Finding skincare products that are effective and affordable can get difficult, especially if you’re a student who has to work within a tight pocket-money budget. And let’s face it, the GST has only added to our woes. Worry not, we’ve got you covered. We found some surprisingly affordable skin care products that have been proven successful, and the best part – they’re all under Rs. 500! Most of the products are available over the counter, or if you’d rather purchase these from the comfort of your home, you will find these products on websites like Nykaa and Amazon – you can even take advantage of their regular sales.
Our tip – do a patch test to check your skin’s responsiveness to the products. In case of a bad reaction, discontinue usage immediately.
CETAPHIL
Cetaphil is easily one of the most affordable skin care range that is available in the market, and is almost everyone’s drugstore favourite. Their formulas are mild and they have a number of products suited to your skin needs. The Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is suited to all skin types, and soothes the skin whilst keeping it clean. They also have a Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser that is specific to acne-oily prone skin, and a Moisturising Lotion best suited for sensitive to dry skin.
Cost – Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser – Rs. 215 (125 ml), Rs. 390 (250 ml), Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser – Rs. 425 (125 ml), Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion – Rs. 314 (100 ml)
NEUTROGENA DEEP CLEAN BLACKHEAD ELIMINATING DAILY SCRUB
We all know that blackheads are the cause of a majority of our skin problem, which Neutrogena’s Blackhead eliminating Scrub can help with. It helps remove dead skin and controls excessive oil. It unclogs pores, and removes dirt and oil from within. The scrub is a dermatologically tested one and is suited to all skin types.
Cost – Rs. 149 (40 gm); Rs. 299 (100 gm)
HIMALAYA HERBALS PROTECTIVE SUNSCREEN LOTION
Even the most flawless of skins need sun protection. Sun screen prevents tanning, premature aging and sun damage to the skin. The Himalaya works wonders with sensitive to dry skin. It is infuse with natural extracts such as Cinnabloc, and gives the skin a fresh, natural glow. Avoid applying around the eye area.
Cost – Rs. 200 (100 ml)
BIOTIQUE BIO CHLOROPHYLL OIL- FREE ANTI-ACNE GEL & POST HAIR REMOVAL SOOTHER
The anti-bacterial moisturizer works well with sensitive skin and tightens pores, averts blemishes, reduces dark spots and keeps skin nourished and clear without flaking. All products in the Biotique range are 100% organic, with Ayurvedic recipes taken from ancient Veda texts. It can be applied at any time of the day.
Cost – Rs. 199 (50 gm)
KARA SKIN WIPES
Skin wipes are an absolute must-have in your bag, especially if your city is highly polluted. It’s useful to wipe off excess oil, and dirt that latches on to your skin during the day. Kara has a number of wipes you can choose from, and the best part is that all of them are alcohol-free. The unique packaging locks in the wipes’ moisture till your pack lasts. The Kara Cleaning and Hydrating Aloe Vera and Mint wipes are best for everyday use, and will give you instant freshness on the go.
Cost – Rs. 50 (10 wipes), Rs. 85 (20 wipes), Rs. 100 (30 wipes)
VLCC ALMOND UNDER EYE CREAM
Lack of sleep is not only a bane to your health, but it shows up on your eyes as well. Whatever the reason for your dark circles and puffiness, the VLCC almond under-eye cream is the cure to all your eye-related woes. You have to regularly massage the cream onto your eyes, which is also soothing and de-stressing, and will also improve blood circulation in the affected areas.
Cost – Rs. 225 (15gm)
THE FACE SHOP, SHEET MASKS
Sheet masks are the ultimate relaxation therapy for your skin, and will leave your skin soft, hydrated and supple in a matter of minutes. The Face Shop has a wide range of sheet masks that are paraben free and has been high acclaimed by celebrities and beauty bloggers alike. You can even use this before a function for a more flawless look.
Cost – Rs. 100-150 (per mask)
