Whether you shop at drug stores or department stores, your skincare routine likely runs in the hundreds each month. With cleansers, creams, serums, and a few unnecessary “Instagram made me buy it” purchases, it’s safe to say your skincare routine is a substantial monthly "bill." This leaves many wondering, is it even possible to craft a skincare routine on a budget?
We’ll share what a budget-friendly routine looks like and which skin care ingredients are actually worth the splurge.
The Basics
The good news is you don’t need to spend $343 on your anti-aging cream (yes, that's an actual price that people spend on a particular anti-aging cream). On the subject of skincare projects to ditch, you probably don't need rice water to cleanse your skin or a color-correcting treatment made with tiger grass.
Don’t get us wrong, there are products that deserve a splurge, but the basics should not cost you a fortune.
The basics include:
- Cleanser
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
- Serum
Follow this routine and you will have crafted a skincare routine on a budget - if you shop at the right brands.
Cleanser
If you are looking for a budget-friendly cleanser, keep it simple. Look for a cleanser that doesn’t irritate your skin and one that is made for your skin type.
Saving on your skincare routine doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice quality high-quality ingredients. Even if you're on a budget, look for all-natural ingredients with reputable skincare brands that focus less on packaging/marketing campaigns and more on the product formula.
Moisturizer
When it comes to moisturizers, no matter your skin type, always look for one packed with hydrating ingredients, such as ceramides for lasting hydration. Our favorite hydrating ingredients include hyaluronic acid, which is why the Routine 10 3X Anti-Aging Boost is a perfect addition to any skincare routine, as it includes glycerin and hyaluronic acid to fortify the skin barrier with a boost of moisture.
Sunscreen
It has been said that the best anti-aging product you own is your sunscreen. Luckily, sunscreen doesn’t typically cost more than $6 in the U.S., on average. Remember to look at the ingredients, as most sunscreens contain toxic ingredients, with Oxybenzone being among the most harmful.
Serums
Also known as “treatments,” serums are a necessary step in a skincare routine. They deliver nutrients, like amino acids and vitamin C, and can stimulate collagen for younger-looking skin.
Most serums target a specific problem. For example, the Niacinamide 3% & Hyaluronic Acid Serum can treat uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. Older individuals who wish to erase the hands of time may prefer the Retinol Youth Renewal Serum, packed with retinol to protect the skin and vitamin E to keep it soft and supple.
What to Splurge On?
You see an expensive serum with a buzzworthy list of ingredients. Naturally, you want to add it to your shopping cart. We recommend resisting the urge before you sufficiently assess the product. First, consider if it’s a "splurge-worthy" product, as there are some ingredients that experts admit are worth the extra cost.
Here is a short list of worthwhile ingredients:
- Retinol: This ingredient is proven to increase skin cell production to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. Dermatologists recommend medical-grade retinol; however, this is not necessary for everyone. Routine 10 offers Retinol Youth Renewal Serum, an effective anti-aging product that gives the skin a fresher look without the high price tag.
- Vitamin C: Much like retinol, vitamin C is a tried-and-true skincare ingredient, a powerful antioxidant that brightens the skin and protects it against environmental stressors. To get the best vitamin C products, look at how much vitamin C the product contains. Again, you don’t need to spend a fortune on vitamin C. Customers love the Vitamin C + E Magic Serum, which tackles many signs of aging. Rest assured; you won’t find this ingredient at the bottom of the list.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Who doesn’t want softer, more hydrated skin? Those who do will add a hyaluronic acid product to their skincare regimen. HA is another ingredient worth the splurge, so long as the product contains at least .5 percent hyaluronic acid.
