Chemist Ranks Reddit's Top Skincare Products

[@addie1080]

As both an Aussie and a uni student I really appreciate how much you care about the cost of products. That's a huge factor in decision making for me!

[@lamentate07]

There is no proof that more expensive products are better. Literally zero. It's just marketing and spin by people connected to the skincare industry, including some dermatologists who are paid stooges. When the science isn't there, follow the money.

[@cesarrivera5566]

You should talk about fermented skincare (galactomyces, bífida, sacaromyces)

[@Style_224]

Yes i would like to listen to her opinion on fermented skincare

[@KellyfromMemphisDD214]

I would LOVE to hear her opinion on them because I am considering purchasing some because I have issues with hydration…but if it I just a gimmick, Lab Muffin would say so!

[@zoeberry33]

Yes! I asked about bifida a couple of videos ago.

[@db-gb5xi]

It would be interesting assuming she hasn't covered it in some of her k-beauty videos. I know I've heard derms recommend some products like in essences.

[@kendallstark4302]

@@KellyfromMemphisDD214 if you're anything like me, fermented ingredients will dry you out like nothing else. I tried the Secret Key rose essence and at the end of the first day of use, the skin around my nose and mouth was peeling off. I felt like a snake.

[@geniej2378]

One thing I've been burned with recently in skincare is marketing not being clear about which cleansers can remove makeup (including waterproof mascara) and which just clean your face from a sunscreen only day. It's all labelled as (oil, gel, foaming etc) cleanser!

[@geniej2378]

Any tips on how to tell them apart would be great

[@heylol2667]

I got stuck in this but it’s pretty simple actually, any oil based cleanser such as an oil or balm cleanser remove makeup because makeup tends to be oil based and water can’t remove oil micellar is also included even though it’s water based because of the particular structure of micelles can move oils. Sunscreeen only days u only need a water based cleanser since most sunscreen are water based .

[@CJ-up7pn]

@@heylol2667 alot of sunscreen are water resistant now so i think what cleanser you use can depend on how many layers and reapplications you put on

[@heylol2667]

@@CJ-up7pn I forgot that, thx

[@sct4040]

Oil cleanser clean the best, especially for sunblock and makeup. I use it as a double cleanse.

[@billie-1373]

I could watch you talk about skincare forever! You’re so knowledgeable, you make skincare chemistry so accessible, and you’re an Aussie so I can actually purchase the stuff you recommend. Love your channel

[@marianne6373]

The one time I used CeraVe (a cleanser and a moisturizer) I understood how fragrance free products can actually irritate the F out of your skin, while some fragranced products can work just fine.

[@polinachekri]

Same! For some reason CeraVe always irritates my skin so much, whereas many fragranced products do not.

[@marianne6373]

@@polinachekri Idea for a video : Ranking high end skincare products. Just to watch a video about skincare with zero mention of this **** brand.

[@theprousteffect9717]

Well, of course. Fragrance isn't the only potential irritant, it's just one of those ingredients that has a risk of irritation with little to no benefit for our skin (it's added for user experience and/or product stability). There have been a few CeraVe products that have irritated my skin, as well as products from Eucerin, Vanicream, and La Roche Posay (all of the big names in sensitive skincare). Avoiding fragrance is a generally good idea because we can develop sensitivities and allergies to it, and it can increase the irritation potential of other ingredients, but ANY product (fragranced or not) can be irritating. Including fragrance is a choice, and it's not worth it for me, but might be worth it for others for the sensorial pleasure.

[@quinlantaylor04]

I think it’s because they use such cheap ingredients in their products. I can not use any cerave products besides the healing ointment without my skin becoming inflamed and itchy.

[@marianne6373]

@@quinlantaylor04 Just because something is affordable, fragrance free and in a big bottle - which make any dermatologist swoon it seems, doesn’t mean it’s good… (Outside of the US, CeraVe isn’t even that affordable.)

[@seanvalentinus]

Hi Michelle. After you mentioned it, I went and watched your video on cleanser myths. Watching your vids has made me realise a lot of the criteria I used to use to ID products to avoid isn't grounded in science. I'd love to see a vid from you saying what info you look out for in products to decide what to avoid buying. Thanks.

[@seanvalentinus]

@@Make_AWish That's awesome to know, thanks 🙂

[@peroxisome1]

When she moved ordinary glycolic to holy grail at 18:21 , I was so satisfied. It’s my go to for feet and back of arms KP.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

It's so freaking budget-friendly!

[@rhifri4398]

I really need to try this for my KP

[@peggedyourdad9560]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience I know, I like the whole brand for this reason. I've actually been wanting to try out their lactic acid serum since my skin seems to like AHAs and that one seems to work the best for me. I also really liked using their Hylauronic acid serum but my only mild gripe is that it does feel a bit sticky.

[@peroxisome1]

@@rhifri4398 Use it in combination with salicylic acid, and some kind of hyperpigmentation treatment. I cycle between glycolic, Topicals faded, and salicylic acid, paying attention not to overdo the acids to avoid sensitivity. Best of luck.

[@YuliBuga]

I want to try the ordinary so much but here in my country is super expensive😢

[@cassandrabriggs9133]

As someone who never wants Halloween time to end, I’m appreciating your jumper.

