We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

The 17 Best Affordable Skincare Brands, According to Real Simple Editors

Including drugstore staples, Korean beauty mainstays, and new launches.

In This Article

View All

In This Article

collage of CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion on blue background
Photo:

Real Simple / David Hattan

Whether you're looking for an anti-aging oil or an everyday sunscreen, there are plenty of affordable skincare brands out there that prove you don't need to splurge on luxury skincare to see results. Unfortunately though, standing in the skincare aisle of your local drugstore staring at all the options isn’t exactly conducive to choosing good products. That’s why having personal recommendations, especially from, say, your favorite Real Simple editors, is key to finding quality skincare picks.

As editors, we’ve tested a lot of products from a lot of brands. We know what’s good and what isn’t; what’s worth splurging on and what’s not. And we know not to get swayed by pretty packaging and luxury name brands—many times, the best skincare products have lower price tags, straightforward ingredient lists, and unfussy designs. 

What is affordable skincare?

When we talk about “affordable skincare brands,” we’re focusing on brands that sell a majority of their products for under $40.

So, I polled the entire Real Simple editorial team on their favorite affordable skincare brands and products. Overall, I got dozens of responses with 17 brand recommendations, including reliable drugstore staples, Korean beauty mainstays, and new launches. Plus, we talked to plastic surgeon David Shafer, MD, FACS, for his take on budget beauty brands that are worth buying. Read on for the best skincare brands that won’t break the bank—and are beloved by Real Simple editors.

CeraVe

CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

Ulta

What Stands Out
  • The product assortment is great for sensitive or severely dry skin.

What Could Be Improved
  • There aren’t high concentrations of active ingredients.

CeraVe was by far the most recommended brand, with six editors praising its product line. That’s no surprise—CeraVe is one of the most popular skincare brands, period, with an emphasis on sensitive, very dehydrated skin. “I think this brand is a safe bet for anyone with sensitive, acne-prone, dry, or oily skin, as it has a wide array of products. Plus, multiple dermatologists have directly recommended its products, which made me even more confident in my purchase,” says associate shopping editor Quinn Gawronski.

In fact, five editors specifically recommended one product in particular: The Moisturizing Cream. This versatile cream can be used on the face and the body, and has the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association. “In the winter, I use the Moisturizing Cream for my hands and other dry spots as needed,” says shopping director Kate Geraghty. “I even keep a travel-sized bottle in my bedside drawer to apply to the backs of my hands right before I go to bed. I love that it's gentle, unscented, and sinks in super quickly, so I'm not leaving greasy fingerprints behind on my keyboard or phone screen.”

If you’re worried about potential irritation, fear not: “I have rosacea and dry, sensitive skin, so my face gets easily irritated by many products,” says shopping writer Lauren Taylor. “I use the CeraVe cream every morning and night, and it never burns or leaves my skin feeling tight. It's thick enough to moisturize dry, flaky skin, but it doesn't make me feel or look greasy.”

Editor-in chief Lauren Iannotti uses both the Moisturizing Cream and the Daily Moisturizing Lotion: “My acne-prone skin guzzles the oil-free lotion with nary a breakout. In winter I switch to the tub of Moisturizing Cream, which is rich but non-comedogenic. Both protect my skin barrier and my bank account. I have tried other moisturizers, including some very pricey stuff. They mess up my skin, every time. CeraVe FOREVER.”

CeraVe also has a range of body products that target specific issues like psoriasis, rough or bumpy skin, and even itch relief. In addition to creams and retinols, CeraVe offers a range of face washes that are super gentle and moisturizing. Overall, we can’t recommend this brand enough, especially if you have very sensitive skin or are combating severely dry skin.

Price Range: $11-$32 | Skincare Concerns: Dryness, acne, eczema psoriasis, rough and bumpy skin

Cetaphil

Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • It’s designed with sensitive skin in mind.

What Could Be Improved
  • This line doesn’t feature a lot of targeted treatments, like serums.

Cetaphil offers straightforward formulas at an affordable price point with dermatological backing. And, since all of the products come in larger sizes, the brand is one of the more budget-friendly options—and you can easily find it across drugstores and other mass retailers. 

