty products from Amazon our editors can’t live without | CNN Underscored (2025)

Youth to the People's Superfood Facial Cleanser is currently my go-to in my skin care routine. I love the pump dispenser, which makes it a breeze to use when I'm rushing in the morning. It's gentle, and it's even refillable so you can keep using the same glass jar. With a mix of soothing antioxidants, this cleanser is basically like a green juice for my skin. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor

I'm someone who self-tans all year long and I love these tanning drops for my face. They have a little bit of a learning curve, since you can't see right away where you've applied it, but I usually mix some drops into my evening moisturizer and wake up looking like I spent a day outdoors. The tan usually lasts four or five days after washing my face both morning and night. Plus, since I only end up using a couple drops, the bottle lasts me a long time. — Ellen McAlpine, updates writer

I'm all for a multitasking beauty product, which is why I love this light setting spray that's also a sunscreen mist. I use it all year round, but it's especially great for summertime. Spritzing it over my makeup makes it easy to freshen up and reapply sunscreen throughout the day. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor

This cult-favorite lipstick-ish product is almost always in my purse. The deep-berry shade is universally flattering — I promise it goes on much lighter than it looks in the tube. In fact, it’s almost sheer, but it's definitely buildable if you’re after more pigment. Best of all, it’s super moisturizing, and I’ve often found myself reaching for it instead of a ChapStick. It’s a classic for a reason! — Chelsea Stone, editorial director

After using these every other day for two weeks, I really noticed the difference in the surface of my skin, so it quickly became part of my usual skin regime. Unlike other exfoliators I have tried, these are really gentle on my sensitive skin, and I feel like my skin has become brighter and like I've been drinking gallons of water when I actually haven’t been. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor

I’ve been loving this hair serum from Redken. It can be used on damp or dry hair, so it’s super easy to incorporate into my styling routine on wash days or in between. It adds softness and shine while protecting from damage and breakage. Best of all, it doesn’t weigh my hair down one bit, and I have stick-straight hair that can easily look stringy. Even applied on my dry hair, it absorbs easily. My favorite way to use it, though, is as an overnight treatment so I wake up with smooth, shiny hair. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor

I have sensitive skin and can’t tolerate most vitamin C serums, so this is the perfect alternative for me to help with acne scarring and even out my skin tone. After seeing positive results in just a few short months, I’ll keep replenishing this luxe item (even though everything else in my routine is more budget-friendly). — Elena Matarazzo, associate deals editor

My skin loves Laneige, and any time I feel like my skin barrier needs a little extra boost, I grab one of the brand's sleeping masks. I use this cica mask to help soothe redness in the summer and rehydrate my skin in the winter. A little goes a long way with this cream, and it gives my face the extra bit of pampering it needs so I wake up feeling fresh and free from new breakouts. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

For those looking to achieve the perfect cat eye, this Stila liner is a go-to (not to mention, our pick for best liquid eyeliner). I’ve been using it for over a decade and can attest that it lasts all day, no smudging or irritation. I particularly love the ultra-fine microtip version for even more precision. —Chelsea Stone, editorial director

I've been experimenting with different skin care brands, but I keep coming back to the French classics like the Embryolisse moisturizer that I use alongside the A313 Vitamin A Pommade. I'm sure many of the popular brands are just as great, but this combination is the one that works for me to keep my skin hydrated and clear of blemishes. Plus, the Embryolisse is not greasy and is super light on my skin. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer

This Anastasia blush gives me the perfect flush, and I love how compact the packaging is. It’s easy to travel with and takes up little space in my (admittedly) cramped beauty drawer. Plus, the other end has a convenient brush for blending. The formula needs to be warmed up on your hand a little bit, but then it’s smooth and buildable on the skin. — Ellen McAlpine, updates writer

Ever since taking Accutane ... twice ... my lips have never recovered. Regular ChapStick doesn’t cut it these days; I now need ultra-moisturizing, thick salves to save my chapped lips. Most of my nightly routine consists of me slathering my skin in mountains of Aquaphor. When I discovered Laneige’s luxurious lip mask, I couldn’t believe I didn’t own this product sooner. It hydrates my lips and keeps them soft all night long. Plus, you can’t beat the yummy berry flavor. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer

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Glitter eye shadow is not an everyday thing, but when the right occasion presents itself, I reach for Urban Decay’s offerings. I have both the Space Cowboy and Lithium shades from the Moondust line and find both to be perfectly eye-catching (read: not tacky) for those moments when extra sparkle is warranted. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director

