Drugstores: Affordable and Reliable
When I first started my skincare journey, I kept it simple and affordable by shopping at drugstores. One of the first things I did was find a gentle way to remove sunscreen. I used avocado oil or jojoba oil to wash the sunscreen off my face, and it worked wonders. These oils are both nourishing and effective in breaking down sunscreen, making them a great choice for beginners.
For a face wash, I turned to Cetaphil, which was recommended by my dermatologist. It’s gentle, non-irritating, and perfect for sensitive skin. Cetaphil is a classic drugstore option that provides an excellent cleanse without stripping the skin’s natural moisture.
As for moisturizer, CeraVe became my go-to. The large tub of CeraVe moisturizer not only lasted a long time but also kept my skin hydrated without feeling greasy. It contains essential ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which are great for reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier.
Best For:
- Affordable skincare essentials like cleansers and moisturizers
- Gentle options for sensitive skin
- Budget-friendly choices that last a long time
Online Retailers: Convenience and Wide Selection
Once I had a basic routine in place, I started expanding my skincare products. The Ordinary became one of my favorite brands for serums, and I found them easily online at retailers like Sephora and Ulta. Their serums, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, were game-changers for my skin. Hyaluronic acid helped me maintain moisture, while niacinamide reduced redness and evened out my skin tone.
Shopping online was super convenient because I could compare reviews and get access to a wider selection of products. Plus, I loved how easy it was to find discounts or bundles that saved me some money.
Best For:
- Comprehensive product descriptions and reviews
- Convenient shopping from home
- Finding trusted brands with expert-recommended products
Skincare-Specific Brands: Starting with Trusted Brands
As my skincare routine evolved, I decided to try more targeted products. This is where EltaMD sunscreen came in. Although it’s highly recommended for its broad-spectrum protection, I found that it didn’t quite work for my skin. Being on the pale side, EltaMD caused a noticeable white cast on my face, which wasn’t ideal for my complexion. However, it’s still an excellent product for others, especially those with medium to darker skin tones.
Despite this, I appreciated how many brands offered options specifically designed for different skin types, which is a great advantage when you’re just starting out. Brands like La Roche-Posay and The Ordinary are great for trying out beginner-friendly skincare with targeted treatments.
Best For:
- Trying out new skincare brands with targeted formulas
- Dermatologist-backed options that address specific concerns
- High-quality products that offer specific benefits
Beauty Stores: Personalized Advice and Samples
For personalized recommendations, I loved visiting beauty stores like Sephora and Ulta. The staff there would guide me through products based on my skin type, which helped me make better choices. I also appreciated being able to test products before purchasing.
When I was ready to try out serums and sunscreens, these stores were a great place to get samples. I remember receiving a sample of a sunscreen that didn’t leave a white cast, and that really made a difference in my routine. For anyone starting out, this kind of personalized help can make all the difference.
Best For:
- Personalized advice from beauty experts
- Sampling products before committing to full-size purchases
- Finding both drugstore and luxury skincare brands
Local Skincare Boutiques: Supporting Small Businesses
Another option for finding unique skincare products was shopping at local skincare boutiques. These smaller shops often carried natural or handmade products, which gave me the chance to experiment with unique items. While I didn’t always find my favorites, I loved supporting small businesses and discovering products with clean ingredients and ethical practices.
For anyone looking for something different and local, these boutiques can offer a more personalized shopping experience that the big stores sometimes lack.
Best For:
- Unique, artisanal skincare products
- Personalized shopping experience
- Supporting sustainable, small businesses
Conclusion:
When you’re just starting out with skincare, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re buying affordable drugstore staples like Cetaphil and CeraVe, or exploring targeted serums like those from The Ordinary, it’s all about finding what works best for your skin. My advice is to start simple, listen to your skin, and try out different products until you find the right combination. Remember, skincare is a journey, and it’s okay to experiment along the way.
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