All products recommended on Beautists.com have been chosen by our editorial and research team. We may receive a commission on qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links.

Check out the results fast – here are our review winners

Are you a skincare snob?

We all know these days that not skincare products are not all made equally. Whether you have 12-step skincare routine or a simple cleanse and moisturize, we want to have the best quality products on our skin. If you have no idea what you’re looking at when shopping for products, then let me help you out.

From drugstore brands that are as good as their higher end counterparts, to the prestigious brands that are recommended time and time again, there is an abundance of skincare products out there. From CeraVe to Vichy, what brands of skincare products are best for skin?

Here’s the deal.

I am going to show you which brands are really worth it, no matter what your budget is. I’m going to show you which products from these brands are the holy grails in the skincare world, as well as how to incorporate them into your routine.

Here’s a tip- Don’t be afraid to go for drugstore if your budget doesn’t allow for more. Skincare products only work if you use them regularly and are consistent, so make sure you can afford your skincare routine!

Ready?

We’ve spent the time so you don’t have to:
megaphone
33.9k

Reveiws considered

sandglass
12

hours spent finding

shopping bag
42

Products compared

document
11

articles
studied

A Review of The best drugstore skincare brands

1.

CeraVe

This drugstore brand is a must-have after it became viral from TikTok and social media. Full of the good stuff like ceramides to repair your skin barrier, and none of the common irritants that are included in so many products. Blended with hyaluronic acid and broad-spectrum sun protection for everything you want in a skincare product.

Recommended product- CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

Cerave Daily Moisturizing Lotion for Dry skin is my go-to moisturizer. It provides essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid for long-lasting hydration. Great for all skin types, it’s a great addition to your skincare routine. Find out more about CeraVe.

Pros
  • Fragrance-free and paraben-free
  • Suitable for all skin types, face, and body
  • Contains essential ceramides
  • Contains hyaluronic acid
Cons
  • Strange smell

Latest deal: CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion

2.

Neutrogena

Our teenage self trusted this brand when we were dealing with acne, and now we continue to trust neutrogena as one of the leading skincare brands. From plumping moisture to sunscreen moisturizers, their products contain vital ingredients like hyaluronic acid, all without breaking the bank.

Recommended Product- Neutrogena Hydro Boost gel

This gel moisturizer is ideal for keeping your face super hydrated. The hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the skin and works with water to trap moisture in the skin’s barrier. This means that although it is a lightweight formula, it performs double duty in richness and relieving intense dryness for a long time so you won’t even know it’s there.

Pros
  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Lightweight, rich gel formula
  • Fragrance free and dye free
  • Non comedogenic
Cons
  • Heavy packaging

Latest deal: Neutrogena Hydro Boost gel

3.

The Ordinary

DECIEM’s brand of affordable skincare products caught the world by storm in recent times after becoming famous on social media. If you’re a skincare fanatic that knows exactly which ingredients you want, then you’ll love The Ordinay’s transparent formulas and no fuss products that deliver exactly what you want, such as the ordinary hyaluronic acid. Whether you’re looking for niacinamide, alpha hydroxy acids, alpha arbutin or hyaluronic acid, even down to moisturizers and cleanser, The Ordinary has you covered.

Recommended product-Retinol 0.2% Squalane

Retinol can be a powerful tool in our skincare kit when we know how to use it. Either for acne or for anti aging, it can turn your skincare game around. The ordinary offers different concentrations for retinol, paired with hydrating squalane to stimulate collagen production and moisturize your skin. The best part? The incredibly low prices you won’t find elsewhere make this skincare brand a drugstore staple.

Pros
  • Vegan-friendly
  • Nourishes facial skin
  • Ideal for any skincare routine
Cons
  • Not the strongest scent

Latest deal: Retinol 0.2% Squalane

4.

Cetaphil

How can we forget Cetaphil? Known for its gentle products and transparent formulas, it is safe even for sensitive skin. Not only loved by dermatologists, but by skincare addicts all over the world, so you can get this pretty much anywhere. From moisturizers to cleansers, you’re in good hands with cetaphil, and at an affordable price too.

Recommended product – Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

One of Cetaphils first products, their gentle skin cleanser is one of the best, with an old formula that just works time and time again. Suitable for all skin types, it provides a proper cleanse with every wash, without irritating the skin. Free from irritating ingredients, it’s a win every time.

Pros
  • All skin types
  • PH balanced
  • Fragrance-free
  • Clean, hydrate and soothe
Cons
  • May leave some residue

Latest deal: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

5.

