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Today we're talking skincare basics at a low cost! I've got a couple of actives in here that are pretty universal, but I'm not going to focus too much on that seeing as I'm trying to hone in on the basics that would work for just about anyone (rather than going into specific concerns). Let's dive into my picks...
Hydrating toners aren't necessary for everyone, but if you enjoy that extra layer of moisture during the winter then try the Ordinary's Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner* | £12.40. This is a lightweight but seriously hydrating and skin-softening toner formulated with a fermented yeast extract as its star ingredient, alongside squalane (a skin-similar plant oil to replenish the skin). This extract is rich in soothing Beta-glucan, can help to soften the skin and also has antioxidant benefits (protecting the skin from free radical damage). This is a lovely, hydrating all-rounder for plump, happy and healthy skin and if you enjoy toners; at £12.40 I really can't recommend it enough.
For something a little more active, my pick is the Byoma Brightening Toner* | £11.99. This is something that can be used as part of an evening skincare routine 2-4 nights a week (depending on what your skin prefers). This toner combines the holy trinity for lipid barrier health: ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids with chemical exfoliants to ensure your skin stays happy and calm through the process. The exfoliating acids in here are mandelic and lactic (bolstered by birch extract and urea) which are both very gentle but effective. Lactic acid has both resurfacing and hydrating properties so your skin is smoother but doesn't feel stripped. Mandelic acid has antibacterial properties and also can help target discolouration, making it a great option to gently treat both active breakouts and the scarring that can be left behind afterwards. This is a gentle but effective leave-on exfoliant; it definitely gives my skin that glow boost without being harsh, drying or irritating and leaves my skin soft and smooth after use.
I didn't want to get too much into serums for this particular post, but one thing I think just about everyone could incorporate is using an antioxidant in the morning and recommend the Sali Hughes Must-C Anytime Daily Serum* | £15. This is a really nice all-rounder, which is what I'm all about these days, to be honest! It's formulated with Ascorbyl Glucoside, a derivative of Vitamin C which is stable, gentle on the skin and makes it glow, improves discolouration and protects against free radical damage. The serum is also formulated with Ferulic Acid and Vitamin E to help boost the antioxidant benefits of the Vitamin C. It has hyaluronic acid and glycerin in there too for hydration and niacinamide, a multi-tasking active that can boost skin barrier function (by increasing ceramide production), prevent discolouration and also regulate oil production in the skin. The result is skin that's glowing, hydrated, bouncy and looks and feels healthy.
As a moisturiser, during the winter I really recommend the Byoma Moisturising Rich Cream* | £13.99. This works for me both as part of an AM routine and for PM use and it's formulated with the same lipid barrier components as the toner is. I really enjoy the texture of this moisturiser because it's nourishing but still feels pretty light; it's not quite a lotion but it's definitely not thick, heavy or difficult to rub in. It also features bakuchiol, which is often touted as a 'natural retinoid' which I don't really agree with but it does have brightening and antioxidant benefits, shea butter to deeply nourish and soften the skin and glycerin for hydration. It leaves my skin soft, moisturised and balanced without feeling thick or heavy on the skin and works perfectly under my makeup and sunscreen (unlike many of the richer ceramide creams on the market).
The final low-cost basic I recommend checking out is the Haruharu Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Sunscreen* | £15.45. K-beauty brands kind of rule the roost when it comes to quality, affordable sunscreens, and they're only becoming more and more accessible (which I love!) This is a great daily sunscreen for just about everyone, to be honest; it's not a matte sunscreen but it's not a dewy one either, it just has a very natural and traceless finish on the skin. This is the chemical sunscreen version of this product, so it's very cosmetically-elegant and doesn't leave any sort of cast on my skin. It's formulated with next-generation sunscreen filters that don't irritate my eyes or skin. It also sits really nicely underneath makeup and over my favourite skincare products. It doesn't pill up, it honestly doesn't even feel like I'm wearing sunscreen, which is exactly what you want from an everyday sunscreen!
Have you tried any of these budget-friendly basics? What are your top picks in this category?
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