9 Best Pet Insurance Companies for 2022 to Protect Your Furry Fam

When your furbaby is sick or hurt, you’d do anything to make sure they feel better ASAP. But a trip to the vet ER or a lifesaving surgery can cost thousands. Pet insurance can help offset those surprise bills so you can focus on getting your pet the care they need.

Yes, you read that correctly: You can get health insurance for your pet.

Pet insurance isn’t a new thing. But now the concept is gaining popularity, and pet parents everywhere are choosing monthly premiums over big vet bills. Here’s how it works and how to pick the best provider for your fur fam.

Best pet insurance options for 2022

How pet insurance works

It may be health insurance for your pet, but pet insurance works more like car insurance in the human world. When an accident (or illness or exam) happens, you’re on the hook for the vet bill initially. Then you submit a claim to the insurance provider for reimbursement.

Plans have a set monthly premium based on the type of plan and level of coverage you choose.

Some helpful terms to know:

  • Reimbursement rate: the percent share of your pet’s eligible expenses that the insurance company will pay you back for
  • Annual deductible: what you’ll have to pay out of pocket per year before the insurance coverage will kick in
  • Annual limit: the maximum amount of eligible expenses your policy will cover per year
  • Waiting period: the time between when you sign up for coverage and when you can actually start to use it

Do you need pet insurance?

There’s a lot to think about when deciding whether to insure your four-legged friend. Let’s break it down with some questions to ask yourself when considering pet insurance.

What’s your pet’s breed?

A quick Google search about your pet’s breed can help you make any insurance decisions.

Purebred animals tend to have more health issues than mixed breeds, and certain breeds are predisposed to more medical conditions than others. (For example, dachshunds are more likely to experience back issues because of their unique spine.)

Knowing your pet’s potential health problems can help you decide whether you should bring in some help to cover them.

How old is your pet?

Just like us humans, pets tend to have more medical issues as they get older. Some pet insurance companies won’t give new plans to pets over a certain age. If they do, it might be super expensive, so you’ll have to weigh whether that higher cost is going to be worth it.

If you start coverage while your pet is young, most providers will let you keep the plan for the lifetime of the animal.

How active is your pet?

If your furbaby is a couch potato, you may not need to worry about unforeseen accidents. But if your pet is a fearless explorer and always getting into trouble, pet insurance may come in handy.

Just remember, even if you’re not living with Evel Knievel, there’s always a possibility that your pet could develop an unexpected medical condition.

How tight is your budget?

Pet insurance is like any other type of insurance in the sense that you might pay for it and never need it, or you might really need it and not have it. From a financial standpoint, ask yourself what will be more of a burden to your budget: paying a monthly premium or paying for a possibly large surprise expense.

“Pet owners who most benefit from pet insurance include people for whom this type of unexpected bill would be an extreme hardship,” says Jamie Freyer, a doctor of veterinary medicine and a guest contributor at Honest Paws.

“Advanced preparation in the form of pet insurance can help minimize the stress associated with an emergency and ensure that you do not have to make difficult decisions for your pet based on finances.”

Benefits and drawbacks of pet insurance

PROS

  • It can help with any large, unexpected vet bills.
  • You won’t be stuck choosing between your budget and the health of your furbaby.
  • You can minimize any debt you might take on when paying for your pet’s medical expenses.
  • You know your pet has access to the care they need.

CONS

  • You may end up paying more in the long run if your pet stays healthy and accident-free.
  • Preexisting conditions are rarely covered.
  • You’ll probably still have to pay for routine preventive care.
  • Premiums might go up as your furry friend gets older.

How we chose the best pet insurance

Choosing your pet’s health plan can be just as overwhelming as choosing your own, so we dug deep into the pet insurance world to understand what really matters when picking a plan.

Pet insurance is a personal choice as unique as your beloved furball. And that’s why options are the name of the game when finding the right plan for you and your pet. Here’s what we looked for in our picks.

Type of plan

There are two main types of pet insurance plans:

  • Accident only: covers accident-related medical care only
  • Accident and illness: covers treatment for accidents as well as sickness-related care (like diagnostic testing, chronic disease, and cancer treatment)

Most plans don’t include preventive or routine coverage. That means you’ll still get the bill for regular exams and teeth cleanings. But many providers offer wellness coverage as an add-on option.

The type of plan that’s right for you depends on your pet and your budget. Our picks include a little bit of everything.

Coverage

Most pet insurance providers will cover basic medical expenses related to accidents and illness. But plans differ when it comes to covering things like:

  • hereditary conditions
  • dental disease
  • microchipping
  • alternative therapies
  • behavioral issues

It’s important to read the full coverage details and pay extra-close attention to the exclusions. “Some companies may exclude certain breed-related health issues, so it is important to know the health concerns for your breed and investigate whether they would be covered in the event of an emergency,” says Freyer.

Also be aware of waiting periods. All providers have a waiting period from when you enroll in coverage to when you’re actually able to use it. (This prevents folks from signing up for insurance only when they already know they need to use it.)

Customization

We chose insurance providers that provide some kind of customization. Whether it’s through offering multiple plan options or the ability to choose your reimbursement rate, deductible, or annual limit, our picks allow you the flexibility to pick what’s best for you.

Pricing guide

Monthly premiums for pet insurance can vary widely depending on the type of coverage you need and the animal you’re covering. We did our best to gauge where each pick falls, but you’ll need to request a quote to find your specific rate.

  • $ = under $30
  • $$ = $30–$60
  • $$$ = over $60

Best for dogs

Toto Pet Insurance

  • Price: $–$$
  • Reimbursement rate: 70%, 80%, 90%
  • Annual deductible: $100, $250, $500
  • Annual limit: $2,500, $7,500, $15,000
  • Waiting period: 2 days for accidents, 14 days for illness, 30 days for alternative therapies and behavioral problems, 180 days for knee injuries
  • Option for wellness add-on? yes

Toto Pet Insurance wins the Top Dog spot for pet insurance for dogs because it offers solid coverage and plans that start as low as $1 per day. Plus, it offers two add-on options for wellness coverage and a 5 percent multi-pet discount.

Unlike those of some other providers, Toto’s plans cover:

  • exam fees
  • alternative therapies
  • hereditary conditions  
  • final respects

But there are some age restrictions. If your dog is more than 9 years old, you can only choose the accident-only plan. There are also age limits for the hereditary conditions and final respects coverage.

REQUEST A QUOTE FROM TOTO

Best for cats

Felix Cat Insurance

  • Price: $
  • Reimbursement rate: 70%, 80%, 90%
  • Annual deductible: $100, $250, $500
  • Annual limit: $2,500, $5,000, $10,000
  • Waiting period: 2 days for accidents, 14 days for illness, 30 days for alternative therapies and behavioral problems, 180 days for knee injuries
  • Option for wellness add-on? yes

Forget man’s best friend — Felix Cat Insurance is all about the felines. The company specializes in covering cats, so it’s the purr-fect pick.

