1. Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque - If you need a clay mask, look no further. This kaolin and bentonite clay face mask dries up pimples, whisks away blackheads, and shrinks pores. At $3.99 for an 8 oz. bottle, this gem packs a serious bang for your buck. Tip: Dab onto pimples and leave overnight to dry them up even faster! It is a bit drying, like all clay masks tend to be, so follow with a moisturizer and steer clear if you've got dry skin already.
2. Olay Regenerist Regenerating Face Serum - I originally found this cult favorite while perusing the beautypedia on the Paula's Choice website, where it has a 5 star rating (higher than many, if not most, of the more expensive "high quality brand" serums). After seeing this serum mentioned in a few other skincare books (which I read a lot of), I decided to give it a try. I've since become a devoted fan and have used it for years! You can find this for around $22 for a 1.7 oz. bottle at your local drugstore. I like to get it through Boxed.com because it's cheaper and I can get a supersized bottle. (Boxed is an awesome online store where you can buy in bulk without the membership fee - and it's delivered right to your door! I love it!)
3. Biore Pore Strips - From someone who has struggled with blackheads her entire life, believe me when I say there's no better product out there for removing those nasty suckers. The proof is on the strip! If that doesn't convince you, my dermatologist personally recommended them to me, and he knows his skincare! At $6.99 for 8 of them, you really can't go wrong.
4. RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream - The entire RoC product line is fabulous, but this night cream is my personal favorite. I use this every night after my serum and before my moisturizer. Retinol is one of the best wrinkle fighters there is, and the prices vary widely. This one is strong enough to make a difference without breaking the bank. You can find it for around $22 for a 1 oz. tube.
Don't be a beauty product snob. I've been there, done that, and I'm here to tell you that more expensive doesn't always mean higher quality!
Do you have any other products to add to the list? Do tell! I'm always on the lookout for a gem that's hiding in the sea of mediocre products on those drugstore shelves.