[@cristalgahanreznor7519]

It's awesome!

[@izabelakowalik5504]

I wonder where it's from, I want one too!

[@Jasmine215100]

I love the Holidays, starting with Halloween and ending with New Year's Day!

[@spammusubi1607]

The cerave moisturizing cream causing closed comedones just made me realize that’s why I have so many on my forehead!

[@21972012145525]

Fun video. More like this plz. Neutrogena does make a fragrance free version of the hydro boost product you showed, I believe it’s the same one. It’s marketed for extra dry skin

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I think that's the gel cream rather than the water gel, which is lighter in texture - they're in the same looking jar though, and there's a good chance Looria mixed up the two as well! I don't know why brands do this 😩

[@georgiesuttonart]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience I have used both the water gel and gel cream (in the UK this is) and they pretty much smell exactly the same, i use the water gel in the summer and gel cream in the winter for my oily skin. both pretty fragrance free and I don't like really fragranced things just my preference as I prefer neutral smells - so maybe they have different formulations in the UK

[@elizabethtennant7505]

​@@georgiesuttonart I've tried both versions of hydro boost too (in Canada, if that matters). The water gel triggered my allergies (sneezing, itchy eyes) while the gel cream didn't, so I used the gel cream for a while even though I have combination skin, not extra dry skin. To me the gel cream smells kind of like the water gel but not as strong. Other than the fragrance I found them very similar, but the gel cream did feel a little bit more hydrating in my opinion. (I stopped using it after about a year because I discovered that Cerave PM lotion works a lot better for me.)

[@rosalina2773]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience even Neutrogena mixes them up. I tried to order the gel cream once and received the water gel 😂

[@21972012145525]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience ahhh. I was wondering if it was the case if looks/sounds the same but is actually different! Hence the “I believe it’s the same one.” I was like surely she must know this with a skincare channel!

[@jennyr1625]

To be fair, I think the sensory experience/enjoyment of using a skincare product matters to most people, regardless of whether they're looking for it to be "effective" or not. People who use plain/boring, fragrance-free products like Cerave or Cetaphil don't necessarily "not care" what the products smell or feel like on their skin, it could for instance just mean that they have super sensitive noses and detest all fragrances (like yours truly, lol 🙂)

[@lipstickzombie4981]

I'm a scent junkie (can't live without a puff or two everyday and ever part of my area has a plugin or diffuser). I don't do scented skincare or makeup because I don't want any other scent upstaging my SOTD on my body.

[@crimbleland]

Weirdly I LOOOOVE the experience of the basic Cetaphil cleanser. My skin feels so clean and it feels like a milky massage. To be fair I have dry skin so a lot of other cleansers leave my skin feeling stripped.

[@trawrtster6097]

Same, I use unscented stuff pretty much wherever I can (except dental products; I do like mintiness) because bathrooms are usually bath/shower + toilet in the same room, and I end up associating any cleanser or soap smell with a “bathroom smell”

[@dodgek5270]

Yeah I really hate scented or "sensory" skincare. It feels like your paying for unnecessary premium for them to markup more the product. You can add your own perfume after skincare. Skincare means for me is going for healthy and practical way. It's like drinking fresh unadulterated water and not getting juice or soda. Makes me feel good that I'm doing something healthy rather than guilty pleasure.

[@jennyr1625]

@@trawrtster6097 Haha, that's such a great expression, "bathroom smell". 😂My problem is that most fragrances, no matter how "fresh" or fruity" or whatever they claim to be, smell artificial to me. They have this weird, sharp, chemical undertone that makes them smell completely fake and nothing like the fruit or flower they're trying to emulate. So, fragrance free it is. 🤷‍♀

[@Edward_Avila]

I’ve always gone back and forth with the Cerave Hydrating Cleanser, wanting to like it because it seems so popular, but everytime I use it I get this…tingling/burning feeling?? Which I’m confused by because I’d assume it’s gentle. So lately I just stick to a basic, gentle oil cleanser in the morning to break up and wash off the layer of crusted oil on my face lol

[@jakeh6977]

I feel the exact same way!!! I keep forgetting it does that and will go back to it if something else irritates my skin.... And then I'm like "Wtf, why did I use this again?" 😂 Also switched to just using an oil cleanser for double cleansing instead for the moisture 🙌

[@actuallyitscady]

I had that problem and found out I'm allergic to one of its ingredients 😅

[@lf2659]

They changed the formula. The previous formula for me didn't give me that feeling. This new one though I can't use and had to find another product instead.

[@jakeh6977]

@@lf2659 it was amazing for my skin before since it's so dry and what you're saying makes so much more sense to me now! 😂

[@lf2659]

@@jakeh6977 Yes I like to buy in bulk so I had a old one I was using up. Then one day it just started to burn my face I was like why then I checked the packaging and realised that the formulas had changed and had to get rid of a full bottle of it.

[@TheMstwntdLMSV123]

Here in the US (not sure about other parts of the world), there’s actually a fragrance and dye free version of the Neutrogena hydro boost named “gel cream extra dry,” and it’s personally one of my holy grails. It’s very hydrating and has just enough occlusives to keep my dry-leaning skin happy. The texture is amazing, and it’s one of the only moisturizers I’ve tried that sits nicely with my facial hair

[@sirtsupirtsu]

Neutrogena HydroBoost does have a fragrance free version. It is for Extra Dry skin. But it is actually not that much different from the one that is for oily skin (with fragrance), so I always bought the one for extra dry skin. It is really a great moisturizer.