Felix plans cover a lot, including:

  • accidents
  • illnesses
  • cancer
  • diabetes
  • emergency care
  • alternative therapies
  • hereditary conditions
  • exam fees

You can choose from three plan options or build your own plan by choosing from three different deductibles and reimbursement levels. But there are some age restrictions, so make sure you read all the details before signing up your feline friend.

REQUEST A QUOTE FROM FELIX

Best for puppies

Spot Pet Insurance

  • Price: $–$$$
  • Reimbursement rate: 70%, 80%, 90%
  • Annual deductible: $100, $250, $500, $750, $1000
  • Annual limit: $2,500, $4,000, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000, unlimited
  • Waiting period: 14 days
  • Option for wellness add-on? yes

Spot wins best pet insurance for puppies because it offers plans that cover many things new fur parents need, including microchipping and spaying/neutering. Two levels of preventive care coverage are also available as an add-on.

Spot also covers behavioral needs, including:

  • anxiety
  • excessive licking
  • destruction of the home
  • fur pulling
  • aggression
  • other compulsive behaviors

Reviewers praise how quickly the company processes claims and reimburses. But be sure to read the full policy, because some customers are unpleasantly surprised by the amount they get back.

REQUEST A QUOTE FROM SPOT

Best for older dogs

Pets Best Pet Health Insurance

  • Price: $–$$
  • Reimbursement rate: 70%, 80%, 90%
  • Annual deductible: $50, $100, $200, $250, $500, $1000
  • Annual limit: $5,000, unlimited
  • Waiting period: 3 days for accident, 14 days for illness, 6 months for knee conditions
  • Option for wellness add-on? yes

If your furbaby is more like a fur senior citizen, Pets Best may be your best bet. Here’s why it wins best pet insurance for older dogs:

  • There’s no upper age limits, meaning you can insure your dog at any age.
  • You have the option to choose no annual limit.
  • They offer a 24/7 pet hotline to answer any questions or help with an emergency.

Pets Best also offers two routine care add-on options and accident-only plans for less than $10 per month, no matter what your dog’s breed or age.

Customers say the claims process is easy, but some say the company is slow to reimburse. Some reviewers also complain that customer service won’t be winning best in show anytime soon.

REQUEST A QUOTE FROM PETS BEST

Best for preexisting conditions

Embrace Pet Insurance

  • Price: $–$$
  • Reimbursement rate: 70%, 80%, 90%
  • Annual deductible: $200, $300, $500, $750, $1,000
  • Annual limit: $5,000, $8,000, $10,000, $15,000, $30,000
  • Waiting period: 2 days for accident, 14 days for illness
  • Option for wellness add-on? yes

Here’s the deal with preexisting conditions: Pet insurance generally won’t cover them outright. But Embrace wins best pet insurance for preexisting conditions because they have a bit of a loophole.

If your pet’s preexisting condition is “curable,” the company says it will be covered after your pet has been symptom- and treatment-free for a year. Embrace also offers what they call a diminishing deductible: For every year your pet doesn’t have a claim, your deductible goes down by $50.

Reviewers say the claims process is quick and hassle-free. But some customers complain that Embrace is a little too deny-happy when it comes to claims.

REQUEST A QUOTE FROM EMBRACE

Best for emergencies

Figo Pet Insurance

  • Price: $–$$
  • Reimbursement rate: 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
  • Annual deductible: $100, $250, $500, $750
  • Limits: unlimited
  • Waiting period: 3 days for accidents, 14 days for illness, 6 months for knee conditions
  • Option for wellness add-on? no

Emergency trips to the animal hospital can get very pricey. Figo wins best pet insurance for emergencies because it offers options for 100 percent reimbursement and no annual limit.

The company also has a cool app that includes features like:

  • 24/7 access to a vet
  • AI for help submitting a claim
  • storage for pet medical records
  • help connecting with other pet owners around you
  • help finding pet-friendly locations

Some customers praise the claims process and say they got their reimbursement quickly and with no issues. But others complain that there’s a disconnect between what customer service says will be covered and what actually gets covered.

Bottom line: Read the fine print.

REQUEST A QUOTE FROM FIGO

Best for hereditary conditions

Trupanion Pet Insurance

  • Price: $$–$$$
  • Reimbursement rate: 50%–100%
  • Deductible: $0–$1,000
  • Limits: N/A
  • Waiting period: 5 days for injury, 30 days for illness
  • Option for wellness add-on? no

Some pets get the short end of the stick when it comes to their health. A fur child with a hereditary condition usually means lots of trips to the vet. In that scenario, Trupanion can be a true companion.

The company wins best pet insurance for hereditary conditions because it offers:

  • unlimited payouts, meaning no limits on reimbursement
  • a lifetime per-condition deductible instead of an annual deductible
  • the ability to pay your vet directly when you check out

Reviewers say customer service is helpful, caring, and attentive. But some customers complain that the claims process is confusing and claims are wrongfully denied as preexisting conditions.

REQUEST A QUOTE FROM TRUPANION

Best for wellness care

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance

  • Price: $–$$
  • Reimbursement rate: 70%, 80%, 90%
  • Annual deductible: $100, $250, $500
  • Annual limit: $3,000, $4,000, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000
  • Waiting period: 15 days
  • Option for wellness add-on? no

You love your furbaby through sickness and health, but pet insurance companies focus mostly on the sickness part. Well, not the ASPCA Complete Coverage plan. It covers all your basic accident and illness needs and then some.

It wins best pet insurance for wellness care because the base plan includes:

  • exam fees
  • prescription medication
  • prescription food and supplements
  • alternative therapies (like acupuncture, physical therapy, chiropractic care, rehabilitative therapy, hydrotherapy, and low-level laser therapy)
  • behavioral problems (like excessive licking, fur pulling, pacing, and destructive chewing)

Plus, there are two options for wellness care — one under $10 per month — that include:

  • annual wellness exams
  • vaccines
  • flea and tick medication
  • heartworm prevention
  • screenings

Reviewers love the coverage and the rates and say the plan pays for itself. But some customers report technical issues enrolling in and managing their plans.

REQUEST A QUOTE FROM ASPCA

Best for purebred pets

Petplan Pet Insurance

  • Price: $–$$$
  • Reimbursement rate: 70%, 80%, 90%
  • Annual deductible: $250, $300, $500
  • Annual limit: $5,000, $15,000, unlimited
  • Waiting period: 15 days
  • Option for wellness add-on? no

Should your furry friend be faulted for their bloodline? Petplan doesn’t think so. It wins best pet insurance for purebred animals because, unlike many other providers, it will cover breed-specific conditions.

