Complete Skincare Routine for Dry Skin | Years in the Making | Simple & Affordable

As someone with dry and sensitive skin, I’ve struggled to find an efficient skincare routine that improves the appearance of my complexion while still delivering all the nourishment it needs. After years of trial and many, many errors, I’ve finally settled on a few products that make my skin happy without making my wallet cry.

Here are all of my favorite choices. And the second-best options when for some tragic reason the first ones are not available.

Cien Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

I think I can consider this one an honorary member of my routine since it is definitely the oldest. It became one of my favorite products when I was a broke and struggling student and I’ve never looked back. It removes the most stubborn makeup with such ease and quickness that it never fails to astonish me. Even more, I not only have sensitive skin around my eyes but I am also a contact lens wearer and it never caused me any irritation. The best part? All of these benefits for a very, VERY low price. 

Price Point: $ 
Why I love it: efficient, gentle, cheap, perfect
Star Ingredient: Bi-phase formula removes makeup efficiently but gently
Alternative: SEPHORA COLLECTION Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

Uriage Huile Démaquillante

The thing I love and hate the most simultaneously in the world is taking my makeup off. Sometimes, the laziness level is real but nothing beats a fresh-face feeling. Therefore, I am a huge fan of double cleansing and I use the Uriage Huile Démaquillante as the first step. It nourishes the skin while it removes face makeup and it has a hypoallergenic composition. Plus, I love its delicate fragrance. 

Price Point: $$
Why I love it: extra gentle and nourishing 
Star Ingredient: Sunflower and Cranberry Oils protect the skin from dryness while improving radiance
Alternative: DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

If CeraVe had a fan club, I would be the president. If I could tell you how many years I’ve spent searching for an everyday cleanser that didn’t leave my skin feeling like the Sahara desert. This one eliminates all of the impurities without any discomfort or tightness. It’s reliable, affordable and simple.  Everything you need in a cleanser. 

Price Point: $
Why I love it: cleanses without overdrying  
Star Ingredient: Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid restore the skin’s natural barrier and lock in the moisture
Alternative: CETAPHIL Gentle Skin Cleanser

COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner

I’ve experienced with this category the same struggle I had with my cleanser selection. Maybe not that serious since I don’t feel like this is an unshakable must-have on a routine. However, I wanted a nice addition to my ritual that focused on improving radiance without overdrying my skin. The COSRX Propolis Synergy Toner is exactly that. It tones, helps to replenish and illuminates without breaking the bank.

Price Point: $$
Why I love it: simple and easy to use 
Star Ingredient: Propolis Extract provides antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and healing benefits
Alternative: Klairs Supple Preparation Toner

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

My love story with this one is more about practicality than exactly a torrid affair. The best thing about The Ordinary is that it is straight to the point and it has really helped to turn efficient skincare available and understandable to everyone. So naturally, their best-seller Hyaluronic Acid Serum had to be on my list and in my life. Its list of benefits includes a plumping effect, replenishing properties and affordable price.

Price Point: $
Why I love it: good ingredients at an affordable price 
Star Ingredient: Hyaluronic Acid is a replenishing agent that holds water
Alternative: La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Serum

Avène Eau Thermale

I love this product so much that I even have a travel-size bottle in my purse at all times. I use it as part of my regular routine before Hyaluronic Acid but also every time I need a refreshing boost of hydration.

Price Point: $
Why I love it: great to soothe irritation and refresh 
Star Ingredient: Thermal Water is able to soothe, reinforce and balance the skin
Alternative: La Roche Posay Eau Thermale

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream for Dry to Very Dry Skin

CeraVe truly is the gift that keeps on giving. In addition to being gentle enough to apply even on sensitive skin, this amazing formula keeps my skin nourished all day and night. I love its rich texture and the comfort it instantly provides with each application. Moreover, it is conveniently suitable for both the face and the body. 

Price Point: $
Why I love it: long-lasting benefits 
Star Ingredient: Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid restore the skin’s natural barrier and lock in the moisture
Alternative: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

This is the only product I will admit does not fit in the affordable category but I just can’t give it up. Although I mostly use it as a lip balm, this composition is perfect to treat dry patches or to apply as a nourishing mask. Once again, I usually purchase the travel size edition and take it everywhere with me. 

Price Point: $$$
Why I love it: instant and long-lasting benefits  
Star Ingredient: Vitamin E ensures antioxidant protection
Alternative: Carmex Lip Balm

Garnier Ambre Solaire Protection Lotion

I’m not the most demanding person when it comes to sunscreens. All I need is efficient protection and for it not to dry my complexion. The Garnier Ambre Solaire Protection Lotion provides just that and it even ensures a non-greasy finish, as well. Since it is suitable for the face and body it usually comes in bigger packaging. I tend to buy the travel size option to comfortably fit it into my beauty pouch.

Price Point: $$
Why I love it: nourishes while it protects   
Star Ingredient: Shea Butter deeply moisturizes the skin
Alternative: Nivea Sun Protection Sensitive