/ 10 February 2026

9 Affordable Skincare Products That Actually Work

Great skin doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. From cult serums and hardworking SPFs to comforting creams and gentle cleansers, these affordable skincare heroes prove that effective formulas can still be kind on your wallet. Whether you’re looking to refine texture, boost glow or simplify your routine, each of these editor-approved picks delivers results without compromising on quality – or your budget.

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All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.

Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

AED 55 | The Ordinary

A multitasking texture hero with cult status for good reason. This lightweight cream-gel glides on smoothly and gets to work calming redness, softening texture and evening tone – without irritation or heaviness. Powered by a 10% dose of azelaic acid, it helps reduce the look of blemishes and discolouration while gently brightening, making it ideal for anyone chasing clearer, more balanced skin on a budget.

Available at SEPHORA.ME

Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream

AED 58 (was AED 104.38) | Weleda

A truly comforting classic for dry, flaky or stressed skin. Rich but beautifully absorbent, this nourishing cream floods skin with moisture thanks to a blend of plant oils and calming botanicals like sunflower seed oil and chamomile. The result? Soft, supple skin with lasting comfort – no greasiness, just glow. It’s perfect for hands, elbows, cuticles or anywhere craving extra care

Available at AMAZON.AE

Transexamic Acid + Glutathione Eye Cream

AED 17 | Mary & May

A lightweight eye cream that quietly works overtime. Tranexamic acid targets pigmentation and uneven tone, while glutathione boosts brightness and antioxidant protection – helping to minimise dark circles and dullness over time. Silky, hydrating and easy to layer under concealer, it delivers a subtle radiance boost without overwhelming delicate under-eye skin.

Available at KBEAUTYARABIA.COM

Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm

AED 60 | e.l.f. Cosmetics

A solid-to-oil cleanser that feels far more luxurious than its price tag. It melts away make-up, SPF and daily grime in seconds, then rinses clean without stripping skin. Hyaluronic acid keeps moisture levels topped up, while ceramides support the barrier – leaving skin clean, soft and comfortable after every cleanse.

Available at SEPHORA.ME

Hydro-Surge Dewy Face Mist

AED 55 | The INKEY List

An instant refresh in bottle form. This ultra-fine mist uses hydrating humectants and soothing extracts to pull moisture into the skin, reviving dullness and restoring bounce in seconds. Perfect for desks, flights, gym bags or mid-make-up touch-ups, it leaves a fresh, dewy finish without heaviness.

Available at SEPHORA.ME

Glow Serum : Propolis + Niacinamide

AED 66 (was AED 88) | Beauty of Joseon

A cult K-beauty glow-getter that delivers calm, clear radiance. Propolis soothes and strengthens the skin barrier, while niacinamide refines pores, balances oil and boosts brightness. Lightweight yet nourishing, it absorbs quickly and quietly improves overall skin quality with consistent use.

Available at WATSONS.AE

UV Aqua Rich, Weightless Moisturiser SPF 50

AED 71.42 | Bioré

The sunscreen that converts SPF skeptics. This water-essence formula sinks in instantly, leaves zero white cast and layers beautifully under make-up. With broad-spectrum SPF50+ protection and added hydration, it shields against UVA/UVB damage while keeping skin fresh, comfortable and subtly dewy.

Available at IHERB.COM

Cicaplast Hand Protective Regenerating Cream Barrier

AED 45.04 (was AED 61.99) | La Roche-Posay

A hardworking hand cream that means business. Fast-absorbing and non-greasy, it uses barrier-repairing, soothing ingredients to lock in moisture and protect against daily aggressors. Ideal for frequent hand washers, it leaves hands softer, smoother and far less prone to cracking.

Available at MAKEUP.AE

The Vita-A Retinol Shot

AED 52 | Celimax

This is a hardworking and affordable gateway to retinol. This lightweight shot delivers a clinical dose of vitamin A to help boost cell turnover, smooth texture, refine tone and soften fine lines – without the intimidating price tag. A great option for beginners or anyone wanting visible results on a budget (just don’t forget SPF).

Available at GOLDAPPLE.AE

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9 Affordable Skincare Products That Actually Work