Petplan also covers some other uncommon items, including:

  • virtual vet visits
  • boarding fees during hospitalization
  • dental injury and disease for all your pet’s adult teeth, not just the canines

Reviewers praise the customer service team for going above and beyond. But customers complain about unexpected rate increases.

REQUEST A QUOTE FROM PETPLAN

How to find the best pet insurance for you and your pet

Choosing insurance for your furbaby is a big decision. So when it’s time to go shopping, don’t rush it. Here’s some advice for choosing pet insurance.

Consider your pet

Think about your pet’s breed, lifestyle, and age to determine what kind of coverage you need and how much. Check with your vet to see what the costs are for the treatments your pet is most likely to need.

Choose a type of plan

Depending on your budget and your pet’s potential needs, choose the type of plan that makes the most sense for you: accident-only or accident and illness. Think about whether you want any add-on services.

“If you would like to have coverage for products and services such as vaccinations and flea and heartworm preventive, look for plans that offer preventive care,” says Freyer.

Get quotes

Shop around. Some providers give a lot of detailed information on their websites, while others keep it vague. Get quotes from several insurance companies so you can see what your true costs would be.

Be sure to check the following in each quote:

  • monthly premium
  • copays or coinsurance
  • deductible(s)
  • reimbursement rate
  • maximum limits (per incident, annual, lifetime)

Read the details

You don’t want any surprises. Read the full policy for each provider to understand:

  • what is and isn’t covered
  • whether there’s a waiting period and, if so, what it is
  • where the insurance is accepted
  • the process to submit claims and receive reimbursement
  • how the coverage changes as your pet ages

Research the provider

Get to know the company that’s going to help you care for your furry friend. Some pet insurance providers offer cool features like 24/7 support lines, pet to-do reminders, and apps to connect you with other pet owners in your area.

But don’t rely solely on the company’s website for information. Check reviews in places like the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot to read what customers have to say about the claims process and customer service.

Bottom line

Your pet is part of your family. Pet insurance can give you peace of mind that your furbaby’s medical bills will never get too scary. But as with other forms of insurance, it can be confusing to pick the coverage that’s right for you, and you may end up fighting to get claims covered.

Our verdict: If your budget can manage a monthly premium but you don’t have lots of savings for potential emergencies, pet insurance may be worth a look.



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Pimple Probs? The 18 Best Acne Treatments for Every Skin Type

Acne: It’s the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans every year. That’s a lot of pimples.

Anyone who has experienced a breakout knows that everyone, from well-meaning aunts to citizens of the internet, has a different opinion on the best treatments they “swear by.” It’s no wonder wading through the deluge of options feels exhausting — and dabbed with skepticism.

So we’re here to help armor your skin with expert-informed advice on the best treatments for acne. We’ll even make braving the skin care aisle easier with tips and product recs from dermatologists. Let’s journey through all the pimple possibilities together.

The best acne treatments

acne-product-roundup

How to choose the best acne treatment for you

Determine what type of acne you have

Figuring out which type of acne you’re dealing with will help you pick your fighter.

Dr. Stacy Chimento, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, says acne can range from mild whiteheads to severe cystic acne. She generously built us this crash course in zit-ology:

Comedonal acne

Also called mild noninflammatory acne, comedonal acne consists of:

  • Whiteheads are minor blemishes with white “heads” that pop up on the skin’s surface. Sometimes these guys are called comedones, and they can happen when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Whiteheads, Chimento says, also cause pores to stay closed at the surface of the skin, which is another reason it appears to have a white head.
  • Blackheads are blemishes that look like tiny black dots. They can also be considered comedones but are open at the surface of the skin. 

Mild inflammatory acne

A step above comedonal acne, mild inflammatory acne includes whiteheads, blackheads, plus a small amount of the following:

  • Papules are the step above whiteheads. Chimento says these become inflamed and infected, are usually very sensitive to touch, and are basically just hard clogged pores. Papules will annoyingly leave your skin with a pink or red look. 
  • Pustules are also a step above whiteheads, but these ones have yellow or white pus that can be seen on the skin’s surface — which is why Chimento says they are often mistaken for whiteheads. One way to tell them apart is by looking for red surrounding the white or yellow head on the skin’s surface. Pustules are also very tender to the touch and painful (owie).

Moderate inflammatory acne

This kind of acne includes everything we’ve already covered — except you’ll usually have a higher number of papules and pustules. You’ll also see a few of the these guys:

  • Nodules are the large and inflamed bumps that are firm to the touch, deep within the skin, and very painful, Chimento says. Moderate inflammatory acne usually only includes a few of these — you’ll typically see more of these with severe acne.

Severe inflammatory acne

Severe acne can last for months and usually loves to spread quickly. Severe acne includes everything we’ve already covered — with each type of lesion arriving in multiples —  plus a few additions:

  • Cysts (one of the most famous types of acne) are pus-filled lesions that look similar to boils. Chimento explains these usually happen after infections and are more likely than any other acne to scar.
  • Acne conglobata is a highly inflammatory condition, mostly affecting men associated with steroids or testosterone. “It involves several inflamed nodules that are connected underneath the skin. Most patients develop symptoms between 18 to 30 years of age, appearing on the neck, chest, back, and arms,” Chimento says.

Find the best ingredients for your acne type

When it comes to over-the-counter products (OTC) — plus a couple of prescription options we snuck in here — these are the ingredients that are most effective for mild to manageable acne breakouts.

Ingredient Results Acne type
alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs — like glycolic and lactic acid) These guys may prevent acne, unclog pores, and reduce hyperpigmentation by removing dead skin cells and reducing inflammation. comedonal
azelaic acid This ingredient helps reduce acne *and* post-acne hyperpigmentation. It’s also a good pick for people with rosacea. mild, moderate, and severe inflammatory acne
beta hydroxy acid (BHA — like salicylic acid) A bad B that can reduce acne by reducing oil and inflammation. comedonal
benzoyl peroxide A reliable (but strong AF) active ingredient that kills the bacteria that causes acne. mild and moderate inflammatory acne
clindamycin A topical antibiotic that can help treat inflammatory acne. mild and moderate inflammatory acne
niacinamide An ingredient commonly found in lotions and serums, it can regulate oil production, reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne, and reduce appearance of pores. comedonal and moderate inflammatory acne
retinoids (tretinoin and adapalene) Available in OTC and prescription strengths, the FDA has approved certain retinoids (like adapalene) for the treatment of acne. comedonal, mild, and moderate inflammatory acne
sulfa-based products This ingredient can help reduce inflammatory lesions, comedones, and oil production. comedonal, mild, and moderate inflammatory
zinc An anti-inflammatory that reduces the bacteria that causes acne and suppresses sebum production. comedonal, mild, and moderate inflammatory

tl;dr: Most ingredients aim to kill bacteria and clear up pesky dead skin cells, but your mileage may vary depending on the ingredient. Plus, your skin type will dictate which to choose to help you avoid harsh side effects like dryness or excess oil.