[@dreko3754]

I have naturally oily skin, so I'm not a fan of slugging as well. Cerave healing ointment is a holy grail for me as a lip balm, for rough dryp spots (hands, elbows, knees), and open wounds. It's probably my most used product among this list, then again, none of the usage is on my face so that begs the question of how skincare is defined. Loved the information and the video!

[@Siberius-]

16:55 - An alternative to the Cerave Healing Ointment that is available here, is the Ego QV Dermcare Stingfree Ointment (tube or tub). They really need to market this better, because even after reading it, one still has no clue what kind of product it is exactly.

[@rewesandwich]

The cerave moisturizing lotion is my holy holy holy grail. It treated my dyshidrotic eczema really well when I wanted to move away form using hydrocortisone creams, I got a really bad reaction on my lips from the cerave lotion and the cream healed it (in combination with petroleum jelly), and anytime I get dry patches or chafing around my nose that heals it quickly. Although it's a thick cream, it doesn't look shiny or greasy at all, it looks matte, which surprised me big time because thick creams are always greasy. I love it.

[@scout8145]

14:39 I used the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser right before and right after the reformulation. The change in appearance from whiteish to clear confused me quite a bit, because all their product labels look so similar, but I was certain I bought the same one! Both versions were “meh” on my face, but the newer one is slowly getting used up as my second-in-command body soap for when I need something gentler.

[@LindaMitchell]

I've been a fan of Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA for years but I started looking for an alternative when they kept raising the price. Finally, I found one with Naturium BHA 2% Liquid. I've been using it for 2 years and l love the formula and results.

[@_pb2]

I think it'd be awesome if you did videos on skincare ranges by brand - not necessarily testing them, but just what you can see based on their claims and ingredients!

[@cassafrasslee9840]

I used that Cerave cleanser 4 years until it started drying out my skin, I don't know if they changed the formula or what . Now I use the Cetaphil one and I love it. My skin is very dry but not overly sensitive and I prefer cheaper cleansers and spend more on the other stuff

[@Natalie-qd5zf]

Yes! Me too, I’m so glad I wasn’t just going crazy. I had to switch up my entire skincare routine because it wasn’t doing what it used to.

[@crimbleland]

Same! I go super basic on the cleansers since you wash them off anyways… and then I invest $80 once every 6 months on a retinoid 😉

[@clairebear7842]

When do you think they changed it? I’ve recently been dealing with dry skin when this cleanser used to be my holy grail and noticeably reduced my dry skin

[@theprousteffect9717]

Oh god, I love this channel. You are such a good teacher; perfect balance of education and entertainment! Speaking of CeraVe, I would love if you did a deep dive into ceramides in skincare. I've heard a lot of mixed information about the ratio of ceramides: cholesterol: fatty acids that's needed to be effective in skincare. I've seen some studies that ceramides in the majority of products don't do anything (either too low a concentration or incorrect ratios), and if they're not in the right ratio, might actually do more harm than good. I agree with you on CeraVe products being boring and kind of joyless to use. I've also just accepted that I enjoy at least a little bit of foam in my cleansers and the hydrating cleanser is so unsatisfying to use. To me, this partly explains the popularity of Asian skincare: you get the affordable price point and products geared toward soothing and skin health but a more fun user experience. Also, the cosmetic elegance of Asian products is just a cut above what you get in most American drugstores.

[@LisaKerttu]

Oh my god, Makeup Alley, that was an unexpected blast from the past. I spent soo many hours on those forums.

[@morganaluthor]

i'm using the cerave Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser, yea it isn't the nicest in terms of smell, but it cleans makeup, sunscreen, face really well & its value bottles are pretty affordable

[@milicap88]

this is, like, the most useful video I have seen in a long time, no bs, just useful information, thanks!

[@Bongi344]

No one asked but I thought it's nice too see if anybody used the same products as me. These are my holy grail rn: 1. Laneige deep cleanser (so good, effective, non drying, really good price). 2. Rice Water - I'm From (long lasting hydration and it cleansed up my clumped pores). 3. Vitamin Tree Gel Moisturizer - I'm From (not too occlusive, hydrating enough. Good under makeup. Acne prone skin friendly. Good for lips too!) 4. Cerave Retinol (for night) - not sure about this, too mild I barely notice any improvement. But definitely safe. 5. Etude Sunprise mineral sunscreen (plan to switch to cosrx, I used to love Sunprise but it dries my forehead skin sm now). Sorry for broken English. Edit: after weeks, I start to notice some improvement on under eye wrinkle ..so I kinda like the Cerave retinol now.

[@hotpotato1898]

your english is really good!

[@Bongi344]

@@hotpotato1898 thankyou

[@chococat3972]

Hello! We use the same sunscreen and I have very oily/acne-prone skin and it helps to regulate the sebum production :) do you have normal/dry skin?