Cetaphil is a favorite of assistant editor Hannah Dorough, who recommends the DermaControl Oil Removing Foam Wash: “I've been using the same Cetaphil oily skin face wash and moisturizer since I was a teenager and it's never failed me. It's relatively affordable, available at my local drugstores, and never breaks me out. If it's not broke, don't fix it!”

Senior food editor Samantha Leffler has a similar story: “I'm prone to breakouts, which means I need to be very careful about the products I use on my skin. I've been using Cetaphil products since my teens and have no intention of stopping.” Her favorite products are the Gentle Skin Cleanser, which “has never aggravated my sensitive skin,” and the Daily Facial Moisturizer, which “nourishes and hydrates my skin without making it feel greasy or heavy.” 

When we asked a dermatologist how to manage combination skin, they recommended the Cetaphil Daily Oil-Free Hydrating Lotion.

The entire product line is designed with sensitive skin in mind, with an emphasis on fragrance-free formulas and simple ingredients. Key ingredients used by the brand are niacinamide, panthenol, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid, all of which have moisturizing benefits. You won’t find a lot of targeted treatments (like serums), but you’ll find plenty of basic skincare essentials like cleansers, moisturizers, and creams.  

Price Range: $11-$29 | Skincare Concerns: Acne, eczema, oily skin, irritation, dryness

Vanicream

Vanicream Moisturizing Cream for Sensitive Skin

Target

What Stands Out
  • It offers no-frill formulas that are perfect for sensitive skin.

What Could Be Improved
  • The product assortment is small.

Those with sensitive skin types or skin-related concerns like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis know formulas with minimal, nourishing ingredients are a top priority. Vanicream is the clear winner in that category, offering a curated selection of products that protect the skin barrier without exasperating pre-existing conditions or clogging pores. 

Shopping writer Steph Osmanski swears by Vanicream’s Moisturizing Cream: “I first started using the Vanicream moisturizer during a time when my skin was really, really dry. I ended up loving how well it locks in moisture and doesn't break me out, so I haven't felt the need to go back to higher-end, luxury moisturizer. My skin and my wallet don't mind. (I've heard it's great for eczema, too!)” 

Ceramides are one of the best skincare ingredients for eczema because they trap moisture in the skin.

Vanicream's formulas are free from additives like fragrances, dyes, and parabens—not to mention, they’re all gluten-free. Six products, including the Moisturizing Cream, have the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association, a seal that isn't the easiest to come by when shopping for affordable skincare.

Price Range: $4-$20 | Skincare Concerns: Eczema, dryness, sensitivity

Vanicream Editor Picks

La Roche-Posay

Amazon La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • It's a high-quality skincare brand you can find at just about any drugstore.

What Could Be Improved
  • It’s on the high end of affordable.

La Roche-Posay is a drugstore staple, but it’s a bit on the higher end compared to other drugstore brands. The brand stands out for being very transparent with ingredients—including how they are sourced. It has an impressive product assortment compared to similar budget brands, so you can easily use its products for your entire skincare regimen.

“I have very dry skin, and La Roche-Posay is a godsend for moisture and hydration without clogging my pores,” says shopping editor Lily Gray. “I use its Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer twice daily, and it immediately saves my flaky skin. It's perfect for my sensitive skin and I always make sure to use it on my neck as well.”

Associate editorial director Nicole Lund is also a fan of the Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer: “The moisturizer is so good for year-round use—it's not too thick and never leaves behind a greasy feel.” She also recommends the Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser, which she says “is hydrating but not too much so—it never leaves my skin feeling tight or greasy.” Overall, “I think it's just as good as more expensive brands, if not better. I also love that it doesn’t aggravate my sensitive, acne-prone skin, and is easily accessible at drugstores.”

The Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream was one of the most-purchased products of Real Simple readers in 2023.

This is another budget-friendly brand that’s designed with sensitive skin in mind, and many of the products have the Seal of Acceptance from National Eczema Association. A main ingredient in almost all of the brand’s products is La Roche-Posay’s proprietary thermal spring water, sourced from France and contains a high concentration of selenium, a powerful antioxidant. Other star ingredients are shea butter to help soothe and restore the skin's hydrolipidic film, as well as glycerin, niacinamide, and panthenol (aka vitamin B5).