Consider your skin type, too

We know — taking your acne *and* skin type into consideration can be a drag. But if you want to avoid side effects like irritation and peeling, you’re gonna want to pay attention to this.

  • Most skin types. Chimento says Benzoyl peroxide is well-tolerated by most skin types. She does warn to be careful with the amount of this active ingredient, saying less is more. “You only need about 2.5% for it to work. Results may take a few days to begin showing.”
  • Oily skin. Salicylic acid helps prevent pores from getting clogged. “Salicylic acid is usually used to aid oily skin, control oil production, and reduce acne breakouts,” Chimento says. Sulfur is another helpful ingredient for oily skin. Chimento points out that it helps to remove dead skin cells that clog pores and removes excess oil. Another tip for oily babes: avoid alcohol-based products. “These can increase oil production and affect your skin barrier. Make sure to reach for products that read ‘oil-free’ and ‘noncomedogenic,'” Chimento says.
  • Dry skin. Basically your job is to steer clear of ingredients that are too drying for already dry skin — like salicylic acid. Dry skin types tend to tolerate sulfur-based products best because they’re slightly less drying. In general, you should START SLOW to help your skin build up a tolerance to your treatments. That means only using them a couple times a week at first.
  • Combination skin. Chimento suggests combo skin peeps look for products with hyaluronic acid. “It both hydrates the skin and smooths the appearance of fine lines without layering on too greasy.”
  • Textured, mature skin. As Chimento points out, AHAs (namely glycolic acid and lactic acid) reduce acne by removing dead skin cells and reducing inflammation. They’re also pretty bomb at smoothing out textured skin.

How we chose our products

We know it’s easy to get lost in the sauce with all the billions of acne treatments available. We needed some type of strategy to show you the best ones, here’s how we did that.

We considered stuff like:

  • Active ingredients. We played favorites with formulas that use well-established, helpful, safe ingredients for addressing acne. (We consulted the derms on these.)
  • Skin and zit type. What works for us may not work for you. That’s why taking skin type into account was hella important to us with this roundup. We chatted with the derms about how to let your skin type (and acne type) guide you to the right treatments.
  • Reviews. Reviews are king, so we take them seriously. We combed through them carefully, making sure they are legit, and that buyers are truly impressed and not just yanking our chain.
  • Price. We give you options. You can choose your acne treatment based on your current budget, or wait and save up for something a little extra next time.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $15
  • $$ = $15–$30
  • $$$ = $30–$60
  • $$$$ = over $60

Best acne treatments

Best splurge acne treatment

Marie Veronique Intensive Repair Serum

marie-veronique-intensive-acid-treatment
  • Price: $$$$
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: lactic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin B5
  • Product type: gel serum
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: pimples, blackheads, redness/blotchiness

This gel serum loves to eat up oil without stripping or drying the sh*t out of your skin (oily friends, take note).

It contains AHAs (hi, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), *and* vitamin B5 (aka panthenol), which is known for helping prevent skin irritation — a MUST when you’re slathering acne-fighting acids all over your face. This combo is ideal for curbing oil production, clearing away dead skin cells, and soothing inflammation.

Your skin may take a bit of time to adjust, but reviewers say they see clearer, smoother, and more balanced skin after two or three uses.

Shop now at Marie Veronique

Best over the counter acne treatment

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment

differin-acne-gel
  • Price: $
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: Adapalene (retinoid)
  • Product type: gel
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: all acne types

Dr. Angelo Landriscina, board-certified dermatologist, says, “A retinoid is a must in every skin care regimen for acne. And we now have prescription-strength adapalene over the counter from brands like Differin and La Roche-Posay.” That’s right, this fan favorite — also recommended by Chimento — used to be prescription only. WOOT.

It was a pretty big deal when the famous retinoid went OTC. Especially considering the acne-fighting ingredient is FDA-approved for the treatment of acne. Besides being effective, we also like that it’s easy to find at any drugstore in the US of A.

Writer’s review

Google reviewers say that it takes some time to see results, but that patience pays off big time.

I can also confirm this, since this was my go-to during some early acne days. Once my skin adjusted to the formula and did some “purging” (aka when things get worse before they get better), it worked wonders for erasing existing blemishes, preventing new ones, and improving the look of my skin’s texture too.

-Breanna Mona, writer

Shop now at Amazon

Best acne treatment cream

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Acne Treatment with Benzoyl Peroxide

  • Price: $$
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: benzoyl peroxide, lipo-hydroxy acid, silica
  • Product type: cream
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: blemishes, blackheads and whiteheads

Chimento recommends this noncomedogenic, fast-absorbing cream. The formula is supposed to be nondrying and safe for sensitive skin. We appreciate that it’s also made without fragrance, oil, or parabens.

Remember when we mentioned how benzoyl peroxide is generally safe for most skin types? This lotion has it babes, and it’s formulated to penetrate your pores to blast blemishes.

It also contains lipo-hydroxy acid, a derivative of salicylic acid that has all the same benefits but with less potential for irritation. Plus, it works over time to smooth skin’s texture. Glycerin is also added to moisturize and silica swoops in to absorb excess oil.

Google reviews are overall glowing — especially from oily skin reviewers. A couple point out that it burned their skin type though, which is something to keep in mind if you have sensitive skin.

Shop now at Amazon

Best acne treatment for oily skin

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

  • Price: $$
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: salicylic acid
  • Product type: liquid
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: whiteheads, blackheads, wrinkles, brightening
  • Bonus: cruelty-free

This BHA liquid by Paula’s Choice can be used as a toner treatment. It’s a leave-on exfoliant with salicylic acid — a mighty little ingredient known for taking on blackheads and whiteheads. The brand says the salicylic acid works fast to unclogs pores and smooth wrinkles while also brightening and evening out skin’s tone.

Because it’s a liquid, it’s also super lightweight and fast-absorbing too. Google reviewers are in agreement overall, saying it’s effective AF. A smaller number of reviewers disagree about the hype though, finding that it didn’t work for their skin type.

Editor’s review

Until I found this product, I had basically accepted that I would always have breakouts. I’ve always had oily skin, so I figured I would have to deal with acne until my body decided to quit producing so much oil.

I tried EVERYTHING to get rid of them — cleansers, spot treatments, masks, mattifying lotions — but nothing did the trick until I started a regular salicylic acid routine.

I put this stuff on with a little reusable cotton round every morning (and use Paula’s Choice Pore Refining Toner every night before bed) and have been breakout-free for 6 MONTHS.

My skin has been completely pimple-free *and* I’ve noticed my blackheads fade away, too. I am a true stan of this stuff and think everyone with oily skin should give it a shot.

