Skin care on a budget
Skin care on a budget
Follow these tips from board-certified dermatologists to build an effective skin care routine on a budget.
When building a skin care routine, it’s important to remember that products don’t need to be expensive to be effective.
Adopting a simple, three-step approach that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin can help reduce skin care costs while keeping your skin healthy.
Limiting the number of products you use can also help, as using several different products can be costly. It can also irritate your skin and cause contact dermatitis.
In addition to simplifying your approach, follow these tips from board-certified dermatologists to be skin and savings smart:
Cleanse your skin before going to bed and use water or a gentle cleanser in the morning before applying skin care products. A gentle cleanser removes dirt, oil, and debris, and helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts. To prevent irritation, limit face washing to twice a day and after sweating.
Get the most from your moisturizer by applying it to damp skin. Moisturizer traps water in your skin, helping it look brighter and younger. Remember to moisturize your face, body, and lips, even if you have oily skin.
Use sun protection to help prevent wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer. Whether you seek shade, wear sun-protective clothing, or apply sunscreen, sun protection is an important part of your daily skin care. Apply sunscreen to all skin not covered by clothing.
Consider using dual-function products, such as a moisturizer with sunscreen. Make sure the sunscreen is broad-spectrum and has an SPF of 30 or higher, and remember to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Read the label. Look for products for your skin type that say “non-comedogenic” or “won’t clog pores.”
Consider using petroleum jelly. This inexpensive product can have several uses, including moisturizing dry skin and nails and treating minor injuries.
Avoid products with fragrances and drying alcohols. These products may irritate your skin.
Store your skin care products properly so that they last as long as possible. Make sure to replace all caps and lids securely after each use. Store your products in a clean, dry space at room temperature and away from direct sunlight.
Check the expiration dates on your products to ensure they work the most effectively.
To maximize results and minimize potential irritations, choose products that will work best for your skin type.
Skin types
Sensitive skin may sting or burn after product use
Normal skin is clear and not sensitive
Dry skin is flaky, itchy, or rough
Oily skin is shiny and greasy
Combination skin is dry in some areas and oily in others
If you’re not sure about your skin type, talk with a board-certified dermatologist before starting any skin care routine. To find a board-certified dermatologist in your area, visit Find a dermatologist.
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Video Reviewed by:
Lisa Akintilo, MD, MPH, FAAD
Jean Bolognia, MD, FAAD
Estaban Fernandez Faith, MD, FAAD
Jessica Hoy, DO, FAAD
Michael O’Donoghue, MD, FAAD
Kelley Redbord, MD, FAAD
Abigail Waldman, MD, FAAD
Last updated: 11/6/26