Beauty Skin-Care Tips

3 Skin-Care Products That a Derm Says Aren’t Worth Spending Big Bucks On

Zoe Weiner

November 19, 2020

There are certain skin-care splurges that are well worth the money, like a medical-grade serum or an at-home facial device that gives you derm-level results. But according to Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut, there are three spots in your routine where you're better off saving on with budget skin care.

In the latest episode of Dear Derm, Dr. Gohara answered all of our readers' most pressing skin-care questions, including whether or not pricey products are really worth the money. And while she's a firm believer that medical-grade products are a worthy investment, she says that there's really no need to drop big bucks on your more basic a.m. and p.m. steps.

Experts In This Article

Mona Gohara, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut and associate clinical professor in dermatology at Yale School of Medicine

"When it comes to splurging, think about antioxidants, retinol, and any specific skin concern that you may have," she says. "But I definitely think a gentle cleanser, a sunscreen, or even a moisturizer are places where you can save."

Below, she shares her budget skin-care picks for each step, and not a single one of them costs more than $27. And for more intel on the selects she thinks are worth splurging on, check out the video above.

Cleanser: Dove Beauty Bar, $1

Best Beauty Products Under $20 — Photo: Dove

This gentle, non-soap cleanser is the one Dr. Gohara uses every single day on both her face and body. It's made with nourishing ingredients, and will leave skin clean without stripping it.

Shop now: Dove Beauty Bar, $1

Moisturizer: Burt’s Bees Daily Moisturizing Cream, $12

dermatologist drugstore skincare routine — Photo: Burt's Bees

Hydrate your skin in the morning and at night with this $12 pick, which is formulated with sensitive skin in mind. It's made with aloe and rice water to keep skin moisturized 24 hours a day.

Shop now: Burt’s Bees Daily Moisturizing Cream, $12

Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Sunscreen, $27

Derms recommend slathering your face with SPF 30 every day, and this pick offers double the amount of recommended protection. It's got a lightweight, fluid texture that allows your skin to breathe and makes it perfect for layering on under makeup.

Shop now: La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Sunscreen, $27

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