Bright Skin on a Budget

I’m not trying to say I’m the Queen of Glowy Bright Skin, but I know a few things about keeping faces bright, luminous and super radiant….I’ve sort of build a brand on it, so yeah — Maybe I am the Queen of   Glowy Skin!

For me, myself, personally (LOL, I hate when people say that), there’s no limit to what I’ll spend to achieve the skin of my dreams. And, truthfully, as a Beauty Editor, I typically do not have to spend a whole lot on products because I am regularly gifted products for testing purposes….being a beauty guinea pig has its perks! But since you don’t have the access that I do, here are some budget-friendly items to consider:

Urban Skin Rx 3-in-1 Even Tone Cleansing Bar

It’s so important to set your skin up for success…and a proper cleanse is a big part of that. When brighter skin is the goal, incorporate a cleanser that’s laser-focused on radiant results.  Urban Skin Rx 3-in-1 Even Tone Cleansing Bar is widely available at Target and is priced under $13.  And it literally does everything but repair bad credit. The 3-in-1 is a daily cleanser, skin brightening mask, and gentle exfoliant. Formulated with a proprietary “Clear Tone Advanced Technology”,  this unique Cleansing Bar  reveals healthier skin and a more even complexion with each use. (Target.com, $12.99)

Ambi Skincare Fade Cream

One time for a bright skin OG like Ambi. This line has been helping women achieve clear, radiant skin for decades. My momma uses it. I use it. Even my trusted plastic surgeon (who has done my chemical peels) – she recommends it. Priced at under $5,  Ambi Skincare Fade Cream begins to diminish the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation in as little as 2 weeks. Always read your labels and make sure the ingredients align with your personal needs.

Ambi Skincare Fade Cream contains 2% Hydroquinone, a dermatologist recommended ingredient to safely address dark spots. I’ve used  2% Hydroquinone products in the past. I typically limit my use to about 6-8 weeks and then phase off of it. I have consulted with my Derm/ Plastic Surgeon and we are comfortable with this protocol….for me, myself, personally. (LOL, there I go again!) (Walmart.com, $4.97)

Instanatural Vitamin C Serum

$21 for an effective skin-brightening serum? Y’all better jump on this. In addition to Vitamin C, I like that Instanatural Vitamin C Serum is also formulated to defend against environmental aggressors and address fine lines and wrinkles. The formula is lightweight and perfect for summer. Layer with a moisturizing sunscreen and you’re good to go! (Amazon.com, $17.97)

Aveeno Positively Radiant Sheer Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30  

I mean, I can’t keep telling y’all that daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is a major key. In order to maintain clear, bright, healthy skin, you have to protect it daily. …or else you’ll reverse all of your bright results. Not only does  Aveeno Positively Radiant Sheer Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30    shield skin from the sun’s damaging UVA?UVB rays, it also contains  Active Naturals ® Total Soy Complex, which works to transform skin’s tone and texture as well as fade discolorations. Yup, and all for under $15. (Walmart.com, $14.97)

SULA NYC Mineral Clay Mask

Masking — everybody’s doing it! And for good reason…a face mask is a great way to not only slow down and give yourself a little ‘me’ time, it’s also a terrific opportunity to boost your skin care routine with a potent blend of ingredients that are formulated to show an instant result. For bright skin in 15 minutes, try  SULA NYC Mineral Clay Mask.

When mixed with 4-5 tbsp. warm water, the $14 loose powder, 100% Natural Micronized Clay Mask immediately detoxifies the skin and restores natural radiance. Oh, and wait — this mask also helps to detoxify hair and replenish essential minerals. So if you’re transitioning from relaxed to natural,  SULA NYC Mineral Clay Mask can help the process along (tho, it’s not recommended for color-treated hair). And lastly, ALWAYS follow  SULA NYC Mineral Clay Mask with a moisture mask (I like the Simple sheet mask) or Sula’s  100% pure organic Argan moisturizer. But whatever you do, don’t leave your skin hanging out there post-mask with no hydration. It won’t end well for you. (sulanyc.com, $14)

e.l.f. Brighten Up Peel Pads

Exfoliation is a key part of your bright skin routine. And these $10, single-use peel pads are the business. They help to slough off dull skin and reveal a more radiant complexion. Infused with a skin-brightening blend of AHA and Vitamin C, these nonabrasive exfoliating pads are a must.   (Elfcosmetics.com, $10)