The Best Drugstore Skincare Products, According to Dermatologists
<p>Beauty trends may come and go, but <a href=” target=”_blank”>healthy skin</a> is <em>always</em> in. While quality is important, you don’t have to spend tons of money on effective <a href=” target=”_blank”>face washes,</a> <a href=” target=”_blank”>anti-aging creams</a>, and <a href=” target=”_blank”>brightening serums</a>. The best drugstore skincare products provide visible results without going over your budget. <br></p><p>“A lot of times people believe you need to spend a lot of money for good skincare or ‘you get what you pay for’ but thankfully, there are a number of skincare brands that invest significantly into the research and development of their products,” says <a href=” target=”_blank”>Janiene Luke, M.D.</a>, a board-certified dermatologist in Loma Linda, CA. “These brands are able to provide high-quality ingredients and formulations that are affordable and easily accessible.”</p><p class=”body-tip”>Meet the experts: <a href=” target=”_blank”>Janiene Luke, M.D.</a>, a board-certified dermatologist in Loma Linda, CA; <a href=” target=”_blank”>Suchismita Paul, M.D., F.A.A.D.</a>, a board-certified dermatologist in Newport Beach, CA; <a href=” target=”_blank”>Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D</a>., a double board-certified dermatologist with <a href=” target=”_blank”>Affiliated Dermatology</a> in Scottsdale, AZ</p><p>Ahead, top dermatologists share their favorite drugstore skincare options and everything you need to know about choosing the right products for you.<br></p>”/>
Now 25% Off
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Some reviewers report issues with the pump
When it comes to cleansers, there’s no shortage of options at the drugstore. Dr. Luke recommends this gentle, fragrance-free option “that leaves skin feeling clean without feeling stripped or dry.” She adds that it’s suitable for all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin. Deputy Editor Emily Goldman uses this face wash daily, and loves that it leaves skin feeling “hydrated and clean, without that awful post-wash tightness you can get from some other cleansers.”
User review: “I’m 62 and have dryer skin. I’ve been looking for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip all the oils from my skin,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “This product is amazing!! It is gentle but very cleansing at the same time. My skin feels really clean but I can also feel the moisturizing hyaluronic acid even after I have rinsed off the product. I have not had any bad reaction to this product.”
2
Best drugstore acne cleanseer
CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Wash
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Pros
- Helps treat acne
- Nourishes skin barrier
- Suitable for face and body
Cons
- Can be drying for some
For those looking for a more heavy-duty cleanser that’s able to tackle acne, consider this foaming wash from CeraVe. It combines 10% benzoyl peroxide to effectively target acne-causing bacteria with ceramides to maintain the skin barrier, reducing dryness and irritation, explains Suchismita Paul, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Newport Beach, CA. “It’s gentle and great for both face and body.” Dr. Luke also appreciates the cleanser’s ability to treat acne while nourishing and replenishing the skin barrier.
User review: “I’ve been using this for about a month now and I haven’t had any breakouts which is awesome,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “I have very sensitive skin, especially my face, and this has not irritated me at all. Will for sure be using this from now on.”
3
best drugstore lip balm
Vaseline Original Petroleum Jelly
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Pros
- Affordable
- Multipurpose
- Protects and soothes skin
Cons
- Some find it too thick
Thanks to its affordability, Vaseline’s good old petroleum jelly is a true beauty staple for everything from nourishing dry skin to removing makeup to slugging. It also happens to be Dr. Paul’s top drugstore pick for your pout. “For lip care, I love Vaseline and always recommend it to my patients,” she explains. “It is great for lip protection because it forms a barrier that locks in moisture, effectively healing and preventing dry, chapped lips.”
User review: “I seem to be allergic to most lip balms and eye creams so I use Vaseline instead. It is very emollient and doesn’t sting your eyes. Really it is better than the myriad of high-end products I have purchased over the last few years that don’t irritate my skin,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “There is a reason why this has been a staple in so many households for years.”
4
Best Drugstore Hydrating Serum
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum
Pros
- Hydrates
- Nourishes skin barrier
- Pairs well with other products
Cons
- Some reviewers say it made skin feel tacky
If you’re looking for an effective, no-frills serum to deeply hydrate your skin, this option from The Ordinary is “the best bang for your buck,” according to Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., a double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ. “It’s relatively accessible, it’s affordable, and it has hyaluronic acid as its main ingredient, which is one of the most hydrating ingredients,” he explains. The key is to apply the serum to damp skin and use a moisturizer on top, Dr. Lal adds.
User review: “Very moisturizing and soothing. Sometimes my skin gets dry and red and so far after using this for only a week, my skin has just gotten smoother and dewier,” one Ulta reviewer wrote.“It makes my skin plump too! My skin is healing, 10/10.”
