I’ve tested all the viral high-end skincare products so you don’t have to break the bank 😅
This list features skincare dupes from Sephora, Ulta and drugstores that deliver results similar to products costing $60–$120, but all *under $20*.
From Drunk Elephant and Glow Recipe dupes to La Mer – I’ve checked the ingredients and reviews so you don’t end up disappointed.
Perfect for those of you who want glass skin without getting into debt with paylater apps 💸
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I was surprised to find that a $6 serum could tackle oil and large pores just as well as the $38 B-Galdi. It has a watery texture and is really easy to layer with other skincare products. If your T-zone gets oily very easily, you absolutely must give...
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Oil Control Serum - The Ordinary $6.90| Sephora
To be honest, I can’t afford La Mer at $110, so I’ve switched to this CeraVe. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, so my skin doesn’t dry out easily and my skin barrier is stronger. The texture is rich but doesn’t cause breakouts when used at n...
Moisturizing Cream Body and Face Moisturizer $19- CeraVe | Ulta Beauty
This is Lifesever for acne scars; it contains tranexamic acid and niacinamide. After using it regularly for a month, the dark spots started to fade. It only costs $12, but the ingredients are on a par with expensive serums. It’s definitely worth it f...
1.0 oz Discoloration Correcting Serum - Good Molecules $12 | Ulta Beauty
Use this twice a week to exfoliate; your skin will instantly look brighter and your subsequent skincare products will absorb more easily. It’s similar to the Pixi Glow Tonic, but it comes in a larger size and is cheaper. My tip: don’t use it every da...
Severe puffy eyes??? This could be your go-to product when you’re pulling an all-nighter too – it contains caffeine and yerba mate, so the eye area instantly looks fresh and less puffy. It has a refreshing gel texture. It works wonders when applied i...
Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel - Good Molecules $6| Ulta Beauty
I’m really into this, because expensive cleansers tend to leave my skin feeling tight and dry. Vanicream is really gentle and completely fragrance-free. Whether I use it in the morning or at night, my skin stays calm. It removes make-up thoroughly to...
I couldn’t bring myself to spend $38 on a setting spray, so I gave this e.l.f. one a go. The result is dewier, longer-lasting make-up. The spray is incredibly fine and doesn’t cause the make-up to flake. For just $6, it’s become my go-to everyday pro...
I swapped my $38 Tatcha for this Cerava and I don’t regret it. The cream-to-foam texture cleanses my face without leaving it feeling tight. It’s perfect for dry and sensitive skin. I’ll definitely keep buying it.
12.0 oz Hydrating Facial Cleanser - CeraVe | Ulta Beauty
If your goal is simply "plump, hydrated skin", there’s no need to buy an expensive hyaluronic acid serum. This one costs just $8 and works a treat. I use it before my moisturiser. It has a watery texture, so it absorbs easily.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum - Good Molecules $8| Ulta Beauty
Use this twice a week as an alternative to a $72 baby facial. It contains papaya and liquorice root to exfoliate dead skin cells without causing redness. Use it when your skin looks dull, and by the next day it’ll be smoother and glowing. It costs ju...
e.l.f. SKIN Gentle Peeling Exfoliant $10 - 3.04 fl oz
I’ve only just started using retinol and this is safe for beginners. It’s a low-strength formula and contains squalane, so it doesn’t leave your skin dry or flaky. Just use it twice a week. At $6, it’s perfect for giving it a go.
Retinol 0.2% in Squalane $6
I use this because it’s lightweight and doesn’t leave a white cast. It contains SPF 30 and niacinamide, so it brightens the skin at the same time. It’s perfect as a make-up base and doesn’t cause foundation to cake. It’s a budget-friendly SPF but der...
3.0 oz AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 - CeraVe $18| Ulta Beauty
I mix 1–2 drops of this into my night cream when my skin is really dry. The texture is super light and doesn’t feel sticky. The result is plumper skin in the morning. It’s just like Biossance ($32), the only difference is the price.
100% Plant-Derived Squalane - The Ordinary $10.40| Sephora
I’ve mentioned it before, but seriously, my acne scars have faded much faster since I’ve been using this regularly. It contains tranexamic acid and vitamin C, and it’s only $12.
It’s absolutely worth it for dark spots.
1.0 oz Discoloration Correcting Serum - Good Molecules | Ulta Beauty
I’ve mentioned this before, but it really is a lifesaver when you’ve been up all night – it makes puffy eyes and dark circles disappear, leaving you looking instantly fresher. Apply it in the morning before your concealer. The finish is smoother and ...
Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel - Good Molecules | Ulta Beauty