Since when did good skin care get so expensive? These days, it seems like even the most basic products come with a hefty price tag. But great skin doesn’t have to break the bank.
I’ve tested my fair share of cleansers, serums and moisturizers, and I’ve finally found some affordable go-to products and brands that actually work.
Whether you’re battling dry winter skin, stubborn breakouts or just looking for an easy routine that aligns with a student budget, here are my favourite skincare brands that continue to keep my skin happy without draining my wallet.
The Ordinary
The classic. Affordable, effective and no-nonsense. The Ordinary is a staple in so many skin care routines because it delivers exactly what your skin needs without being overpriced. You can find it at Sephora in the Rideau Centre.
One of my go-to picks is their Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 ($12). This product has been a lifesaver for keeping my skin hydrated and plump, especially during Ottawa’s harsh winters.
SoonJung
You can find SoonJung at Sukoshi Mart in the Rideau Centre and it’s easily one of my favourite affordable skin care brands. Since I started using their products, my skin instantly became more hydrated without making a huge dent in my wallet.
My favourites are the Etude SoonJung 5.5 Foam Cleanser ($13.95), which is incredibly gentle while leaving my skin feeling fresh, and the Etude SoonJung 10-Free Moist Emulsion ($19.95), a water-based moisturizer. Plus, these products seem to last forever. Truly, a little goes a long way.
The INKEY List
I first fell in love with The INKEY List after trying its Oat Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm ($9.50) and I’ve been hooked ever since. With simple yet effective ingredients and budget-friendly prices, The INKEY List has become a staple in my routine. You can find them at Sephora in the Rideau Centre.
One of my must-haves is their Caffeine De-puffing + Dark Circle Eye Cream ($15), perfect for tired student eyes that need a little extra love.
Cetaphil
If you have sensitive skin, Cetaphil is a lifesaver. You can find Cetaphil products at Shoppers Drug Mart, and their ultra-gentle formulas make them perfect for anyone dealing with irritation, dryness or breakouts.
My go-to is the Gentle Skin Cleanser ($16.99). It’s simple, effective and never leaves my skin feeling stripped. Cetaphil cleansers have been a staple in my routine since middle school. So whether you’re starting a routine from scratch or need a cheap, reliable everyday cleanser, this one never disappoints.
Round Lab
Round Lab blew up on TikTok for a reason. This affordable K-beauty brand is all about simple and effective formulas that keep your skin hydrated without depleting your savings. You can find Round Lab at Sukoshi Mart in the Rideau Centre.
My favourite is the 1025 Dokdo Toner ($17.95). It’s lightweight, refreshing and perfect for adding an extra layer of moisture to my routine. So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly K-beauty brand that actually delivers, this one is a must-try.
Featured graphic by Alisha Velji.
