How to Save Money on Anti-Aging Moisturizers Using Samples and Sets
As we get older, taking care of our skin becomes more and more important. Using anti-aging skincare can help reduce wrinkles, even out skin tone, and give your skin a youthful glow. But quality anti-aging products often come with a high price tag. The good news is there are ways to save money on your anti-aging skincare routine using samples, sets, and other money-saving tips.
Cleansers and Makeup Removers
When looking to save money on your skincare routine, cleansers and makeup removers are a great place to start. As dermatologist Dr. Anne Chapas notes, “One category of products you can definitely save on are the items that contact your skin and do a job for a short time period — like cleansers and makeup removers. They have inexpensive ingredients, and you need to buy them every one to two months, so don’t splurge here!”
Some budget-friendly cleansers Dr. Anne recommends include:
- CeraVe’s Hydrating Facial Cleanser: This gentle, non-foaming cleanser helps hydrate skin and is fragrance free.
- BioDerma Micellar Water: Micellar water acts as a gentle cleanser and makeup remover in one.
When it comes to cleansers and makeup removers, drugstore brands like CeraVe and simple micellar waters get the job done without breaking the bank.
Moisturizers and Sunscreens
Moisturizers and sunscreens are everyday essentials in an anti-aging skincare routine. But there’s no need to spend a fortune on them. As Dr. Anne notes, “Another category where it ‘doesn’t make sense to splurge,’ is the one that includes products you need a lot of: moisturizer and sunscreen.”
Some of her top budget-friendly picks include:
- Avene XeraCalm: A gentle moisturizer for sensitive, eczema-prone skin.
- Cetaphil Moisturizer: Provides lightweight hydration.
- UV Pure: A mineral SPF that can be used on both face and body.
- Trader Joe’s Sunscreen: An affordable SPF 50 lotion.
As Dr. Anne notes, diligent sunscreen use is the most cost-effective anti-aging step you can take, since sun damage is the #1 cause of skin aging. Choosing an affordable sunscreen you don’t mind applying liberally is key.
Anti-Aging Serums and Treatments
When it comes to more potent anti-aging ingredients like retinol and vitamin C, it can be tempting to splurge on fancier products. But dermatologist-approved anti-aging serums are available at drugstore prices.As Dr. Anne notes, “CeraVe’s Resurfacing Retinol Serum is wonderful because it combines retinol and moisturizer into an all-in-one night step.”
And at around $15, it’s an affordable way to get your retinol fix.For vitamin C, she recommends Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Serum which contains 10% vitamin C to brighten skin and even tone.
Bundled Skincare Sets
Many skincare brands offer bundled sets that allow you to try travel-sized or sample sizes of their most popular products. This can be a great way to experiment with new anti-aging products without committing to full sizes right away.For example, Dr. Anne recommends La Roche Posay’s retinol set: “Instead of getting a million different serums and active ingredients that treat all different things like acne, dark spots, etc., I cannot recommend the ‘prescription strength’ retinol from La Roche Posay enough. It’s [around] $30 and covers all the bases.”
Free Samples
Sign up for rewards programs through skincare brands like Sephora, Ulta, and department stores. You’ll earn free samples just for being a member.You can also request free samples directly from skincare brand websites. This allows you to try products before purchasing the full sizes.
Split Costs with Friends
Go in on a skincare set with a few friends. You each get to try the products for a fraction of the cost.
Look for Sales, Promos, and Coupons
Sign up for email lists from your favorite skincare brands. You’ll get notified about upcoming sales, promo codes, and special offers.Retailers like Sephora and Ulta also regularly run sales on skincare items. Check for coupons and promo codes before purchasing.
Shop Subscription Boxes
Subscription skincare boxes like Birchbox allow you to test out an assortment of sample-sized skincare items each month. This can be a cost-effective way to try a variety of anti-aging products.
Consider Multi-Tasking Products
Opt for products that combine multiple anti-aging ingredients, like moisturizers with SPF or serums with vitamin C and retinol. You’ll streamline your routine and save money by cutting down on steps.As Dr. Anne notes, “They can work on multiple different areas!” says Dr. Anne – which means you don’t have to buy so many supplemental products.”
Look for Active Ingredients, Not Brand Names
Focus on finding products with proven anti-aging ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, etc. You don‘t need to buy into expensive brand name hype to get effective skincare. Many affordable and generic brands use similar active ingredients.
