Whether you’re a beginner to the world of skincare or just want to know what affordable products dermatologists recommend and deem essential, we have you covered! We reached out to doctors and skincare experts to learn more about the skin-loving benefits of two products in particular— sunscreen and micellar water— that are available at drugstores and won’t break the bank. Read on for tips, suggestions and insight from Dr. Angela Casey, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and founder of youth skincare line Bright Girl, and Dr. Paula Morgan, MD, PhD, FRCPC, FAAD, dermatologist and medical consultant at Better Goods.
#1— Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable product that you must wear every day, Casey stresses, as "prevention is truly the best medicine when it comes to your skin health." Casey adds that "implementing a skincare routine that cleanses, moisturizes, and protects your skin will lead you on the path to healthy, glowing, gorgeous skin." Using sunscreen every day, she notes, (no matter your age or what season it is) "prevents the UV rays of the sun from penetrating into your skin and causing collagen and elastic fiber breakdown." Many facial sunscreens are available at retailers like CVS Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Walmart, Target, etc, including products from Cerave, Cetaphil, Neutrogena and more that can be purchased for under $15. To find the best choice for you and your skin's needs, Casey suggests meeting with your dermatologist.
#2— Micellar Water
Rather than using harsh makeup wipes on delicate skin to remove makeup, Morgan suggests opting for soft cotton pads soaked with micellar water. The best way to cleanse your face, she says, is by "having lukewarm water run over the skin without exerting force which is the safest way to ensure no microtears or inflammation." After exfoliating your face gently each day to slough away dead cells and reveal new, healthy ones, she says to use "moist cotton pads so you only need to use light pressure when taking off your makeup." She advises to "try using specially made micellar water" as "it can dissolve medium-weight formulas without needing rinsing." This bottled product (and accompanying cotton pads) can also be found at drugstores like Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, and department stores like Walmart, Target, etc., and brands like Garnier, L'Oreal, Simple and more have options for under $10.
