Many of us have been experiencing skin care issues during the pandemic. From maskne to mass breakouts, the COVID-19 stress is real and many of us are seeing it on our faces. Unfortunately, skin care routines can sometimes seem out of our price range, leaving us wondering how we can look and feel better about ourselves without breaking our budget.
To help you find a skin care routine that works for you (and your bank account), here are a few tips you can use to take better care of your skin right now.
Determine the crux of your skin issues
The first thing you need to do before you begin a skin care routine is determine if the issues you’re looking to improve can actually be treated with over-the-counter products. The reason for this is that you could end up wasting a lot of money trying to repair a skin issue that can only be fixed with professional care or medication. To help save money in the long run, consider looking for a dermatologist if you’re dealing with something worse than acne or oily skin.
Make an appointment with a physician’s assistant
If you’re worried about not being able to afford a dermatology appointment, you’re not alone. About 30% of the average healthcare bill comes from the patient’s pocket. Fortunately, many nurse practitioners and physicians’ assistants work in dermatology offices and have plenty of experience with treating skin issues. Physicians assistants are considered cost-effective alternatives to dermatologists. They may also be easier to find when it comes to availability because 50% of physicians leave their employment due to contract issues.
Start with the basics
When it comes to taking care of your skin, sometimes less is more, which is awesome when you’re trying to take better care of your skin on a budget. The basics of a skin care routine include a cleanser, a toner, and a moisturizer. You can typically find budget-friendly varieties that work for all skin types. Introduce new products to your skin care routine gradually to give your skin time to adjust. Even aestheticians agree that you should only get a professional facial just once a month to avoid irritating your skin.
Finding a skin care routine that works best for you can be a process of trial and error. But don’t be afraid to dabble, and don’t assume skin care products that are expensive are necessarily better for you.
