Creating a skincare routine or buying skincare products does not necessarily have to be expensive. Our list of essential skincare items, all priced under £20, can help you achieve optimal skin health. Our selection caters to various skin concerns, such as dryness, enlarged pores, and fine lines, and we have included options for those who want to broaden their range of products.
If you suffer from dry or rough skin, this is THE go-to product. Weleda offer a fantastic range of natural skincare products that address various concerns. Whether it be dryness or sensitivity, you have to give this Skin Food a go. Deeply nourishing, this moisturiser will keep your face or body hydrated all day long whilst giving your skin a lovely gloss look (just like the one after a facial).
2. The Ordinary Glycolic Toning Solution 240ml
Glycolic acid is a popular ingredient in skincare products due to its ability to exfoliate the skin and improve its texture and appearance. It is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane, and its small molecular size allows it to penetrate deep into the skin to dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores. This 7% Glycolic Acid solution by The Ordinary is one of our favourite toners. It’s gentle enough for most skin types (if you suffer from sensitive skin make sure you patch test before use!) and gives your skin a radiant glow with continued use by sloughing off all those dull, dead skin cells.
3. LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask Mango Fruits Rouges
Believe us when we say this one smells good enough to eat, however fight the temptation as this is an excellent night mask for your lips. Containing zinc, coffee and quinoa extract delivering powerful antioxidants to fight oxidative stress, whilst deeply hydrating your lips. Wake up with soft, supple lips with continued use.
4. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Facial Ultra Light Fluid SPF30
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is important because it helps to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation can cause sunburn, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. It is therefore imperative that you apply SPF Factor 30+ daily, especially if you’re using active acids or retinol treatments on your face as these increase skin sensitivity. This SPF fluid by La Roche-Posay is light enough for use all year round, offering broad UVA and UVB spectrum protection for your facial skin without leaving any pesky marks/streaks.
Undereye cream is important because the skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of the face, and it tends to show signs of aging and fatigue more quickly. The skin around the eyes is also more prone to dryness, puffiness, and dark circles. If you don’t already use under eye serums or creams, it’s never too late to start. We love products by CeraVe as they’re highly effective at an accessible price point for everyone. This under eye repair cream is no different, with hyaluronic acid to restore moisture and plump up the skin and 3 essential ceramides to restore and protect the skin barrier, with continued use you’ll reduce the appearance of fine lines and fatigue.
6. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the skin that helps to retain moisture and keep it plump and hydrated. When applied topically, hyaluronic acid can help to boost hydration levels, smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin. It is also suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, as it is gentle and non-irritating. This serum by The Ordinary is extremely hydrating and suitable for all skin types, with the addition for Vitamin B5 to maintain healthy skin function.
7. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion
An excellent formulation by Mario Badescu Skin Care for those that suffer with blemishes, oily skin and enlarged pores. Containing Salicylic Acid (BHA) to reduce redness and penetrate deep into the pores to draw out impurities, as well as Zinc Oxide, Sulfur and Calamine to soothe and calm the skin. Apply in the PM to affected areas and ensure you use broad spectrum SPF protection during the day whilst using this product and any other containing active acids.
8. The INKEY List Tranexamic Acid Serum
Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a skincare ingredient that has numerous benefits for the skin. It can reduce hyperpigmentation, inflammation, and signs of aging, as well as prevent acne and sun damage. It is generally well-tolerated by most skin types and is a versatile option for addressing various skin concerns. This serum by The Inkey List is our favourite TXA product which includes Acai Berry extract, as well as Vitamin C to brighten and even skin tone.
9. e.l.f Hydrating Coconut Mist
Coconut is a beneficial ingredient for the skin due to its high content of vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. It can hydrate and moisturize the skin, reduce inflammation, prevent and treat infections, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and exfoliate the skin. It is generally safe for most skin types and can be found in a variety of skincare products. This mist contains coconut extract as well as Vitamin E to nourish the skin. A game changer in the summer, a brief mist is extremely refreshing for your skin and makeup.
This foaming cleanser by Medik8 really packs a punch. If you suffer from blemish-prone skin this product is the one for you. Containing Salicylic Acid to calm redness, exfoliate, and minimise pore appearance, as well as Niacinamide to regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation. Also contains Tea Tree Oil for it’s anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Regular use will help regulate sebum production and keep your complexion clear (added perk of being effective at removing makeup).
Well that sums it up for our top 10 picks! We hope you’ve enjoyed this article, be sure to sign up to our mailing list for regular updates (we never spam!) 🙂