Dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology want to set one thing straight: You don’t need expensive skin care products to have glowing, healthy skin. In fact, they say, wearing a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before going outdoors is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy skin.

“Every good skin care routine should follow three simple steps: cleanse, treat and prevent,” said Amy J. Derick, M.D., FAAD, clinical instructor of dermatology at Northwestern University. “Sunscreen prevents wrinkles, sun spots and even skin cancer, making it the most effective skin care product you can buy.”

Beyond sunscreen, Derick said, it’s important to identify your skin type before starting any skin care routine:

• Sensitive skin may sting or burn after product use.
• Normal skin is clear and not sensitive.
• Dry skin is flaky, itchy or rough.
• Oily skin is shiny and greasy.
• Combination skin is dry in some areas and oily in others.

“Expensive skin care products are not necessarily better,” said Derick. “Instead, it’s more important to buy skin care products that are formulated for your skin type. If your skin tends to be oily, select a product made for oily skin. If you have sensitive skin, look for the words ‘fragrance-free’ on labels.”

For additional ways to save, Derick recommended the following tips:

To select the most effective products, pay attention to product ingredients. For example, if you have acne-prone skin, cleansers that contain either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help clear some people’s skin. If you’re concerned about fine lines and wrinkles, look for products containing retinol.

Consider using dual-function products. Try a moisturizer with sunscreen. Make sure the sunscreen is broad-spectrum and has an SPF of 30 or higher.

Cleanse your skin. Always cleanse before applying skin care products and before going to bed. Cleansing removes dirt, oil and debris and helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

Get the most from your moisturizer. Apply it to damp skin as soon as you get out of the shower to lock in moisture. For your face, look for moisturizers that say “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic,” as these won’t clog your pores.

Limit the number of skin care products that you use. Using too many products on your skin, especially more than one anti-aging product, tends to irritate the skin and make signs of aging more noticeable.

Apply sunscreen before going outside. Reapply sunscreen every few hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

Consider using petroleum jelly. This inexpensive product can have several uses, including moisturizing dry skin and nails and treating minor injuries. However, avoid using petroleum jelly on the face, as this may cause acne in some people.

“With so many products on the market today, the skin care aisle can be an overwhelming – and expensive – place,” said Derick. “If you have questions about how to take care of your skin, or if you aren’t sure what type of skin you have, ask a board-certified dermatologist.”

These tips are demonstrated in “Skin Care on a Budget,” a video posted to the Academy website and the Academy’s YouTube channel. This video is part of the Dermatology A to Z: Video Series, which offers videos demonstrating tips people can use to properly care for their skin, hair and nails. A new video in the series posts to the Academy’s website and YouTube channel each month. For more information on the American Academy of Dermatology, headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., visit aad.org.