Updated March 18, 2018
Skincare is a subject I am very passionate about. Without the right products, your makeup can only cover so much. You know what else I’m passionate about? Drugstore finds. You guys probably already know this about me. I am the go-to encyclopedia of amazing budget-friendly finds for my friends and blog readers.
I am insistent on using skincare items that have ingredients that are proven to make a difference. It can be absolutely overwhelming when trying to pick out drugstore skincare items, and I’ve certainly tried my fair share of products, too. Not to fear – I’ve rounded up seven of my favorite skincare items that you can snag on your next drugstore trip!
I’ve recently been checking out my local CVS for beauty finds, and I am really impressed with the brands that they are starting to carry, the selection, and the innovation of the store. Dozens of NEW innovative, on-trend products are hitting shelves every month! I know I can go there first to look for new product launches and will be able to find them. I have to say my favorite thing about CVS is that they have risk-free shopping and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you do not like any product for whatever reason, you can return it (with a receipt) opened or unopened for a full-priced refund! I love that!
Anyway, let’s get on to my favorite drugstore skincare gems!
Drugstore Skincare Gems
1. Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water
Micellar waters have been very popular recently, and rightfully so. It’s great for removing makeup, to freshen the face, or to use after cleansing to make sure all of your makeup has been removed. This particular one from Garnier is my favorite. It removes makeup like a breeze, and it is so gentle! I’ve found that some micellar waters can sting my eyes, and this one doesn’t whatsoever. This product is great for those with sensitive skin.
2. ELF Makeup Remover Cleansing Cloths
These are my favorite makeup removing wipes I’ve found, and they are so inexpensive! I do not use wipes to remove my makeup every day, but I travel with makeup wipes, and like to have them on hand if I need to clean up a makeup look. These are extremely gentle, remove literally everything, and are great for sensitive skin. If you haven’t tried these out, you need to pick them up!
3. PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash
Okay, it’s seriously not fair that I’m in my thirties and still struggling with breakouts here and there (especially with hormonal changes). If you are an acne sufferer, benzoyl peroxide is a product you should be using. My dermatologist recommended I pick up this cleanser to keep my skin clear. I love this product because it has a high concentration of benzoyl peroxide (10%), it isn’t abrasive, it doesn’t dry my skin out, and it definitely helps keep my skin clear!
4. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer
This is a new favorite find I just love! If you’ve followed me for a while, you know that hyaluronic acid is a must-have for me when it comes to skincare. It is a highly moisturizing ingredient that is in many products, but sometimes I find that the concentration is not enough. I discovered this moisturizer from Neutrogena that is gel-based and a high potency of hyaluronic acid. They have a regular and extra dry skin formulations. I picked up the regular one and have been loving it! This is also a fantastic product for people with sensitive skin, or those who are acne prone, because it’s not full of oils or ingredients that can clog pores.
5. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
It is absolutely imperative for me to use a retinol-based product. If you don’t, you should be, too! Retinols exfoliate the skin, promote cell turnover, and keep it looking youthful. I do have a prescription for Retin-A, but on the nights I don’t use it, I have been using this product. I have seen a huge improvement in my skin since adding this into the rotation. Safe to say, the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream is my favorite drugstore retinol product I’ve found!
6. Biore Deep Cleansing Charcoal Pore Strips
Pore strips should be a staple in everyone’s beauty cabinet! They’re really the only product of its kind that can dig out gunk from your pores. I especially like the charcoal version of the pore strip, because charcoal naturally draws impurities out. It’s important not to use these too often – I pull one out every couple of weeks.
7. Beauty 360 Konjac Sponge
This is such a fun, innovative product that you can find at CVS! The Beauty 360 Konjac Sponge is a sponge made from biodegradable konjac vegetable fiber and is infused with bamboo charcoal. If you’re into natural drugstore skincare products and tools, this would be a great addition to your collection. I love using it with my facial cleanser. When it’s dry, it almost feels like a rock, but when you get it wet, it softens right up and feels a little squishy. While using it to cleanse, it gently exfoliates the skin.
What are your favorite drugstore skincare products? Are you itching to try anything on this list? Make sure you pick these up on your next CVS run! Be sure to check out the entire Skincare section before you go.
ceglutenfreefoodie says
LOL…I am so addicted to those Biore Strips!
Meg O. says
Hahaha they are the best, right?
GoFashiondeals (@Gofashiondeals) says
Need to try that pore strip!
Meg O. says
Oh it’s so awesome!!
Jessica Ashcroft says
Thank you for these! I have TERRIBLE skin so I want to try that cleanser, the micellar water, and that sponge!
Meg O. says
I think you would love those products if you are breakout prone!!
redlocksandshamrocks says
I am a drugstore junkie! Thanks for sharing, Great Post!
XOXO
Your Redlocks and Shamrocks Girl,
Lisa Doyle
http://www.redlocksandshamrocks.com
Meg O. says
Thank you for your sweet comment! You’ll love all this stuff!!!!
thelittlestfunk says
I want that sponge! I always forget that CVS carries great products and is right down the street from me.
Meg O. says
The sponge is so cool! Go pick it up!!!
Annette Dattilo says
Awesome consolidated list of products. Skin care has been on the brain a bit more these days for me since I recently turned the big 40! 😉 My skin is a changing! :/ Thanks for sharing.
Meg O. says
Thank you for your sweet comment! Yeah I feel like everything changes every couple of years!
Ellie Chan says
That Garnier micelliar water is fantastic stuff! I actually am just about to reach the end of my bottle… must go get some more lol!
Ellie
http://Www.scotchandstilettos.com
Meg O. says
Hahahaha!! Such good stuff!!! I always need it on hand!!
coppeliamarie says
That Neutrogena is calling my name! And the Garnier Micellar water, too!
Kerry says
I really want to try both of those neutrogena lotions. I’ve been using the same $5 moisturizer since high school (in the 90’s!). My skin is ready for something better! Thanks for the tips.
Amber Starr says
Thanks for sharing your finds! I’m kind of a skincare addict and I LOVE finding great products at a good price. I’m definitely checking out the ELF wipes because I’m on the search for a good makeup remover.
The Ashmores Blog says
You are literally the QUEEN of skincare and makeup. CVS did a fabulous job by partnering with you my friend!! I haven’t used those strips since HS!! I need to try them again!
Lauren says
Totally heading to the store!!! I’m dying to try that special water!!!;
Summer says
I’m going to pick up every single item on this list!! I need a total skincare overhaul! I do have a question though! When you don’t use the face wipes to remove makeup, what’s your other alternative? You’re just so good at this I have to know!
Meg O. says
Many times I’ll use a natural oil (like coconut or olive oil) or the micellar water! That’s my favorite way to remove makeup!