While skincare at the drugstore can appear more limited than big box stores, there are some serious skin-saving gems in that aisle. From cleansers and eye masks to moisturizers, these are the best drugstore skincare picks. (And check out our picks for the best drugstore makeup and the best drugstore sunscreens.)
Hydrating Cleanser, $16, shoppersdrugmart.ca
“In the past year, my mild rosacea went bananas. While I waited for a dermatologist appointment, I bought this soothing cleanser based on rave reviews, and I’ve been super happy with the results.” —Maureen Halushak, editor-in-chief, Chatelaine
Toleriane Ultra Fluide, $34, laroche-posay.ca
“Recently, my skin freaked out due to poor beauty decisions (like overdoing it on retinol). This minimalist moisturizer, meant for ultra-sensitive skin, calmed everything down in less than a week.” —Wing Sze Tang, writer and editor
Smoothing and Relaxing Eye Patches, $16, jeancoutu.com
“I keep these eye patches in every purse I own, and I often wear them while I’m driving to work. They make you look like you’ve slept 12 hours and drunk tons of water.” —Olivia Colacci, founder of Twentyseven Hair + Makeup Studio
ProVitamina Moisture Rich Nourishing Cream, $17, londongdrugs.com
“This cream was recommended to me years ago by an older family member. I use it daily and also keep it in my kit.” —Alicia Melanson, master stylist and makeup artist
Rose Glow Mist, $20, shoppersdrugmart.ca
“This daily hydrating mist gives skin a refreshing boost of antioxidants; it also won’t smudge makeup.” —Cia Mandarello, hair and makeup artist
Ultra Gentle Makeup Removing Cleansing Cloths, $13, walmart.ca
“These wipes remove makeup with a couple of swipes and even work on hard-to-remove lipsticks. They’re also non-irritating.” —Tracy Peart, exclusive makeup artist, Citytv’s Cityline and Toronto’s Breakfast Television
Regenerist Whip Face Moisturizer SPF 25, $41, shoppersdrugmart.ca
“This workhorse isn’t overly rich or greasy. I’ve gone through several jars.” —Mishal Cazmi, beauty writer and founder, onehundredml.com
Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser, $14, shoppersdrugmart.ca
“It removes all of my makeup—even mascara!—and leaves my skin cleansed but not dry. I break out easily with some products, but not this one.” —Sophie Hsin, makeup and hair artist
Green Tea Blackhead Clearing Scrub, $5, walmart.ca
“This green tea scrub is just as effective as much more expensive products.” —Cara Smusiak, editor
Mineralizing Thermal Water, $15, vichy.ca
“I keep this at my desk. Not only is it a hydrating panacea for recirculated office air, but it also refreshes my makeup and perks me up.” —Charlotte Herrold, editor-in-chief, Flare
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