La Roche-Posay

One of the more highly acclaimed drugstore brands, La Roche Posay has always been part of the skincare world. Whether you have acne prone skin, you will benefit from their acne line that helps smooth out skin texture. Originally a French pharmacy brand, they offer high end products with active ingredients. If you suffer from sensitive skin or skin conditions such as rosacea or eczema, it’s a great brand.

Recommended product- La Roche-Posay Toleraine Cleanser

Battling with acne isn’t easy, especially with rough skin and shiny, oily skin. La Roche Posay’s cleanser is ideal for treating acne and gentle cleansing your face, especially paired with other products in the range. It’s a must have for red skin tones and other skin issues.

Pros
  • Unscented
  • Dry,Sensitive,Normal
  • Niacinamide & Glycerin
  • Leaves skin feeling hydrated
Cons
  • May irritate sensitive skin

Latest deal: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

6.

Olay

A key staple in drugstores since the early fifties, Olay, or oil of play as it was formerly known as, is an unmissable brand whether you want to treat wrinkles or take care of your skin the right way. Even today Olay has been a favorite brand for women, and no wonder. With great quality ingredients and affordable prices, it’s well worth it.

Recommended product – Olay Regenerist MicroSculpting Cream

This oil-free moisturizer has everything you could want in it, from amino peptides to smooth and visibly brighten skin tone, and vitamin B3 to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Plus with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, these two ingredients will help to regenerate surface skin cells and hydrate without adding extra shine.

Pros
  • Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide
  • Lift and firm skin
  • Fragrance free and paraben free
  • Reduce appearance of wrinkles
Cons
  • Slightly pricey

Latest deal: Olay Regenerist Face Cream

7.

Avene

Another favorite for those with delicate skin out of the skin care brands, and not surprisingly another French brand. Avene is all about soothing irritated skin, and treating your skin gently. One of their most famous selling points is infusing their products with Avene thermal spring water, which refreshes the skin whilst locking in moisture.

Recommended Product – Eau Thermale Avene Hydrance LIGHT Cream

Avene is known for including thermal spring water to calm and soothe irritated skin, and bring all the benefits you need to have a radiant glow. It is a calm hydrating gel cream or gel moisturizer that promises to reduce texture to deliver a good even base for makeup and hydrated skin. It’s a winner!

Pros
  • With Eau Thermale
  • Non comedogenic
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Non greasy
Cons
  • Smells bad

Latest deal: Eau Thermale Avene Hydrance LIGHT Cream

8.

RoC

If you’re looking for the beauty secrets that lead to youthful skin, then let me introduce you to retinol, and what better brand than RoC for this ingredient. Incorporating this wonderful ingredient in a range of facial creams and eye creams that really work. In the beauty industry, results are gold, and RoC has proven it’s worth its weight when it comes to anti aging skincare.

Recommended Product – RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Under Eye Cream

This eye gel has vitamin e and antioxidants eye complex to visibly rejuvenate the eye area. Whether that’s targeting puffiness, dark circles or wrinkles, you only need one eye gel. It works by removing the dead skin cells to reveal new cells beneath the surface plumping the skin to create a firm lift.

Pros
  • Retinol
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Targets puffiness, dark circles and wrinkles
  • Fades dark spots
Cons
  • Bad packaging

Latest deal: RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Under Eye Cream

9.

Versed

An innovative approach to skincare, transparent formulas that contain none of the low quality, irritating ingredients you don’t want, and a super affordable price point. Versed takes the complicated out of skincare by including only the best ingredients for your skin so you get products that are effective, and truly work.

Recommended product- Versed On The Rise Firming Serum

This is a gentle serum can be used after a makeup remover to deal with uneven skin tone. One of the best skin care brands to look after your skin’s moisture barrier and keep your skin hydrated.On the rise firming serum is great to use after cleansing your face to brighten up dull skin and get glowing skin.

Pros
  • Tackles signs of aging
  • Peptides and a vitamin blend
  • Neutralizes free radicals
  •  Resveratrol-antiaging antioxidant
Cons
  • A bit thick

Latest deal: Versed On The Rise Firming Serum

10.

Dermalogica

If you suffer from clogged pores and dull skin, then you need to try Dermalogica. Founded back in 1986, and created by an aesthetician with a vision for products without common irritants, it’s now become one of the most recommended brands. No matter your skin type or skin concern, you know you’re in safe hands.

Recommended Product- Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel

Suitable for all skin conditions, the dermalogica cleansing gel is made to remove impurities, but without disturbing the skin’s natural barrier. It gently rinses away toxins to leave the skin smooth and refreshed. Although slightly on the higher end of drugstore, it’s worth every penny.