I bought this cream at a 40% discount last year on Cyber Monday, and unfortunately, I’m hooked now. Fortunately, it often goes on sale, so I always have my eye out for deals so I can stock up. I use this cream every night, as it is on the thicker side, but I wake up feeling super hydrated, and I noticed a reduction in my fine lines after using it for a month (hence why I’m hooked!). I always recommend this to my friends. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor

Normally, mud masks dry out my skin, but this one from Borghese doesn’t. Kaolin clay detoxifies the skin while hyaluronic acid, aloe and chamomile extract soothe and moisturize. It’s truly the best of both worlds and my go-to treatment after I’ve been traveling. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor

I love many of Caudalíe's skin care products, but the Resveratrol-Lift moisturizers might be my all-time favorite. I've been using both the day and night creams for a little over six months, and my skin has never been better. I also love that I can buy refills and reuse the jar to waste less packaging. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor

This has been my go-to fragrance for every special occasion or big event since I received it for the holidays last year. It has the sweetest, yet light, scent. It's not too overpowering, but I still get tons of compliments. I have the smallest version, but it's lasted for a long time. — Gabby Triolo, social coordinator

Turns out frizzy hair types can have sleek blowouts too! I swear by this Color Wow spray for giving my hair a smooth, glossy coat that not even humidity can disrupt. It doubles as a heat protectant, nixing an extra step from my routine. During the summer, I use the brand’s extra-strength formula to really lock things in. — Jacqueline Saguin, editor, deals

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: The Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream is the GOAT of my skin care routine — and I’ve been using it for over a decade. It’s the perfect gel-cream consistency for my combination skin, keeping me hydrated but not greasy. I know that even when I’m testing products with more intense active ingredients, I can always rely on this moisturizer to help my skin stay balanced. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor

I get my naturally frizzy hair straightened with keratin about three times a year, and when I want it to be curly for a big event or just to switch things up, it’s really difficult to find something that holds the curl. But the Bio Ionic styler does the trick. Even after a few hours, my curls are still bouncy and frizz free, and [the styler is] really easy to use. Salon-worthy curls in just 20 minutes. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor

I know this moisturizer is a major splurge, but hear me out: A couple of years ago, during a particularly dry and harsh winter, my ultra-sensitive skin broke out in a nasty case of eczema. My face was red, peeling, swollen, splotchy and painful, and most moisturizers I tried seemed to make it worse. I bought this pricey cream in a moment of desperation, and it was the only thing that saved my skin. When I say it was the only relief I found, I mean it. Thanks to its colloidal oatmeal, an FDA-designated protectant for irritated skin, and Japanese indigo extract, I was back to normal in no time.— Chelsea Stone, editorial director

Listen, I know you’re not supposed to pick at your skin. But sometimes breakouts and, thus, picking happens, and then you’re left to pick up the pieces. When the ghost of a blemish haunts my face, I turn to this dark-spot correcting serum from Murad. It helps fade post-zit marks and assuages my guilt over the damage I’ve done to myself. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director

Recently, I was having a spell of super-dry skin and this Laneige product really came in clutch. Hydrating and nonirritating, it was perfect for calming my sensitive skin. I also love that there is a refillable option so I don't have to buy a whole new bottle when I run out. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

This is one of my favorite lip products of all time. It’s glossy without looking childish, and the color is vibrant. Unlike most lipsticks that can dry out your lips, this balm is moisturizing. The color Sense is perfect for daily wear because it gives that “your natural lips but better” look. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

The struggle to find an SPF that sits well under makeup is real, but thankfully, this Shiseido sunscreen came to my rescue. As someone with dry skin, I was excited this sunscreen has hyaluronic acid [that leaves] my skin feeling and looking hydrated. The product feels like a cross between a serum and a cream, and has just the slightest sunscreen scent. As soon as my bottle ran out, I ordered another one. — Ellen McAlpine, updates writer

I use this aloe spray for absolutely everything. I spritz it on my face or on the back of my neck on hot days when I need to cool down, I spray it over my makeup for a dewy look or I even put some on my pillow for a calming effect as I’m trying to fall asleep. On the flip side, I spray it on clothes that need to be freshened up. I always have a bottle in my handbag, by my bed or at my desk in case I need a quick pick-me-up. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor

I've been using the It Cosmetics matte CC cream for a long time — probably almost five years. It's pretty full coverage, but it's easy to apply for lighter coverage too so that my freckles still show through. It's worth noting that the brand recently revamped this product's formula, but I haven't noticed much difference. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor

The French-founded skin care brand makes some of my favorite no-frills formulas. As someone with dry, [eczema-prone] skin, I’m very selective with what I bring into my routine. However, my temperamental skin loves [this product from] La Roche-Posay when I double cleanse. It’s a gentle oil to foam that melts away makeup and dirt from the day, leaving my skin feeling clean without taking all the moisture with it. — Jacqueline Saguin, deals editor