The brand's bread and butter is skincare classics like cleansers and moisturizers, but it also has a good variety of serums, toners, and acne-specific products. (Assistant designer Natalie Guisinger is a fan of the Pure Vitamin C Face Serum.) La Roche-Posay is also well-known for its sunscreen, which comes in both tinted and non-tinted formulations, and body care products. You can also purchase a variety of value sets, which are a great option if you want to jumpstart a brand new routine. Keep in mind that while most of the core products are under $25, serums and other targeted products run higher.

Price Range: $10-$59 | Skincare Concerns: Dryness, oiliness, acne, anti-aging, eczema, redness, dark spots

Neutrogena

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Lightweight Hydrating Facial Gel Cleanser

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • The product line is comprehensive and targets a range of skin concerns.

What Could Be Improved
  • The product line can be hit or miss.

Neutrogena is an oldie-but-a-goodie, and it’s been hard at work expanding its range of offerings over the years. While you may associate Neutrogena with makeup removers and acne spot treatments (which are great, too), the brand now offers creams for a variety of concerns, as well as some really fantastic sunscreen options

“I found out I'm allergic to most sunscreens when I was a kid, and my dermatologist at the time recommended I use Neutrogena,” says senior special projects editor Leah Lopez Cardenas. “I took her advice, and I've used Neutrogena sunscreen exclusively ever since. My favorite is the Invisible Daily Defense Lotion, and I always bring a bottle of the Beach Defense Spray to friend and family events in the summer to make sure they use it, too. I have oily, acne-prone skin, and I don't feel overly greasy using these.”

One of the best things about Neutrogena is how comprehensive its skincare line is. You’ll find basics like body creams and face washes, as well as serums and targeted treatments for acne, oily skin, and more. “I also use the Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Serum in my day and night skincare routines,” says Leah. “It's super light, sinks into my skin quickly, and leaves my face feeling hydrated.” 

When we wrote about the best ingredients for acne, dermatologists recommended two specific Neutrogena products: the Oil-Free Acne Wash and the Stubborn Acne AM Face Treatment.     

Food director Jenna Helwig is also a Neutrogena fan, particularly the Hydro Boost line: “If I'm ever stumped when it comes to buying skincare products, I just reach for Neutrogena. I've never been disappointed. While I've tried and used a lot of the brand's SKUs, my all-time fave is the Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser. It lathers up beautifully, takes off light makeup, and doesn't leave my skin feeling super dry afterwards. I also love that it comes in a pretty blue container. It adds a little aesthetic appeal to my skincare routine.”

We also love that Neutrogena products can be found in just about any drugstore. If you’re overwhelmed by the number of options, you can browse one of the brand’s 17 collections, which target specific skin types and concerns. Since the product assortment is so big, though, the formulas can be a bit hit or miss.

Price Range: $3-$40 | Skincare Concerns: Acne, oiliness, dryness, anti-aging

The Ordinary

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Oil Control Serum

Sephora

What Stands Out
  • The budget-friendly products contain high concentrations of active ingredients.

What Could Be Improved
  • Some of the products may be irritating for those with sensitive skin.

The Ordinary stands out amongst budget brands because it’s best known for its powerful serums, toners, and acne-busting solutions rather than skincare basics. Three of our editors use products from The Ordinary in their routines, and all three love the fact that they can try out different skincare products and fine tune their regimens without spending a lot.

“When my best friend asked me if I felt like a scientist with all The Ordinary bottles I have on my bathroom sink, I obviously said: ‘Yes. Yes I do,’” says senior shopping editor Taylor Rock. “I love the fact that this brand makes high-quality skincare for less than I would pay for a burrito bowl at Chipotle. It works, too.”

Editor-in-chief Lauren Iannotti agrees: “A few years ago I promised myself and my children's college accounts that I'd get off the crazy-expensive serums my derm recommended and find cheap alternatives that felt the same and seemed to work as well. The Ordinary's Retinol 5% in Squalane is that for me. My skin is not sensitive but is acne-prone, so I worried about the oiliness. But nothin' doin'. Squalane does not cause flareups. I use this nightly ahead of my moisturizer and I am smooth. And if I spill a little, as can happen among all the lotions and potions on my bureau (I have 'em all, because I am anti-needles and knives), I don't freak out because it's literally a hundred dollars cheaper than the one I was getting from my derm.”

