One of the worst days of my life was when I realized one of my favorite retinol treatments costs $350. I was graciously gifted it by the brand, and it has changed my skin in ways that microneedling and lasers haven’t. Having this job means I get to try life-changing beauty products that have granted me with maybe the best skin of my adulthood, but no matter what, I’ll always pair my priciest serums with my tried-and-true drugstore favorites (and my wallet thanks me for it).
More Under-$15 Skincare
As a 24-year-old on a budget, I’ve discovered that a high-low approach to my beauty routine is not only the most cost-effective, but the smartest. While some of my routine leans on the luxury side, my most repurchased products are the most affordable; I’ll never skip my favorite weekly $5 sheet mask, one of my favorite shampoos that leaves my hair soft and smooth is only $12, and my $13 pack of pimple patches does more for me than expensive extractions from a dermatologist. Scroll on to shop more of my favorite under-$15 beauty finds, below.
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Milky toners have become so popular across skin care routines, and this one has always impressed me even when up against its pricier counterparts. It’s lightweight but helps with keeping my skin barrier strong and healthy even with daily exfoliation. I like to apply it as a primer to my foundation for an extra glowy finish.
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Everyone should have a pack of Hero Mighty Patches on deck at all times. When a pesky pimple pops up, I can count on these to help me avoid picking at it so it heals quicker without scarring. It’s truly a miracle worker.
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A sheet mask that lays on top of your skin for a short-term period of time should not be expensive. These from ESW beauty have quickly become some of my all-time favorites. The Blue Dream formula in particular offers a calming boost of hydration and softness to my complexion.
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I am very rough with my hair, so if it’s soft or shiny, it’s all thanks to this hair serum that I apply religiously. It doesn’t feel greasy or weigh my hair down, and it has heat-protecting properties that help soften my hair and lessen frizz in the styling process. It also smells really great, too.
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For as long as I can remember my mom has used Keri lotion, and the soft skin-like scent and creamy formula has stuck with me in my adult life. I love a hot shower and I have sensitive, itchy skin and it’s one of the only things that will help ease my dryness. The out-of-this-world glow it leaves behind is truly unmatched.
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When I’m not in the market to spend a fortune on retinol, I opt for this gentle resurfacing cream that gets the job done. It never leaves me with sensitivity the morning after using it, and I always wake up with refreshed, bright skin.
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When I’m running late and have absolutely no time to fix your hair I know I can rely on this taming wand for on-the-go fixing. The serum in the mascara-like application gently softens and styles fly-aways in a pinch. It’s great for managing slicked-back buns, too.
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A nightly nourishing lip mask belongs in everyone’s routine. This $13 one rivals pricier alternatives and when I use it, I always wake up with plump, soft lips.
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I know I can count on this detox shampoo to reset my scalp and hair after a week of hot, sweaty workouts. It gently cleanses my scalp without leaving it feeling stripped and itchy.
