Effective and Affordable Skincare for Lockdown

Throughout lockdown, self-care has played a big part for many of us. Reported by Mintel (2020), due to “heightened hygiene and increased time at home” over the last 12 months, usage rates in facial care categories have risen; 5% higher for face wash, 4% for micellar water, 7% for moisturiser, and 6% for toner. Face masks and night creams have also seen a growth, all to help improve overall skin health and boost consumer wellbeing (2020).

76% of women who bought facial skin care products also shared that price is a key purchase driver (Mintel 2020).

However, despite the rise in interest, 76% of women who bought facial skin care products also shared that price is a key purchase driver (2020). So with both price and quality in mind, here’s 5 high-street skincare brands to protect not only your pores but your purse too.

1. The Ordinary, £3-£30

A brand which combines science with affordability is no other than DECIEM’s The Ordinary. Though an arguably confusing and exclusive brand initially, The Ordinary offers high quality serums, acids and concentrates at a fraction of the luxury skin market. From Hyaluronic Acid for hydration and Niacinamide for blemishes, to Retinoid Emulsions for ageing and AHA Peeling solution for exfoliation, The Ordinary opens up the world of clinical technology at a high-street price point. With this brand, ensure to introduce products gradually, research before purchase, and be patient; results can take time.

2. The Body Shop, £4-£50

Organising their products by skin type, The Body Shop makes it simple to select the products you truly need. Their specially designed ranges include not only the basics for dry, combination or oily skin, but also peels, serums, and creams to further advance your routine. Though a brand which uses a lot of excess perfume, their Aloe Vera range is a clean, caring recommendation for even the most sensitive of skin. Their “botox in a bottle” duped Drops of Youth Concentrate Serum is also a great addition and at just £34 for 50ml, you can have fresher and younger looking skin without the needle.

3. CeraVe, £6-£35

Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe is the epitome of affordable skincare with invaluable expertise. Since 2005, CeraVe has been enriched with three essential ceramides (ceramide 1, 3 and 6-II), fatty acids, and other lipids to help repair and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. Today, they provide an accessible and scientifically recommended range to hydrate, protect, and replenish skin. Though a seemingly simplistic and limited range, CeraVe is the perfect gentle range for any skincare newbie. They also use their webpage to educate visitors about skincare and to fully understand your personal skin-type.

4. Simple, £1-£8

A high-street classic, this list would not be complete without Simple Skincare. With no alcohol, harsh chemicals, artificial perfumes, colourants or soaps, Simple pride themselves on providing a clean and effective skincare committed to kindness for our skin, planet, and animals too.

If you’re looking for a place to start, their original Kind to Skin range is a no brainer. With a facial wash, toner, micellar water, and biodegradable cleansing wipes, this “clean” routine will promise an effective daily cleanse without breaking the bank. Their Protect N Glow range is also a firm favourite. Promising glowing, radiant skin, this collection helps to protect your skin from pollutants, sunlight, and blue light from electronic devices whilst also drenching your skin in rich anti-oxidant vitamin C & E and organic ginger root.

5. Garnier Sheet Masks, £2.99-£3.99

When we think of sheet masks, Garnier springs to mind for many. Whether it be an anti-ageing, hydrating or brightening mask, their extensive range has evolved into a must-have product. Averaging at around £3, their masks require some down-time to let the product absorb into the skin so they are a perfect way to relax and zone-out from any lockdown anxieties. However, try to refrain from using one every day as excessive use can not only overwhelm the skin but the masks themselves can also be wasteful for the environment.

Article by Laura Buckle

Featured image courtesy of kerdkanno from Pixabay. Image license found here. No changes were made to this image.