There’s no shortage of skincare products on the market and navigating them can be overwhelming. From fancy serums that promise a youthful complexion to moisturizers that hydrate and plump the skin, it\u2019s especially easy to get swept up by luxury skincare. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, not all skincare ingredients are created equal, so it\u2019s important to know which ones are worth splurging on and which ones you can save on and still achieve the desired results. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In other words, investing in an effective skincare routine doesn\u2019t mean you have to break the bank. Below, we share which ingredients you should splash out on and which ones you can save on. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Retinol<\/a> is known for helping regulate skin cell turnover, boosting collagen production, and improving skin tone and texture. However, finding a retinol formulation that works for your skin may be tricky, which is why board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD,<\/a> says it\u2019s a good place to invest in your skincare routine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Garshick recommends looking for a formula<\/a> that also contains hydrating ingredients to minimize dryness and irritation. And if it\u2019s your first time dipping your toes (er, skin) into using retinol, it\u2019s best to start with a low concentration and slowly increase the frequency as your skin can tolerate it. <\/p>\n\n\n \u201cCeramides<\/a> help to support and strengthen the natural skin barrier,\u201d Dr. Garshick says. Hence, why the moisture-replenishing ingredient is a must-have in a skincare routine. Thankfully, ceramides, which are typically found in cleansers and moisturizers, are a skincare ingredient you can skimp on. Dr. Garshick says the affordable option will do the trick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Hyaluronic acid<\/a> helps the skin retain moisture so it\u2019s vital for a healthy complexion. While there are many affordable skincare products that contain the skincare ingredient, Dr. Garshick says it\u2019s an ingredient that\u2019s worthy of a splurge to ensure you get the best results. <\/strong>The reason, she explains, is because hyaluronic acid is a large molecule and it\u2019s important to find a high quality product<\/a> that takes that into consideration and formulates it in a way that ensures proper penetration.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Niacinamide<\/a> calms and soothes the skin and helps reduce inflammation, Dr. Garshick says. Other touted benefits of the powerhouse skincare ingredient include helping minimize the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles, and combating hyperpigmentation. It does a lot to say the least. However, Dr. Garshick says you don\u2019t have to spend big on niacinamide to reap the benefits. So if you\u2019re in the market for a new niacinamide-rich serum, for example, consider this your sign to go for the affordable option.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s no wonder vitamin C<\/a> is a highly sought after skincare ingredient. \u201cIt works as an antioxidant that helps to protect the skin against free radical damage, and can also help to improve the appearance of discoloration and brighten the skin,\u201d Dr. Garshick says. <\/p>\n\n\n\n However, vitamin C is an unstable ingredient so it may not be as effective in certain formulations. For this reason, Dr. Garshick advises investing in high-quality vitamin C skincare products<\/a>. Particularly, she recommends products with pure vitamin C (also known as L-ascorbic acid) paired with other antioxidants like vitamin E and ferulic acid which help stabilize it and make it more effective. <\/p>\n\n\n\nSkimp: Ceramides <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Splash out: Hyaluronic acid <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Skimp: Niacinamide <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Splash out: Vitamin C <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Skimp: Cleansers and moisturizers <\/h2>\n\n\n\n