One of the most popular skincare ingredients is niacinamide, which helps control sebum production, strengthen the skin barrier, and reduce inflammation. The Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% treatment was recommended to us by a dermatologist for its effective, high-strength formula.

The Ordinary products are primarily focused on skin texture, and there are accordingly a range of exfoliating products, including masks, peels, toners, and serums. It is worth noting that many of these products use high concentrations of AHAs and BHAs, which, though effective, may be too strong for sensitive skin. Most products will specify who they’re for and who they aren’t for, so be sure to pay attention while you shop. 

In any event, there’s little financial risk: “I love trying lots of new skincare products, especially the latest oils and serums,” says SVP Dwyer Frame. “With The Ordinary I can do that at an affordable price, and if I don't love the product (though I often do) I'm not committed because of the price.”

Price Range: $5-$20 | Skincare Concerns: Texture, dryness, dullness, congestion, redness, aging

Innisfree

Sephora innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum

Sephora

What Stands Out
  • It’s a great brand if you’re new to Korean beauty and don’t need to target a specific skin concern.

What Could Be Improved
  • It’s not known for having very powerful formulas.

This Korean skincare brand is best known for its use of calming green tea in its products, including cleansers, serums, and creams. That’s not the only ingredient though—Innisfree utilizes other plant-based ingredients in its formulas as well, like orchid, cherry blossom, and even volcanic ash. Shopping writer Wendy Vazquez has used Innisfree products for years: “I love the brand because it uses so many high-quality actives like other brands that are twice the price. As someone with very dry/combo and sensitive skin, I like that the brand offers a deep selection of products for me.” 

She particularly loves the classic Green Tea line: “Innisfree recently launched a clean version of the line with the Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum, Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Cream, and Green Tea Enzyme PHA Toner. I tried the new launches, and they worked wonders on my dry winter skin. The serum and cream are part of my nighttime routine.” The entire Green Tea line is full of antioxidants to help hydrate and nourish the skin, so it’s a great all-around line if you’re not necessarily looking to target specific skin concerns.

Another popular collection is the Volcanic Cluster line. “The brand also reformulated its iconic Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask, and I like this one better! It sucks out all the gunk from my large pores without drying out my skin,” says Wendy. This is also a great line for those in search of an effective yet gentle sunscreen—the Daily UV Defense Sunscreen has a major following for its great formula that doesn't feel greasy or leave a white cast.

One con of Innisfree is that it uses artificial fragrance in some of its products, although it’s starting to reformulate its more popular lines. As mentioned above, the Green Tea line was recently reformulated to be fragrance-free, which is great news for those with sensitive skin. It’s also not known as a brand with powerful formulas, so it’s best for those who aren’t trying to target severe skin concerns.

Price Range: $10-$46 | Skincare Concerns: Dryness, dullness, aging

Naturium

Amazon Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • It has a great mix of skincare products for both the body and the face.

What Could Be Improved
  • The most popular products tend to sell out.

Naturium was only founded in 2019, but it’s become an increasingly popular brand for its high-quality, effective skincare products at affordable prices. While not available at drugstores, you can find it at Target and some online retailers. Naturium offers a variety of serums, body care products, sunscreens, and more, with a special focus on radiance-boosting formulas. In fact, there’s a whole section of the brand’s site dedicated to “The Glow Edit,” which features products devoted to combating dullness.

“If you're looking for your skin and body to glow, look no further than Naturium,” says editorial apprentice Megan Lenzi. “I religiously use the Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50 every morning. I love having a product that doubles as a moisturizer and SPF for my morning skin care routine. As an added bonus, the glow from this moisturizer acts as a primer before my makeup.”

We named the Naturium Skin-Renewing Retinol Body Lotion the best body retinol product for its gentle yet highly effective formula.

Naturium is a great brand for whole-body care, as it’s also well known for its body washes, which include a salicylic acid wash for acne, a glycolic acid wash for gentle exfoliation (which is used by associate editorial director Nicole Lund), and an oil-to-gel wash that’s ultra nourishing. You can also find body creams and masks for a range of concerns, including keratosis pilaris and dehydration. For the face, you can find everything you need for your entire routine, including cleansers, serums, moisturizers, oils, and lip and eye care.

Price Range: $14-$29 | Skincare Concerns: Aging, texture, dryness, dullness, redness, acne

CosRx

Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Ulta

What Stands Out
  • The brand offers a huge range of Korean skincare products for a variety of skin concerns.

What Could Be Improved
  • The brand is best for those with either oily or very dry skin.

If you've heard about skincare brands using snail mucin in their products, you've probably already heard of CosRx. Its Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is a perennial bestseller—it’s super nourishing and infused with 96% snail mucin, along with sodium hyaluronate to plump and smooth the skin. 

Snail mucin is a “weird anti-aging ingredient” that can hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and support collagen production. 

It’s a favorite product of features editor Melissa Matthews: “I jumped on the Snail Mucin train after reading dermatologist recommendations, and it is exactly what my skin needed! I got a little overzealous with the retinoids and chemical exfoliants, and my skin was flaky and irritated. I started using this daily after cleansing, before moisturizing, and my skin improved within a week!”

Of course, the Korean skincare brand offers much more than just that one product. The famous Acne Pimple Master Patches (which are used by associate editorial director Nicole Lund) speed up the acne healing process by protecting blemishes and maintaining the humidity of the skin to prevent further breakouts. There are also a variety of cleansers, moisturizers, and serums, which target everything from acne and redness to dullness and wrinkles.

Price Range: $5-$32 | Skincare Concerns: Acne, aging, dullness, redness, dryness

Burt’s Bees

Amazon Burt's Bees Soap Bark & Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • The brand prioritizes natural ingredients for those with sensitive skin.

What Could Be Improved
  • The product assortment lacks concentrated exfoliants and serums.

Burt's Bees deserves a mention for its iconic lip balm alone, but the brand has so much more to offer than just great lip products. “I've been working in beauty editorial for about 17 years, so to say I've tried hundreds (thousands?) of products is an understatement,” says beauty director Heather Muir Maffei. “I wear a lot of makeup (I'm a glam girly), but I have redness-prone skin so I'm always searching for a gentle yet super-effective cleanser that removes all of my makeup yet doesn't strip or sting my sensitive skin. I've tried all of the fancy stuff, but the Burt's Bees Cleansing Cream is my absolute favorite. It's affordable, accessible, and it gets the job done—all while providing a lovely sensorial experience.”

The brand is focused on natural ingredients (including, of course, beeswax), and has an environmentally-friendly ethos. “I actually met Burt (THE Burt) and fell in love with his philosophies as well as the brand,” says Heather. “The team is doing amazing things for the environment and the beauty industry.” Other core ingredients include coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe, which are known for their soothing properties.

The brand’s Clear & Balanced Post Acne Mark Cream was a Real Simple Beauty Award Winner for 2023.

While the brand does indeed excel at lip products, there are also some great lotions, moisturizers, hand creams, and even serums. Many of its products are also made for sensitive skin, and there’s even a small acne-focused line. Plus, there’s a whole section of baby-approved products that new parents will love. If you're wanting to try out some of the brand’s products for the first time, there are a variety of bundles you can check out to get started.

Price Range: $3-$20 | Skincare Concerns: Sensitivity, anti-aging, redness

Mario Badescu

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • It's one of the better brands for treating acne and breakouts.

What Could Be Improved
  • There are fewer options for those with dry skin.

Mario Badescu started out in the 1960s as a New York City-based salon, and it’s since expanded as a celeb-favorite skincare brand. It’s known in particular for its fast-acting treatments, particularly for acne—you’ve probably seen the viral Drying Lotion, which uses ingredients like salicylic acid and sulfur to quickly treat surfacing blemishes.

Managing editor Tara Cox has been using Mario Badescu products since college: “These products have stood the test of time. I alternate between different day and night moisturizers; I change with the seasons depending on what my skin needs.” Similarly, associate editorial director Nicole Lund has been using the brand’s Aloe & Rosewater Facial Spray for years: “It’s so refreshing and light, and immediately makes my skin feel clean during long days when I’m out of the house. Plus, it smells amazing.”

