Over the past 16 years seeing the evolution of drugstore skincare has been interesting. Some positive and some not so much, and some have just stayed the same. With so many different options to choose from in skincare land, it makes the decision making for the consumer extremely difficult. Do we trust these brands to deliver the results they claim to make? Can't beat the price, especially if I'm trying it for the first time. This one says anti-aging, whats the diff between this one and a more expensive one? Are professional products that much better? Are they worth it? So many questions, but you're in luck. I have so many answers!
Back in the day the drugstore was the ONLY place to really get skincare products, besides the mall cosmetic counters which was much more upscale at the time. Seabreeze, Oxy Pads, and Neutrogena were the go to for all skin problems. If it burned and turned you red, that's how you knew it was "working". Luckily we realize that that doesn't rein true to today.. phew!
What it comes down to is the difference between drugstore skincare and professional skincare is the ingredients. What is giving the product its potency. If you take 2 very similar products, and compare the ingredients what you'll come to find is that the drugstore product will have a a significantly less powerful active ingredient compared to the professional product. Perhaps the % will be less or the "active" ingredient will be at the bottom of the ingredient list. Now, does this mean that the drugstore product is garbage? Not necessarily! It means that the results you want may take longer to achieve, you'll go through the product quicker, and you may find yourself purchasing more of it at a quicker pace.
Comparing drugstore skincare and professional products will also differ in the preservative department as well. Many drugstore brands are still using potentially harmful preservative additives to their products to prolong the shelf life. Don't get me wrong, some professional lines still use this too and it's frustrating. So ingredients are key!
Depending on what your skincare needs are, treating acne, anti-aging, hyperpigmentation, large pores, to name a few. Skincare does not have to break the budget at all! Diving into all professional skincare products can be overwhelming for many, and can be misled for many consumers if they are not under the care of a trusted and educated aesthetician. So in order to get the results you want but don't want to spend a ton of money I have an easy solution.
How to get results on a budget
- Come to develop a relationship with a highly trained and trusted aesthetician to breakdown what you need for your skin type and that truly understands your needs and skin.
- Start simple with primary skincare products (cleanser, moisturizer, etc)
- Incorporate 1 product that has higher potency ingredients to help you get closer to your goals (retinol, hyaluronic acid product, vitamin c product, antioxidant product, spf etc)
By using this method you will happily see a result and get closer to your skin care goals without breaking the bank. It also gives you a taste of what 1 professional skincare product can do. If you are not interested in purchasing 1 professional/higher potency product and only want to stick to a simple skincare routine that's ok too. Just know that if there are major goals you want to achieve or skin issues you are looking to correct, you may not get the result you want.
Here is a list of a skincare products that range in price and potency:
Budget friendly skincare products and links
I love Vani Cream products because they are extremely gentle on the skin and free of harsh chemicals and preservatives. They are great for post procedure and just get the job done! Here are the affiliate links on their Amazon store front.
Differin Gel (spot treat only)
Mid Level (still budget friendly) Skincare Products
Primal Elements Skincare line is the best of both worlds. Effective ingredients, clean ingredients and all for a great price.
Farmhouse Fresh Products are loaded with natural ingredients with a beautiful twist of science and active ingredients which show results.
* These products (Shea Moisture and Versed) are recommended based on ingredient list only.
Higher price point products to incorporate 1 at a time
Elta MD Daily SPF - Normal to dry skin
Elta MD Clear SPF - Normal to oily to acne skin
Epionce is a physician strength skincare line that has a lovely blent of botanicals and free of harmful preservatives. Powerful ingredients have been clinically tested to show a visible result.
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