I Created a Complete Skincare Regimen for Less Than $40 with This Budget-Friendly Amazon Brand

A few months ago, as I celebrated my 28th birthday, I realized it was time to finally set up a proper skincare routine (yes, I’m a bit late to the game, I know). In my 20s, I was lucky to avoid major skin problems, dealing only with occasional hormonal breakouts and pores that were larger than I’d like.

With this goal in mind, I didn’t look for skincare products out of urgent necessity. Rather, I aimed to enhance my overall skin texture, tone, and look by creating a regimen filled with effective, affordable, and clean-ingredient products. 

I explored numerous brands and stores, but after diving deep into countless customer reviews, I returned to Amazon and discovered Good Molecules. Having tested several of their products for over a month, I’m thoroughly impressed by the brand’s combination of quality and affordability.

Good Molecules Skincare Favorites From Amazon

• Good Molecules Hydrating Facial Cleanser, $12
• Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel, $6
• Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum, $6
• Good Molecules Gentle Retinol Cream, $8
• Good Molecules Clarify and Cleanse Bar, $5

Related: Ask a Beauty Editor: What Is the Right Order to Apply Skincare Ingredients?

Whether you’re new to skincare like me or simply eager to try fresh products, here’s my complete Good Molecules haul. Each item is $12 or less, and purchasing the entire set totals just under $40 (a steal I can’t stop raving about to my friends).

Good Molecules Hydrating Facial Cleanser

I’ll be honest—I never paid much attention to facial cleansers before. I used to grab the first gentle option I saw, but Good Molecules’ cleanser has transformed my skin by balancing and hydrating it perfectly. Its smooth, gel-like texture feels incredibly lightweight as you massage it in. Packed with brightening rosewater and purifying pineapple extract, this cleanser has become my go-to for starting my morning routine. 

Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel

After cleansing and toning, I reach for Good Molecules’ Wake Up Eye Gel. As someone who struggles with morning puffiness and dark circles, this gel has been a game-changer. Its lightweight formula absorbs quickly, and just a small amount is enough to work its magic. Enriched with caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and yerba mate, it tackles puffiness, brightens under-eye areas, and provides antioxidant protection against UV damage. 

Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum

Large pores have always been my biggest skincare concern, and they’ve made me self-conscious about my skin. When I stumbled upon this $6 serum, I was eager to give it a shot. Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is a star ingredient known for shrinking pores and calming inflammation. This serum has transformed my complexion, delivering an instant glow and visibly reducing my pore size—something I’m thrilled about. 

Good Molecules Gentle Retinol Cream

In my 20s, I never imagined I’d be interested in anti-aging skincare, but here I am. The market is packed with retinol creams and gels, often pricey, yet Good Molecules offers one for just $8. It contains 0.1 percent retinol, along with natural components like bakuchiol, grape seed oil, and allantoin, which enhance skin elasticity and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. I apply it nightly after cleansing and toning, and by morning, my skin looks remarkably improved.

Good Molecules Clarify and Cleanse Bar

During summer, I tend to sweat a lot, leading to breakouts on my upper arms and chest. My regular body wash, though fragrant and effective as a cleanser, doesn’t tackle these blemishes. This clarifying and cleansing bar, however, has significantly cleared my skin after just a few uses, thanks to ingredients like salicylic acid and tea tree oil that reduce inflammation. Now, I can confidently wear short-sleeves and tank tops without any hesitation.

Good Molecules provides a wide range of products beyond these. Explore their collection of serums, creams, and moisturizers by scrolling further.

Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Good Molecules BHA Clarifying Gel Cream

Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum

Good Molecules Vitamin C Booster Powder

Good Molecules Lightweight Daily Moisturizer