I Stopped Buying Expensive Skincare When I Found These $20 Serums

In my three years as a beauty editor, I've been lucky enough to try countless products, from $5 mascaras to $500 serums. And here's the biggest thing I've learned: a higher price doesn't make a product more effective. You don't have to spend triple digits on your skincare to get results, and no brand exemplifies this better than Cetaphil. I keep coming back to it because it really works, whether my skin needs soothing hydration, gentle exfoliation, or a radiance boost.

My skin has been craving extra hydration this winter, and I have Cetaphil's new AM and PM serums to thank for my glowing complexion in these freezing temps. The Advanced Defense Serum, in particular, has been the highlight of my morning routine. The blend of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide gives me an ultra-hydrated, glass-like complexion that results in a much-needed confidence boost. And if you, like me, are the type to geek out on skincare labels, you're going to love the star ingredient: Gallic‑AOX. This antioxidant complex is a powerful combination of gallic acid and vitamin E, helping protect against free radicals and oxidative stress.

Because this complex is so beneficial for the skin, the PM Repair & Renew Serum also includes it, along with centella asiatica, vitamin B5, and bifida ferment to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier and help repair the skin overnight. Oh, and did I mention these serums clock in at $20 each? If you're eager to incorporate them into your routine, shop these and my other top picks below—and get ready to bid your pricey skincare adieu.

Step 1: Cleanse

Every good skincare regimen begins with a cleanser. I recommend starting with the luxurious Oil-to-Foam Cleanser to melt away makeup and SPF, and following with a second cleanser of your choice. The SA Cleanser is the perfect match for acne-prone skin, Daily Cleanser is ideal for normal-to-oily skin, and the Gentle Skin Cleanser works well for sensitive-skin girlies like me.

Step 2: Target

These two serums will be the most transformative steps in your routine. You can rely on them for hydration, barrier repair, and antioxidant protection, day and night.

Step 3: Moisturize

Lock in all the hydration, vitamins, and antioxidants with one of Cetaphil's top-tier moisturizers (I'm partial to the Daily Facial Moisturizer). It's also worth noting that my favorite body lotion of all time is the Moisturizing Lotion. I don't know what the secret is, but it makes my skin feel softer than anything else.

Step 4: Protect

Even in the winter months, sun protection is a nonnegotiable. From moisturizer-sunscreen hybrids to a luminous liquid SPF to tinted sunscreen, you can't go wrong with any of these gems.