-Ruby Thompson, Market Editor

Shop now at Amazon

Best acne treatment for sensitive skin

Makeup Artist’s Choice Mandelic Acid Toner

mandelic-acid-toner-MAUC
  • Price: $
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: mandelic acid
  • Product type: liquid
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: gently addressing inflammatory acne
  • Bonus: cruelty-free

Research shows that mandelic acid (an AHA) is just as effective at treating acne as salicylic acid — but that mandelic acid is better at treating inflammatory lesions. It also causes fewer adverse effects.

Basically this pick is a deep cleaning exfoliant that targets acne, shrinks your pores, and boosts the texture of your skin while it’s at it.

The formula also includes green tea extract and aloe leaf extract, which are two soothing, inflammation-reducing antioxidants. This toner is an excellent way to not break the bank, BTW.

Shop now at Makeup Artist’s Choice

Best acne treatment mask

Face Theory Pink Clay AHA Face Mask MK1

pink-clay-face-theory
  • Price: $$
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: lactic acid, clay
  • Product type: mask
  • Prescription: No
  • Best for: clearing pores
  • Bonus: vegan

A pilot study found that people who used clay masks in conjunction with jojoba oil saw improvement in acne after 6 weeks. This particular bestseller features lactic acid, vitamin C, and pink clay to cleanse pores and promote cell turnover, plus jojoba and argan oils to hydrate.

Using it is easy peasy. Just apply a thin layer and leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing.

Google reviewers are impressed, saying it’s moisturizing and not drying — like some clay masks are known for doing. We also appreciate that it’s cruelty-free and also free of parabens, silicones, PEGs, SLS, SLES, and mineral oils.

Shop now at Face Theory

Best acne treatment with niacinamide

Paula’s Choice Niacinamide Booster

  • Price: $$$
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: niacinamide, salicylic acid
  • Product type: serum
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: comedonal and moderate inflammatory acne
  • Bonus: anti-aging

This serum has one of the baddest boys of skin care: niacinamide. This ingredient can do all kinds of stuff — including reducing acne lesions, curbing oil reduction, reducing inflammation, and hydrating and strengthening your skin’s barrier. It’s also great at smoothing out wrinkles. Hellll yes.

It also has skin soothers like vitamin B5 and licorice root extract, which makes this a great pick for sensitive skin. But because niacinamide is such a powerhouse, it’s really good for any skin type.

Editor’s review

Me again! Shortly after starting my Paula’s Choice BHA liquid exfoliant, I added this Niacinamide Booster to my routine. In just a few weeks, my skin felt and looked *so* much healthier.

Niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory, hydrating, and skin barrier-strengthening properties were immediately obvious. Even though the salicylic acid toner works wonders for clearing and preventing breakouts, adding this booster gave me a second line of defense. It was also a huge help when I was still trying to heal my skin.

I am a big fan of this product. It’s now a permanent staple in my skin care routine.

-Ruby Thompson, Market Editor

Shop now at Amazon

Best acne treatment cleanser

Marie Veronique Treatment Cleanser

  • Price: $$$
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: lactic acid, salicylic acid
  • Product type: cleanser
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: clearing pores, anti-aging

This cleanser combines AHAs and BHAs to unclog pores, but its formulation is designed to prevent your skin from drying.

We know, we know, we’ve been tooting lactic acid’s horn so much by now. But here, we love that it not only exfoliates, but that it also offers anti-aging perks like boosting natural ceramides production to keep moisture locked in. Plus, the brand says it can help lighten up hyperpigmentation issues we tend to see after acne has cleared.

Shop now at Marie Veronique

Best budget acne treatment

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

the-ordinary-azaelic-acid
  • Price: $
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: azelaic acid
  • Product type: cream
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: all skin types
  • Bonus: vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free

This hot product lives up to the hype: Research suggests azelaic acid is effective at fighting acne and inflammation, and The Ordinary’s affordable product is a suitable option for all skin types. It has a lightweight texture and is fragrance-free. Those dealing with rosacea and acne at the same time might particularly benefit from it.

This pick is also supposed to have serious brightening powers, working to improve the look of dull, uneven tone and texture. We went digging through Google reviews and it was tough to find a negative one. Once we finally spotted one, it pointed out that this formula was too drying — making the reviewer’s face feel too tight.

Also, have you seen its teeny price tag?

Shop now at Sephora

Best acne treatment for dry skin

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% Exfoliating Serum

  • Price: $
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: lactic acid
  • Product type: serum
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: normal, dry, combo, and oily skin types
  • Bonus: vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free

Lactic acid is a more hydrating flavor of the AHA family, and the addition of hyaluronic acid provides extra hydration to balance things out as you remove dead skin cells.

These ingredients — plus superstar hydrator glycerin — can also help address other skin concerns like dullness, fine lines and wrinkles, and uneven texture.

It’s made without alcohol, and it’s free of silicones, which we love. Reviewers adore this serum, saying it’s as effective (if not more!) as more expensive serums. One even calls is ~liquid gold~.

Shop now at Sephora

Best acne treatment for back and body

CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser

cerva-cleanser
  • Price: $
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: salicylic acid, niacinamide
  • Product type: cleanser
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: face and body
  • Bonus: cruelty-free

Landriscina likes to have salicylic acid in wash-off formulations like CeraVe’s SA Cleanser. It’s formulated to be used on the face and body, and is supposed to be a pretty sweet pick for people with acne-prone skin.

This nondrying, nonirritating formula provides gentle cleansing and exfoliation while soothing and moisturizing the skin with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides. Quadruple threat much??

Oh, and it’s noncomedogenic and free of fragrance (!!!).

Shop now at Amazon

Best spot acne treatment with sulfur

Face Reality Sulfur Spot Treatment

face-reality
  • Price: $$
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: sulfur
  • Product type: spot treatment
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: red, inflammatory acne

This spot treatment promises to calm TF out of acne without bringing a strong odor or leaving dryness behind.

The brand says this pick is good for all skin types, including oily and sensitive. It contains bisabolol and allantoin, two soothing ingredients that help prevent the sulfur from drying you out.

Here’s what you’ll do: Use it by applying a thin layer to inflamed or hella oily areas. The brand says you can also mix it with your fave SPF or face moisturizer for an all-over treatment.

Shop now at Face Reality Skincare

Best spot acne treatment with benzoyl peroxide

Kate Somerville Anti-Bac Acne Clearing Lotion

kate-somerville-anti-bac
  • Price: $$$
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: benzoyl peroxide
  • Product type: lotion
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: oily, combo, normal skin types

This one uses 5 percent benzoyl peroxide to target blemishes head on, making for a pretty strong spot treatment. But for oily and combo-skinned peeps, this can be applied all over to help reduce oil production and prevent new breakouts from forming.

Reviewers say this is suuuper fast acting, flattening pimples STAT. People with normal skin types say using it daily can lead to dryness — so they use it strictly as a spot treatment — but oily-skinned folks say it helps keep breakouts at bay.

