Heyyy, 'What's Good' writers Soph and Mon here!
As we're all aware, there’s an endless list of skincare products and tools that claim to be the best dupes for big names like Skin Gym, Christophe Robin, and Eve Lom. But, let's be real, who’s got the time - or the cash - to snap up the latest product only to find it’s wayyy more drab than fab?
Whether you’re revamping your skincare routine or splurging on some luxe tools, we've done the hard work for you and found the dreamiest dupes you can snag on a budget.
Here are 7 affordable skincare dupes available in NZ that actually live up to the hype:
Soph's picks:
Manicare Face Gua Sha Stone ($39.99) - dupe for Face Gym Multi-Sculpt High-Performance Contouring tool ($106)
I can't be the only one seeing all the girlies on my FYP obsessed with snatching their faces using a detailed Gua Sha routine. While I haven't seen jaw-dropping (pun intended) results just yet, my Gua Sha has become a beloved part of my skincare routine for de-puffing and massaging – even if just for relaxation. With its five different edges to lift, sculpt, contour, detoxify and target acupressure points, this tool is a one-stop shop.
Manicare Face Contour Roller Set ($44) - dupe for Skin Gym Face Sculptor ($148)
If you're looking for convenience with similar results, I've found this Contour roller to be fab. It's perfect for those times when you want an at-home salon experience without the effort a Gua Sha routine requires. With its multidimensional rollers and interchangeable under-eye bar, it uses sonic vibrations to deliver a luxurious treatment. And for less than half the price of some high-end options, it's a steal.
Dr. LeWinn’s Daily Cleansing Balm ($59.99) - dupe for Eve Lom Cleanser ($156)
Cleansing is the MOST important part of a skincare routine, and I've recently started double cleansing with my new holy grail cleansing balm. In just 60 seconds, it can melt away my entire day, and the calming, tea-like fragrance helps me unwind and relax in the evening.
AND having not spent upwards of $100 for the same job is just a fab bonus!
Manicare Microneedle Derma Roller ($39.99) - dupe for Lonvitalite Microneedle Derma Roller ($66)
I've been wanting to try microneedling for ages, and after watching countless videos, I finally decided to give it a go. I've only done three at-home sessions so far (once a week), but I've already noticed a slight improvement in my breakout scarring.
While it's not as effective as salon treatments, it's much cheaper, and the Manicare roller costs almost half as much as some of the bigger brand options offering the same effectiveness.
Mon's picks:
A'kin Deep Clean Scalp Scrub ($21.99) - dupe for Christophe Robin Purifying Scalp Scrub ($81)
Scalp care is the new obsession of every hairtok girlie, and for good reason - cleansing product buildup and oil from the root helps to keep hair healthy and fresh, and regular exfoliating even stimulates growth.
The market is flooded with hella fancy scalp products from high-end brands like Christophe Robin, but I am obsessed with A'kin's new very affordable Deep Clean range. Their scalp scrub feels like a lil' at-home spa treatment, and I've really noticed the difference in my hair now that I've started using it a couple of times a week.
MCo Beauty Overnight Lip Mask ($20) - dupe for Laneige Lip Mask ($34)
Lip masks feel like such a bougie OTT product, and Laneige's is the cult fave of them all. MCo Beauty's cheaper alternative will give you that luxe vibe for a lot less cash, and it's ideal for combatting flaky, dry lips in the colder months.
Manicare Crystal Hair Remover ($44.99) - dupe for Viral Bleame Crystal Hair Eraser (Not available in NZ)
This little tool has been all over my feed for months, but every time I looked into getting one I was hit with confusing Amazon links and super high shipping costs from the US. Enter Manicare with their version, very available right here in NZ.
The product doesn't look like much from the outside, but it is SO impressive! I buffed my legs completely smooth while watching 'MAFS' without the need for showering or shaving gel, and it works wonders on my arms too. You do need to be careful to be gentle or you can create some irritation, but with a bit of practice, it's a game-changer.
That’s it. we're off to overhaul our whole routines for almost half the price. And while we're at it, why not grab some of the makeup dupes in NZ too?!