[@Bongi344]

@@chococat3972 mine is combination, nowadays my forehead is a bit dry ...so that's why

[@pancakeshotcakes]

I still can’t believe they discontinued the laneige cleanser 😭😭😭

[@janetwalshadams]

I'm one of those unfortunates who can't do any niacinamide (haven't even tried The Ordinary's version), and the Cetaphil oily skin cleanser was the only one that worked for me. So I'm devastated that they reformulated

[@07miagirl]

Have you tried the neutrogena hydro boost gel cleanser? I think they have one which is gentle and without niacinamide.

[@JasminMiettunen]

I’ve seen a lot of dermatologists say niacinamide in concentration over 5% are likely to be irritating! So personally I wouldn’t use The Ordinary Niacinamide Serum.

[@cassh1280]

Oh my god... I didn't realise they reformulated. I stopped using a while ago on my face cause its too harsh in combination with my hard water but I kept been using it to clean my glasses since it's still pretty gentle. I've had a breakout on my eyebrows for a while and couldn't figure it out. This has got to be it. I'm going to have to do a test... and find a new soap-free cleanser for my glasses lol. Also I second 07miagirl's suggestion for the hydroboost cleanser. I get the fragrance free and it is very nice for my oily, sensitive skin.

[@janetwalshadams]

@@07miagirl I definitely will give it a go, this will help me get over my "Neutrogena burned my face in the 90s" trauma 😅

[@janetwalshadams]

@@cassh1280 I get them on my temples and around my eyes, maybe our foreheads are especially susceptible 😅 Thanks for seconding the Neutrogena suggestion, I too am oily and sensitive

[@Parrot5884]

On the topic of niacinamide and irritation (along with other single ingredients or ingredient groups people tend to label as irritating or comedogenic), something I think about a lot is the time someone on SCA blamed their severe eye irritation on petrolatum, but the product they used had peppermint oil in it. Is it the ingredient on the label/at the top of the ingredient list/demonised by clean beauty, or is it the ingredient with high known irritation risk?

[@becci497]

the Cerave foaming cleanser is definitly the product i cant go without, i have normal to oily skin and it always leaves my skin smooth and soft, and its affordable. very interesting to hear so many people react to it differently tho, really goes to show theres no such thing as a one size fits all product :)

[@JeziKrislarenmenou]

I can’t believe I forgot you were a mod on SCA! 2014 really was a peak year for the beauty community on Reddit, lol. MakeupAlley is such a great throwback, too! I still check their reviews, even though they aren’t quite as active as they were about a decade ago. The hydrating cleanser from CeraVe remains an all-time holy grail cleanser for me. I could never get into the tub because my skin doesn’t like petrochemicals (too occlusive for me, I guess). The lotion and salicylic acid cleanser, though, are fantastic for my body during the summer. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA used to be my holy grail, but I switched to the COSRx version a few years ago and prefer it. I’ve used the Ordinary’s niacinamide serum for a few years now, and it’s effective (the zinc is especially good for my rosacea), but it’s definitely not pleasant to use, so I’m experimenting with other niacinamide serums nowadays. I have the older version of the Cicaplast balm and have enjoyed it. I still love me some hyaluronic acid, but I prefer Indeed Labs or the Inkey List to the Ordinary. I agree with you, though: nowadays, since hyaluronic acid is in so many products, it feels redundant to use a separate serum for it. I’m trying out Great Barrier Relief to try to get both niacinamide and hyaluronic acid in one go rather than in separate products. I loved this video concept!

[@menacetosociety6825]

10:47 Sums up my experience using the Paula's Choice 2% BHA. After a while, I realised that keeping it on my face ended up just making my face quite itchy, which in turn led to me scratching it, which in turn led to more acne. The salacilic acid cleanser, on the other hand, ended up being what I needed.

[@Uniacoty]

For me, the first product that I felt like I saw myself with noticeably clearer skin was Differen Gel. I was worried because I saw that it can cause purging when you first start using it, however I didn't experience that problem. I want to try out Paulina BHA soon.

[@takada5743]

Unfortunately I am one of the few that react badly to the Cosrx snail mucin, I have never ever had any acne from a product until I tried this! So many small closed comedones, and in places where I usually never get acne (my forehead). Just goes to show you how people react differently to products, even "holy grail" products

[@ElizabethEddelman]

I have combination skin and I found that it gives me closed comedones on my forehead (which is more normal/oily) but is a holy grail product for the bottom half of my face (the very dry half) and where I get hormonal acne! So I only use it on the bottom half now and I love it

[@alexx5337]

@@ElizabethEddelman does that mean you're two faced? /j

[@Greyfeather08]

A tier list for each group of product based on principal active ingredients please!!

[@ampersignia]

++++

[@clavis_aurea]

It feels so good to hear that people experienced breakouts using The Ordinary Niacinamide. It was the product that got me totally off using niacinamide in anything, as The Ordinary Niacinamide made my skin itch so bad. I also felt stinging/itching from using the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser (really terrible stinging and burning sensation, so much so that I stopped using it after one use) and that made me thing it's because of the niacinamide in the cleanser as well. But since those early ears in mid 2010s I have used so many Korean skincare products (from COSRX, Skin1004, and Beauty of Joseon to name a few) that contain niacinamide, and never experienced that same feeling I experienced using The Ordinary and CeraVe. Never did figure out what caused the stinging in those products.

