I’ve been writing about beauty for a decade, and tragically, I’ve never had an unlimited budget. My approach has always been to spend where I get the most impact, and save where the cheaper version does the job.
But even with a decade under the influence, I’ve found myself wondering: is there really that much of a difference between a Priceline bargain serum and one that costs more than a bottle of champagne? The answer, annoyingly, is it depends.
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James Vivian is a dermal therapist with a clinic in Toorak, and he’s also the brains behind the affordable-but-effective brand Viviology. His CV certainly suggests he’s agnostic when it comes to price, and his attitude backs that up.
When asked if price is an indicator of quality when it comes to active skincare, he says “it can be, but it also can not.”
Pricing can be as much about market positioning as it is about quality ingredients and efficacy. Higher prices give the impression of quality and exclusivity. We feel like we’re buying into something special, as if we’re discerning and in the know. Brands know this and sometimes prioritise it over formulation and ingredients.
“The product may not be worth the bottles it comes in,” James says.
There’s more to the calculation, especially when you’re buying an imported product, as bringing a brand into Australia can cost a bomb. But it’s very much possible, James says, to formulate affordable products that don’t compromise on results.
Dermal clinician and beauty writer Yadira Cauchi would likely agree. When asked why a particular hyaluronic acid serum might cost $515, she points to marketing, brand positioning, and celebrity endorsements.
“Would a $515 hyaluronic acid serum be better than a well-formulated $50 one? Not necessarily,” Yadira says. “Many effective hyaluronic acid serums exist at reasonable prices — but with the higher price points you’re often paying for branding and exclusivity.”
One mystifying phrase to look out for when it comes to hyaluronic acid serums is ‘low molecular weight.’ All this means, Yadira explains, is that the molecules are smaller and can thus get down deeper into your skin. She finds formulations with a mix of molecular weights most effective, as they hydrate throughout the skin’s layers.
I’ve tried that $515 serum, by the way. When I bought an Anine Bing coat secondhand last winter, the kind seller threw in a bottle as it didn’t agree with her skin. I used it for a week and broke out for two. The next person who buys something from me on Facebook Marketplace may well receive the same gift-with-purchase I did.
Which is really the point. If a product works for you, if you’re feeling fresh and hydrated and glowy, it doesn’t matter how much it costs. If you’re in a position to spend the weekly rent for a two-bed in Thornbury on a 30ml bottle of serum, I salute you. But it’s absolutely not necessary. Those of us whose budgets don’t look like that shouldn’t feel we’re missing out.
Especially not when there really are such quality products at more of a ‘nice bottle of wine’ price point. Beauty editor Sadaf Razi says we should spend strategically to get the most out of our skincare.
“Always spend on your targeted serums. Save money on your bookend products like your cleansers and moisturisers but splurge on your serums, because they’re the product that’s working the hardest and giving you the best results,” she says.
“Also, you don’t need 50 serums or the same four The Ordinary serums your best friend is using: buy one or two targeted serums that address your personal skin concerns.”
Firmly agreed, especially on the less-is-more front. Layering too many active products will only irritate and inflame your skin. Those responses from your body are a huge ‘Turn Back’ sign. You’re going the wrong way on the motorway and need to simplify.
Sadaf does have some product recommendations for us though, at both ends of the budget. I’ve also the FJ editors for their bougie and budget favourites too – we’re sticking to hyaluronic acid and vitamin C in the interests of simplicity.
Cost of living classics
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, $16
Neutrogena HydroBoost Hyaluronic Acid, $26
Viviology Vitamin C Serum, $59
Caution to the wind
SkinCeuticals H.A Intensifier Multi Glycan, $169
Sunday Riley C.E.O 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum, $139
Dr Dennis Gross Hyaluronic Marine Hydration Booster, $118
The thing is, taking care of your skin isn’t a scam, but the idea that every product in your routine needs to be from a luxury brand definitely is. Hyaluronic acid is an excellent ingredient, so is vitamin C, and if you find a serum that gets either into your routine without irritating your skin or your bank account, keep it up. Life is expensive. Save some coin where you can.
For more on hydrating skincare, try this.
This article What’s the difference between a $20 serum and a $200 one? appeared first on Fashion Journal.
2025-02-26 11:25:00
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