Pros
  • Soap free
  • Calming agents
  • Suitable for daily use
  • Contains Quillaja Saponaria
Cons
  • Muddy scent

Latest deal: Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel

1.

A Review of The best high end brands worth investing in

Drunk Elephant

I know what you’re thinking, but drunk elephant is one of the few popular skin care brands that not only sound cute, but also work. I mean it. What began as a side hustle during the recession is now one of the most sought after skincare brands, known for clean, transparent formulas with high quality active ingredients that just works, whether you’re a skincare beginner or beauty editor.

Recommended product – T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial

Drunk elephant has a scrumptious chemical exfoliant that is packed with alpha hydroxy acids for gentle exfoliation, including beta hydroxy acid and ph balanced so it doesn’t irritate sensitive skin. You can expect a radiant complexion, get rid of dead skin cells so you get your skin feeling soft and supple. No more redness!

Pros
  • Get rid of built-up, dead skin cells
  • Matcha tea, milk thistle and apple
  • Silicone-free
  • Use once weekly
Cons
  • Pump container difficult to use

Latest deal: Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial

2.

Clinique

Clinique is one of the top skin care brands and for good reason. Not only a great makeup brand too, but Clinique has ensured it creates products that are effective for all skin types, making them super easy to incorporate into a skincare routine. If you ever want to invest in quality, this is the brand to go for.

Recommended Product- Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

Famous enough to be recognized by its nickname DDML, this Clinique pale yellow cream is one of a kind. It’s so much more than a tinted moisturizer, since it is moisturizing enough to be used by dry skin, and oil absorbing to be used by combination skin. You won’t regret this one!

Pros
  • Paraben free
  • Great for sensitive skin
  • A little goes a long way
  • Good for a makeup base
Cons
  • Bottle not completely full

Latest deal: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

3.

Estée Lauder

If this brand isn’t iconic, I don’t know what is. Started in 1946, it has now become one of the most luxurious brands when it comes to skincare and makeup. Estee Lauder has never ceased to disappoint, as they renovate and keep up with the times without losing their core heritage.

Recommended Product – Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex

If you’re in need of an eye cream, then check this one out. Advanced Night repair cream is designed to hydrate your eye area for 24 hours, whilst infusing it with active ingredients to repair and revitalize you in the morning. Beauty sleep will take on a whole new meaning when you use this rich cream and wake up without dark circles or puffy eyes!

Pros
  • Signs of eye aging,
  • 10X Concentrated Repair Technology
  • Absorbs quickly
  • Leaves skin feeling soft and silky
Cons
  • Bottle not completely full

Latest deal: Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex

4.

LA MER

This marine inspired brand takes its name from using key skincare ingredients found in the sea. With renovating creams and serums, LA MER provides a host of good ingredients whilst filtering out the bad ones. It’s one of those that are guaranteed to give you results when it comes to taking care of your skin the right way.

Recommended Product- LA MER Regenerating Serum

This skin renewing serum is linked to their famous Miracle Broth, full of nutrients that benefit the skin. It’s a worthy addition to every skincare routine, providing the skin with a host of natural ingredients in only a few drops.

Pros
  • Powerful age-fighter
  • Nutrient-rich miracle broth
  • Marine peptide ferment
  • Bio ferment plant extract
Cons
  • Slightly pricey

Latest deal: LA MER Regenerating Serum

5.

Khiels

Where would we be if this list didn’t include Khiels? The brand of all brands for skincare started as a pharmacy in Manhattan, back in 1851, and now specializes in skincare and haircare for both men and women. Whether you want a cleansing balm or a wrinkle cream, khiels will always provide soothing ingredients that your skin will love.

Recommended product- Khiels super multi-corrective cream

This skincare cream has amazing anti aging effects, lifting, smoothing and firming aging skin. Non greasy and smooths textured skin, infused with natural ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, jasmonic acid and beech tree extract, without synthetic chemicals to irritate your skin.

Pros
  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • 30 SPF
  • Jasmonic Acid and Beech Tree Extract
  • Paraben-free, colorant-free
Cons
  • Doesn’t fade dark spots well

Latest deal: Khiels super multi-corrective cream

6.

TATCHA

This Japanese and American brand not only has pretty packaging, but their beaut products are centered around three core ingredients. Inspired by asian culture, their products include green tea, rice and algae. Their cleansers and creams are gentle even for sensitive skin, but you will still get the right results.

