Are Expensive Skincare Products Worth it?

Between local pharmacies and specialized beauty stores, there are millions of options to choose from for skincare products. Furthermore, products with similar ingredients and goals in treating skin concerns vary significantly in price. More expensive products typically have higher concentrations of ingredients and a more thorough regulation process; however, that does not necessarily equate to greater effectiveness.  

Deciding Whether Expensive Skincare Products Are Worth It 

If you are considering purchasing a more expensive skincare product, it's important to consider some key points. The questions below can help you decide if the more expensive products are worth the splurge and when you should seek out a cheaper or medium-expensive option. 

1. Make sure the product has the active ingredients and the concentration level you are looking for. If you are comparing several products at different price points, look for which ingredients are used in each product and how concentrated each ingredient is. Later in the article, we highlight some effective active ingredients and ingredient combinations to address skin conditions.
2. If you have an inexpensive version of a product, but it isn’t working for your skin, the pricer option might be worth the investment. Check what the active ingredients are in both products and if the concentrations differ.
3. Before purchasing, you should also look at the reviews for the product online. Although everyone’s skin is different, reviews can be an excellent reference for the general consensus of whether the product is overall effective.
4. If you are purchasing a skincare product in person, you can ask sales representatives what they recommend for your skin type, given your price range and products that have or have not worked for you in the past. If you see a dermatologist, you should also ask what types of products they recommend for your skin.
5. If you're still unsure about purchasing the product, think about your motives. Are you buying the product for the hype or because of its branding? Are there other options available that are a happy medium between the cheapest and most expensive product? Do you know the products active will work for your skin based on previous products you have used?