[@FuriedHearts]

The CeraVe foaming cleanser is my most purchased skincare product of all time. I will never be without it. I find it to be one of the most hydrating foaming cleansers on the market. Even more than the Vanicream cleanser which I also love

[@S_Hwang]

I actually had my skin barrier damaged after trying CeraVe foaming cleanser, and healed it with Vanicream cleanser. This just shows that skincare is so individual...

[@lauryn6037]

you’re so right!!! i’ll never buy a different cleanser again since i started using the cerave foaming cleanser, i love it so much

[@ht8038]

It burns my eyes🙁

[@blu3fl4me]

close ur eyes when you wash ur face and make sure to get off all the soap before opening them again hope this helps !!!

[@SarahNotSara]

Same. I've tried lots of cleansers and keep going back to cerave foaming. It gets all the dirt and make-up off without damaging my skin barrier. Foams perfectly and feels amazing.

[@Anni_ka]

My recent absolutely abhorrent skin situation (retinoids, woohoo) had me browse reddit for hours as well, so this video could not have come at a better time!😅

[@era9402]

I was apart of that group of people that broke out with The Ordinary’s niacinamide serum, so I’ve been scared of niacinamide since. I think I might the ingredient another shot after hearing that it might just be the product! I believe i was also using it when it was expired, so that must’ve also been a factor of the sudden flare of pimples. I also want to try the Paula’s Choice product mentioned! Great video :)

[@InezReiz]

Hey! How did that go for you, assuming you have tried a different niacinamide product? The ordinary's serum broke me out too and haven't tried niacinamide ever since...

[@yalazha]

So that's why your picks and topics are so familiar to me! I was following beauty subreddits around the same time.

[@sarahr9323]

Love this video!! I have used a lot of these products. I love the CeraVe Hydrating creamy face wash. The Neutrogena Hydro boost does have a fragrance free version- it says "extra dry" on the packaging.

[@slhilliard]

I think you were right on with your rankings. Thanks for your content.

[@primordialmeow7249]

Spot on yet again Muffin! It took me two years into my skin care journey to disabuse myself of the myth that "foaming cleansers are harsh" across the board. My skin is more resilient now and my favs are either Rovectin Foaming Cleanser or the new Ordinary Foaming Cleanser after, of course an oil or balm first step cleanse. PS: The Ordinary HA Serum I am using up on the ends of moist hair...locks in moisture nicely...then won't repurchase as it is redundant.

[@mrithikasivakumar]

I just watched your video on debunking misinformation about haircare, and I hopped to this video only to have an ad of dr youn asking me if I have tried at-home microneedling 😬😂 crazyyy

[@issarob]

Cerave has a cream to foam cleanser now and I find it to be a better version of the foaming cleanser. Less drying and doesn't contain niacinamide, which unfortunately never works well for me.

[@moço_aquele]

The CeraVe Foaming Cleanser is my favourite product. It's both budget friendly and works great as a cleanser for me (I have combination type skin).

[@lookingatdaisies9901]

It's my new favourite since 2020, I was using Simple Foaming Cleanser before this and they discontinued it, and this blended in seamlessly into my routine when I looked for an alternative.

[@priscilaesteva6635]

I LOOOOOVE the vanicream daily facial moisturizer. It is so good and such an elevated formula for no reason. Its such a beautiful texture. It feels very lightweight but it is so moisturizing. It has a natural to glowy finish. It doesn’t feel greasy or look wet/oily.

[@laexploradoraaaXD]

I was the biggest fan of the CeraVe foaming cleanser but I switched to the hydrating cream-to-foam cleanser. I love a foaming cleanser but I do like the creamy hydrating cleanser, so this is the best of both.

[@ripcactusify]

id honestly love to see a dry skin version of this but everyone seems to have oily skin ;-;

[@rosieweaves99]

Old comment, but regardless, I have combo, some dry spots some oily, so jump between recs and actives for both, but I also have VERY dry eczema prone hands. The biggest thing that makes a difference for dryness is simple. Oils. Actual ones. Not petroleum. Not more glycerin. Not silicones. Not more HAs and hydrating ingredient. I dont need more occlusion or water. I. Need. Oil. Maybe some esters in a pinch, but not preferred. There are still fragrance free moisturizers with oils higher in the formula on the market, and if you're down bad, mix some extra oils with your moisturizer and use that. Or add a layer of straight oil as your last step. Works wonders. I'm a simple gal, so safflower or sunflower are nice, jojoba is good but more expensive, and I've used straight canola on my skin in a pinch (mostly if I'm cooking and using my hands. I legit can't touch water without needing to moisturize after, so, food grade canola oil. It workes.)

[@jake9854]

nah u ve oily skin mainly because u r a girl.

[@funkymonkey7202]

@@rosieweaves99 Thank you!! Gonna do this with coconut oil (already using it for my hair anyways)

[@oliviasunday5682]

@@funkymonkey7202coconut oil is very comedogenic, i would use argan or similar

[@GAIUSJAKE]

*everyone thinks they have oily skin. Honestly so many people just assume they have oily skin idk why.

