I Replaced My $75 Moisturizer With This $25 Gel Cream—and My Skin’s Never Been Better

Some people have a signature scent or a go-to coffee order, but me? This time last year, my claim to fame was the $75 moisturizer that felt like it was a part of me. I swore it was the only thing keeping my skin on some IRL Facetune, so I justified the splurge every time. “It’s an investment,” I’d tell myself, as if my skin were a 401(k) that would someday pay dividends in eternal youth. 

 

Earlier this year, our beauty editor recommended me an affordable alternative: the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel. I was skeptical… because how could something under $30 possibly deliver the same plump, glowy, “I drink three liters of water a day” skin that my original moisturizer promised? But after a quick trip to CVS and a week of using it, there was a plot twist: my skin didn’t just look the same—it looked better. My budget can finally exhale, and now, I’ll never go back.

Clinically proven to lock in hydration for 24 hours, this lightweight, non-greasy gel moisturizer—ideal for normal to oily skin—is powered by hyaluronic acid, absorbs quickly, won’t clog pores, and is dermatologist-tested for daily use as part of your skincare routine.

And as if the $25 price tag wasn't enough to sell you, the Hydro Boost Water Gel is part of the CVS Epic Beauty Sale happening now through September 1st. For every $25 you spend, you get an extra $10 off on a ton of other brands we're obsessed with (Cerave, NYX, eos...need we say more?). 

This email is sponsored by CVS. All opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial team.