Recommended Product – TATCHA Luminous Dewy Skin Night Concentrate

The TATCHA night concentrate has everything you need to rejuvenate your skin overnight. Using natural ingredients that refresh your skin, smooth out fine lines, its luxury skincare can give you supple skin. It’s a cult favorite that helps skin glow!

Pros
  • Antioxidant-packed
  • Ginseng, wild thyme, and sweet marjoram
  • Firming, Smoothing, Resurfacing & Plumping
  • Japanese anti-aging superfoods
Cons
  • A bit greasy

Latest deal: TATCHA Luminous Dewy Skin Night Concentrate

7.

Clarins

Another luxury French brand, Clarins has everything from facial creams to self-tanners. No matter your age or skin type, Clarins can be the first step towards great skin and is the go-to for many influencers. With potent active ingredients and skin-friendly formulas, it’s obvious why it’s on this list.

Recommended Product- Clarins Double Serum

One of their most famous products, this anti-aging serum has two plant extracts that are separate, but in the same tube. Clarins know their stuff when it comes to skincare, which is why this powerful serum is very effective, with the right ingredients and packaging. No wonder it’s been a staple for years!

Pros
  • Evens out skin tone, hydrates, and softens
  • Treats wrinkles
  • Fast absorbing
  • Smells good
Cons
  • Could come in a larger size

Latest deal: Clarins Double Serum Clarins Double Serum

8.

Caudalie

I know, you’re going to tell me I have a preference for French brands, but I just had to include Caudalie on the list. Caudalie takes skincare one step further, infusing their products with the best natural ingredients from France itself. With a good range of products, you can create your whole beauty routine using Caudalie. If you like Caudalie, have you tried Elemis Skincare?

Recommended Product – Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Overnight Cream

This brightening cream has grape extract taken from the best regions of France, including Bordeaux, Champagne, and Burgundy. Give your skin a boost of antioxidants, you’ll be renewing your skin overnight, helping to control oil production and anti-aging properties.

Pros
  • Restores radiance and luminosity
  • Smoothes and refines skin texture
  • Over 60% more effective than vitamin C
  • With grape extract
Cons
  • Slightly pricey

Latest deal: Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Overnight Cream

9.

La Prairie

La Prairie’s roots take us back to the Swiss countryside and a professor Niehans who combined science with his love of skincare to treat his patients with the latest technology. La Prairie continues to provide scientifically proven products that work time and time again.

Recommended Product – La Prairie Skin Caviar Absolute Filler

This line plumping cream is both a luxury cream but also a pharmaceutical one that delivers the results you expect. This anti aging filler cream will help to smooth away wrinkles and offer a youthful complexion.

Pros
  • Caviar extract
  • Increases the tone, suppleness and tightness
  • Revitalises the complexion
  • Treats wrinkles and softens
Cons
  • Slightly pricey

Latest deal: La Prairie Skin Caviar Absolute Filler

10.

Lancome

Lancome makes skincare effortless, providing quality in every drop, whether that’s a serum, cream, chemical peel, or face wash. Particularly for mature skin, Lancome’s secret to youthful skin has been enclosed in so many of their anti-aging products, so much so that they continue to work through today.

Recommended Product- LANCOME Visionnaire Crescendo Progressive Night Peel

This two phase nightly peel contains alpha hydroxy acids that gently remove dead skin cells without irritating sensitive skin. It’s one of the best selling in the world, and to tell the truth, we’re not surprised!

Pros
  • Gently exfoliate
  • 5% bio-acids
  • Reduce the appearance of pores
  • Improve skin’s texture
Cons
  • Less effective on dark spots

Latest deal: LANCOME Visionnaire Crescendo Progressive Night Peel

Final Thoughts

Skin care is all about using the right products, but this can be tough when you have to select a brand. Whether you want to use salicylic acid to treat your acne, or a vitamin c serum to brighten your skin.

No matter if your routine is a gentle makeup remover or the same one as a beauty editor, investing in quality skin care is a must. When you keep your skin hydrated, double cleanse with a good brand’s products that are cruelty-free, and contain good ingredients like amino acids, you’ll notice a difference.

Whether you want fragrance-free or acne fighters, or growth factors, the brands on this list are worth every penny.

jess rowley

Jess Rowley

Cheif Editor & Nail Technician Expert

ABOUT

Jess Rowley, a veteran nail tech, has been studying beauty over the last 11 years and has completed the nail technology program in California. Watching the latest trends in beauty, Jess searches for the highest quality products that make your nails feel loved.