If there’s one place where skincare addicts congregate to obsess over ingredients, debate the best retinol percentages, and convince you to add yet another product to your routine, it’s Reddit. The SkincareAddiction and AsianBeauty subreddits are packed with reviews, before-and-after photos, and passionate recommendations. Like many others, I’ve fallen down the rabbit hole of scrolling through endless threads, only to emerge with a shopping cart full of “holy grail” products.

After testing some of Reddit’s most hyped skincare products, I’m here to report back. Are they really worth the money, or just overhyped? Here’s my honest take on five viral skincare products that Reddit made me buy.

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Afterglow Brightening Moisturizer

Price: $$$ (Luxury)
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C (THD Ascorbate), Sodium Hyaluronate, Lutein
Reddit Hype: “A glow-giver that makes skin look instantly healthier!”

First Impressions:

Sunday Riley’s C.E.O. Afterglow Moisturizer is a vibrant yellow gel-cream that looks as cheerful as its name. The texture is lightweight but deeply hydrating, making it ideal for morning use under makeup.

Performance:

This moisturizer delivers an instant glow—your skin looks naturally dewy and radiant. The stabilized vitamin C (THD Ascorbate) is less irritating than L-ascorbic acid, making it a good choice for those with sensitive skin. It absorbs quickly without feeling greasy, and the hydration lasts all day.

Worth the Reddit Hype?

Yes, if you’re looking for a luxe vitamin C moisturizer. It won’t replace a dedicated vitamin C serum, but it pairs beautifully with one to enhance glow and hydration. If you have dry skin, you might want something heavier, but for normal-to-combo skin, it’s a winner.

Reddit Rating: 4.5/5

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

Price: $$$ (Luxury)
Key Ingredients: Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Retinol, Resveratrol
Reddit Hype: “Game-changer for texture and glow—expensive but worth it!”

First Impressions:

These iconic two-step peel pads promise spa-like results from home. The first pad exfoliates with AHA/BHAs, while the second neutralizes the acids and adds calming ingredients.

Performance:

After the first use, my skin felt noticeably smoother. Over a few weeks, these worked magic on texture, dullness, and even fine lines. They’re powerful but surprisingly non-irritating, thanks to the second step.

Worth the Hype?

Absolutely. The price is steep, but if you struggle with dullness, uneven tone, or congestion, these are a holy grail exfoliant. I use them 2-3 times a week instead of daily to make them last longer.

Reddit Rating: 3.8/5

Fresh Soy Face Cleanser

Price: $$ (Mid-Range)
Key Ingredients: Soy Proteins, Rosewater, Cucumber Extract
Reddit Hype: “The gentlest, most soothing face wash ever.”

First Impressions:

This hydrating face cleanser has a gel texture and a subtle cucumber scent—very spa-like. It claims to cleanse without stripping while being safe for sensitive skin.

Performance:

It does exactly what it promises: gently removes dirt, sunscreen, and light makeup without drying out the skin. If you wear heavy foundation, you’ll need a separate oil cleanser first, but for daily use, it’s a solid choice.

Worth the Hype?

Yes, if you have sensitive skin or prefer non-foaming cleansers. It’s gentle and effective, but if you love a sudsy, deep-clean feel, you might want something else.

Reddit Rating: 5/5

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA+BHA Pore-Tight Toner

Price: $$ (Mid-Range)
Key Ingredients: Watermelon Extract, PHA (Polyhydroxy Acid), BHA (Salicylic Acid)
Reddit Hype: “Hydrates while gently exfoliating—smells amazing!”

First Impressions:

The bottle is aesthetic goals—a pink, glass-like bottle with a gel-liquid toner inside. It has a sweet watermelon scent that fades quickly.

Performance:

This toner is a hydrating exfoliant, meaning it’s gentler than traditional acid toners. It adds moisture while mildly exfoliating, making it a great entry-level exfoliant for those with dry or sensitive skin. However, if you need stronger exfoliation (for acne or rough texture), this might be too mild.

Worth the Hype?

It’s a great hybrid product for those who want gentle exfoliation without irritation. But if you’re looking for dramatic results, you may prefer a stronger BHA toner.

Reddit Rating: 4.2/5

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

Price: $ (Affordable)
Key Ingredients: Micelles, Cucumber Extract
Reddit Hype: “The OG micellar water—nothing compares!”

First Impressions:

A French pharmacy staple, Bioderma Sensibio H2O is a clear, water-like liquid that claims to remove makeup, cleanse, and soothe skin without rinsing.

Performance:

It effortlessly removes makeup (including mascara) without stinging. Unlike some micellar waters that leave a filmy residue, this one feels refreshing and weightless. It’s perfect for lazy nights, pre-cleansing before a workout, or traveling.

Worth the Hype?

Yes! It’s an affordable must-have that delivers. While double cleansing is still best for heavy makeup days, this is the perfect first step or quick cleanse option.

Reddit Rating: 5/5

Final Thoughts: Is Reddit Always Right?

Reddit definitely knows its skincare! While not every viral product will work for everyone, these five picks live up to their reputation. Here’s how I’d rank them:

Best for Glow: Sunday Riley C.E.O. Afterglow
Best for Exfoliation: Dr. Dennis Gross Daily Peel
Best Gentle Cleanser: Fresh Soy Face Cleanser
Best Hydrating Toner: Glow Recipe Watermelon Toner
Best Makeup Remover: Bioderma Sensibio H2O

Would I repurchase all of them? The Fresh Soy Face Cleanser and Dr. Dennis Gross peels are definite rebuys. The others are great, but I might explore alternatives before committing to another bottle.

If you’ve been influenced by Reddit skincare recommendations, let me know in the comments—what’s been your best (or worst) Reddit-made-me-buy-it purchase?