Versed skincare review: Budget-friendly, effective products

With the Cheesecake Factory-sized menu of skincare brands and products to swipe on and shop, it can be an overwhelming task to get in the groove with your regimen. Not to mention, a product line that’s grounded on affordability, efficacy and clean formulations makes it a shining star.

Enter Versed, the brand that’s doing the golden trifecta above, and then some. It’s purposefully made with a formula-first mindset, made without the fussy packaging and unwanted retail markups. Uniquely, Versed is the first skincare brand that was co-created with its community; more than 85,000 consumers weighed in on the brand from product testing to final feedback.

Speaking of feedback, Versed is one of the most viral brands on TikTok right now and, coincidentally, coined the platform’s infamous croissant-weaved skincare headband for get-ready-with-me clips. While affordable, the brand has some pretty cute twist-off tubs, bottles and tubes in aesthetically pleasing pastels.

RELATED: e.l.f. Cosmetics full brand review

Here’s the rundown. Versed is a non-toxic, cruelty-free, vegan skincare brand that, has cultivated a loyal following by prioritizing skincare education and transparency. It was founded by Melanie Bender in 2019 and quickly rose to prominence as one of the fastest-growing clean skincare brands in the U.S.

The quick rise to fame propelled its initial launch exclusively in Target stores, positioning itself strategically to reach a wide audience. Even its name stems from being “well versed” in the skincare industry, a direct reflection of its ingredient-first commitment that’s both authentic and well-received.

“Versed sets out to help everyone achieve the skin they’ve always wanted by providing access to safe, solution-oriented, science-backed skincare (that’s clean, vegan, dermatologist tested and sensitive skin friendly),” Kerry Sullivan, CEO at Versed, exclusively told the New York Post. “We believe skincare should be innovative, efficacious and elevated–no matter the price point. We identify the most interesting formats and the latest skin-changing ingredients in prestige and reimagine them to meet the needs of the mass consumer. This was our North Star when we launched in May 2019–and we’ve remained steadfast to this commitment.”

Naturally, #BeautyTok is a side of TikTok I always scroll on my FYP and, as a result, influenced me to try nearly every product at Versed that works for my dry, sensitive and sometimes acne-prone skin type. Fast forward three years later, and this full brand review is finally live and ready for you to comb through and shop from.

Find an in-depth review of each product worth your hard-earned coin below and be sure to jump to our exclusive conversation with the brand’s CEO and a beauty trend expert following each product spotlight.

Our review

Versed Smooth Landing Retinoid Eye Balm

The Versed Smooth Landing Retinoid Eye Balm was one of the first among the brand’s products I saw everyone rave about on TikTok. After testing a wide array of eye creams, I decided to see how this balm would measure up. The results? A smooth salve that you’ll want to reach for before your moisturizer.

This product contains granactive retinoid, a gentler, less irritating form of retinol, that is safe on my sensitive skin. While I don’t have extremely dry under eyes or struggle with crow’s feet as a twenty-something-year-old, its natural ability to smooth the area makes it an excellent base for moisturizers.

It also helps cancel out puffiness, which is always a plus. Because its a salve and not a goopy, whipped moisturizer like so many eye creams on the market, it’s mess-free to apply; I love using my fingertips to take the product toward my outer corners.

However, use with caution as it does contain retinol. Because retinol is reactive to light, it’s best to use this in the nighttime only. Avoid this product if you’re pregnant or nursing as well. For more, check out our expert-backed guide to the best pregnancy-safe skincare products.

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Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream

In my opinion, the Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream is the Poster Child (ahem, Cream) that is effortless to use and the perfect nourishment to dry skin. It never leaves my skin greasy or heavy. Instead, it’s lightweight, absorbs quickly and does a phenomenal job at soothing and calming.

What I love most about this product is its jelly-like texture that I love to use following the brand’s Baby Cheeks Hydrating Milky Toner and Sunday Morning Antioxidant Oil-Serum. Bonus points for its infusion of hyaluronic acid that your dermatologist would be proud of. This ingredient never fails to plump my skin, allowing it to retain moisture well. Complemented by its bouncy texture, it’s a formula I can’t believe is less than $25.

If you’re not yet impressed, this is one of Versed’s holy grail products. It sells every 57 seconds, largely in part to its TikTok-trailblazing acclaim. It’s a wonderful moisturizer that doesn’t clog my pores either, and I’d say it’s a beginner-friendly, teen-safe product as well.

Versed also has this product in a jumbo size, as well as many other best-sellers to provide a larger value for its consumer base.

