ootdfashion
Lately, I’ve been diving deep into testing skincare products after a summer of neglect. I’ve turned my attention to affordable brands that deliver real results without the hefty price tags. I’ve discovered a range of effective products with straightforward packaging and honest branding. If you’re looking for skincare that works without spending too much, you’re in the right place.
Previously, I’ve explored cost-effective skincare, but this time I’m honed in on products with active ingredients. These include acid toners for quick exfoliation, vitamin C serums to brighten and protect, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and salicylic treatments for tackling congested areas. Most of these products are surprisingly affordable, priced under ten pounds, and actually deliver results.
For those unfamiliar with terms like ‘acids’ and ‘vitamins,’ I recommend starting with a basic beauty routine before incorporating these advanced products. They can help your skin look more vibrant and smooth or just feel more hydrated.
Let’s talk about some budget-friendly skincare options that rival pricey brands. First up is Garden of Wisdom’s Vitamin C + Ferulic Acid, priced at £10. This serum is high in strength with a creamy texture, perfect for brightening skin and reducing dark spots without breaking the bank.
Another economical option is The Inkey List’s Vitamin C at £7.99. This formula, a dry paste with 30% pure L-Ascorbic Acid, is designed to brighten and even out skin tone without costing a fortune. I usually apply vitamin C after cleansing and before moisturizing in the morning, but it works at night too. Apart from helping with pigmentation, it’s a great antioxidant shield against pollution.
Moving on to hyaluronic acid, Avon’s Clinical Anti-Wrinkle Plumping Concentrate at £12 is a solid choice. It helps retain moisture, making the skin look plumper and reducing fine lines, thanks to its triple-sized hyaluronic acid molecules.
If you like a creamier product, Indeed Labs offers an intense lotion worth the investment for its outstanding results.
Now, onto popular ingredients like salicylic acid and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Salicylic acid is great for acne-prone skin, blackheads, and hormonal breakouts. It dives into pores to clean and balance the skin. The Ordinary’s Salicylic Masque is a standout product at £9.90, offering clear, glowing skin with a slight tingle.
AHAs provide effective, gentle exfoliation, similar to an overnight facial. Nip+Fab’s Glycolic Fix Gentle Pads, at £9.95, are ideal for sensitive skin. If glycolic acid doesn’t suit you, The Inkey List’s Lactic Acid at £7.99 is a potent liquid exfoliant.
Feeling overwhelmed by these options? My advice: don’t try them all at once. Besides hyaluronic acid, which can be layered with anything, choose one product for the morning and another for the evening. I prefer vitamin C in the morning as a base for SPF, while acids work best at night, a few times a week. I use the salicylic mask once or twice a week, especially during hormonal flare-ups.
On other nights, I use retinol, which I’m still testing. Retinol deserves its own discussion, so I’ll write about it separately.
Here’s an example of my skincare routine, alternating between two days:
Day 1:
AM: Cleanse, Vitamin C Serum, Moisturizing SPF
PM: Cleanse, Retinol, Moisturizer
Day 2:
AM: Cleanse, Vitamin C Serum, Moisturizing SPF
PM: Cleanse, AHA, Moisturizer
I often use a hyaluronic acid serum before moisturizer to enhance hydration. Some mornings, I swap vitamin C for hyaluronic acid based on my skin’s needs and my mood. I prefer fewer steps to keep it simple.
I’ve documented all this on video, questioning why I took so long to write it down. But for those who prefer listening, playing the video will provide additional insights.