The brand also offers a huge range of toners, as well as cleansers, eye creams, and anti-acne serums. In fact, this is one of the better brands for treating breakouts, whether you struggle with them regularly or just find yourself in need of a quick fix on occasion. There are body and face cleansers, oil-free moisturizers, masks, and treatments all designed with acne-prone skin in mind. Mario Badescu uses a range of different ingredients for their formulas, including a variety of natural ingredients combined with powerful actives to get unique blends.

Price Range: $5-$45 | Skincare Concerns: Acne, texture, dullness, dryness, oiliness

SKIN1004

Amazon SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • Its hero ingredient is Centella asiatica, which stands out for its anti-inflammatory properties.

What Could Be Improved
  • It’s not widely available.

SKIN1004 is a Korean brand that focuses on plant-based ingredients, particularly Centella asiatica sourced from Madagascar. Centella asiatica is also known as “tiger grass” or “cica,” and it’s well known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, it’s also a popular remedy for eczema, wounds, burns, and other irritations. 

Shopping editor Euna Park highly recommends the brand: “The SKIN1004 name in itself is a play on the Korean word ‘angel’ (the phonetic pronunciation of 1,004 is the same as angel in Korean), so when talking about the brand in Korean, you're saying ‘Skin Angel.’ And that definitely feels like its goal with the lineup of products. With gentle formulations and affordable prices, the brand went viral for its Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum.” 

In particular, the Centella Ampoule is her personal favorite. “It has the consistency of water, so it quickly absorbs into my skin. And Centella asiatica extract is great at calming irritated or inflamed skin. I use it generously—in multiple layers—during the summer, when my skin is exposed under the harsh sun, and all throughout fall and winter to keep my skin hydrated as the air's moisture depletes.” 

Aside from serums and ampoules, SKIN1004 sells toners, creams, sunscreens, and cleansers, including a very popular cleansing oil. “The Centella Light Cleansing Oil is a new favorite of mine,” says Euna. “There's no stinging around my eyes when using it, and it doesn't leave that white film that blurs your vision like other oil cleansers do, especially balms. I love that it comes in a pump, so I'm not getting any germs or bacteria in the product. The consistency is of an essence or toner—not nearly as viscous as a typical oil, but it gets all my makeup off in one go. What I appreciate the most is that it washes off easily without leaving any residue on my skin.”

Overall, this is a solid brand if your primary concern is finding products that calm and hydrate irritated skin. There are also products focused on tightening pores and reducing sebum production, so you have options whether you have dry or oily skin. On the down side, SKIN1004 isn’t available at many retailers, so we recommend buying either from Amazon or directly from the brand.

Price Range: $14-$22 | Skincare Concerns: Aging, irritation, dryness, acne, dullness

Acure

Amazon ACURE Seriously Soothing Cleansing Cream

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • It’s easy to build a skincare regimen around a specific skin concern.


What Could Be Improved
  • Many of the products contain high amounts of essential oils, which could be irritating to some.

Acure was founded with accessible clean beauty in mind, and its products are made without parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, and formaldehyde. Instead, the brand utilizes plant-based ingredients and essential oils, many of which are certified organic (but keep in mind that essential oils can be irritating to some people). It has a wide product range that includes skincare, body care, and hair care, and you can filter by concern to get targeted products for you, including dryness, dullness, acne, and general sensitivity/irritation.

Senior home editor Leslie Corona loves Acure for her sensitive skin: “I used to have pretty bad acne, and it's mostly clear now from taking medication. However, it's incredibly sensitive now (even though it's been years since I stopped), and I'll occasionally get a little acne. The Seriously Soothing Cleansing Cream is one of the only cleansers I'll use on my incredibly sensitive face, AND it helps with any bouts of acne! It really reduces redness and irritation around blemishes, and my skin feels so clean after using it.”

The best part? Each line includes all of the products needed for an entire skincare regimen. Nearly all of them come with a cleanser, serum, day and night creams, and even a face mask or peel depending on the concern. There are also a range of oils and serums that could be easily integrated into any one of the product lines. While you can’t find Acure products in drugstores, you can find them at Target, Whole Foods, Ulta, and, of course, Amazon.

Price Range: $6-$26 | Skincare Concerns: Dryness, dullness, acne, sensitivity, aging

Aveeno

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • Most of the brand’s products specifically target conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.

