Skincare Alternatives | High End vs Drugstore

I'm big into skin. And as much as I periodically think I've found the holy grail of skincare routines, there is always something new and more shiny on the horizon to grace my collection. Here is a round up of truly sumptuous skincare goodies, and some cheaper alternatives that won't break the bank.

Chanel Hydra Beauty Serum £59

This gold-standard of serums is one of my favourites, leaving you with the most beautifully prepped, plump, hydrated skin. If you've got the money to burn, it won't let you down.

Laneige Water Bank Essence ~£20

You can take a look at my full review of this Korean serum for more details but it exhibits the similar hydrating and antioxidising properties as it's far more pricey bedfellow. It's available via Sasa but you can check out other reputable sources of Asian skincare for the UK market here.

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm £29

A cult beauty product that brightens, freshens, illuminates and preps. Check out what Lisa Eldridge thinks of it.

Natio Skin Brightening Face Balm £6

A fantastic dupe by the Aussie brand Natio, this antioxidant-filled primer boosts vitality and evens out skintone, giving you a brighter, tighter look.

Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow £38.50

This little bottle of magic is at the forefront of readily available complexion enhancement. It diffuses light, boosts radiance, and transforms dull, drab, tired skin. If you want glowing, beautiful skin fast, this is your one.

Bourjois Happy Light Illuminating Primer £8.99

For the glow-getter on a budget, Bourjois have come up with a great alternative. It's a slightly pinkier tone than Ms Tilbury's offering but still provides radiance in a light formula for a fraction of the price. (Boots are currently doing an offer!)

Zelens Resurfacing Facial Pads £65

I'm a big fan of gentle chemical exfoliants. With these easy-to-use pads, look forward to pores being minimised, your skin's texture, tone and discolouration all being completely reworked. Pricey but worth it.

Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Pads £12.95

To give your skin a similar acidic boost and pick-me-up pep-talk, try Nip+Fab's more economical alternative.

Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil £31

Oils are the best way to remove makeup and cleanse your skin and this one is a fab choice.

Jojoba Oil £10

Jojoba is close to our skin's natural sebum and works as a brilliant emollient to remove every last trace of makeup. This is the one that I use for my skin and lately for my hair. It's cheap as chips and a must-have in any beauty product collection.

What are your skincare favourites? And have you found cheaper alternatives for them?