When I went to New York this summer, my hair was touching my back. When I left, it barely reached my chin. The stylist I went to used R+Co Ring Tone to define my thick, wavy hair in this new style after the big chop. I added it to my Amazon shopping cart as soon as I got home. I love how this gel offers hold without creating a heavy buildup of product. My hair is still adjusting to this new length and using Ring Tone helps eliminate frizz and keep the shape I’m after. — Gareen Puglia, associate testing writer

I recently took a travel-size version of this to Europe, and it was a lifesaver. I have a lot of hair, and it can get pretty frizzy even if it’s not super humid outside. I love that the moringa oil tames hair without weighing it down like other anti-frizz serums I’ve tried. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor

I've tried countless hair straighteners over the years and none of them work as well as the ghd Original Styler. I've had the same one for 10 years, and it still works as well as it did when it was brand-new. It straightens my frizzy hair without damaging it and also gives it a slight curl or wave when I want to change it up. [This is one of] my holy-grail hair tools. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor

Redness is an issue for me year-round, but this Dr. Jart cream does a great job at neutralizing it and helping to give me a more balanced and even-looking skin tone. When I'm running errands or just don't feel like donning a full-glam look, this and a little spot concealer instantly make me feel effortlessly pulled together. It also has SPF 30, so on the off chance I forgot my daily sunscreen, I at least know I've got a little bit of added sun protection. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

I can distinctly remember using this oil for the first time. It was a humid, rainy day, and I snuck into a Sephora to find a serum that could tame my frizzy ends. I was shocked at the immediate smoothing effect this had and the shine it added to my dead ends. To this day, this is the only product that eliminates flyaways and keeps things under control when I flat-iron my hair. The best part? A few drops is all you need. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer

Everybody knows the Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Cream, but I think this collagen-boosting body lotion deserves some love too. It makes my skin feel instantly smoother and softer, and thanks to a natural retinol alternative, it helps my skin look more youthful over time. And like all Sol de Janeiro products, you already know it smells amazing too. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor

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I've been blessed with bushy brows, so they’re the focal point of my everyday look (though I didn't always want to enhance this feature when thin brows were in). While I don't need to fill my brows in by any means, I like to give them a little more definition with Urban Decay's Big Bush Volumizing Gel. It's waterproof, smudge-resistant and super buildable, so I can get the look I want, and it stays put even on the sweatiest summer days. —Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor

New York City gets very humid in the summer, and my curly hair responds by ballooning out into a frizz-filled catastrophe. Desperate for a solution, I recently tried Living Proof’s new curl line, and I’ve found the definer to be totally adept at minimizing the frizz and adding shine and bounce without any crunchiness. The cream is great on its own, or sometimes I’ll pair it with a gel for some extra hold. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director

I’ve returned to this moisturizer time and again over the years. Its cream-gel formulation is super light and refreshing (especially in the summertime), and I feel like my skin literally drinks it up every time I put it on. If you’re looking for an oil-free, lightweight moisture boost, this one’s for you. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director

This shampoo and conditioner set was truly a game-changer for me. When I started using it at the beginning of this year, my hair immediately improved, becoming softer, shinier, and more manageable. It smells divine and a little goes a long way, so I can justify the price. — Rachel Quigley, managing editor

This tinted sunscreen comes out of the bottle white, but as you blend it in, it magically changes colors and adjusts to match your skin tone. Not only is it super satisfying to watch but it gives medium coverage, so whenever I wear this, I can forgo foundation. I feel like my skin always looks naturally enhanced when I wear it, and I love that it keeps my skin protected too. It comes in six flexible shades, so it can cover most skin tones. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor

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I used to rely on drugstore shampoo and conditioner, but when I started getting my hair cut by curl specialists about two years ago, they recommended switching to this shampoo and conditioner duo from Redken. I've been using both ever since, and they've made a noticeable difference in my hair. My curl pattern is more consistent, my hair is easier to detangle and my strands never feel dry or brittle anymore. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, home and gifts editor

Whenever my hair is feeling extra dry and unruly, I reach for this deep-conditioning mask from Kérastase. After leaving it on for 10 minutes (or more if I’m not in a rush), my curly, color-treated hair ends up shinier, smoother and more manageable. Unfortunately, that efficacy isn’t cheap, so I think of it as a splurge-y treat for my strands. —Chelsea Stone, editorial director

Sophie Shaw is Underscored's beauty and fashion editor. The Brooklyn-based journalist loves getting nerdy about skin care and, on the fashion side, delving into what viral trends are actually worth trying. (Ballet flats are a yes for her, but low-rise pants are a never.)