From the famous free samples to the heavily discounted gas and a bunch of sheet cakes and bulk items in between, it’s no secret that Costco serves up a little bit of something for everyone. Phoenix, AZ dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal, who is a proud card-carrying member of the club, also says he’s seen a recent shift in the big-box warehouse club retail store upping their beauty game in a big way—and it’s on products he recommends to his patients and uses on himself. “They have some really good skin care right now,” Dr. Lal says. “Personally, I think it’s great for families, because you can get some good deals on great products.” Here’s what makes this derm’s shopping list:
Cetaphil
The award-winning derm brand is a trusted product wherever you buy it, and Dr. Lal says this is the one he thinks is great for people of all ages. “You can get a good deal on the Cetaphil cleansers and Cetaphil lotions when you buy them at Costco,” he says. On the site’s current deal list: A two-pack of the Gentle Skin Cleanser ($20 for two), a sensitive-skin staple that never strips and defends against weakened skin barrier, irritation, roughness, tightness and dryness. Racking up a 4.9 out of 5 stars on the reviews, Costco shoppers seem to concur. “I used Cetaphil skin cleanser all the time,” shares one repeat buyer. “It was recommended by my dermatologist a couple of years ago and I have used it ever since. There is nothing on the market comparable.”
CeraVe
Another dermatologist must that also comes in a multi-pack, Dr. Lal says he often sees good deals on the ceramide-powered CeraVe Moisturizing Cream at Costco. The unique, fast-absorbing formula helps skin lock in moisture for 48-hour hydration and helps restore the protective skin barrier with three essential ceramides (1,3,6-II). Costco shoppers also call the five-star product a bargain: “After trying most other products, nothing can beat CeraVe Moisturing Cream,” says one five-star review. “An excellent product that only requires a small application to make a tremendous impact in helping and keeping your soft supple skin. Only after a few days of use, one can see the amazing effectiveness. This double pack is a bargain. Having the pump lid keeps the jar content germ free. It’s difficult finding this CeraVe product in stock at retail drug stores and at this great pricing. I’ve recommended it to many friends and all agree this is a fantastic product! Thank you Costco for carrying this item!”
RoC
Tagging RoC as a line that’s “much cheaper in bulk,” Dr. Lal sings praise for this consistently effective line of anti-aging products. Currently on the shelves: A three-pack of the de-puffing RoC Hydrate and Plump Eye Cream tubes.
StriVectin
StriVectin isn’t new to Costco stores, but it is still spectacular, notes Dr. Lal. On tap for July, $20 off a two-pack of the brand’s multitasking Super-C SPF 30 Vitamin C Moisturizer ($90 for two). The firming skin-brightener not only provides SPF protection, but it also antioxidants. “Love this product! It has lightened up some of my sun spots in my face, I love the fragrance of it and I feel like it keeps my skin glowing,” shares one happy Costco customer.