Introducing: The 2023 Marie Claire Skin Awards

A combination of alpha-hydroxy acids (read: glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and malic acid) joins forces with salicylic acid and soft, soothing jojoba to create *the* best face wash we’ve had the pleasure of trying. “It does what it promises—it exfoliates,” says Dr. Lal. It’ll leave you with that extra clean feel and  the smoothest, softest, most radiant complexion.

Spending over $50 on a cleanser is a tad steep, but when you consider it not only cleanses, but replenishes moisture and brightens your complexion, it’s more than worth it. We love it because it’s light and comfortable on your face, and its mousse-like formula feels like butter. The cushiony formula is also good for your skin thanks to ingredients like niacinamide that reduce redness, and langsat leaf extract that lightens hyperpigmentation over time.

This drugstore cleanser is a no brainer for those looking for a classic cleanse that gets the job done. It features tried-and-true skin care winners—like, niacinamide (vitamin B3), panthenol (vitamin B5) that help restore your skin, while cleansing. Our Beauty Director, Deena Campbell touts this cleanser as one of her favorites, adding that it's hydrating, yet gentle for all skin types. 

You can’t wash acne off, but you can treat it—and this foaming cleanser should be your first step. The drugstore staple contains four percent benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria, along with hyaluronic acid, three different ceramides, and niacinamide to hydrate and calm your skin. You’ll notice less blackheads and whiteheads (see you never) without unwanted flaking or peeling. 

Our entire testing committee was all-in on this one-of-a-kind face wash. It’s loaded with good ingredients: Calming antioxidants, moisturizing vitamins, and soothing oat kernel extracts; and none of the bad ones like fragrance or common irritants. The gel formula will effectively take off your makeup (we were shocked, too) and leave even the most sensitive skin soothed, hydrated, and less red than before. 

There are few things in life more fulfilling than cleansing your skin after a long day of wearing makeup, and Dior’s Dior La Mousse Off/On Foaming Face Cleanser makes the cleansing experience so special. The sweet-smelling facial wash starts with a creamy and dense texture, and then morphs into a foam that thoroughly moisturizes your skin without stripping its moisture, all while managing to strengthen and protect the skin barrier. It's truly the best parts of a cream and a foam cleanser. 

Anyone that loves Lotion P50 *really* loves Lotion P50—and after putting it through our rigorous testing, it’s easy to see why. It has a strong medicinal smell (don’t say we didn’t warn you), but it works better than anything else out there. With one swipe of a cotton pad, it will get rid of any leftover dirt or makeup, exfoliate dead skin cells, and mattify your complexion. 

Fact: One of the harsh realities of acne are the pesky scars that can be difficult to remove. But, this toner improves the look of post-acne marks by gently resurfacing your skin leaving it brighter, smoother and blemish-free. We also appreciate that it smells divine—a perk that’s practically impossible to find in most toners. 

There’s no question this fragrance and alcohol free drugstore favorite should be your go-to toner. The liquid-like consistency pairs well with most serums and moisturizers, and if used consistently, dark spots will lighten overtime. 

This alcohol-free formula takes a 360 approach: It’s tough on your acne, but gentle on your skin. Not only is it going to remove any lingering makeup or dirt to prevent future clogged pores, but it’s also going to help treat current blemishes. Naturally derived salicylic acid, aka one of the most powerful acne-fighting ingredients, detoxes the skin, while calming cica acts as a soothing agent. 

As the name indicates, this toner-serum hybrid is packed with ceramides and panthenol, which, according to Dr. Finney, “are great ingredients to help repair the barrier of the skin.” A stronger skin barrier is going to lead to less irritation, so swipe this gel-like formula on morning and night. Your soft skin will thank you for it. 

If you’re looking for a do-it-all serum, be sure to reach for this tried-and-true classic that easily transforms skin by activating the skin's revitalizing nocturnal process. Not only is it loaded with vitamin B5, but you’ll also find red vine extract that helps keep skin looking smooth and healthy. 

A product that truly needs no introduction, SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is the definition of a cult-favorite. It has a powerhouse formula that checks all the I-need-good-skin boxes. It protects your skin from environmental damage like free radicals and pollution, brightens your overall complexion, reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and evens out skin tone. 

If you're on the path to firmer, smoother skin, this serum will be your new bestie. It’s crafted with aquaPort technology to help hydrate skin much quicker than most serums, and it kick punches any sign of aging with the blue light-activated algae extract. Seriously, is there anything this serum can’t do?