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This article was written by a student writer from the Rollins Campus Chapter.
I used to believe that to achieve “perfect” skin and healthy hair, I needed to splurge on the most expensive products. Like many people, I started buying more expensive brands like Tatcha, La Mer, and Drunk Elephant for my skin care, and Briogeo and Moroccanoil for my hair care. But after spending far more than I would like to admit, it turns out that the products these brands sell are just as effective as I had hoped. That’s when I realized that expensive things don’t always mean good things.
As prices rise in the beauty industry, it’s becoming clear that much of what influencers are raving about is way too expensive and not necessarily worth the investment. I decided to do my own research on more affordable (and actually effective) brands. And I found a great product that made both me and my wallet very happy.
For college students, we’re sharing a list of affordable and effective skin and hair care products that will save you money in your daily life.
1. Ordinary things
I absolutely swear by The Ordinary! Most products cost between $10 and $20 and can be found at Sephora. If you’re planning on trying those products, I highly recommend the Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner which is only $13. If you want to try it first, the mini size is $8. As soon as it became popular on TikTok, I decided to give it a try considering the price. Since then, I’ve made a huge change in my skincare routine. I use it 3-4 times a week at night and it has helped even out my skin tone by reducing dark spots and marks from acne scars. It can also be used on scalps that are concerned about dryness. On wash days, apply it to your scalp before shampooing and leave it on for about 10 minutes. As a girl with curly hair, I find this works great as a pick-me-up between styles.
2. Serave
CeraVe is one of my go-to brands for sensitive skin and you get a lot of product for the price. My favorite product is a face and body moisturizer for normal to dry skin. This contains hyaluronic acid for extra hydration. Sold for $15 from Walgreens, this cream comes 2 in 1 and can be used on the face as well as the body. It’s super moisturizing, leaves your skin feeling soft and has a subtle glow. I have combination skin, but it still works wonders. Plus, a small amount goes a long way.
Another must-have is a fragrance-free facial cleanser and a foaming facial cleanser with hyaluronic acid. You can buy it at Walgreens for $19 and it’s super gentle on your skin. Although it is made for people with normal or oily skin types, I would also recommend this cleanser to people with combination skin like me. It’s worth buying because it lasts a long time!
3. La Roche Posay
You would think that La Roche Posay would not be the most budget-friendly hotel, and I would agree. But please listen! Their cleansers are more affordable. I’m obsessed with Tolerane Purifying Facial Cleanser with Niacinamide, available from Target for $18.
This is one of the few products from La Roche Posay that I have repurchased. Not only are many products available at affordable prices, they are also super gentle on the skin, perfect for double cleansing, and leave your skin hydrated and soothed. I’ve been using it day and night for the past two years and I can honestly say it’s my favorite cleanser. Like CeraVe’s Foaming Face Wash, it’s marketed for normal to oily skin, but it also works well for my combination skin.
4. Elf
power grip primer. Say no more – run to the store now! For only $10 at Ulta, this is hands down the best primer I’ve ever used. I’ve tried high-end brands like MAC and Fenty Beauty, but nothing beats Elf’s Power Grip Primer.
It’s infused with hyaluronic acid to moisturize your skin before applying makeup, and it’s fragrance-free, making it perfect for sensitive skin. It creates a fresh finish, and as the name suggests, the makeup lasts all day thanks to its “grip”.
However, those who prefer a more matte finish may want to try the Liquid Poreless Putty Primer (also $10). Both options are great for prepping your skin before applying makeup and are very affordable.
5. Australian
I first discovered Aussie two years ago when I was living in Canada and have been using it ever since. It was sold in Canada at Shoppers Drug Mart, but you can also find it elsewhere at Target. Their products are the only products I use in my curly hair routine (apart from shampoo and conditioner) and this brand works well with wavy hair, curly hair, coiled hair, and straight hair. Made for all hair types. Plus, all products are cruelty-free and have a light citrus scent to keep your hair smelling fresh.
Here is a list of products I currently use to style my hair:
A leave-in conditioner is a must for any hair type, and this one from Aussie is my favorite. Formulated with jojoba oil to strengthen, moisturize, and promote hair growth. It is very easy to apply using a spray nozzle and easy to detangle. Not to mention, your hair will be incredibly soft.
This is my secret to keeping my curls frizzy for days. Formulated with coconut and jojoba oil to smooth and strengthen, reducing cuts and spills. If you have wavy, curly, or coily hair and are struggling with frizz, this product is a savior.
This spray gel is perfect for holding curls in place after using a frizz-taming curl cream. Keeps curls intact for up to 3 days. Just spray and you’re ready to go.
When I recently moved to Florida, I added this product to my hair routine for extra protection from moisture. When I returned to the Bahamas, I had never used a heat-resistant spray and my hair felt brittle after a day outdoors. This thermal protection spray contains apricot and Australian macadamia oils to protect against heat damage and provide intense hydration. I highly recommend this spray if you need something to protect your hair in the sun or from hot tools.
6. Carol’s Daughter
Finding a good quality, affordable hair mask can be difficult, especially since many hair care items can be expensive. However, if you’re looking for affordable hydration, we recommend Carol’s Daughter Mirabelle Plum Fullness and Hydration Weightless Hair Mask, available at Walmart for $26.
If your hair needs moisture, this mask is perfect for you. It’s lightweight, so it’s perfect for days when you don’t want to leave your mask on for 30 minutes. Just 5 minutes of use in the shower will leave your hair moisturized and voluminous.