[@AliceintheRabbitHole]

Aw the makeup alley days! I also used to read beautypedia often (in particular the comments). Good times, Sephulta reviews just don’t compare in terms of helpfulness Totally agree on the glycolic toner. Would have done the exact same shuffle as it’s fine imo but truthfully, nothing else in that price range comes close

[@brirose230]

I also used to love makeup alley - good memories! I also loved, and regularly referred to, beautypedia (by Paula Begoun) until recently. Devastated that they’ve changed it and got rid of all the reviews 😩

[@skyhoward2050]

Beautypedia was my jam..then I became an esthetician ❤️😅

[@Style_224]

actually there is a fragrance free option for Neutrogena hydro boost cream just look for the one that extra dry skin for the unscented one but im not sure if they do sell it in other countries thought

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I think it's a slightly different formula, in the same looking jar? The gel cream is thicker, but the water gel is very light and almost like a jelly. Both are really lovely and lightweight though, and I actually prefer the gel cream!

[@suides4810]

I personally think its very similar to the cerave lotion which i prefer.

[@vatsalamolly]

I have been using the Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser since 2016, and it is one of the only products that i can use without worries when my skin starts acting up. I had no idea that it has been reformulated! The bottle I'm currently using still has the old formula. Maybe the new one is being rolled out in my country just now as I saw the outer packaging has been changed a bit but I'll have to check the ingredients list. Can somebody share their experience with new vs. the old formula?

[@annekrank7176]

Huge fan of the La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume (B5+) It really soothes my skin and helps me prevent irritation pimples caused by my dry flaky skin (especially after cleansing), would really work well as a slugging balm if it didnt get dry and flaky overnight. I think ill also try with the eucerin Aquaphor

[@Alex-dj9qj]

Cicaplast saved my skin during Tretinoin! It's not meant for acne per se, but it honestly calms mine down so nicely and it heals faster, especially on non-Tret nights. I only apply a light layer so tbh it lasts ages.

[@morgianasartre6709]

Have you already tried the reformulated version?

[@annekrank7176]

@@morgianasartre6709 i think the one i have is the new one

[@Quartza_]

I love cicaplast b5+ too. It helps my skin a lot in term of itchiness and tight feeling.

[@FuriedHearts]

That Neutrogena gel cream does have a fragrance free option

[@SkintitaApril]

Yes, and it's one of Dr. Dray's favorites.. 😊💞

[@JasminMiettunen]

She talked about the water gel, not the gel cream, they’re different products, although the packaging is almost identical

[@skateata1]

I only use the snail mucin after procedures that irritate my skin like dermaplanning, peel off masks, and waxing. It's so much more soothing than any aloe product

[@soksannkhem6961]

I love the Cetaphil gentle cleanser. It does not feel like the Cerave hydrating cleanser. I tried both but I prefer the Cetaphil. Cerave feels like this fatty oily acid wash to me. The cicaplast just sits on my skin it doesn’t absorb. I don’t understand it. Some says it’s been reformulated. I’m so confused how cicaplast is that great. I tried Avene cicaflate that works better. The snail Cosrx is good. Oh man I tried all the products you mentioned and some are just overhyped.

[@mgcustodio]

That was such an interesting trivia you shared abt your moderator experience in the past. I still lurk in Asianbeauty and a few other subreddits(not much on skincareaddiction though) that have really added value to my consumption choices, or lack of. I also visit makeupalley, another place I go to for unbiased feedback where I can filter comments. I wish there were even more sites like these now, but they seemed to have been forgotten/overlooked now. Just me walking down memory lane, lol. I would like to request a video, or even just a short, on makeup/skincare hybrids. Is there actual science or just another marketing scheme? What works, where to focus instead. Because like what skincareaddiction members prefer, I would like a streamlined routine(both skincare and makeup) that is efficient and gives best value for money.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I loved the "filter by skin type" function on MakeupAlley! That's a good idea for a short, thank you! I'll add it to the list...

[@JeziKrislarenmenou]

MakeupAlley is the best! An absolute goldmine for no-nonsense beauty recommendations.

[@brirose230]

I also used to love makeup alley - good memories! I also loved, and regularly referred to, beautypedia (by Paula Begoun) until recently. Devastated that they’ve changed it and got rid of all the reviews 😩

[@andresr2447]

the chemical smell from cerave foaming cleanser is so true! the moisturizer has that smell too

[@adbr1212]

Thanks Michelle! I always learn so much from your videos! I love how you have such clear and helpful explanations even on videos with a different theme like this ranking video

[@EE-zw8iv]

The Neutrogena Hydroboost does come fragrance free in the Extra Dry version, which is also more moisturizing!

[@TracyD2]

After ceraVe changed their formulas I noticed it would irritate my skin. Especially if I used an active. It never used to do that. Another influencer mentioned the same experience and discontinued use as did I. La Roche Posay all the way for me.

[@Knoxsinn]

I was actually really surprised with your review of the SA cleanser from CV. It's one of my everyday go-tos and I never notice any drying effect unless I don't put moisturizer on after (as with most cleansing products) and have only noticed a faint smell to it. My skin leans towards the dry side, so I was taken aback by the comments.

