As a licensed esthetician, these are my favorite drugstore skin staples that I have tested and bought over and over.
The price is more than fair for the benefits. The Holy Hydration Daily moisturizer is my go-to. I buy multiple at a time.
All Skincare | e.l.f. SKIN
Legend has it that grape farmers in Napa discovered the skin on their hands aged much slower than the skin on the rest of their bodies. Resveratol is found in grapes and has excellent anti-aging benefits. This product smells a bit like hot dog water (that's the ferulic acid), but it's not overwhelming.
Target Signs of Aging with Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
This is a dupe for Supergoop. I have bought this multiple times and it has never let me down. It's perfect for all skin tones – it goes on clear. TJ's recently released the all-over version in a large tube.
Daily Facial Sunscreen SPF 40
I use this every morning after I wash my face and before I apply moisturizer. This helps even skin tone and brighten. E.L.F.'s niacinamide is also great, but not as strong.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
This is perfect for combination skin. It's gentle, but still removes makeup well. It doesn't strip my skin. I've used this for many years without any issues.
Trader Joe's Nourish All-in-one-facial Cleanser
This is excellent for combo and oily skin. It's very lightweight. I prefer this in the summer, but it's not quite as much as I need in the winter.
This has been a staple in my life for twenty years. It's inexpensive, moisturizing, and can be used on lips and skin (such as dry elbows). The tin makes it feel luxurious.
Rose All-Purpose Salve Tin No. 012
I have hereditary eye bags that swell horrifically in the morning. I always look exhausted. Just a little bit of this applied outwards helps reduce the bags significantly. I've never had an issue with it drying my skin out.
Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel
The smell is heavenly and relaxing. I use this on my face, neck, and chest. It's excellent for aging skin, and a little bit goes a long way.
Advanced Peptides and Flora-Collagen™ Serum
This lasts forever! The tub is huge. It reminds me of the cold creams my mom and grandma used in the 80s. I don't believe it has any type of scent.