Does affordable skincare actually work?
Yes – if you choose the right skincare products that are suitable for your skin type. Dermatologists suggest that quality skincare does not need to cost a fortune. In fact, many effective and gentle formulations are available at affordable prices. Whether your skin is dry, sensitive, redness, or acne-prone, this skincare guide highlights dermatologist recommended skincare products that are budget-friendly and clinical backed!
Where should we invest and where can we save?
When choosing skincare products, it is important to think not only about the effectiveness but also value for money. Some skincare products may be expensive, while some can be affordable without compromising your skin’s health. So, finding the ideal skincare products for your skin type doesn’t need to be costly, instead, it can be affordable and budget-friendly. Here are some tips to help you choose the right skincare products that are ideal for your skin types!
Invest In: Serums, SPF(Sunscreen), and barrier-repair creams
Always do the patch test before you apply the skincare products to the whole face, follow the right skincare routine every day, particularly serum for hydration and high-quality SPF that offers protection without clogging pores, especially apply SPF for morning use to prevent your skin from UV that may cause redness and dryness. Moreover, a damaged barrier leads to redness, breakouts and irritation, choosing the right barrier-repair creams can strengthen the skin barrier, helping restore and protect the skin.
Save On: Cleansers and basic moisturisers
A good cleanser should gently remove dirt and impurities without stripping the skin. The reason why you can save in cleansers is that as long as the cleanser is fragrance-free and PH-balanced, and budget cleanser is usually just as good as luxury one. Besides, for daily hydration, a simple moisturiser can be very effective if it contains the right ingredients!
Here are some dermatologist-recommended skincare products that are both affordable and clinical backed!
Best for gentle cleansing
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Lavant B5 Soothing Wash
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Lavant B5 Soothing Wash is a gentle cleansing wash with 5% panthenol, enriched with antibacterial metallic salts and glycerin. This facial wash is ideal to cleanse, soothe, and protect sensitive or damaged skin. Suitable for all ages and facial areas, it helps restore the skin barrier, hydrates, and reduces irritation. Besides, it is an affordable cleanser that is dermatologist-tested and recommended for sensitive skin.
Best for everyday cleansing
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a gentle non-foaming lotion that effectively cleanses the face and body. The formula enriched with 3 Essential Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid, hydrates and help’s protect the skin’s natural barrier, leaving skin soft and thoroughly cleansed. CeraVe’s patented MVE technology locks in moisture giving continuous hydration for 24 hours. Also suitable for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Best for dry skin
La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum
La Roche Posay Hydraphase Intense Hydrating Serum is a top dermatologist recommended product from the UK. Infused with Thermal Spring Water, it enhances the skin’s ability to retain water, providing optimal hydration. The fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula melts into the skin, featuring hyaluronic acid as the main active ingredient. This perfumed serum is paraben-free and suitable for sensitive skin, being hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested. La Roche Posay has a rich heritage dating back to the 14th century, known for their contribution to affordable and accessible derma cosmetic skincare, particularly their thermal spring waters. Experience the benefits of this serum and achieve long-lasting hydration for your skin.
Best for acne-prone skin
Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster is a lightweight, multi-tasking serum with 10% niacinamide (Vitamin B3) can visibly minimises pores, reduces post-breakout marks, and improves skin texture while addressing signs of aging. Niacinamide, a powerful skin-restoring ingredient, is used to enhance the appearance of uneven tone, fine lines, and dullness. Moreover, it is suitable for all skin types, including normal, dry, combination, and oily, it fades pores and works seamlessly under makeup. Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster’s hydrating formula help to replenish and restore radiance without irritation. Besides, this serum is 100% fragrance-free and cruelty-free, it’s a safe, smart beauty choice for exceptional skincare. Perfect for achieving smoother, healthier-looking skin with a radiant finish.
Best for hydration
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion is a lightweight moisturiser for evening use. This facial moisturiser is formulated with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and 3 essential ceramides, helping to protect the skin’s natural barrier and provides a continuous release of hydration for up to 24 hours, locking in moisture all night long.
Best SPF
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50 is a daily lightweight facial moisturiser, with SPF 50+ UVB/UVA protection, hyaluronic acid and 3 essential ceramides, helping to protect the skin’s natural barrier and leave skin feeling soothed and hydrated for up to 24 hours.
Best for redness
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Colour correcting Treatment
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Correcting Treatment is a dermatologist-tested multi-task cream. It helps neutralise redness without irritation and even out skin tone. Infused with Niacinamide and Dr.Jart+’s Green Repair Solution™, it combines Tiger Grass (Cica), herbs, minerals, humectants, and probiotics to soothe, hydrate, and revitalise skin. In addition, according to TikTok-famous bestseller, 89% of users reported moisturised, soothed skin, 88% noticed reduced redness, and 85% saw a vibrant, even-toned glow. Ideal for concealing blemishes and reviving fatigued skin.
Best for glow
Weleda Skin Food
Weleda Skin Food intensely nourishes and restores dry, rough skin on faces, hands, elbows, and feet. With sunflower, almond oils, beeswax, and lanolin, it locks in moisture, while viola, calendula, and chamomile extracts calm and soften. Moreover, it is suitable for vegetarians and benefits in the skin’s protective barrier.
Best for smoothing skin texture
CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum
CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum is formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid for extra hydration, niacinamide to soothe, and three essential ceramides that work together to lock in moisture and help restore your skin’s protective barrier. Ideal choice for people who are looking for anti-aging skincare.
Best moisturiser for sensitive skin
Cetaphil PRO Moisturising Night Cream
Cetaphil PRO Moisturising Night Cream is a nourishing moisturiser that provides continuous hydration to improve skin’s texture and visibly reduce the appearance of redness due to dryness. Specially formulated with Allantoin, Licorice Extract and Caffeine to soothe redness, it is ideal for redness prone, sensitive skin. Defends against 5 signs of skin sensitivity including dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness and a weakened skin barrier.
