We asked skin experts where to splurge and save in your skincare routine

Navigating the world of skincare can feel overwhelming at the best of times. With new launches dropping daily and endless opinions filling our feeds, it’s hard to know which products are actually worth investing in – and which ones are just marketing hype in fancy packaging. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to spend hundreds of pounds on products that don’t do very much at all.

So, to cut through the noise, we turned to the people who really know: consultant dermatologist and founder of Self London, Dr Anjali Mahto, and celebrity facialist Keren Bartov. We asked them the question on everyone’s mind – where should we actually be spending and saving when it comes to skincare?

According to Dr Mahto, the products that stay on your skin the longest are the ones worth your money. “Splurge on leave-on products that actively change the skin, such as serums with evidence-based ingredients like retinoids, antioxidants or peptides, and prescription topicals if needed,” she explains. “These sit on your skin for hours and have the greatest impact.” Whether you’re targeting texture, fine lines or hyperpigmentation, a well-formulated serum can make a visible difference over time – and this is where your investment will go the furthest.

Cleansers and moisturisers, on the other hand, don’t need to cost a fortune. “Save on cleansers and moisturisers. Their job is to support the skin barrier, not treat it,” says Dr Mahto. “A basic, fragrance-free formula can work just as well as luxury options when used consistently.” Facialist Keren Bartov agrees, and adds that flashy extras like masks and single-use glow products aren’t usually worth the hype. “Trendy face masks or ‘instant glow’ products meant for one-time use might feel fun, but they don’t offer long-term benefits and often don’t justify the price tag,” she says.

Main image: Getty