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Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum

Contrary to a wealth of individuals keen on anti-aging regimens and wanting to look! younger! quick!, I’m not the largest retinol user. In my early 20s, I’d much rather use bakuchiol because it’s a bit gentler on my sensitive skin. However, the Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum is just as gentle, which is saying something because it uses the more potent retinol ingredient in its final formulation.

It’s so delicate on the skin because it was carefully designed for first-time retinol users. Looking closely at the product, its gel-cream formula contains micro-encapsulated retinol, which penetrates deeply into the skin, along with natural retinol alternatives arophira and bakuchiol. This allows the product to never clog my pores, never lend itself to irritation and remain an effective product with consistent use.

I begin by using two pumps of this serum for two nights straight, then skip it for the following two nights and repeat the cycle (yes, I’m a huge fan of the skin-cycling method). I love how it helps speed up cell turnover without drying out my skin or leading to redness. If you’re a bit of a retinol skeptic like I sometimes can be, this is a wonderful product to foray into the ingredient.

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Versed Doctor’s Visit Instant Resurfacing Mask

Exactly what the doctor ordered. The Versed Doctor’s Visit Instant Resurfacing Mask is one of the most incredible evening-time face masks that helps speed up cell turnover, thanks to its AHA and BHA complex. Coupled with natural pineapple and papaya extracts to give it its yellow color, it also leaves the softest glow to my skin.

Truthfully, I’ve never struggled with uneven skin tone or texture but once-weekly use of this mask leads to a noticeable smoothness, which is impressive for an acid-containing mask. Speaking of acids, the formulation pleasingly doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin.

How it works? Glycolic and lactic acids work in tandem to dissolve dull, dead skin. I find it also doubles as a dark spot corrector, especially for subtle hyperpigmentation and sun spots around my temples. This mask also contains oil-dismissing salicylic acid that helps prevent and mute breakouts. Oh, and those pineapple and papaya extracts? They’re rich in vitamin C to finish off its work with a bright, beaming glow.

Above all else, this is one of my favorite products from Versed. When I put on my product-testing hat and researched its formulation in more detail, its obvious that the brand thought of a variety of skincare concerns when creating this product. Hands down, it’s alluring, and it’s less than $20 to make it budget-friendly.

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Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm

Listen, I’ve used a variety of cleansing balms, from ELEMIS to Hero Cosmetics. What I can say is this: the Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm measures up to both of them and is one of the more nourishing types on the market because of its smooth, balm-like formulation.

The Versed website says, “from the moment you open the jar, you’re transported to a spa,” and I’d agree. It contains vitamin E and natural eucalyptus and clove leaf oil to wonderfully soothe and calm my skin whenever I use it. Normally, I’d use a cleansing balm to “take the day away” as they say, but it’s so gentle and non-greasy that I tend to use it as a precursor to the brand’s Baby Cheeks Hydrating Milky Toner and Mood Lighting Glow Drops on most days.

Its remarkable non-greasy texture is one to make note of again. When I rub it along my fingertips, it transforms into a milky texture that’s not too watery nor heavy on the skin. It’s just right, and Versed simply hit the nail on the head when it comes to a good cleansing balm. This circles back to its community co-creation, the emphasis on listening to its customers of what they don’t wish to experience in a cleanser.

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Versed Sunday Morning Antioxidant Oil-Serum

Finally, a brand that debuts a serum that’s not too oily on dry skin. The Versed Sunday Morning Antioxidant Oil-Serum is a staple in my routine and not just for its elegant packaging that sits all nice and pretty on my bathroom counter.

I love using this after a cleanser and then blending it out with my fingertips. It’s not too runny but isn’t a heavy cream, either. Its oil-serum consistency makes it ideal for a variety of skin types, including mine which is sensitive and partially dry.

What’s more, its nourishing ingredients like camellia oil and sea buckthorn extract help reduce any redness you may be experiencing, as well as strengthen the skin barrier. Like many of Versed’s products, it contains vitamin E to soothe as well. If you’re looking for a product to apply between your cleanser and moisturizer, this one is great to experience, especially if you’re looking for a new, effective product.

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Versed Sweet Relief Overnight Barrier Balm

Here’s the 411: a conversation I had with someone on the Versed team named the Sweet Relief Overnight Barrier Balm an “underrated, hidden gem” among its product catalog. Yes, it’s true, and yes, I find myself using this as a wonderful leave-on night cream when I want an extra dose of hydration before bedtime.