Shop now at Amazon

Best prescription topical antibiotic acne treatment

Clindamycin

  • Price: $20/month, $0 with insurance
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: clindamycin
  • Product type: gel, lotion, solution
  • Prescription: yes
  • Best for: inflammatory acne

Clindamycin is a treatment that you need a prescription for. Why? Because it’s an antibiotic that works to bring acne-causing (P. acnes) bacteria to a halt.  

Although researchers aren’t 100 percent clear on the details, a 2019 review says that this bacteria brings on the zits for some (but not others), which is why clindamycin is prescribed for some people with acne — it kills off that bacteria.

It’s considered super effective, but like any other prescription, there are some things to consider — like side effects or how it interacts with any other topicals or meds you may be taking. So you’ll need to chat with your derm about that ish first.

If your derm gives you the green light on this one, you can pick this up (with your prescription and whatever costs that come along with it) at most pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, as well as other prescription platforms like Nurx.

Get started at Nurx

Best prescription retinoid acne treatment

Tazarotene

  • Price: $20/month, $0 with insurance
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: retinoid
  • Product type: gel, lotion, cream
  • Prescription: yes
  • Best for: moderate and severe inflammatory acne

There are a couple of name brands for this type of topical for treating acne (Fabior, Arazlo, Tazorac, to name a few.) but you should also be able to find it in a generic form. Basically, that active ingredient — tazarotene — is in the retinoid fam, which means it’s the prescription (read: strong) version of retinol (aka, vitamin A).

In fact, this retinoid is THE strongest prescription strength topical vitamin A derivative. This guy is usually considered by derms for treating moderate and severe acne.

The nice thing about the gel version of this prescription is that it may also help out with acne scarring. According to a small 2019 study, Tazorac brand gel was just as helpful at easing the look of pitted acne scars as microneedling.

Again, only your derm knows which meds are right for you and your acne. Plus, you’ll need to go over possible side effects (this one is usually layered with moisturizer, since some side effects are dry skin, burning, itching, and redness).

PSA: Because this is the strongest retinoid you can get your hands on, the side effects (skin irritation, peeling, scaling) can be pretty gruesome. It can also cause severe birth deformities, so it’s not a good option to use during pregnancy.

Writer’s review

I originally started with Differin gel, but “graduated” after my skin adjusted to retinoids, leaving me curious about stronger options.

Now that I switched to Tazarotene, I found my forever treatment. Overall, I think this pick is the best prescription option and I’m practically in love with it. I wasn’t surprised to learn that it’s so effective at treating acne scars, either — I’ve been using it for years and have really noticed a difference.

I tolerate this gel very well when I layer it with my simple facial moisturizer (Vanicream Lotion). Without lotion, it would be too intense and drying, causing redness.

-Breanna Mona, writer

Get started at Nurx

Best acne treatment for teenagers

Hers Custom Acne Treatment for Teens

  • Price: $5/month for first 2 months when you start a subscription, or one-time purchase of $19
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: custom
  • Product type: customized based on skin and acne type
  • Prescription: yes
  • Best for: all acne types

OFC, acne is pretty much a right of passage for teenage years. If you prefer to get something custom for your skin and acne types, you can check out Hers — a telehealth company selling OTC meds, prescriptions, and other products.

Here is how it works: People under 18 get consent from a guardian to chat with one of Hers experts, addressing their specific skin concerns and goals.

Based on those convos, you’ll receive a custom formula (right at your doorstep) made just for you. It could include tretinoin, clindamycin, azelaic acid, zinc pyrithione, niacinamide — you name it.

Just keep in mind that this is a subscription service, which can be costly. You might be able to find the same ingredients in more affordable options elsewhere, too.

Get started at For Hers

Best acne treatment for skin prone to scarring

Starface Hydro-Stars

hydostars
  • Price: $
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: hydrocolloid
  • Product type: stickers
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: protecting blemishes
  • Bonus: vegan

Hydrocolloid patches protect the spot from additional irritation while removing any excess fluid. The only ingredient in these adorable patches is hydrocolloid, so they’ll do their job to shrink whiteheads without causing any irritation.

Most Google reviewers are convinced these stickers are cute and effective. Of course, some disagree, saying they didn’t notice these working for their skin.

Shop now at Target

Best drugstore acne treatment

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

cerava-retinol
  • Price: $$
  • Acne-fighting ingredients: retinol, niacinamide
  • Product type: serum
  • Prescription: no
  • Best for: new retinol users, sensitive skin
  • Bonus: cruelty-free

Retinol and niacinamide work together to fight long-term acne in this gentle formula from CeraVe. It’s a top choice if you’re new to retinol because of its encapsulated formula. Encapsulated retinol is especially good for people with sensitive skin due to its improved ingredient stability and delivery.

We love that this formula is also noncomedogenic and that the majority of Google reviewers love it. They mention it working for their sensitive skin types and one pointed out how it worked for their breakouts as well as hyperpigmentation.

Shop now at Amazon

How to use acne treatments

When it comes to your skin care routine, Chimento says you don’t need to make it too complicated to see results. She gave us the when, the what, and the how for applying your acne treatment and other lotions and potions too.

When to apply

According to Chimento, you can apply your acne treatment after your initial cleansing but before moisturizing. This can be about twice a day — once when you wake up and again before bed. (But read your product’s label carefully for specifics.)

How to apply

Getting acne under control requires an entire skin care routine — not just acne treatments. Here’s what yours should look like (for the most part):

  1. It’s best to start with your cleanser so that your skin is primed and ready to absorb the products you put on it, Chimento explains.
  2. Then, you can use your toner — Chimento suggests one that’s filled with either BHAs or AHAs so you can unclog those pores, prevent breakouts, and blast blackheads over time.
  3. Then she says you can apply serums (which is essentially just applying highly concentrated nutrients and antioxidants to hydrate your skin and amplify its health) and eye creams.
  4. Ding ding! Time to apply your acne treatments.
  5. Finish with your fave moisturizer and sunscreen during the day, switching it out for retinol at night. 

PSST. There is no “one-size” anything, including skin care. But a good routine is crucial and we have more tea on how to build your routine right here in this guide.

Tips and tricks for treating your acne

Be patient

Landriscina warns that you may have a long wait to see results from acne products. “I always tell my patients that you need to give a regimen 6 weeks to START to see results,” he says, noting that some products can take up to 12 weeks.

Keep it simple

Don’t try everything at once. Keep your acne-fighting regimen to one or two products rather than a whole line — especially with products that contain AHAs and BHAs.

The same goes for facewashing. “Another common mistake is feeling like your skin care needs to be extra harsh or that you have to scrub your face — overcleansing and harsh scrubs can actually make acne worse,” says Landriscina. “You are not dirty.”

Don’t pop ‘em

We know it’s so tempting, but you’ll thank yourself later. You can bet squeezing and popping will only make things worse and ultimately lead to scarring.

See your derm if you can

Remember that at-home treatments are not a replacement for expert care. Landriscina stresses that people with acne should see a dermatologist for their acne at least once. “Many conditions like rosacea, perioral dermatitis, and malassezia folliculitis can look like acne to the untrained eye. Without the correct diagnosis, it will be hard to find relief.”

Plus, a dermatologist can help you figure out your skin type and then recommend the right ingredient. You don’t want your skin to be a testing ground! Leave that to the clinical trials.

Patch test

Always use caution when adding new actives and proven ingredients to your routine. The best practice is to perform a little patch test on yourself before using your new acne treatment. This will help you avoid an allergic reaction and to make sure your pick isn’t too intense for your skin type. Ultimately, if you treat your skin kindly, you’ll be glowing sooner than you think.

Our process and why you should trust us

We consulted with two dermatologists to get tips for choosing the best acne treatments for different skin types and concerns. We used those tips to pick the products above.

Before writing about those products, we put them all through a thorough vetting process that checks for unsupported health claims (like “This acne treatment gets rid of breakouts in one use!”), shady business practices, and lawsuits concerning a company’s products. We also checked that the main ingredients in each product are evidence-based and actually do what the company says they do.

After wrapping up our recommendations and tips, we sent this entire article to a third medical professional specializing in dermatology (in this case, Clare Wightman MS, PAC) for review.

So basically, you can feel good knowing that we put in WORK to get you these recommendations.



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Who’s the *Fittest* of Them All? 6 Best Smart Workout Mirrors for 2022

Mirror, mirror, on the wall… who’s the fittest of them all?

If you happen to be gazing into a smart fitness mirror, it’s def gonna be you. These shiny, futuristic workout surfaces are set to take the fitness world by storm, and we’ve got the scoop on which ones are worth your money.

Here are our picks for the best smart workout mirrors for 2022.

Best smart workout mirrors for 2022

best workout mirror

What is a workout mirror?

A workout mirror is probably the most cutting-edge piece of workout equipment you could get your hands on, RN.

It’s a mirror with a built-in digital screen. You’ll get to see your reflection AND follow along with the movements performed on screen. It’s like having a personal trainer you can mirror (in the mirror!) to achieve perfect form.

Some fitness mirrors come equipped with cameras, sensors, and accessories to help guide you through tailor-made workouts, auto-adjust weight and resistance, and track your progress. (More on cameras in the FAQs.)

Kinda like the Peloton bike or Bowflex Max Trainer, these mirrors are equipped to stream fitness classes. Is there a workout style you wanna try? There’s probably a class for it. We’re talking yoga, barre, weight lifting, cardio, etc.

Bottom line: The versatility of this one piece of fitness equipment is incredible. Several brands also offer additional accessories that sync with the mirror. #Fancy

How we chose

We wouldn’t recommend just any shiny surface with a screen. Here’s how we curated a list of the best smart fitness mirrors for 2022:

  • Cost. Let’s keep it real: These ultra-modern workout mirrors are not cheap. But we did try to include high quality options at a variety of prices.
  • Reviews. No product is perfect, but we kept a close eye on ratings and reviews. No duds here!
  • Special features. If you’re gonna shell out for one of these babies, you want it to be good. We included smart fitness mirrors with features like extra equipment heart rate monitors, and free limited-time app subscriptions.
  • Class options. All of our picks require connection to an app that unlocks a library of on-demand fitness routines. With the exception of the NordicTrack Vault, every pick includes live streaming options too.
  • Vetted products only. Every one of our product recs goes through a thorough vetting process. We made sure each smart mirror was made by a company known for high quality products — and not known for shady business practices. Every mirror on this list passed the vetting process.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $1,200
  • $$ = $1,200—$2,500
  • $$$ = over $2,500

The 6 best workout and fitness mirrors

Let’s start with the chart (keep scrolling for the deets).

Price Display Mount Built-in camera App price
NordicTrack Vault Complete $2,999 32″ touch screen freestanding no $180/year
Echelon Reflect $1,200 32” display wall-mounted yes $39.99/mo.
ProForm Vue $1,499 22” touch screen freestanding no $180/year
Tonal $2,995 24″ touch screen wall-mounted yes $49/mo.
Mirror $1,495 43” HD display wall-mounted or freestanding yes $39/mo.
Tempo Studio Pro $3,995 42” touch screen freestanding yes $39/mo.

Best overall workout mirror

NordicTrack Vault Complete

nordictrack vault
  • Price: $$$
  • Mirror size and type: 22.5″ x 61.5″ and freestanding
  • Equipment included: exercise mat, 2 yoga blocks, 3 mini resistance bands, 3 full-size resistance bands, a dumbbell set, 2 kettlebells, storage shelves, microfiber cleaning towel
  • App connectivity and pricing: 30-day iFIT family membership included ($396/year for family plan or $180/year for individual plan after that)

The NordicTrack Vault is literally a vault. The freestanding full-length mirror slides to reveal a handy storage vault for its many accessories. The mirror also rotates 360 degrees (and hides a smart HD touch screen!) so you can place it however you’d like. Speakers, Wi-Fi connectivity, and Bluetooth capability are all built into the carbon steel frame.

The Vault uses iFIT, NordicTrack’s virtual personal training program. At the moment, there are more than 150 Vault-specific pre-recorded workouts to choose from (that number’s expected to climb), including HIIT, yoga, Pilates, and strength training.

The Vault Complete is still kinda new, so there aren’t many reviews yet. The Better Business Bureau reveals that most customer issues have to do with delivery delays and shipping-damaged goods. The good news is that undamaged products are high quality — and NordicTrack seems to address issues in good time.

Check out our full review of the NordicTrack Vault here.

Shop now at NordicTrack

Best budget workout mirror

Echelon Reflect 40″ Connected Fitness Mirror

echelon mirror
  • Price: $
  • Mirror size and type: 20″ x 40″ and wall-mounted
  • Equipment included: N/A
  • App connectivity and pricing: Echelon FitPass, $39.99/month or $399/year

This isn’t a full-length or touch-screen fitness mirror like some others on this list, but it’s much less expensive. It’s also a great space-saver since it mounts flush onto the wall.

So, what *can* you do with the Echelon Reflect? Through the Echelon FitPass app, you can stream a variety of live and on-demand classes. Workouts include everything from core and strength training to meditation, yoga, and kickboxing.

