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Great skin on a small budget

Three cheap products do most of the work. Everything else is optional.

3 min read · from the ClearSkin AI app

The three that matter

  1. A gentle cleanser

    Any fragrance-free, low-foam wash. A pharmacy own-brand works as well as a premium one.

    Strong evidence

  2. A plain moisturiser

    Look for glycerin, ceramides or petrolatum near the top of the list. A tub lasts months.

    Strong evidence

  3. Sunscreen, SPF 30 or more

    The biggest anti-mark, anti-ageing step there is. Buy the one you will wear every day.

    Strong evidence

Cheap swaps that work

  1. Petroleum jelly

    A thin layer over moisturiser at night seals in water. Ideal for dry, cracked or wind-burnt skin; skip it on breakout areas.

    Strong evidence

  2. Generic actives

    Benzoyl peroxide 2.5–5%, salicylic acid 2% and adapalene 0.1% are the same molecules at any price.

    Strong evidence

  3. Fewer products, used daily

    Two steps done every day beat ten done twice a week.

    Some evidence

Make it last

  1. Pea-sized amounts

    A pea of cream covers the face; a dropper of serum is too much.

  2. Keep it cool and closed

    Heat and light break down actives like vitamin C. Close lids tightly.

  3. Scan your shelf first

    Before buying, check whether something you own already does the job.