5
best drugstore niacinamide serum
La Roche-Posay MelaB3 Serum
Pros
- Helps target hyperpigmentation
- Contains antioxidants
- Lightweight texture
Cons
- Pricey for a drugstore product
Dr. Luke recommends this dark-spot-correcting serum for anyone looking for a brighter, more even skin tone. “It is formulated with patented Melasyl (which acts to reduce the overproduction of melanin) as well as niacinamide and other exfoliating ingredients to target dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and other pigment irregularities,” she explains.
User review: “La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum is my new go-to for clearer, more radiant skin!” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “I’ve seen noticeable improvements in my skin tone and texture since using it. The serum absorbs quickly, feels lightweight, and doesn’t leave any greasy residue. Perfect for anyone looking to achieve a more even complexion and lasting results. Highly recommended!”
6
best drugstore anti-aging serum
CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum
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Pros
- Contains retinol
- Helps soften fine lines and wrinkles
- Contains ceramides for hydration and moisture
Cons
- Can only be used at night
This anti-aging serum is an effective option that won’t break the bank. “This serum is formulated with retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides and is a great anti-aging option for those with dry or sensitive skin,” explains Dr. Luke. The powerhouse ingredient list targets everything from fine lines and wrinkles to dryness to discoloration.
User review: “I noticed results within the first week of using this product! It is now a staple in my skincare routine and gentle enough on my normally fickle skin to use every day!” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “My skin is BABY SOFT! Blemishes are mostly gone, my skin tone is much more even and glowing, and it’s definitely reduced fine lines.”
7
Best Drugstore Eye Cream
Neutrogena Retinol Eye Cream
Pros
- Highly rated
- Targets wrinkles
- Helps brighten skin under eyes
Cons
- Some reviewers say it caused their eyes to water
A favorite brand of Jennifer Garner and dermatologists alike, this affordable eye cream has not one but two helpful ingredients that tackle wrinkles and fine lines under eyes: retinol and hyaluronic acid. Retinol works to diminish signs of aging while hyaluronic acid helps plump and hydrate skin.
User review: “I’m so happy I decided to try this product! I’m 54 years old and although I don’t mind a few wrinkles (I earned them!), I was starting to get some drooping under my eyes. I just looked tired all the time,” wrote one Amazon shopper. “My upper lids look so much better – less puffy than I’ve seen in years. The skin beneath my eyes is tighter and the bags have completely disappeared. I look refreshed! I can’t believe the difference and I’m glad I didn’t give up on it. I followed the instructions and started off slow, applying every other day at first and building up to twice a day. I had no irritation or dryness at all. Now I apply every morning and every night. This stuff really worked great for me!!”
8
best drugstore vitamin c serum
Avene Vitamin Activ Cg Radiance Serum
Pros
- Brightening formula
- Contains a variety of antioxidants
- Promotes even skin tone and texture
Cons
- Pricey for a drugstore product
When it comes to vitamin C, you don’t have to buy a luxury product for great results, says Dr. Lal. He recommends this option from Avene, which is a “great, affordable option” that is also suitable for sensitive skin. “The reason why I like this product is because in addition to a stable form of vitamin C, it uses bakuchiol and niacinamide, which are great for brightening the skin,” Dr. Lal explains.
User review: “I’ve been using this serum for weeks now and my skin has never looked better,” wrote one Ulta reviewer. “I get SO many compliments on my glow. I used to buy a more expensive one from my dermatologist’s office. This is my new favorite—and so much less $$.”
9
Best Drugstore Makeup Remover
Bioderma Sébium H2O Micellar Water
Pros
- Effectively removes makeup
- Gentle on skin
- May also be used as a toner
Cons
- May not remove very heavy makeup on its own
For a quality makeup remover, Dr. Luke recommends using a micellar water to wipe away cosmetics and gently cleanse the skin. “This particular product is unscented, safe for use in people with sensitive skin, is non-comedogenic, and formulated for those with oily or combination skin,” she explains. Simply apply to a cotton pad and swipe over your face, followed by your favorite face wash.
User review: “Great product—effectively removed all face makeup, including waterproof mascara,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “This didn’t cause a rash or any breakouts. Would highly recommend for breakout-prone skin as an effective way to make sure you’re getting all the dirt, sebum, and makeup off your skin.”
10
best drugstore moisturizer
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
Pros
- Moisturizes and nourishes skin
- Helps maintain a healthy skin barrier
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Some reviewers say it takes too long to absorb
“My favorite moisturizer and my go-to is the Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer by La Roche-Posay,” says Dr. Lal. “It really is a great moisturizer for all skin types.” The gentle formula is fragrance-free and contains soothing niacinamide plus ceramides to nourish the skin barrier. Plus, the brand even makes a version with SPF 30, which is great for daytime use.
User review: “This moisturizer has quickly become a favorite in my skincare routine as it leaves my face feeling moisturized without any oily residue,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I love how it leaves my skin feeling soft, smooth, and nourished throughout the day.”
