The Budget Babe

As I see it, the basic function of a facial moisturizer is to keep water in the skin - something that many budget skincare products can certainly accomplish. But when it comes to my precious face, I'm willing to look beyond the drugstore aisles and spend a little more, which is why I've been using Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion for years.

This popular moisture "drink" was developed by Clinique’s dermatologists to maintain optimal moisture balance for very dry skins, or skins dry in the cheeks, and comfortable to oily in the T-zone. Despite the changes my skin has undergone over time, I find that this formula keeps my skin smooth, soft, and clean-feeling, not oily. (Although natural oils are good for your skin, the sensation of oily skin isn't pleasant.) It also creates a perfect base for applying all other makeup.

Clinique's facial moisturizer is not exactly cheap, but it's still a great deal when you consider that a small dab goes a long way, so a big bottle of this stuff (4.2 oz) - which costs $23 - will last you many months. And let's not forget some moisturizers cost triple that price (or more). I also buy my bottle during Clinique Bonus time so I really feel like I'm getting my money's worth.

There's just one problem: While I don't have any complaints about Clinique moisturizer's quality or reliability, I'm getting a little bored using the same ol' product day after day, year after year. I'm also beginning to wonder whether I need something with more fancy "anti-aging features," you might say. I should note that DDM does not contain SPF, which may be a plus for some, and a problem for others, depending on your stance on wearing sunscreen daily.

So tell us: What's your favorite facial moisturizer? Does the price matter? How much are you willing to spend when it comes to getting healthy, radiant skin?

>> Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion at Sephora.com, $23