[@eafafeayd]

into 5 seconds to the video and I AM IN LOVE WITH YOUR SWEATER 💀

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Haha thank you! It's from an Australian company called Black Milk

[@starinajar13]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience I LOVE BLACK MILK I bought the moon phases robe from them and I'm still in awe of it, never bought anything like it. You're so lucky to have it near you! Thankfully for me, the Australian and Canadian dollar are pretty close lol

[@moisdawg]

i've been using the bar cleanser version of the CeraVe Foaming Cleanser, and it has that nice yummy relaxing skincare scent without being chock full of fragrance 😊 Maybe you'd like it more than the liquid (I do). I had actually posted about it on Reddit recently so it's funny you made this video now. One other product I would add as holy grail is the Cetaphil Redness Relieving Night Moisturizer

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Those both sound great, thank you for the recommendations!

[@Wthhybl1]

I had no idea cerave had a bar cleanser! Any chance if you know if they are sold in Australia?

[@katemckate]

The Cerave hydrating cleanser bar is my favourite cleanser of all time!! It foams nicely but it's so gentle, so effective, smells so clean and creates much less waste than the big plastic bottles!

[@moisdawg]

@@Wthhybl1 not sure sorry, I'm in the US. I checked Chemists warehouse and Amazon australia, but didn't see it. You may need to import it, or I'm sure there's an alternative!

[@moisdawg]

@@katemckate Yes! Aside from the lower price compared to the liquid, reducing my plastic consumption was one of my main reasons to try it. And I would have never guessed the hydrating version foams! That's great, but for my oily skin I gotta stick with the foaming cleanser for sure lol.

[@rachelkirby1708]

I've been using the La roche posay cicaplast baume (reformulated UK version) and I find if I use it on even slightly damp skin it becomes like a powedery wax that won't spread. If I use it on dry skin it becomes like a very liquidy oil. Does anyone else experience this?

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Interesting! I'm yet to try it on damp skin...

[@ariannepine3157]

I'm still using the old version and YES, it does the same for me and it has through many tubes now! It does kind of melt eventually but the initial result is visually quite striking 😁

[@ece4338]

Yes! The same applies for lrp lipikar baume

[@JasminMiettunen]

I don’t consider myself acne-prone and I have normal to dry skin, definitely not oily, but the Cerave Moisturising Cream caused me a ton of closed comedones. I literally had to google what it was, because breakouts like that weren’t a thing for me before. Now I'm scared of trying any new moisturisers and apparently the term “non-comedogenic” is an inaccurate dumpster fire.

[@aw9005]

The same thing happened to me when I started using the daily moisturizer for dry to normal skin from cetaphil. My skin is not fully back to normal but it’s getting better after switching to using lighter water gel moisturizers; currently trying aveeno oat gel moisturizer. Only problem is this and other products with a similar texture (like neutrogena hydro boost) seem to come in 1.7oz tiny jars that cost 20 usd. I’m still looking for more budget friendly version.

[@IsabelleRibeiroS]

This also happened to me using their moisturizer but after one or two weeks if was gone. It happens to me with every new product I try as I have sensitive skin.

[@zacharynguyen7286]

Incredible video, please continue to make more!

[@kimmmy86]

The Cerave pm moisturiser is the only drugstore moisturiser Ive found that I can use without breaking out and feels hydrating yet not heavy on my combo skin. It does look different here in aus from the US pic though

[@lavayuki]

That's so cool you were a monitor on there. I'd love a similar video for the Reddit Asian beauty skincare thread as well

[@jacquelinealbin7712]

I love the CeraVe PM for a regular daytime moisturizer for days I don't leave the apartment/need sun protection! And their retinol in the packaging with purple accents is a lovely starter retinol nice and gentle but still works hard the way a retinol should!

[@shibibi1]

I was hoping that watching so many of your skin care vids would help me figure out what to do with my skin, but I'm only getting more confused 😂

[@dcngn_]

cerave cleansers are HGs for me, both as facial cleansers and shower gel. I have very flaky combination skin on my face and they get rid of that mess. I just can't leave it on my face for long, otherwise it starts burning, especially around my lips. I have all 3 presented in this video and use the one that feels appropriate for different body parts on different days

[@DaltonsFriendswood]

The extra dry skin version of the neutrogena hydro boost is fragrance free.

[@cupidjuice6181]

I like cerave products, I get they may not be the “best” and are basic but they work for my skin type I haven’t gotten any bad reactions and they help clear and hydrate my skin type. I will continue to purchase them until I possible find a better alternative

[@seraphinnie]

The CeraVe moisturizing cream and hydrating cleanser are my holy grails. 💖

[@Julia-ni3dm]

omg i absolutely love ur channel, im a chemistry student in Brazil!!

[@sunfvalley]

my closed comedones come back after i neglect my skin since pandemic started, perfect time for this video

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Me too 😅

[@huskeyfosterfail4980]

Omg I am doing a marathon of your videos! Such great content in a way that is positive and informative but still very authentic. Bravo for sharing, keeping it real, and not being a Debbie downer! Thanks for bringing down these long chemical names down to earth. Bravo!

[@pamelacox540]

I liked your rankings especially for oily skin. It is hard to rank products since some are better for oily skin, some for dry skin and some for sensitive eczema/ dry skin

[@debpalm8667]

Thanks Michelle. You're a great source of information!