In essence, its formulation is part-deep moisturizing mask, part-skin-restoring balm. It’s like a jumbo-size of Smooth Landing Retinoid Eye Balm — but for your face — and I love its instant nourishment every time. It helps restore my skin barrier and is one of those products I consistently recommend for dry skin. In texture, it’s most like the Drunk Elephant Bora Barrier Repair Cream, but for way less.

Because of its unique texture and feel, it doubles as a face mask and all-encompassing night cream. For that reason, it’s more of a bang for your buck, even though its original, less-than-$20 retail price is already appealing.

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Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35

The Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35 is one of my favorite facial sunscreens that I reviewed, which is saying something because I tested dozens for everyday use. Yes, you’ll want to lock in skin protection 24/7, even when you’re not making a beach trip.

Its tube packaging is elegant and wonderful to stash in your duffle bag or beach bag alike. It checks a multitude of boxes I look for in skincare products, too. For one, it’s broad-spectrum, meaning it protects against both UVA (to protect your skin from aging) and UVB rays (to protect your skin from burning). It also contains SPF 35, a slight mark above dermatologist-recommended SPF 30.

It blends beautifully onto my skin and doesn’t leave a white cast making it an especially wonderful SPF for dark skin tones. Additionally, its integrated antioxidants help fight off environmental and electronic (blue light, I’m talking about you!) damage for three-way protection and premature aging prevention. 

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Versed Skin Soak Moisture Cream

Sometimes, I just need my skin to soak in moisture. Similar to the brand’s Sweet Relief Overnight Barrier Balm, its Skin Soak Moisture Cream is a truer “night cream” that, yes, you can, of course, leave it on overnight, but it doesn’t necessarily function as a face mask. However, it’s wonderful on dry skin without making your cheeks feel weighed down.

Containing algae extract, vitamin E, and squalane, the latter an ingredient that helps hydrate and replenish the moisture your skin once had, this rich cream isn’t too heavy. All the while, you’ll be focusing on anti-aging which is always a score.

I love using this after the Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum and Versed Smooth Landing Retinoid Eye Balm. Just like rocking a baby to sleep, layering formula on top of formula is pure bliss in the evenings.

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Versed Mood Lighting Glow Drops

Meet the best bronzing drops I reviewed. Part-skin tint, part-serum, this is what I grab most often for my most radiant skin, especially before makeup. It’s available in three shades — Sheer Bronzed, Sheer Golden and Rose Gold — with Sheer Bronzed being my ultimate favorite to cocktail into my moisturizer of choice.

Much like a variety of Versed products, it contains natural extracts to give the end formulation its coloring and skin-good benefits. For instance, blackberry extract provides antioxidant protection and gentle exfoliation while polyglutamic acid is a hydrating peptide that holds 4,000 times its weight in water. This combination, along with vitamin E, always makes my skin feel more supple.

These drops have a weightless and nourishing feel, much ado to it containing superfine, light-reflecting pigments. Whether you’re 20-years-old or 65-years-old, the product is simple to use and will allow your natural skin to feel a bit more youthful than ever before.

Pro tip: perhaps this goes without saying, but the Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream is the very best complement to the Mood Lighting Glow Drops, should you want to marry the two.

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Versed Baby Cheeks Hydrating Milky Toner

The Versed Baby Cheeks Hydrating Milky Toner has one of the most spot-on product names ever. Even after one use of this all-around-amazing toner, my skin feels baby-soft and extremely supple. For a milky toner, that’s quite impressive.

Its pump-up application makes it simple to use freely with your hands or with the help of a cotton round. Because it’s formulated with humectants, this post-cleansing product restores the skin’s natural pH balance to remove hard water residue. In fact, I notice it helps lift stubborn makeup that may not completely rid itself from even the best of makeup removers.

To top it all off, its trifecta of algae extract, bamboo extract and coconut water give it an incredibly soft-and-smooth result. I love using this in tandem with the Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream; it’s a wonderful duo for dry skin.

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Versed Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Solution AHA Liquid Exfoliant

Like a fair share of people who have sensitive skin, exfoliators are a big no-no. However, the Versed Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Solution AHA Liquid Exfoliant reverses my hesitations because it’s gentle and an easy-to-apply method for lightly turning over dead skin cells.

The way this product balances my skin texture is simply alluring. From fading away dark spots and post-acne marks (the worst), its four-acid complex works overtime without irritating my skin. Inside the bottle, you’ll find natural skin-brighteners like kojic and azelaic acid, AHAs and bearberry extract— the latter an alternative to hydroquinone, “a powerful brightening ingredient that can have adverse effects for darker skin tones,” per Versed — plus vitamin C.

