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Lifestyle

The Top 7 Trader Joe’s Skincare Products I Swear By (and You Should Too)

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at Cal Poly chapter.

We all know Trader Joe’s for its cult-favorite items like cookie butter, Joe Joe’s, and Two-Buck Chuck. But how many of you have ventured into the skincare aisle? The location of the personal hygiene section differs in every store, but the end result is the same– a slew of mostly cruelty-free, all-natural skincare products including lotions, face masks, cleansers, shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen, and more. I have been using TJ’s skincare products for years now, leading me to compile a list of the top seven Trader Joe’s skincare products I swear by.  And the best part? All of Trader Joes’ skincare and personal hygiene products are priced at $12 or less. What. A. Steal. 

If I were you, I would run, not walk, to your nearest Trader Joe’s and pick up some of the items of this carefully curated list (by yours truly). 

1. Coconut Body Butter

At a bargain price of $4.99 compared to similar body butters from Bath and Body Works or the Body Shop, this coco-nutty TJ’s cream knocks any other body butter out of the park. Craving a tropical vacation? This body butter will take you there with its luscious coconut scent that isn’t overpowering but leaves your skin oh-so-soft and supple.

This is my go-to lotion to use after shaving my legs with the Moisturizing Cream Shave (because who can resist coconut AND mango, am I right?). I can’t give this body butter enough praise, so just try it, please. You won’t regret it.

2. 100% Pure Jojoba Oil

trader joe's skincare
Arianna Kotlier

Now, this product is one of Trader Joes’ bigger ticket items but is so worth the $7.99. I use this product to remove stubborn eye makeup (just make sure not to get it in your eyes!) by letting it sit for a few minutes while I brush my teeth, and then wipe it off with a cotton round. This oil is also a perfect moisturizer before bed, giving you moisturized, brightened, and softened skin in the morning.

In addition, “Jojoba oil mimics the composition of sebum, so it’s similar to your body’s own natural oil,” says dermatologist Jeannette Graf. That means it won’t clog your pores, so it’s a win-win in my book. 

3. Blueberry and Acai Facial Scrub

This product is a relatively new addition to the Trader Joe’s skincare line, and a fantastic one at that. I use this product about twice a week in the shower to give my skin a good exfoliating and a healthy glow. Not only is this a great scrub, but the scent is where it’s at. I get some serious nostalgia whenever I open the container, because it low-key smells like blueberry Go-Gurt. Honestly, I’m pretty into it. Overall, for a delicious smelling, fruity facial scrub at an affordable price of $5.99, TJ’s has killed it once again. 

4. Natural Facial Cleansing Pads with Tea Tree Oil

trader joe's skincare
Arianna Kotlier

If I had to chose my absolute favorite product on this list, it would be these tea tree cleaning pads. I’ve been using these wipes for the past four (!) years, and they haven’t let me down yet.

Each round pad is highly concentrated with tea tree oil, which is perfect for oily and acne prone skin. My favorite way to use these wipes is after the shower or to remove face makeup. You’ll actually be shocked at the yucky residue and dirt that comes off your face with these wipes. Prepare to be amazed.

#Spoon Tip: Make sure to be careful around your eyes, because the tea tree will burn!

5. Lavender Salt Scrub 

trader joe's skincare
Arianna Kotlier

This scrub is actually heavenly if you’re a lavender fan. Personally, I love lavender. I find the scent incredibly soothing and relaxing. I also find that it lasts on my skin for a good part of the day. This scrub is super concentrated with lavender oil, and is the perfect scrub to use in the shower after a long day to unwind. You’ll come out of the shower smelling like a field of french lavender and have super smooth, moisturized skin that isn’t oily at all. Not only is this scrub great quality, TJ’s sells it at a steal for only $5.99. 

6. Moisturizing Cream Shave

trader joe's skincare
Arianna Kotlier

If you’re hunting for a new dual body wash and shaving cream product, this one’s for you (whether you’re a guy or a girl). Seriously, buy this for your SO, dad, or brother because they will like the smell. It’s 100% vegetarian and 100% amazing; this is one of my favorites from TJ’s that I will continue to repurchase. This product is also fantastic for sensitive skin, and is completely non-irritating and highly moisturizing due to the aloe vera and Vitamin E oil in it. Gotta love it. 

7. Spray Sunscreen SPF 50+ 

trader joe's skincare
Arianna Kotlier

Last but not least, a Trader Joe’s summertime classic: spray sunscreen. You may be thinking, OK a sunscreen–exciting. But seriously, this stuff works (meaning it is actually water resistant) and as a plus, it’s cruelty free! I can even use this spray sunscreen on my face in a pinch and it doesn’t break me out, which is a huge plus. Leave it to Trader Joe’s. 

And there you go, the list of my top seven Trader Joe’s skincare products I swear by. So, on your next trip to TJ’s, snag a few of these items and prepare to be amazed at what you’ve been missing. Honestly, it’s actually impossible to find something Trader Joe’s isn’t good at.