What Could Be Improved
  • There are no serums or oils in the product line.

When you think about Aveeno, its signature ingredient, oat, might be the first thing that comes to mind. The brand's assortment of products, however, is far from basic. In fact, the entire collection of cleansers, moisturizers, and serums fit effortlessly into the routines of those with sensitive skin, with oats being at the forefront of most ingredient profiles. Plus, most of the products are fragrance-free, which contributing senior research editor Maya Kukes thinks is a huge pro:

“I love that so many of the products Aveeno offers are available fragrance-free. Several of my kids have sensitive skin/eczema and Aveeno offers products for almost every need in an unscented version. The body wash is luxurious and leaves you feeling clean and fresh, while the lotion goes on thick but not too heavy and never leaves you feeling greasy. Best of all, you don't need to constantly reapply it. The price point is perfect too!”

Aveeno doesn’t offer many serums or oils (in fact, they currently only have one), but it’s a great place to stock up on basics, especially if you’re looking for body products as well as face products. In addition to cleansers, body washes, and lotions, there are also scrubs for the face and body, moisturizers, makeup removers, and masks. There are 11 collections you can shop from that target different concerns, and there are plenty of kid-safe products as well. If you’re shopping for the whole family, Aveeno is a great one-stop shop.

Price Range: $5-$31 | Skincare Concerns: Eczema, dryness, redness, sensitivity

Isntree

Amazon Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • It’s particularly notable for its sunscreen offerings.

What Could Be Improved
  • It’s not widely available.

Isntree is another Korean beauty brand that specializes in natural ingredients at affordable price points. It’s a bit more under the radar than CosRx and Innisfree, but its products have a loyal following and are well-regarded in the beauty space. It’s best known for its toners and creams, particularly its sunscreens, which offer high SPF protection plus a bevy of skincare benefits. 

“I love its Watery Gel Sunscreen,” says senior home editor Hannah Baker. “It gives me a dewy finish, which I prefer.” Take note, though, that it’s not waterproof: “I have combo skin and I will say this is better for me in the winter, as I usually need a waterproof version for sweat in the summer,” says Hannah. Still, this Sun Gel, as well as the Natural Sun Cream, are fantastic everyday sunscreen picks if you’re looking for sun protection that’s moisturizing yet lightweight.

Isntree has 11 collections that each revolve around a hero ingredient. The brand’s most popular line is focused on hyaluronic acid, with creams and gels packed with different variations of the star ingredient. Other popular lines focus on green tea (which includes a cleanser, toner, and serum) and mugwort (which includes a cream, serums, and masks). One con of this brand is that it’s not widely available and its website is a bit tricky to navigate, so we recommend shopping at Amazon (which sells all of the brand’s products) and Soko Glam (which sells a few of the most popular formulas). 

Price Range: $9-$34 | Skincare Concerns: Dryness, irritation, aging

Isntree Editor Picks

Olay

Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream

Amazon

What Stands Out
  • It’s a reliable brand for anti-aging products.

What Could Be Improved
  • It doesn’t have a lot of products for sensitive skin or irritation.

Olay is a beauty mainstay for a reason, and the fact that it’s affordable and readily available at drugstores is the icing on the cake. It’s a go-to brand for home director Erica Finamore: “I know people might think this brand is a little old school, but the Regenerist Hyaluronic Moisture Gel is one of my favorite products of all time. Olay’s lotions feel nice and light and have a subtle fragrance so they're perfect for everyday wear.”

Indeed, the popular Regenerist line is certainly the brand’s best, especially if you’re looking for products for aging skin. You’ll find night creams, moisturizers, serums, and eye creams galore, all of which utilize powerful anti-aging ingredients like collagen peptide, vitamin C, and the brand’s special retinoid complex. One recent product that’s taken the internet by storm is the Super Serum, which touts five benefits in one package to tackle dryness, fine lines, dullness, and more (we reviewed it here). 

Olay is a fantastic budget brand for tackling aging-related concerns, but it’s not the best place to shop for products focused on acne or other skin irritations. The brand is expanding its product assortment though, with a few products dedicated to sensitive skin and eczema (like the Sensitive Soothing Moisturizer and the Sensitive Facial Cleanser)—but its bread and butter is definitely anti-aging skincare.

