All of us complain about the costliness of self-care, but let’s be honest: we tend to use the money we could be putting towards lovely beauty rituals on our Friday night bar tab.
Not that there’s anything wrong with this practice (after a particularly trying week, sometimes you just NEED that preposterous lavender-infused cocktail), but did you ever to stop to think that you could potentially get great skincare for less money than a mixologist-approved beverage? It might sound crazy, but it’s totally doable.
Here are some awesome and affordable skincare products that are all under $10, so you can treat yourself without stressin’ yourself. After all, I think we can all agree that tighter pores and smoother skin are worth sacrificing a few cocktails a month. (Unless they’re margaritas, in which case I’m less certain.)
15. Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water ($6.40)
Why people love it: “Nothing short of miraculous. I have noticed that not only does it clean my face of all makeup residue, it also helps prevent breakouts and helps clear breakouts when they do occur. I only recently started using it after my daughter suggested I try it. I noticed improvement after just one use, and my 40-something, adult acne-prone skin is doing so much better now. I only wish I could send some back in time to my preteen self!” — Amazon Customer
14. Skinfood Black Sugar Mask ($8.38)
Why people love it: “I’m always a little skeptical when it comes to facial scrubs, because I have moderately sensitive skin that can sometimes be too oily, and sometimes too dry, and some masks do next to nothing for me except make my face smell nice. But this is fantastic stuff! It rubs right into your skin, and washes off beautifully, leaving skin so, so soft and clean! I used to be super lazy about regular skincare, but since trying this out, I look forward to the days when I treat myself to using it. :)” — Beth Poppet
13. Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub ($7.59)
Why people love it: “It smells divine and the consistency is thick and rich. It gives my body good exfoliation and leaves it neutral — not dry but not super oily.” — PattyT
12. Acure Argan Oil ($9.66)
Why people love it: “I’ve tried many expensive moisturizers, oils, and serums, and none compare to this product. I was initially worried that because it’s an oil, my face might break out (as it does with olive or coconut oil — yes, I’ve tried everything!), but it’s actually done the opposite. My skin’s never been so clear or soft. I have combination skin and thought it might leave the oilier spots too oily, but it’s effectively saturated the dry and oilier spots evenly — making my whole face soft and blemish free.” — Amy
11. Simple Foaming Facial Cleanser ($6.66)
Why people love it: “I love this cleanser. I have acne prone sensitive skin. This cleanser is strong enough to remove all traces of makeup but does not dry out my skin at all. In fact, it feels “balanced” and looks very healthy. I used to use Cetaphil for years, but due to the price increases where I live, I have been searching for something a bit more affordable but just as good. I will stick to the Simple cleansers. I think they are fantastic.” — Trini shopper
10. Mario Badescu Facial Spray ($7.00)
Why people love it: “Fantastic! I usually never use products like these more than three times, yet my bottle of this is almost empty. Not only is this the only face spray that doesn’t break me out, but it sets my makeup, cools me off, and makes me smell good with smooth skin.” — Customer Jazzi
9. Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask ($10.13)
Why people love it: “I LOVE it! I got it today and used it about 15 minutes after it was delivered:) it was super fun and my husband even wanted to try it! My face feels so smooth and with my giant pores and excess sebum, I was totally impressed. I’ll be buying this often!” — Amazon Customer
8. Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser ($5.64)
Why people love it: “What an absolutely awesome product! I have battled blackheads on my nose for as long as I can remember & that’s longer than I am going to admit. After the first use, I could really see a difference! I am so happy that I took the chance!” — Amazon Customer
7. Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque ($7.56)
Why people love it: “I have huge pores that eat when I’m not looking or something. This stuff does miracles, it shrinks your pores and tightens skin. I definitely recommend for my fellow clay mask lovers.” — Katie Mateer
6. Rose Petal Witch Hazel ($6.99)
Why people love it: “This is my holy grail toner. It’s one of the few things I will consistently reorder. I love this toner as is smells great, moisturizes, doesn’t dry out my skin, and makes my skin feel great. My face used to be so dry and flaky after washing my face, but I started using this and it makes my skin soft and even. I love it and it’s so cheap!” — Amazon Customer