Don’t Overbuy
Only purchase the key products you know you‘ll use regularly. It’s easy to get swayed by beauty marketing and sales into buying more than you need. Stick to the essentials for your anti-aging skincare routine.
Compare Prices Online
Use sites like Skinstore.com and Lovelyskin.com to compare prices for skincare items across retailers. You can find good deals on products you have your eye on.
Buy Directly from Brands
Check skincare brand websites for deals and bundles. You can sometimes get better prices buying directly instead of through a retailer.
Use Cash Back Sites
Get cash back on beauty purchases by shopping through sites like Rakuten. The cash back earnings can offset the cost of pricier anti-aging products.
Don’t Assume Higher Price Means Higher Quality
Higher price does not always mean a product is more effective. There are plenty of affordable skincare options from reputable drugstore brands that get the job done. Don’t overspend on hype.
Look for Unconventional Retailers
Check stores like TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Nordstrom Rack for discounts on prestige skincare brands. You can often find high-end anti-aging products for way less.
Buy Travel Sizes
Opt for travel-size moisturizers, serums, and cleansers when possible. You can test out products without overspending, and they’re TSA-friendly.
Use Products Sparingly
A little product goes a long way, especially with serums and treatments. Use a pea-sized amount and resist slathering on more than you need. You’ll get more use out of each product.
Stick to a Consistent Routine
Invest in quality products within your budget, and commit to using them consistently. Good anti-aging results depend on regular use over time. An inconsistent mishmash of products won’t give the same effects.
Don’t Forget Your Neck and Chest
Apply anti-aging products like serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen all the way down to your neck and chest. These areas show signs of aging too. No need to buy special “neck creams”— just use your regular products.
Know When to Splurge
For ingredients like retinol and vitamin C where potency really matters, it can be worth spending a little more on proven formulas from reputable brands. But you don‘t need to splurge on every step.
See a Dermatologist
See a dermatologist once a year or so to get advice on the best anti-aging routine for your unique skin. They can provide samples of prescription-strength products worth investing in.
Read Reviews
Don’t just buy into marketing claims. Read online reviews to get real feedback on how well anti-aging products work before purchasing. Focus on ones with consistently glowing reviews.
Layer on Moisture
Hydrated skin looks plumper and more youthful. Use a moisturizer, face oil, and hydrating serum together to quench thirsty skin. Affordable drugstore oils like grapeseed can provide a moisture surge.
Exfoliate Strategically
You don’t need fancy scrubs or devices to exfoliate. A weekly washcloth scrub and daily use of retinol provide sufficient cell turnover for radiant skin.
Eat a Healthy Diet
What you put in your body affects your skin. Focus on a diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and collagen-boosting ingredients like bone broth and vitamin C to support skin’s youthful look.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can accelerate aging. Make time for relaxing activities like yoga, meditation, and massage. Getting quality sleep is also essential. Your skin will thank you.
Wear Sunglasses
Protect the delicate eye area from squinting in the sun by always wearing UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors. This helps prevent crow’s feet and wrinkles.
Know When to See a Doctor
If you’ve tried over-the-counter products with no results, see a dermatologist. They can prescribe clinical-grade treatments like laser resurfacing and injectables that may be worth the splurge. Don’t try handling severe wrinkles at home.
Maintain Realistic Expectations
Media images set unrealistic standards. Some wrinkles and age spots are inevitable. Focus on glowing, healthy skin over perfection. Manage expectations, and don’t get sucked into buying too many products chasing flawlessness.
Patience and Consistency Are Key
Like any good habit, an anti-aging skincare routine requires commitment and consistency to see results. Stick with a regimen for at least 12 weeks before judging effectiveness. Skincare is a marathon, not a sprint!
Enjoy the Process
Taking care of your skin should be a relaxing, enjoyable ritual. Have fun trying new samples and sets. Find products with textures and scents you love using daily. Don’t view your routine as a chore.Skincare doesn’t have to cost a fortune to be effective. Take advantage of samples, sets, drugstore finds, and other savvy shopping strategies to save money on your anti-aging regimen. With some diligent label reading and research, you can build a skincare routine that helps you look and feel your best without breaking the bank.
