Thanks to online shopping I rarely have to compromise on my favorite skincare products. The only downside of this convenience is that it's not always the most economical option. So in the event that I need to trim down my beauty budget I troll the drugstore aisles for affordable alternatives.
Years ago I made the mistake of equating pricier products with quality ingredients. Now that I am more informed I understand that often times what makes luxury skincare "luxury" has very little to do with what's inside the bottle and more to do with packaging and brand image. That being said, there are certainly quality brands out there with bigger price tags worth the hype, but budget-friendly alternatives shouldn't be overlooked.
After thorough research and a lot of trial and error here's my list of the top 10 best drugstore skin care products.
CLEANSERS
Makeup Remover: Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water ($6)
This is an awesome makeup remover, it dissolves even waterproof mascara without any rubbing and it's super gentle. A great dupe for Bioderma's Micellar Water ($15). Also comes in individual wipes ($6).
For Oily: Clean & Clear Daily Pore Cleanser ($6)
Summertime in the Northeast makes my skin oily and unpredictable but this cleanser always leaves my skin feeling clean (with a tingling sensation) but not overly dry.
For Dry: Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash ($6)
Recommended by my dermatologist while I was on Accutane because I was so insanely dry. Most cleansers stripped my skin and caused me to breakout more this was an effective but gentle cleanser that left my skin feeling "normal", essentially the same as Cetaphil but half the price.
EXFOLIANTS
Hard to believe this is an exfoliant because it's so gentle and non-drying but this toner gives an Oxy-Pad-worthy clean with aloe.
Waxing salons always push their overpriced exfoliant pads to avoid getting ingrown hairs. One day I read that Oxy Pads were a great dupe and I've used them ever since.
MOISTURIZERS
With SPF: Olay Regenerist Microsculpting Moisturizer SPF 30 ($30)
I discovered Olay's Regenerist line through my dad believe it or not, so if this stuff can make a significant impact on a 65 year old man than that's more convincing than what I can attest to as a 32 year old. It's more expensive but it's one of the best moisturizers I've ever used. It plumps (gross word) your skin, it's super hydrating but not greasy, and it seriously improved my skin's texture and tone with a brightening effect.
Body Lotion: Dove Cream Oil Instensive ($7)
I swear by this lotion. Smells great and the oil is light but still gives a sheen. Super hydrating but light enough for the summer.
Multi-Purpose: Aquaphor ($6)
I keep a 7 ounce tube on me at all times. Recommended for lips by my dermatologist while I was on Accutane. Feels thicker than Vaseline and I use it on lips and cuticles, I also dab it on eyes like a night cream, and it even keeps lashes curled when I don't want to use mascara.
FACE MASKS
My experience with skincare has proven that good skin is a marathon not a sprint. I think the overall effectiveness of face masks is up for debate considering the likelihood of getting earth shattering results in just 15 minutes is slim. That being said, Netflix nights and self care Sundays are always more fun with a face mask and I think this one is super hydrating and even better when left on over night.
Great for traveling and rehydrating after a flight. It's super saturated with product so just be careful as the application can be a little messy.
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