Save or Splurge: Which skincare products are worth the investment?
Beautiful, glamorous Beau says "if you want to be as flawless as her you have to splurge on a few skincare products." Beau is my best friend's dog and I thought she was a great example on what to splurge on. Don't you just want to squeeze the juice outta her?
Ok, back to skincare. I get distracted by dogs easily... When it comes to skincare products, it's important to find a balance between quality and value. Here are some general guidelines on what skincare products are worth investing in and where you can save:
Worth Spending On:
Sunscreen: Invest in a good-quality sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection to safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays.
Active Ingredients: Serums or treatments containing active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C, can deliver targeted benefits and may be worth the investment. Both retinol and vitamin C are difficult to stabilize. Investing in a product that has a long history of research and development, in most cases, will give you the most stable version of an active ingredient.
Moisturizers: Look for moisturizers with beneficial ingredients that cater to your specific skin needs, such as hydration, anti-aging, calming, or barrier repair.
Here are some of my favorites:
We all know how much I love Goodal Green Tangerine Vitamin C Serum, but it is not a "true" vitamin C, it is a derivative. If you are looking for an excellent Vitamin C serum here is a stable formula that I recommend and it is surprisingly affordable as well.
Retinol, RetinAl, Retinaldehyde. Retinol is a milder form of vitamin A that needs to undergo conversions in the skin to become active, while retinal is a more direct and potent form that gets converted into retinoic acid more efficiently. The choice between retinol and retinal depends on individual skin sensitivity and desired results. It's always advisable to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase as tolerated, and consult with a dermatologist if you have specific concerns or conditions.
Here is my recommendation for a retinal that provides results. (This is not recommended for sensitive skin but it is a more gentle form of Retinal). This is also pricey, but like they say "you get what you pay for".
Save On:
Cleansers: While an effective cleanser is important, you don't necessarily need to splurge on this step. Look for gentle cleansers that suit your skin type without unnecessary additives.
Toner: Basic toners that restore the skin's pH balance can be reasonably priced without compromising their effectiveness.
Sheet Masks: While sheet masks can be a fun and relaxing treat, they are often single-use and can be more affordable options compared to other skincare products.
Body Lotions: Unless you have specific skin concerns, basic body lotions can often provide sufficient hydration without the need for expensive formulations.
Remember, everyone's skin is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's essential to understand your skin's needs, consult with skincare professionals if needed, and prioritize products that address your specific concerns.