20 Skincare Products Under $20 Bazaar Editors Love

“Pimple patches tend to fall off right after I apply them or feel heavy on my face, but Hero’s Original Mighty Patch has a barely-there feel that stays put–even overnight as I toss and turn. Not to mention, the next morning I wake up and my breakouts are completely flat. I bring these little hydrocolloid dots with me every time I travel, so I’m always prepared for an unexpected breakout.” —Katie Intner, beauty market and commerce editor

“Toner pads are huge right now in the skincare world and are here to stay. When my pores need an extra deep clean-out, I turn to these exfoliating pads from Medicube. Salicylic acid and lactic acid leave my skin feeling fresh and clean, and cypress tree leaves help reduce sebum production over time. They’re a must-have for oily or acne-prone skin.” —KI

“This acne-fighting gel was once only available by prescription, but it’s now over-the-counter. The water-based formula targets inflammation and cell turnover, like retinol, to help keep skin clear. It really does work: in a clinical study, participants saw an 87 percent reduction in acne breakouts after 12 weeks. It’s always the first thing I recommend to someone who is dealing with breakouts.” —JR

“With a tri-ceramide complex blended with shea extract for supple hydration and skin barrier protection, plus help from the skin-smoothing, retinol alternative bakuchiol, you’ll definitely get bang for your buck with this popular moisturizer. I love that it’s also dermatologist-tested and totally fragrance-free.” —TDD

“Snail mucin is admittedly gross, but when you can move past it mentally, you’ll be shocked at how incredible your skin looks. This snail mucin-based cream from CosRX has gone viral over and over again because it works better than anything else out there to achieve smooth, hydrated, and glowing skin. If you want to unlock that glass-skin look, start here.” —JR

“This light yet powerful cleaning balm from e.l.f. Cosmetics gets makeup, dirt, and grime all off in one fell swoop. Since it’s infused with cushioning ceramides, peptides, and hyaluronic acid, my skin feels hydrated and plump even after double cleansing.” —KI

“This popular drugstore eye cream is inexpensive but incredibly powerful. The gentle retinol formula is proven to reduce fine lines by 50 percent in 12 weeks, while 90 percent of users saw a reduction in dark circles in just four weeks. I’m also prone to milia around my eye and I love that this formula keeps those pesky bumps away.” —KI

“I highly recommend this popular sunscreen lotion for the SPF-averse. Since it’s formulated with melanated skin in mind, there’s no risk of experiencing a ghostly cast after it’s applied, plus, the lightweight formula also happens to be nongreasy and fragrance-free.” —TDD

“This is one of those classic skincare products that is popular for a reason: it works. CeraVe’s ceramide-rich formula is a godsend for dry skin on the face and body. I use a thick layer on my face before bed all winter long to help keep my skin barrier healthy and my skin plump.” —JR

“This is a gorgeous gel face wash formula. I love how it removes all traces of makeup without leaving my dry skin feeling stripped or tight. It’s everything I want in a face wash.” —JR

“I love using a few pumps of this oil cleanser on dry skin as the first line of defense to take my makeup off after a long day. Its formula effortlessly breaks down layers of primer, foundation, concealer, blush, mascara, and more, and never leaves my skin feeling tight or uncomfortable.” —TDD

“After senior news editor Rosa Sanchez raved about this nourishing lip mask in the October 2024 edition of our editors’ beauty favorites, I knew I had to give it a try—now it’s one of my holy-grail lip products. It has a thick consistency that magically melts right into my dry lips to provide instant hydration and softness.” —TDD

“Don’t be fooled by the price tag–this lightweight gel serum works just as well as luxury hyaluronic acid serums. The formula instantly sinks into the skin to hydrate and layers beautifully under makeup. After using it, my skin is left looking more bouncy and has a glowy sheen.” —KI

“This is a great soothing moisturizer for irritated, red, or acne-prone skin. The lightweight but deeply moisturizing formula contains centella astiatica (cica), hydrating panthenol, and purifying zinc to help calm angry skin. I use it in the winter when the skin on my cheeks feels chapped from the persistent cold weather.” —JR

“I can’t stop using this affordable K-Beauty sunscreen. The formula, which is dosed with hydrating green tea and soothing cica, feels more like a lightweight cream or serum but with the protective power of thick sunscreen. Plus, it imparts a subtle glow and zero white cast.” —KI

“A few spritzes of Avène’s soothing thermal spring water is always a good idea. Whether I’m looking for a hydration boost, in need of a midday pick-me-up, or dealing with skin irritation, this facial spray is forever one of my go-to’s.” —TDD