Shopping·10 min read

Midyear Skimm Faves: Our Top Problem-Solving Products (So Far)

Midyear Faves Problem Solvers
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Grove co., Amazon
June 22, 2023

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

We spend all year searching for and trying out the best products you can buy for yourself (or gift to others). And twice a year, we take a step back to show you which of those products you — and other readers — are most into. Here are our most popular products from the first half of 2023 that solve everyday problems. Whether you need a skin-firming serum or you’ve learned the hard way that having a portable charger on hand is the best way to travel, there’s something on this list for you. Read on and treat yourself to something that’ll change your life.

And for more of our favorite products in other categories, click here.

Sneaker Bag
Amazon

A smarter way to wash your sneakers…

Since white sneaker season is upon us, give your dingy sneakers a spin in this bag that keeps them secure while they wash and dry. Just fasten the straps to the door of the dryer to keep them from rattling around and damaging your appliances. Trust us, your shoes will come out squeaky clean. ($8.99, Amazon)

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Neck Cream
Womaness

A serum that’ll smooth and firm your neck skin…

Even if you’re applying your skincare and sunscreen all the way down your neck and chest (hint, hint), it’s natural for that skin to thin and lose its tightness over time. This cooling roller works to sculpt your neck while distributing serum that hydrates, tightens, and brightens. Don’t be surprised when using this becomes your favorite part of the day. Psst…use code SKIMM20 for 20% off sitewide until June 30. ($28.99, Womaness)

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Tinted sunscreen
Daybird

A tinted sunscreen that’ll simplify your morning routine…

Meet the tinted multitasking option we can’t stop wearing every day. It actually improves our skin as we wear it, thanks to the niacinamide that hydrates and bisabolol that reduces inflammation. At the same time, zinc oxide protects against blue light and harsh rays. We love that it comes in four different shades and love using the code SKIMM20 for 20% off even more. ($39.50, Daybird)

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spot cream
Amazon

A spot cream that’ll zap your blemishes without drying out your skin…

This Mario Badescu Drying Lotion puts salicylic acid, sulfur, and zinc oxide to work to absorb excess oil and unclog pores. We like to dab it on our problem areas and leave it on all day (or night). Keep in mind that this product shouldn’t be shaken —  separation is natural and necessary. Time to bid adieu to those annoying blemishes. ($17, Amazon)

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sleeping pills
Amazon

A melatonin-free solve for better Zzz’s…

This brand’s sleep solution is made with only four natural ingredients. And it can help you fall and stay asleep…without causing grogginess or dependency. Dream a little dream. ($19.79, Amazon)

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descaler
Amazon

A descaler for shower heads that are clogged from mineral buildup…

Vinegar descales very slowly, but this formula works quickly to get rid of limescale and calcium buildup. All you have to do is soak your shower head and then wipe clean. Bubbles are a good sign; it means the formula is working. ($13.95+, Amazon)

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Wool Balls
Grove Co.

Wool dryer balls to keep your sheets wrinkle-free…

These hypoallergenic wool balls go in the dryer with your sheets and towels to soften, de-wrinkle, and reduce drying time. They’ll last for loads and loads and are much more eco-friendly than tossing out dryer sheets after a single use. Plus, they’re suitable for all fabrics. ($19.99, Grove Co.)

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bioderma
Amazon

A micellar water that’ll remove every ounce of makeup…

Believe the hype about this one. The solution attaches to makeup, dirt, and debris, gently lifting them away, all while maintaining the moisture barrier of even the most sensitive skin. It’s great for travel and can periodically stand in for your daily cleanser if you’re really tired. But you didn’t hear it from us. ($12.99, Amazon)

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Foot File
Amazon

A foot file to buff away any dead skin…

This nonabrasive one is compact, travel-friendly, and made of etched glass. You can use it on wet and dry skin, and the ergonomic shape means it’s easy to grip. It’s great for flakey skin, cracked heels, and calluses. Rinse under water to clean. At-home pedicure, anyone? ($14.99, Amazon)

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Lip balm
Amazon

Insanely moisturizing Bag Balm for dry skin, lips, and more…

This balm actually started out as a balm for cows' udders (not kidding). Celebs like Alix Earle and Madelyn Cline swear by putting Bag Balm on their lips, and we promise this “udder cream”  will soothe and smooth your hands instantly overnight. Moo-ve over, all other hand creams. ($8.79, Amazon)

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Portable Charger
Walmart

A portable charger that always comes in clutch…

You can never have too many. This one is compact enough to fit in most bags, and the adorable pale blue color means you’ll always be able to spot it. It holds up to two whole charges, and it’s perfect for quick bursts of power on errand days, nights out, and of course, during long travel. Plus, for a useful tech product, the price is so good. ($10.88, Walmart)

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Revlon hair dryer
Amazon

A tool that’ll help you get salon-like hair from the comfort of your home...

And no, you don’t have to be an expert. Consider this a brush and hair dryer in one. It features three heat and speed settings, plus a cool option for styling. The oval design helps to smooth your locks and create volume. Hair for it. ($39.99, Amazon)

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Double sided tape
Amazon

Double-sided tape for quick wardrobe fixes…

This double-sided tape can handle one-shoulder bra peeks, too-low cowl necks, or V-neck plunges. It comes with 50 strips of transparent tape that’ll work with any skin tone. So nothing tries to play peekaboo on your days out. ($11.49, Amazon)

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bottle tablets
Amazon

A dissolvable tablet for when your reusable water bottle starts tasting funky...

Let’s be honest, we should all be washing our water bottles more. Just drop this in and watch it fizz. Each one is made of a mix of natural ingredients to rid of germs and odors so each sip will taste fresh once again. Customers love that you can actually see it working. ($39/78 pack, Amazon)

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lip scrub
Amazon

A vegan lip scrub you can use to slough away dead skin…

It’s made with Hawaiian cane sugar for exfoliation, kukui oil for hydration, and shea butter to lock in moisture. Simply take a pea-sized amount and massage it onto your dry lips, let it sit, and then wipe away. Bonus: All ingredients are natural, vegan, and cruelty-free. Pucker up. ($16.99, Amazon)

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Produce saver
Amazon

Produce savers that’ll prevent your food from molding too soon…

These containers regulate oxygen and carbon dioxide flow so your fruit and veggies last longer. That’s right. Lettuce won’t wilt. Blueberries won’t soften. Plus, the built-in filter never needs to be replaced. Pro tip: don’t wash produce before putting it into the containers. Just drop everything in and store them in your fridge. You can wash food before you eat it. ($18.99+, Amazon)

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