I don’t mind spending the big bucks on shoes or purses, but I draw the line when it comes to skin care. Of course, I’m not about to sacrifice having dewy, soft skin, but I’d like to think you don’t have to break the bank to get it.
I always had a passion for cleansers and lotions. I used to mix my own – imagine a 9-year-old Estée Lauder – and try then out my reluctant yet cooperative older sister. How could she resist my enthusiastic sales technique and unbeatable prices?
I made my own shampoos and facial cleansers from a mixture of everything from under the bathroom sink. The fowl smell and greenish liquid didn’t discourage me one bit from looking for a miracle cure, but I’ll admit it wasn’t good for business.
I was too young for puberty so I mistakenly thought my clear skin meant I was on to something. Smearing creamy Noxzema on oily, bumpy pubescent skin is not a good thing. I apologize to all those I experimented on. But it made for endless hours of fun.
Nothing has really changed. I still get excited about shopping for skin care. My pulse starts racing in the parking lot. I love hunting for the fountain of youth, I’ve just been disappointed by expensive elixirs that have given me a rash, smell nasty and empty my wallet.
I’m not an authority on excellent skin care, but I have been asked once or twice how I keep my youthful glow, not including my neighborhood gas station attendant and some guy in the produce section.
These are some my favorites and they range from $5-14.
The Basics: Cleanse, Exfoliate, Moisturize and Protect
My skin is sensitive, so I only buy products that are gentle on my skin and don’t have perfume. I can basically find everything at the drugstore or supermarket. However, if I do feel like splurging a little, I will buy Clinique’s 7 Day Scrub and Eye Cream – sometimes I’m lucky and I get them for free when Clinique is offering a gift with purchase.
But, topical lotions and potions alone won’t do the trick. Read my 12 Easy tips for better looking skin. You’ll be glowing in no time!
I love skin care also…and love it when I find something that works. I had the best experience. I had a “thing” on the side of my face. nothing serious but it was like a small raised bump. I had had success before with a thing on my leg, so I put frankincense on it for a few days, and it disappeared!! We can find the things that work for us, we just have to look and be open minded
I’m with you on Cetaphil. My dermatologist recommended it years ago and it’s been great for dry skin, especially in winter when indoor heating dries out the skin on those of us in cold climes. I had to give up the “free” lipsticks and other gifts when I went “au naturel” [the drugstore route], but I don’t see the difference, except in my wallet.
I’m so with you. I buy most of my skincare products at the drugstore now. I remember once reading that they were the same as the expensive brands, minus the packaging and marketing, and I’ve definitely found them to work just as well.
I agree.. Years ago, I used to spend way too much money on skin care, but not any more.
Most of my skin products are from Target, but I try to buy ones with the most natural products. I hate all of the chemicals. I am terrible about exfoliating though I know I should. I think at 55 it’s time to start, eh?
I like Cetaphil and Mario Badesco products the best. I also love Kiehls for moisturizers that are gentle for my sensitive skin.