I’m not purporting to be some kind of beauty “expert,” but here’s what I do know: 1) I am a girl; 2) I like feeling pampered; and 3) I like a beauty bargain. It’s safe to say, I think, that these three facts make me somewhat equipped to share my favorite cheap drugstore finds for dry and itchy winter skin.
Aquaphor Healing Skin Ointment, $6
If you have dry chapped skin anywhere — lips, knees, elbows, hands, or face — this stuff is, hand’s down, the way to heal. When I was in college in Minnesota, I would go into a panic if I realized I’d come to campus without it. This has a thick texture that creates what feels like an impenetrable moisture seal on your skin. It’s not glamorous, but it works.
Burt’s Bee’s Baby Tear Free Shampoo and Wash, $7
So this is technically for babies, but I think it’s also just good for when you feel like you need some babying. The ever-so-light coconut smell makes me think of precious, lightly fuzzy heads and soft skin.
Avalon Organics Facial Cleansing Milk, Lavender, $12
If you have dry, sensitive skin and don’t mind a cleansing milk that doesn’t suds up, this softly-scented cleanser is so gentle. It’s my go-to cleanser come winter.
Kneipp Herbal Bath, $5
This is my favorite cheap drugstore discovery ever. These herbal bath oils are magnificently fragrant so you can count on the aromatherapy to really work. The full-size bottles are almost $20, but the little travel sizes (which are good for several baths) cost about $3 at my pharmacy. If you can’t find them at your local drugstore, try a health food store beauty department.
Eucerin Calming Body Wash Daily Shower Oil, $8
I laughed when I read the reviews on Amazon complaining about the smell of this body wash because I have been obsessed with its neutral, lightly earthy smell since I opened it. The oil turns into a light lather on the skin in the shower, but I also love to use it as moisturizing bubble bath. And I really like that I don’t need to double up with lotion afterwards, cause that’s an area where I tend to splurge.
Burt’s Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream, $6
Six bucks may seem a little pricey for cuticle cream, but this stuff lasts forever. I smear a little into my nail bed and then push back my newly-soft cuticles with an orange stick.
Neutrogena Lip Balm with SPF 15, $2
This lip balm has a smooth, non-greasy texture that I find so comforting. I keep one on my bedside table for a little pre-bedtime moisture.
Everyone’s got a few beauty bargain drugstore tricks up their sleeve — please share yours in the comments!
