I’ve tried way too many skincare products over the years (sensitive skin + chronic illness = walking science experiment), and this list is my go to lineup of clean-ish, drugstore skincare products that actually work.
Whether you’re just starting you...
Sections
5
Cleansers
Moisturizers
Hydrating Serums & Treatments
SPF
Spot Treatment & Exfoliants
Cleansers
If your face feels squeaky after washing, you’ve already lost. These cleansers get rid of dirt and makeup without stripping your skin or messing with your microbiome. Creamy, foamy, but never harsh.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleanser
Gentle, dry skin, ceramides
Hydrating Facial Cleanser: Skin Refresh
vegan, clean, eucalyptus
TikTok’s indie darling. Bonus: the packaging is refillable.
Versed Wash It Out Gel Face Cleanser - Mild
🧴 Balances oil and soothes irritation
🔬 Niacinamide + thermal spring water
Toleriane Purifying Foaming Facial Wash
🌊 Oil to foam texture, perfect for dry/sensitive skin
🌿 Minimal ingredients, fragrance-free
Lipikar AP+ Cleansing Oil for Face & Body
Moisturizers
These are the unsung heroes of your routine—fragrance-free, non-greasy, and ideal for layering under makeup or slugging at night. Whether you’re oily, dry, or flakey like a croissant, there’s a pick here that won’t let you down.
🌿 Cruelty free, celery seed extract, barrier friendly
💫 Light, fresh, clean beauty on a budget
🧤 Ultra-rich, non-greasy hydration
🌿 Great for face + body
Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Moisturizer For Dry Skin
Hydrating Serums & Treatments
Serums should feel like a glass of water, not a science experiment. These picks deliver plump, glowy skin with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide—no shady additives or mystery breakouts.
🧪 Gently exfoliates + unclogs pores
🌿 Alcohol free formula
Effaclar Clarifying Solution | Acne Toner
🌟 Clears breakouts without over drying
💧 Includes niacinamide + AHA
CeraVe - Acne Control Gel Blemish Treatment
🔄 Smooths texture + targets fine lines
🌿 Gentle, fragrance-free
CeraVe - Skin Renewing Retinol Serum
SPF
These drugstore SPF gems disappear into skin, don’t pill under makeup, and won’t leave you looking like Casper. Because sun protection shouldn’t be a chore—or a breakout risk.
☀️ No white cast, ultra blendable
🧴 Doubles as a moisturizer
Black Girl Sunscreen - 8 Products
🛡️ For sensitive skin, fast absorbing
🌾 Oat extract + hydration combo
Aveeno
🏖️ Clean, zinc-based, reef-safe
🌸 Smells like summer vacation
Mineral Sunscreen Face Tint SPF 30 - Sun Bum
🧴 Lightweight fluid, no white cast
🔬 Dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin
