Are expensive skincare products better, or is it all marketing?

Let’s unpack what really goes into the price tag of your skincare – and whether it's worth the splurge.

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When it comes to skincare, one of the most common questions I hear is: “Is expensive skincare really better, or am I just paying for fancy packaging and slick marketing?” It’s a fair question – and one that deserves an honest, nuanced answer.

The truth is, the price of skincare products is determined by a whole web of factors, from research and development to ingredient quality, packaging, marketing, and even brand ethics. And yes, sometimes you're paying for hype. But sometimes, you're paying for hard-earned results.

Let’s pull back the curtain on what actually creates the cost of skincare – and what makes a high-performance brand like Jenny Nordic Skincare worth investing in.

The (Surprisingly Expensive) World of R&D

Before a single drop of product touches your skin, countless hours go into research and development (R&D). This isn’t just testing whether something smells nice or feels silky—it’s deep formulation science.

At JNS, our formulations are rooted in skin physiology, the skin microbiome, and the hormonal shifts women go through – especially during perimenopause and beyond.

Formulating clean, minimal skincare that performs without irritation takes precision. You can’t just throw together trending ingredients and hope for the best. It has to work. And that means a lot of trial, error, lab time, testing on real skin, and reformulation.

All of this costs money – especially if you're committed to using natural, sustainable, and microbiome-friendly ingredients sourced from traceable suppliers. (Which we are.)

Ingredient Quality: Not All Hyaluronic Acid is Created Equal

You might have noticed the same "hero ingredients" pop up in both high-end and budget skincare: vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid. So what gives?

The difference often lies in the quality, concentration, and delivery system.

Take hyaluronic acid. There are different molecular weights – some hydrate the surface, and others penetrate deeper. High-quality formulations use multiple weights for maximum effect and source from reputable suppliers, not the cheapest bidder.

At Jenny Nordic Skincare, we use:

• Swedish fermented oat extract – rich in postbiotics and soothing actives

• Wild arctic lingonberry extract – antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory

• Clinical-grade niacinamide – a proven ingredient to strengthen the skin barrier and even skin tone

These ingredients are more expensive to source, especially in their pure, stable, and sustainably harvested forms. But that’s what makes the difference between something that feels nice and something that transforms your skin.

Ethical, Sustainable, and Small-Batch Manufacturing

Mass-market products are often made in enormous factories that produce thousands of units at once – cutting costs at every step. Indie brands like Jenny Nordic Skincare work differently.

Our products are made in small batches to ensure freshness and potency. We choose eco-conscious packaging, such as recyclable glass and minimal plastic. We don’t outsource production to the cheapest facility – we work with partners who align with our values.

We also make sure our formulas are cruelty-free and vegan and never filled with unnecessary fillers, drying alcohols, or synthetic fragrances.

All of these conscious choices mean higher costs for us but better results (and peace of mind) for you.

Marketing & Branding: Necessary Evil or Value Add?

Let’s be honest: Some brands pour millions into marketing – celebrity campaigns, magazine spreads, and influencer sponsorships – and it shows in the price tag. Sometimes, the product can be underwhelming, but the brand story is seductive.

We chose a different route. We invest in educational content, real customer stories, and professional expertise, not flashy endorsements. Our marketing is about empowering you to understand your skin, not manipulating you into buying something you don’t need.

But marketing does matter – it’s how we keep our small business running, educate more women, and reach those who are struggling with skin changes, confusion, or low confidence. So yes, a small slice of your purchase supports our content, photography, and community building – but it’s all built on value and trust, not illusion.

What About Dupes? Can a £15 Cream Do the Same as a £160 Serum?

Ah, dupes. We love a bargain – and sometimes, a cheaper product really can deliver great results. 

But here’s the catch: most skincare isn’t just about one ingredient. It’s about the synergy of the full formula, how it’s preserved, delivered to the skin, and how it fits into your routine.

Cheaper products often cut corners:

• Lower concentrations of actives

• Inactive or unstable forms of ingredients

• Less skin-friendly pH levels

• Harsh preservatives or synthetic fragrances
  

So while a dupe might “look” the same on paper, it rarely feels or performs the same on the skin over time – especially if you’re dealing with hormonal skin changes, sensitivity, or dehydration. Remember, you can't predict how the product works solely by looking at the INCI list.

So… Is It Worth It?

Here’s the real question: What do you want from your skincare?

If you're looking for a product that will simply moisturise your skin and nothing more, then sure, a basic, budget-friendly cream will do the job.

But if you’re:

• Navigating skin changes in your 40s or beyond

• Looking for simplified, effective routines

• Committed to supporting your skin long-term

• Wanting to invest in your well-being and radiance

• Craving that glow and confidence boost that comes from within

Then, a well-made, consciously formulated product can be worth every penny.

You’re not just paying for the product. You’re paying for knowledge, intention, results, and care.

What Makes Jenny Nordic Skincare Worth the Investment?

We price our products fairly, based on real cost – not trend. Here’s what you’re investing in:

• Science-backed, skin-loving formulations made for perimenopausal and sensitive skin

• Nordic ingredients sourced with care and sustainability in mind

• Small-batch production for freshness and potency

• Transparent, minimal routines that simplify your life – not clutter your shelf

• A community built on support, education, and pro-ageing beauty

We believe your skin deserves the same care and thoughtfulness you give to the rest of your wellbeing. And we’re here to prove that luxury skincare isn’t just about price – it’s about purpose.

Final Thoughts

Expensive skincare isn’t always better. But thoughtfully formulated, ethically made, skin-transforming skincare that’s priced fairly for what it delivers? That’s an investment in you.

If you’re ready to simplify your skincare and see what intentional, holistic beauty can do – explore our range at Jenny Nordic Skincare. Your glow is waiting.

Sending love,

Jenny, the founder of Jenny Nordic Skincare

PS. For daily skincare tips and inspiration, follow us on Instagram!

Want more skin wisdom in your ears?
Tune into The Skin Reset Podcast – a weekly chat where we dive deep into all things skin, the holistic way. From navigating perimenopause to building a minimal routine that actually works, it's your space to learn, unwind, and feel seen in your 40s and beyond. New episodes every week — come join the conversation.