The days of affordable beauty products being basic or DIY are over, according to a beauty writer who has tested the latest low-cost launches. Brands like The Ordinary and The Inkey List now offer high-performing ingredients such as retinol, peptides and exosomes in budget-friendly moisturisers and serums. K-beauty also continues to raise the bar with skin-first formulations that skip unnecessary fragrance.
Makeup has not been left behind, with artist-led brands bringing pro-level textures to the high street. The writer tested products for a minimum of two weeks, narrowing down selections to one per category. Among the top picks are Starface's star-shaped pimple patches, which use hydrocolloid to draw out fluid from active blemishes. They work best on spots that have come to a head or after picking, and help prevent bacteria from spreading.
The Garnier serum, reformulated in April, impressed the writer with its salicylic acid and vitamin C blend. After a month of use, the writer noticed smoother, more even skin and reduced post-blemish hyperpigmentation. The serum's fresh scent and six-drop coverage for face and neck were also praised.
Another favourite is La Roche-Posay's Cicaplast Baume B5, a versatile product used as aftersun, nourishing moisturiser, and skin reset after overusing retinol or glycolic acid. Recommended by skincare guru Caroline Hirons, it provides relief for eczema and psoriasis. The water-based balm absorbs quickly, soothing skin with anti-inflammatory panthenol.
CeraVe's hydrating face wash, recommended by dermatologists and beauty gurus, is the writer's first choice for a cleanser. The article notes that with budgets under pressure, spending less is appealing, but not every bargain is worth it. The writer's selections aim to help readers find products that deliver results without the premium price tag.