Even better, I never find any stinging or tingling feeling when used on my freshly cleansed skin. It’s surely worth the money, especially if you want the second-best thing to a spa-grade facial. For less than $25.

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Following my use of the Versed Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Solution AHA Liquid Exfoliant, the Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Moisturizer is the next best topper. It differs from the brand’s best-selling Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream in that it’s more apt at brightening. However, it’s nearly as moisturizing and, especially in the mornings, I find myself using this formulation more often.

Brightening, restoring and moisturizing make it the ultimate trio for a variety of skin types, especially dry. It’s partially firming as well, which makes me feel like I’m doing my skin some good in the anti-aging department.

And, in true Versed fashion, it contains naturally derived, antioxidant-rich ingredients like cloudberry seed oil — a type of botanical — to help soften dry, uneven texture and carrot root extract, which is said to “shield blue light damage, helping prevent premature fine lines and dark spots,” per Versed. Among all of Versed products for dry skin, I recommend this two-for-one product for both moisturizing and brightening.

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Versed Silk Slip Conditioning Lip Oil

When you receive the Versed Silk Slip Conditioning Lip Oil in the mail like I did, you’ll want to take it with you everywhere. It’s a wonderful consistency that moistures well without being too sheer or heavy on the lips.

While it’s not a true lip mask, I did find some of the lip masks I’ve been testing to hold a similar consistency but be more moisturizing. However, this one is only $10 and an excellent value if you want something a bit more amped up than the regular lip balm. Plus, it leaves the most glorious, subtle and healthy sheen.

Not to mention, whenever I swipe this product on after using other Versed skincare products, you’ll feel like you just placed the cherry on top.

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An FAQ on Versed

Ahead, find Post Wanted’s conversation with Kerry Sullivan, CEO at Versed, along with Melany Marangabassa, a consultant specializing in content strategy, marketing analysis and all things beauty.

What audience does Versed appeal to?

“Our audience spans the gamut in terms of demographics, but our sweet spot is millennial women–more specifically, the millennial mom who is starting to see the signs of aging on her skin,” Sullivan told The Post. “Our customer knows that Versed products will give her results, and she trusts us with her skin.” 

In short, she’s multi-tasking, thoughtful and looking for proven ways to take care of herself.

“Versed strategically caters to a Gen Z and millennial customer base passionate about clean beauty,” Marangabassa tipped off. “By clarifying complex terms like squalane and squalene and setting the gold standard for clean beauty, Versed respects its audience’s values and capitalizes on their dedication. This approach resonates with a discerning and conscious consumer base, shaping Versed as a transparent and quality skincare leader.”

What are some of Versed’s hero products?

While you may want to pick up nearly all of Versed’s products, hero products are certainly hero products for a reason. That’s why I asked Sullivan to share the Top 4 in detail:

• Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm: This was part of our Versed’s launch in May 2019, and it remains a fan favorite; to-date, Versed has sold over 1.5M pale pink jars of our beloved cleansing balm. In fact, Day Dissolve is such a community favorite, that Versed created a special jumbo 4.6-ounce size to satisfy consumer demand. This vitamin E-infused balm is revered for its makeup-melting ways, without stripping moisture from your skin; it’s especially loved as a first step by those who double-cleanse. It boasts a fresh spa scent, care of a dash of naturally antibacterial eucalyptus and clove leaf oil.
• Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream: This is a good clean, fragrance-free and dye-free light moisturizer that’s a staple of every beauty routine (Versed sells one every minute!) It has a jelly-like texture that cools on contact, absorbing instantly and restoring skin’s hydration levels (thanks to sodium hyaluronate and vegan squalane). Dew Point also features aloe vera leaf juice and antioxidant-rich green tea extract.
• Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum: This launched in January 2020 and marked Versed’s first foray into retinol. This creamy yet lightweight serum, touted as the perfect retinol product for those stepping into retinol for the first time or those with sensitive skin, is formulated with gentle encapsulated retinol and natural retinol alternatives, to smooth lines and wrinkles, even skin tone and speed up cell turnover for clearer pores and improved elasticity — all without the harsh side effects of traditional retinol (no flaking here).
• Smooth Landing Retinoid Eye Balm: This is a buttery eye balm that addresses dryness and signs of aging in the delicate under-eye area. Smooth Landing has been a top seller since it launched in January 2021, when it sold out within 60 days. The superstar ingredient in this dermatologist-tested formula is granactive retinoid — a stable, next-generation retinoid that helps refine skin texture and tone, reducing fine lines and wrinkles without irritation. It’s also packed with black currant extract to moisturize and boost elasticity and shiitake mushroom extract to firm skin and promote collagen synthesis. 

