By Agbai Sharonjoyce
Many people believe that expensive skincare products, especially moisturisers, work better simply because they cost more.
But research has shown that price doesn’t always equal performance. In fact, the cost of many beauty products often reflects brand image, packaging, and marketing—not how well the product actually works.
The science behind moisturisers
Modern moisturiser formulas are carefully designed using advanced science. Today’s products are created to balance three things: how well they work (efficacy), how they feel on the skin (aesthetics), and how they look (packaging).
The texture or thickness of a moisturiser no longer determines how effective it is. Scientists can easily change the feel of a product by adjusting ingredients like polymers, emulsifiers, and thickeners—without affecting its moisturising power.
Understanding ingredients
The best way to judge a moisturiser is by looking at its ingredient list. According to the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI), ingredients are listed in order of how much of each is used in the formula. Learning what these ingredients do helps consumers choose wisely—no matter the brand or price.
Clinical studies have found little connection between a moisturiser’s price and how well it works. In some cases, affordable drugstore brands perform just as well—or even better—than luxury products with similar ingredients.
This means that the “more expensive is better” idea is outdated. What truly matters is how the formula is made and what ingredients it contains.
Beyond beauty, moisturisers play a key role in dermatology. They help manage skin conditions like eczema, which is caused by damage to the skin barrier. Research even shows that regularly moisturising infants can help prevent eczema.
When comparing different moisturisers for this purpose, researchers found that the cost-effectiveness (how much benefit you get for the money spent) did not depend on price.
A study comparing 100 moisturisers—50 expensive and 50 inexpensive—found that costly products often contained more allergenic substances. In total, researchers identified 26 potential allergens, showing that a higher price doesn’t guarantee gentler or safer ingredients.
Final thoughts
Moisturisers are essential for keeping skin healthy and managing certain skin conditions. But effectiveness doesn’t depend on the price tag. What matters most is the combination of ingredients and how they’re formulated.
In short, you don’t need to spend a fortune for healthy, glowing skin. Sometimes, the best moisturizer for you might be sitting right on your local store shelf—at a much friendlier price
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