The skincare aisle can be overwhelming — on one end, you have drugstore brands promising radiant skin for under $20, and on the other, luxury brands with price tags that make your wallet tremble. As a board certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, I am often asked: Is expensive skincare truly better than affordable options? Unfortunately, the answer is not always black and white.
The Price Factor: What Are You Paying For?
When you invest in high-end skincare, you’re often paying for more than just the ingredients. Luxury brands invest heavily in marketing, packaging, and research, which can drive costs up. However, that doesn’t mean a high price tag is always justified.
Drugstore brands, on the other hand, often use tried-and-true formulations backed by decades of research. Because they are mass-produced, they can afford to keep prices low while still maintaining effectiveness.
So how do you determine what’s worth the splurge and what you can save on? Let’s break it down.
When to Splurge on Skincare:
Active Ingredients and Formulations
High-end brands often include stabilized, high-potency active ingredients. For example, a well-formulated vitamin C serum (such as L-ascorbic acid in an air-tight, dark bottle) can be worth the investment to ensure potency and effectiveness.
Bioavailability and Delivery Systems
Some luxury skincare products have sophisticated delivery systems that allow ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin. Encapsulated retinol, for instance, is more stable and less irritating than standard formulations.
Specialized Treatments
If you have concerns like hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or acne scars, investing in medical-grade skincare with dermatologist-backed ingredients can make a difference.
Sunscreen
This is non-negotiable! A high-quality SPF with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, antioxidants, and a texture you will actually wear daily is worth spending on. Look for mineral-based sunscreens with at least 6% zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for optimal protection.
When to Save on Skincare:
Cleansers
You don’t need to spend big on something that stays on your skin for 30 seconds. Drugstore brands offer gentle, dermatologist-approved options that cleanse effectively without stripping your skin barrier.
Moisturizers
Hydration is essential, but a simple formula with ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid can do the trick without breaking the bank. Look for fragrance-free options that support your skin’s natural barrier.
Lip Balms & Body Lotions
Luxe body creams feel amazing, but drugstore brands can provide the same level of hydration without the markup. Save your splurge for face care.
Basic Hyaluronic Acid Serums
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that attracts moisture, but it does not need to be expensive. Many affordable options deliver results without the designer price tag.
Final Thoughts: Mixing High and Low for Maximum Results
Skincare is not about spending the most — it’s about knowing where to invest for efficacy and where to save without sacrificing results. My recommendation? Prioritize key actives. Choose products backed by research, and always wear mineral sunblock.
Luxury skincare can be a beautiful indulgence, but don’t feel pressured to spend a fortune when there are fantastic budget-friendly options available. Healthy skin is about consistency, not cost!
— Dr. Angela Brimhall (@TheHolisticDerm)