The latest launch from Versed, explained

“In late April, we debuted Sheer Rose Gold, our newest shade offering in the beloved Mood Lighting Glow Drops,” Sullivan said. “This skincare/makeup hybrid serum (available in three shades: Sheer Bronzed, Sheer Golden, Sheer Rose Gold) features polyglutamic acid to deliver a boost of hydration and antioxidant-rich blackberry extract to help strengthen skin’s barrier while superfine, light-reflecting pigments work their magic on radiant skin.”

The weightless, buildable, mixable drops, which can be mixed into your moisturizer or foundation or applied highlighter-style, create the perfect soft-focus finish to help you glow, too.

Why is Versed so popular on TikTok (and, in general?)

“Versed’s fan favorite products, such as the Good Hair Day Bubble Headband [that’s always sold out!] and the Doctor’s Visit Instant Resurfacing Mask, symbolize the brand’s broad appeal and swift rise in popularity,” Marangabassa shared. “The headband’s frequent restocks have even prompted an FAQ page for eager buyers and inspired similar designs from other brands. This fashionable accessory not only adds a stylish touch but also elevates the skincare routine, making it feel more luxurious and manageable.”

On the skincare front, Versed’s Doctor’s Visit Instant Resurfacing Mask, enriched with AHAs, BHA, and fruit enzymes, has gained viral acclaim on platforms like TikTok and is a staple in endorsed skincare routines by influencers. “Tailored for dull or aging skin, this mask promises professional facial-like results, showcasing Versed’s dedication to providing effective and sought-after skincare solutions,” she added.

What’s more, Versed has strategically leveraged its digital presence to connect with its audience and establish a strong foothold in the skincare industry. “The iconic Versed headbands, along with their popular alternatives, have become staples in TikTok’s skincare videos, showcasing the brand’s widespread appeal and influence within the digital beauty community,” Marangabassa emphasized. “Collaborations with content creators, such as Versed Skin School, have proven successful in showcasing skincare essentials and real testimonials. These strategies, guided by creative best practices, have earned Versed 2 million likes and 257.5K followers on TikTok, highlighting their digital marketing expertise and audience engagement skills.”

A unique digital presence, coupled with its affordability, makes Versed inevitably stand out.

“The brand’s purpose, the products, the performance and, at our (accessible) price point, no less. We punch above our weight class when it comes to formulation and efficacy and go toe-to-toe with SKUs triple our price point. We provide elevated everyday essentials that provide real results. And, we offer it all in a product assortment that is less than $25 .”

Kerry Sullivan, CEO at Versed

Versed very much ascribes to the idea of accessible, solution-oriented skincare because, after all, everyone deserves to see the skin they’ve always wanted.

“We’re able to keep our line-up budget friendly while effective by utilizing stock componentry (versus spending on custom), focusing on a formula-first approach (versus marketing ingredients that cost a lot but without the payoff) and producing at scale (thanks to our partnerships with great retailers like Target),” Sullivan explained. As a result, more money in your pocket, with your skin looking fresh all the while.

On Versed’s sustainability mission

Versed positions itself as a skincare brand with a robust and clean standard, rivalling prestigious counterparts, while keeping most of its products priced under $20.

“Its commitment to quality extends beyond pricing as they prioritize investing in formulations rather than extravagant packaging, using up to 50% post-consumer recycled plastic to reduce environmental impact,” Marangabassa said. “Its Dermatologist Advisory Board ensures rigorous testing and feedback during the innovation process, guaranteeing the efficacy and safety of its products. This approach reflects Versed’s mission to offer a middle ground in skincare, bridging the gap between affordable drugstore brands and luxury options by delivering exceptional quality at accessible prices.”

How we tested

After reviewing Versed products for three years, nearly since the brand’s advent into the skincare market, I kept the following criteria in mind for each product that worked for my skin type:

• Efficacy: Taking the product at face value with the benefits it claims to confer, I analyzed how each formulation felt, applied and looked after.
• Layering potential: The great notion about Versed is its ability to mix and match most products since they’re all gentle even on sensitive skin. I used a variety of its toners, serums and creams together and made note of how I used each product for individual reviews.
• Hydration levels: Because Versed is known as a wonderful brand for effective hydration, I took note of each products nourishment levels. In turn, I assessed how each felt once applied.

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This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest and greatest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include reviewing the viral Korean beauty brand, Cosrx, and testing dermatologist-recommended acne cleansers. Victoria has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.

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