11
best drugstore body lotion
Gold Bond Age Renew Crepe Corrector Body Lotion
Now 11% Off
Pros
- Moisturizes skin
- May help improve the appearance of “crepey” skin
- Non-greasy formula
Cons
- Some reviewers wish there were more of a scent
For a quality body moisturizer, Dr. Paul recommends this option from Gold Bond. “It is formulated to address the specific needs of aging skin, particularly ‘crepey’ texture. This lotion contains a blend of seven moisturizers and three vitamins including vitamin E, which help to hydrate and smooth the skin,” she explains. “The product is also affordable, widely available in drugstores, and has a non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly, making it convenient for daily use.”
User review: “I wasn’t expecting much, but I love Gold Bond products. At 55 my skin is starting to look more crepey than dry, so I thought this was a reasonable price to try,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I put it on after my shower, it soaks right in, isn’t greasy at all, and gives my skin a glow until evening. Holy grail product!
12
best drugstore toner
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Pros
- Multipurpose product
- Suitable for face and body
- Affordable
Cons
- May be too strong for sensitive (facial) skin
This glycolic acid toner is “a really versatile product that works on multiple levels,” says Dr. Lal, who notes that it helps reduce the appearance of pores, manage acne, and moisturize the skin. It can even be used on the armpits to tackle body odor and on the scalp to help treat dandruff. “Because it has so many different uses, I feel like it’s a must-have at home,” he adds.
User review: “This product really helped with my acne, dark spots, and my annoying ‘strawberry legs,’” one Ulta reviewer wrote. “My skin has definitely improved, my face is almost clear, and my strawberry legs are starting to fade. I’m happy with the results and will have to get another bottle soon. So glad I gave it a shot after hearing good things about it.”
14
best drugstore tinted sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
Now 23% Off
Pros
- Suitable for various skin tones
- Doesn’t leave a white cast
- SPF 50
Cons
- Pricey for a drugstore product
For those who prefer a tinted sunscreen, Dr. Paul says she “loves” this option from La Roche-Posay. “I recommend it as an SPF because it provides broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection with a natural tint that blends well into various skin tones without leaving a white cast,” she explains. Plus, this formula is well-loved by reviewers, with over 15,000 five-star ratings on Amazon.
User review: “This is a fabulous product. It applies super-smoothly and is very lightweight but offers great coverage. It blends like a dream; I’m over 40, and it doesn’t settle in or exaggerate my pores,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I use it instead of foundation in the summer when my makeup is minimal, but you could definitely layer products over it without it pilling.”
15
best drugstore acne spot treatment
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Spot Treatment
Pros
- Benzoyl peroxide helps treat acne
- Glycerin nourishes skin
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May bleach clothing or sheets
Not only is this my all-time favorite acne spot treatment (coming from someone in a lifelong battle with acne), but it’s also Dr. Lal’s number one recommendation. He loves that it contains 5.5% benzoyl peroxide along with micro-exfoliating lipohydroxy acid to effectively reduce acne. It’s also formulated with glycerin to avoid dryness and irritation.
User review: “I’ve struggled with acne all my life,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “I found this treatment on TikTok and decided to try it. IT WORKS with killing the bacteria and flattening ON SITE. I’ve tried everything else from spironolactone to tretinoin to azaleic acid and nothing has worked…The benzoyl peroxide kills [acne] within two to three treatments.”
How to choose the best drugstore skincare products
✔️ Consider your skin type. The first step when selecting any type of skincare product, including drugstore options, is to “understand your skin type, whether it is oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or normal,” says Dr. Paul. “Then it’s important to choose products specifically formulated for your skin type.” For example, those with acne-prone skin should look for key ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide; those with dry skin should choose products containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides; sensitive skin types are best served by gentle, fragrance-free products.
✔️ Know when to save and when to splurge. You can find great products at all price points, no matter the category. But if you’re wondering what products you’re best off saving on, Dr. Paul suggests choosing cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens—because “drugstore options often work well for these categories.” If you’re looking to spend more money on certain products, Dr. Paul suggests splurging on serums, retinoids, or exfoliants, which could offer more noticeable results.
✔️ Consult your dermatologist. “I do often recommend both drugstore products and other brands that are either higher end or only available in physician offices,” says Dr. Luke. “This is where it becomes beneficial to seek the care of a dermatologist or other skincare professional because we can offer customized recommendations that address specific medical conditions, or other skin concerns.”
How we chose the best drugstore skincare products
We tested products ourselves and spoke to Janiene Luke, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Loma Linda, CA; Suchismita Paul, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Newport Beach, CA; Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., a double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ, for their recommendations. We also sifted through countless product reviews to select the best drugstore skincare products available.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
Shannen Zitz is an Assistant Editor at Prevention, where she covers all things lifestyle, wellness, beauty, and relationships. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Prevention, she graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor’s degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.
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