Reviewers say the smart mirror itself is stellar for space-saving fitness but the app leaves something to be desired. Some users report connectivity issues with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

Shop now at Echelon

Best freestanding workout mirror

ProForm Vue

proform vue mirror
  • Price: $$
  • Mirror size and type: 24″ x 60″ and freestanding
  • Equipment included: weight bar, 2 dumbbells, 4 weight plates
  • App connectivity and pricing: iFit, free family plan for 1 month ($396/year for family plan or $180/year for individual plan after that)

Renting? You’re probably not interested in a wall-mounted workout mirror. This gorgeous freestanding mirror from ProForm can serve double duty in your home as a dressing mirror and as a feature-packed workout mirror. It also pivots and has a space on the back of the mirror for storing accessories. #Winning

The ProForm Vue records your progress to customize workouts suggestions. The Vue offers streaming from a vast collection of on-demand (not live) iFIT workouts. Choose from Pilates, yoga, stretching recovery, and more.

Reviews are still pretty limited, but most folks comment on the fun, action-packed workouts and stellar iFIT instructors.

Shop now at ProForm

Most high tech workout mirror

Tonal

tonal workout mirror
  • Price: $$$
  • Mirror size and type: 21.5″ x 51″ and wall-mounted
  • Equipment included: N/A, can add the accessory bundle when you purchase which includes Smart handles, Smart bar, Smart rope, bench, roller, and workout mat
  • App connectivity and pricing: Tonal, $49/month

Tonal is equipped with 17 sensors to help correct your form, and its smart weight system automatically adjusts tension up to 200 pounds (100 per arm) — with no dumbbells, kettlebells, or weight plates. The arms are fully adjustable for lower body and upper body workouts, and your progress is tracked to help Tonal customize workouts for your strength and skill level.

With the Tonal app — which is required for the first year after purchase — you’ll get a growing library of guided strength training workouts, video demos, and automatic tracking and reporting. Tonal’s live workout options finally dropped in October 2021, so you can enjoy strength training or Power HIIT with a coach in real time.

Like many of the other smart mirrors on our list, the Tonal doesn’t have many reviews yet. Most reviewers say the Tonal has helped them get stronger because of its precise metrics.

Check out our full review of Tonal here.

Shop now at Tonal

Workout mirror with the best workout variety

MIRROR

mirror
  • Price: $$
  • Mirror size and type: 22.5″ x 56″ and wall-mounted or freestanding
  • Equipment included: N/A
  • App connectivity and pricing: Mirror All-Access, $39/mo

This chic smart mirror doubles as an actual mirror when you’re not exercising. Mirror offers your standard selection of classes like yoga and strength training, plus things like Latin dance, boxing, and Family Fun. You can also buy 1-on-1 training sessions through your Mirror. Just keep in mind that most workouts are bodyweight-only.

Additionally, Mirror gamifies your fitness by allowing you to join competitive classes and earn points for hitting your target heart rate zone and facing off against other Mirror users. We love the way the live classes light up the pleasure centers in your brain, making Mirror workouts extra-fun.

Reviewers say this smart fitness mirror is a great investment for multiple users because of its class variety. If you’re super into competitive fitness but your partner loves meditation or signing up for 1-on-1 training, this one’s for you.

Shop now at Mirror

Workout mirror with the most accessories

Tempo Studio Pro

tempo studio pro mirror
  • Price: $$$
  • Mirror size and type: 26″ x 72″, freestanding
  • Equipment included: 20 weight plates, workout mat, 2 dumbbells, 1 barbell, heart rate monitor, recovery roller, folding bench, kettlebell system, folding squat rack, weight plate storage
  • App connectivity and pricing: Tempo, $39/month

Want to buy a whole, fully-equipped home gym in one go? Then the Tempo Studio Pro is IT. In addition to the fitness display (this one’s not *really* a mirror), it comes with all the accessories you need to outfit a home gym.

The Tempo’s easel-like display has super-sensitive 3D sensors that provide instant feedback on your form and progress. Tracking your form and sweet, sweet gains is the Tempo’s claim to fame. The Tempo Studio Pro Package unlocks alllll cardio, mobility, and strength classes so that you can improve your fitness in several areas each month.

Reviewers love Tempo’s real-time form recommendations and leaderboards in the live classes. Most folks only thumbs-down the price and wait time after purchase. Otherwise, it’s happy customers all the way down.

Pro tip: For fewer accessories and a less eye-popping price, you can buy the Tempo Studio Starter or the Tempo Studio Plus.

Check out our full review of Tempo here.

Shop now at Tempo Fit

How to pick the perfect smart workout mirror

There’s a lot to consider before spending your hard-earned cash on new workout equipment. Here are some questions to consider when shopping.

What’s your budget?

Not all smart mirrors are created equally — and the prices reflect that.

Not everyone has the budget for a Tempo Studio Pro or Tonal, and that’s OK. The Echelon Reflect is still a sleek, high tech fitness mirror for home workouts.

Where do you plan to put it?

Even if the frames are similar in size, the depth and mounting style of these smart mirrors could eat into your home gym space.

It’s also important to consider aesthetics if you’re putting your smart mirror in a main living space. Do you want the sophisticated mirror look of the Vault Complete or ProForm Vue? Or do you crave the beefy gym-like look of a Tonal?

What are your fitness goals?

If you’re simply looking for pre-programmed workouts integrated into a mirror, all of these options will work for you.

But if you need the motivation of live classes, you should look closely at the Tempo Studio Pro or Mirror.

Likewise, consider whether your goals are primarily strength-based, cardio, or weight loss. Scroll through the available workouts to make sure you pick a workout mirror that mirrors (heh heh) your goals.

What kinds of workouts do you like?

What kind of movement do you enjoy? Every smart fitness mirror is linked to a different workout library. Your on-demand class options are just as important a consideration as the equipment itself.

Frequently asked questions

How do you install a smart fitness mirror?

That depends on the brand. Some smart mirrors need to be professionally mounted to the wall or floor.

Others, like the NordicTrack Vault, are freestanding and can be placed anywhere in the room.

Do you need an app subscription to use a smart mirror?

Yes.

Each smart mirror is designed to be paired with the brand’s fitness app. Since you’re limited to live or on-demand workouts that are offered via the app, it’s important to check out the selection before purchasing a smart mirror.

Is there a camera on most smart workout mirrors?

Most smart fitness mirrors have a front-facing camera that is activated only during workout sessions. Some even come with privacy covers or an on/off switch. The cameras and sensors are built into the mirror to offer real-time posture correction recommendations and help instructors give personalized feedback.

However, not *every* smart mirror has a camera. If you’re not a fan of inviting a video camera into your personal space, that could be a good thing. But if you want the kind of custom feedback and form correction that you’d get from an in-person training session, the camera is a huge part of making that happen.

The bottom line

Fitness mirrors are super-advanced workout tech that allow you to see your reflection while following the moves on-screen, improving your form. Many are also equipped with sensors that track your progress and auto-adjust weight, resistance, and workouts based on the data they receive.

With one of these babies, you’re gonna love your re*flex*ion.



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