Beauty on a budget: the student survival guide to affordable skincare

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We have all been there. You’re scrolling on TikTok to encounter what can only be described as the latest ‘miracle’ skincare product. Rave reviews, rising ratings, and every single influencer seems to be using it. Surely, this is themagical product that you must buy, right?

But there’s just one small problem. It is priced at more than your student budget allows in a week. Ouch.

Here’s the secret though: high-quality, transformative skincare certainly does not have to be a burden to your bank account. With rising costs and what feels like never-ending bills, we all deserve to treat ourselves to a little skincare pick-me-up every now and again. Who says it has to permanently dent our budgets? The truth is, the exact same ingredients are used in many more affordable high street purchases and ‘dupes’ that will undoubtedly deliver the same results. It’s a no brainer.

I have put together a list of the best, and most affordable, products on the market because ultimately, quality and price do not have to be synonymous. Here is how to maintain healthy, glowy skin without dipping into the overdraft.

1. The Inkey List 10% Azelaic Acid

Azelaic Acid is the latest new ingredient that’s been on every skincare-fanatic’s lips. From fading dark marks and scars, to reducing redness and acne breakouts, azelaic acid is one of those ingredients that everyone could benefit from in their daily routine. Its less harsh exfoliating properties are perfect for sensitive skin in comparison to other exfoliants like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. This one from The Inkey List is perfect, with a simple formulation that will deliver the same results as those from a higher price range.

2. Neutrogena Clear and Soothe Moisturiser

Of course I have to mention my holy grail moisturiser that has been a staple in my routine for, literally, years. Formulated with turmeric and citric acid, I can always rely on this moisturiser as my best friend when it comes to calming down my acne-prone skin. The bonus is that it is non-comedogenic and oil free so it really has no risk of breaking you out. At £3.99 Superdrug members price, you really can’t go wrong!

3. St Tropez Facial Tanning Mist

I often struggled to find a tanning product that could work on my face without breaking me out or without paying major bucks. However, this mist from St Tropez does the job perfectly. It is so quick and easy without the sticky texture that a lot of facial tanners seem to have.

4. Skin 1004 Centella SPF

I was not sure whether Korean beauty was more of a marketing tactic, however after trying this Centella SPF, I was both impressed with the results and the affordability. The SPF is non-sticky, blending into the skin without leaving the typical ‘white-cast’ many suncreams tend to. You can purchase this product from websites such as LookFantastic and SpaceNK with low shipping costs.

So, there you go. Just a few quick picks of the huge spectrum of affordable products out there to aid in your journey to acquire the perfect budget-friendly skincare routine!

Edited by Georgia Cook