[@LindaMitchell]

Thanks for shouting out, Tiara Willis and her use of the term Glazed Donut. I enjoy using CeraVe Healing ointment during the winter or on nights, I need to repair my skincare barrier from irritation.

[@vermillionc0re]

This is awesome!! But it's feels weird that the good products are on the red tier and not the green 😳

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I agree, I was tempted to switch the colour order but I think it's because it comes from gaming, so higher tier means more powerful/dangerous fighter 😂

[@Sandreline]

I love when my biases are confirmed. 😂 I hate the CereVe Hydrating Cleanser. It made my skin break out like crazy.

[@Tania-ql8ji]

Can I know your current face wash?

[@kailee3275]

I agree about CeraVe, there's not a lot of fun to it but for me this past transition season between summer and fall, I was finding every face wash and moisturizer was upsetting my skin and making me incredibly red. I turned to the cera ve cleanser (for the first time) and Avenes aqua gel, and my face is both extremely soothed and smoothed ❤️

[@MymzieLo]

Hi, since ceramide is such an expensive ingredient and considering the low price of Cerave product, I always wonder if there is enough ceramides in there to really make a true difference on the skin?

[@stjabnful]

I’ve used both of the Cerave pm and daily moisturizers. Didn’t like either. The pm just stayed on top of my face- feeling wasn’t good in the morning. The daily was alright, nothing to yell about. I’ve used many of Paula’s choice. Very good for most. Still have a tub I’m trying to get through of the Cerave. I really enjoy you sharing these and all your knowledge behind the products! Thank- you so much! A very Happy New and Healthy Year to you!😊

[@chloebenn5708]

I actually really enjoy the sensory experience of the Cerave hydrating cleanser, (for an unscented product) it feels really nice! Also wierdly I find the Cerave lotion more moisturising that the tub one, it goes on so light but my skin feels more moisturised a few minutes later (must be those vesicles!) I think my skin loves the glycerine in their products

[@ThepawsJourney]

The Cerave PM lotion is my favorite! I use it during the day and I have combination skin so it’s just perfect. I pray they never change the formula.

[@josie4am]

I know this is not exactly your niche and pardon my suggestion but I would absolutely love to see you react to some of nilereds crazy chemistry videos

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Hahaha that would be fun, but it might also reveal how lax I am about chemical safety 😂 In my classes I sometimes tell my students to pretend I'm wearing safety glasses when I'm using really weak solutions...

[@stephaniegrehan9084]

I use The Ordinary Hyaluronic acid for makeup prep. I saw Robert Welsh recommend using a HA serum for oily skin rather than a moisturiser, so I gave it go. Can recommend. It's cheap as!

[@hln573]

I started using the Neutrogena Hydro Boost several months ago, and it does now come in a fragrance free version... thank god! I like the water cream better than the water gell 😍

[@melissagreenwald5125]

This is so informative! I’m currently trying to work out a new skincare system as there is something pilling and it’s making me crazy!

[@hannahabshire7321]

Propylene glycol is a really common allergy for people who deal with skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, so I think that is where the issue comes from for many.

[@MeaganRose08]

The cerave cream hydrating cream cleanser just doesnt make me feel like my skin is clean, but the hydrating cream-to-foam cleanser is my favorite drugstore cleanser of all time

[@joey666sic]

Something that has came up that I would hope you could maybe debunk if it’s not true. Cerave has recently been exposed for using phthalates and parabens. Is it enough to be harmful using two of there products everyday? Or should I avoid those two chemicals completely? Or is it even true that they have those in their products? Just seen the parabens part on this video. But what about phthalates? I have problems with my hormones and have kind of started wondering if it was because of starting my skin care journey. Since not to long after that I experienced terrible hormonal cystic acne. And also complete loss of libido and dry as a desert (tmi I know) but it’s messed up a lot in my life especially relationship. And yes I’ve been seeing a derm and a gyno both just put me on bc and tretinoin. Acne is gone while I’m on those but still have a hormone problem. Any ideas?

[@LolaTea-38]

I've tried using petroleum jelly on my face, but I always break out with bumps. I guess it clogs my pores. Would the "Cerave Healing Ointment" work better for my 60+ dry skin?

[@HolldollMcG]

Snail mucin is a banger!! Also, I can attest to using glycolic acid as a deodorant and scalp exfoliant. I exfoliate my scalp with it about once a week, and i actually have a glycolic acid body wash that has been a joy to use.

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

Glycolic acid as a deo is fantastic. Some disagree. Have you tried using it after shaving? It's goooood 😊

[@meyersl7628]

Girl, you are the best! Thank you for the video

[@JenniferNoelle]

I feel like you focused too much on Cereve healing ointment being used for slugging. I’m with you, I don’t really like full face slugging (feels too messy) but I LOVE the healing ointment for my hs spots, my dry, cracked lips in the winter, and protecting my eyelids when I’m putting on adapaline. I’m sure there are other great uses as well!

[@yoqiu_]

As a crass member of society who used to be a marijuana addict for 5+ years (23 year old male now) and is now suffering from sagging, just downright terrible skin, this video was extremely helpful

[@teenprez]

I think I started using the Paulas choice 2% BHA all the way back in 2002 or 03! I don’t use it as frequently now, but it’s still a staple in my cabinet. So good