If you’re new to a multistep routine, choosing the right skin care products can be downright nerve-wracking. Even after searching the web for hours for the best cleanser, there seem to be dozens of answers, and how on Earth do we know what even works on our specific skin type?!
Thankfully, we have skin experts, aka dermatologists and aestheticians. Long story short: When we’re in a skin rut or trying to tackle a pesky concern like blemishes or excess oil, these pros know the ins and outs for all complexions. And while you may see them recommend products with high price tags, they also know how to care for skin on a budget.
We touched base with a few skin geniuses to see exactly how they shop the drugstore aisles for those common but necessary products, like cleanser and a dependable night cream. See their top picks, all under $50, ahead.
Originally posted on StyleCaster.
Cleanser: Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Cleanser
“This cleanser is gentle enough to use on the most sensitive skin but powerful enough even on oily skin. Plus, it has a brightening soy complex that can help even skin tone.” — Dr. Joshua Zeichner
Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Cleanser, $10.24 at Amazon
Toner: Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner
“Toners can alleviate redness and irritation as well as provide hydration. I prefer Dickinson’s Pore Perfecting Toner, which helps to refine pores, remove excess oil, soothe irritation and maintain skin’s natural balance that won’t over dry or strip skin like many other toners.” — Dr. Dendy Engelman
Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner, $4.69 at Target
Exfoliator: Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub
“This scrub gently buffs away dry, dull skin while cleansing to support natural surface cell turnover. The result is improved skin texture to reveal healthy, glowing skin.” — Dr. Dendy Engelman
Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub, $9.99 at Ulta
Serum: Avène A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum
“I love that this serum contains antioxidants to protect again free radical damage. It has a great feel and is noncomedogenic, so it works for all skin types.” — Dr. Dendy Engelman
Avène A-Oxitive Antioxidant Defense Serum, $44 at Dermstore
Moisturizer: CeraVe Moisturizing Face Lotion with Sunscreen
“It’s lightweight, moisturizing and goes on invisible, so it works for all skin types.” — Dr. Michelle Henry
CeraVe Moisturizing Face Lotion with Sunscreen, $14.21 at Amazon
Acne Treatment: Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 Acne Medication
“This gel has been a longtime go-to of mine to clear bacteria and help spot-treat and eliminate acne.” — Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, celebrity cosmetic dermatologist
Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 Acne Medication, $4.99 at Target
Retinol: Differin Acne Treatment Gel
“This gel is fantastic because it is prescription-strength. Retinol increases collagen production and decreases collagen breakdown, so the stronger the better. This helps prevent acne, wrinkles and marks on the skin — a major find in my book!” — Dr. Mona Gohara
Differin acne treatment gel, $10.63 at Amazon
SPF: La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Ultra-Light Sunscreen Fluid
“As a dermatologist, I want all my patients to wear sunscreen every day! This is my favorite to use because it provides a light texture with a little tint. The antioxidant complex also protects the skin from free radicals caused by UV rays. — Dr. Dendy Engelman
La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Ultra-Light Sunscreen Fluid, $33.50 at Ulta
Eye Cream: Olay Total Effects Anti-Aging Eye Cream
“This product contains niacin and vitamins B and E, which aid in gently exfoliating the delicate eye skin and in turn reduces fine lines, wrinkles and dark pigment of this area.” — Shay Moinuddin, aesthetic nurse specialist
Olay Total Effects Anti-Aging Eye Cream, $17.73 at Amazon
Night Cream: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream
"This vitamin A product helps to boost collagen production, soften wrinkles and break up the melanin that causes age spots.” — Shay Moinuddin, aesthetic nurse specialist
$14.51 at Amazon
Face Mask: Yes to Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Peel-Off Mask
“The natural ingredients in this peel-off mask help eliminate dead skin and excess oil to keep the skin clear.” — Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, celebrity cosmetic dermatologist
Yes to Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Peel-Off Mask, $13.97 at Amazon
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