Drugstore vs. Professional Skincare: Is More Expensive Always Worth It?

Walk down any drugstore skincare aisle, and you’ll see a dizzying array of cleansers, serums, and moisturizers—all promising radiant, youthful skin. On the other hand, visit an esthetician’s studio or dermatologist’s office, and you’ll find professional-grade products at a (sometimes) higher price point. It begs the question: Is the splurge worth it, or can drugstore brands hold their own?

At About Face Skin Co, I believe great skin doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You don’t need a 12-step routine or a shelf full of expensive products. Good products, used consistently, along with a simple twice-daily cleansing + moisturizing habit, can deliver glowing, radiant skin. It’s not about how much you spend—it's about how committed you are to taking care of your skin every day.

Let's dive in!

What’s the Difference Between Drugstore and Professional Skincare?

Before we get into what’s worth the price and what’s not, it’s important to understand why there’s a difference in price in the first place.

1. Ingredient Quality and Potency

Professional skincare brands, like Dermalogica and Face Reality, use higher-quality, clinically-proven ingredients at concentrations designed to make a real difference in the skin. Drugstore brands, on the other hand, are produced in great quantities and formulated for a broad audience, meaning a range of concentrations of active ingredients (sometimes diluted with fillers) to minimize the risk of irritation.

• Example: Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant contains salicylic acid and papain enzymes that gently but effectively exfoliate skin without irritation. Compare this to a drugstore scrub that might rely on harsh physical exfoliants (like crushed walnut shells) that can cause micro-tears in the skin.

  Caution, it's important to remember that more isn't always better when it comes to concentration of actives. Too much can cause long-term damage.

2. Formulation & Delivery Systems

Professional products invest in advanced delivery systems that help active ingredients penetrate the skin effectively. Drugstore formulations often lack the sophisticated encapsulation technologies that ensure deeper absorption, meaning they might sit on top of the skin rather than penetrating more deeply, which will deliver more impact, and results.

• Example: Face Reality’s Mandelic Serum (used in acne treatments) features stabilized mandelic acid, which penetrates slowly for maximum efficacy without irritation. A drugstore alternative might list mandelic acid on the label, but it’s often in a less stable or lower concentration, making it less effective for acne treatment.

3. Customization & Targeted Solutions

Dermatologist-recommended and esthetician brands focus on targeted solutions for specific skin conditions, like acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, and aging. Drugstore brands tend to cater to the masses, meaning their products are one-size-fits-most, which may not be ideal for those with unique skin concerns.

• Example: If you’re struggling with hormonal acne, Face Reality’s acne regimen is designed to work with your skin’s unique needs. A drugstore acne treatment might contain the same benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, but in a formula with extra fillers that could clog pores or dry out the skin.

4. Price vs. Cost per Use

While professional products may cost more upfront, they often last longer due to their concentrated formulas. Drugstore brands might be cheaper, but because they require more product per use (or don’t deliver results, leading you to keep trying new ones), you may end up spending more in the long run.

• Example: Dermalogica’s Skin Smoothing Cream moisturizer is lightweight but deeply hydrating, meaning a small pearl-sized amount is all you need for one application. A drugstore moisturizer with similar claims might require more product or multiple layers to achieve the same hydration. 

Remember: Even the best serums and moisturizers won’t work if they are sitting on top of makeup or grime! That’s why a gentle, consistent morning and night cleansing routine is one of the most important steps you can take—regardless of what products you use.

When Are Drugstore Brands Okay?

Despite these differences, some drugstore finds can hold their own, especially for basic skincare needs.

Drugstore Products That Work Well:

✔ Gentle Cleansers – If you don’t wear heavy makeup or sunscreen, a basic drugstore cleanser can suffice. Look for sulfate-free options like CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser.

✔ Hydrating Toners – Products like CeraVe Hydrating Toner can help balance the skin's pH and provide an extra layer of hydration.

✔ Sunscreen – Many drugstore sunscreens, like La Roche-Posay Anthelios or Eucerin Advanced Hydration SPF 50, provide solid protection without breaking the bank.

✔ Lip Balms & Basic Moisturizers – Drugstore brands like Aquaphor or CeraVe Moisturizing Cream can help keep skin hydrated, especially if you don’t need additional anti-aging benefits.

 Pro Tip: Consistency beats perfection. A simple cleanse + moisturize 2x/day routine you stick with every day is more powerful than an expensive serum you use once a week.

When to Upgrade to Professional Skincare

While drugstore brands can work for simple hydration and cleansing, there are times when investing in professional skincare is 100% worth it—especially if you’re targeting a specific skin concern.

·      For Acne-Prone Skin – If over-the-counter acne treatments aren’t cutting it, professional brands like Face Reality offer customized, non-clogging formulations that work for different acne types.

·      For Hyperpigmentation & Dark Spots – Drugstore brightening products often lack the potency to treat dark spots effectively. Professional serums, like Dermalogica’s PowerBright Dark Spot Serum, contain stabilized Vitamin C, peptides, and niacinamide for real results.

·      For Anti-Aging & Fine Lines – Retinol and peptides in drugstore products may be too weak to provide dramatic improvements. Clinical-grade options, like Dermalogica’s Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum, contain time-released retinol for better penetration without irritation.

·      For Sensitive or Compromised Skin – If you have rosacea or a compromised skin barrier, you’ll want to avoid irritants found in many drugstore formulations. Professional brands invest in skin-repairing ingredients that actually strengthen the barrier over time.

·      For Exfoliation & Chemical Peels – Drugstore exfoliants might provide mild surface exfoliation, but if you’re looking for deep renewal, professional-grade exfoliants like Dermalogica’s Rapid Reveal Peel or Liquid Peelfoliant deliver clinically proven results with safety in mind.

The Heart of It: Glowing Skin Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

You don’t need the most expensive skincare in the world to achieve beautiful results—you need:

• A solid twice-daily cleansing routine (morning and night!)

• A simple, effective regimen of products that work for your skin type + SPF

• Consistency over time 

At About Face Skin Co, I’m passionate about helping you create a skincare routine that fits your life and your budget. I am always happy to provide recommendations if ask, and samples whenever possible. I believe that with the right skincare habits, radiant, healthy skin is within reach for everyone.

If you’re unsure where to start, or if you’re overwhelmed by choices, book a consultation. We’ll find a simple, effective routine that makes you feel confident, and makes your skin glow.

Reminder: Dermalogica Skincare Products are 20% off for all About Face Skin Co clients.