Price Range: $5-$35 | Skincare Concerns: Aging, dullness, dryness

goPure

GoPure Brighten & Even Serum

GoPure

What Stands Out
  • It offers a range of affordable serums with anti-aging benefits.

What Could Be Improved
  • It’s not widely available.

goPure is a newer brand that’s focused on clean ingredients combined with powerful actives for safe yet highly effective skincare. Unlike other brands, goPure is most known for its range of serums, rather than its skincare basics (although it has those too). Managing editor Tara Cox is a fan of three of the brand’s serums: 

“I got the Power Trio set and the eye cream. It was extremely affordable and I can see a difference in my skin—certainly one that I didn't see when I tested another brand's line. The eye cream is nice, but the trio of serums are wonderful. I’ve only been using them together so I can't speak for them individually, but they are lovely going on, absorb quickly, and really seem to be making a difference. I'm 49 with skin on the dry side, and though I never believe it when people say, ‘I see fine lines disappearing,’ I see it!”

Unsurprisingly, goPure is a great option if your primary concern is anti-aging. You can narrow down products by concern, including crepey skin, fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, and dehydration, and you can purchase sets to kickstart an entire routine. None of the products contain parabens, dyes, propylene glycol, SLS, hydroquinone, formaldehyde, or artificial fragrance. goPure isn’t the cheapest brand on our list, but none of its products cost over $50, making it much more affordable than other anti-aging skincare brands.

Price Range: $17-$49 | Skincare Concerns: Aging, dryness, hyperpigmentation, acne

Questions You Might Ask 

Are drugstore skincare brands as good as high-end skincare brands?

In many cases, yes—especially if you’re not looking for a super targeted product. It’s all about the ingredients, and most drugstore brands utilize tried-and-true formulas. There are, however, some ingredients that dermatologists recommend avoiding, like parabens, acrylates, sodium lauryl sulfate, and artificial fragrances. You’re more likely to find these ingredients in mass-market brands—but remember that not all budget brands use potentially irritating ingredients in their formulas.

Another thing to keep in mind? Some affordable brands are owned by the same parent company as their luxury counterparts. Examples include brands like L'Oreal, La Roche-Posay, and CeraVe. These mass-market lines are all owned by the L'Oreal Group, which also oversees SkinCeuticals, SkinBetter Science, and Kiehl’s. This ownership does not mean that the formulas are the same, but it can equate to a level of trust and efficacy in the product assortment among all of the brands within L'Oreal's portfolio. 

According to Dr. Shafer: "There are as many great skincare brands and products at drugstores as there are not so great high-end skincare brands that spend most of their dollars on packaging rather than ingredients and formulation." He adds that "decades of proven success" speak louder than a product price ever will.

What affordable skincare brands are recommended by dermatologists?

Dermatologists and plastic surgeons often recommend many of the same budget brands, including CeraVe, Cetaphil, and Vanicream. These suggestions come from decades of clinical-backed research and formula effectiveness that most mass brands cannot offer consumers. 

"A lot of the most popular brands in drugstores have a pharmaceutical company behind them.” says Dr. Shafer. “Skincare brands like Avene, Cetaphil, and La Roche-Posay have great ingredients, are affordable, and readily accessible." 

What are some skincare products you don’t need to splurge on?

Dr. Shafer says that "skincare basics like cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen have similar ingredients regardless of price point," so you shouldn’t feel like you need to splurge on those products to see results.

If you have more aggressive skin conditions like cystic acne or eczema, you might find that those are harder to treat. These more prominent and persistent skin concerns often require dermatological consultation or dermatological-grade skincare. Some examples, like hyperpigmentation, might require aesthetic intervention or more expensive products.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Nicole Lund, Real Simple’s associate commerce editorial director. She has written and edited shopping-focused content for five years, focusing on home, beauty, and lifestyle categories. She polled the Real Simple editorial team to find out what affordable skincare brands and products they recommend, plus investigated what makes a budget brand worth buying. This article was additionally updated by Grace Parsons, a contributing writer for Real Simple who specializes in the beauty industry. She researched a variety of affordable beauty brands, plus spoke with plastic surgeon David Shafer, MD, FACS, the founder of the Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue in New York City.

Related Articles