Adventures in the Arctic Circle demand more than just warm clothing; they require a skincare regimen ready to battle the elements. Metro’s Alice Murphy embarked on an icy adventure with a mission: to find the most effective budget moisturiser in the unforgiving chill of the Arctic.

The Quest Begins: An Arctic Adventure

As she prepared for a cruise featuring dog sledding and Northern Lights gazing, Alice faced a familiar fear: the damaging effects of a brutal cold on her skin. With a not-so-generous budget, she scoured Reddit to discover affordable gems recommended by fellow skincare enthusiasts.

The criteria were simple: under £20 and effective in temperatures where skin turns to parchment under the Arctic wind.

The Challenge: Testing in Extreme Conditions

Testing began under unique circumstances. Forecasters had warned of -20C chills, but a rare heatwave instead brought temperatures to a ‘balmy’ -7C. Nevertheless, Alice pressed on with her four chosen contenders:

  1. Weleda Skin Food proved its worth for richness and hydration, earning a solid 7⁄10, even with its hefty application time.
  2. Avene Hydrance Aqua Gel Balm, with its nostalgic packaging, didn’t fare as well in harsh conditions, leaving her skin tight and dry.
  3. Eucerin Urea Face Cream emerged as an unexpected powerhouse. Lightweight yet nourishing, it kept Alice’s skin dewy amidst the polar chill, securing a remarkable 9⁄10.
  4. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast held its ground, especially in intense wind, but didn’t surpass Eucerin in the dewy department.

The Standout Star: Eucerin Urea Face Cream

Eucerin Urea Face Cream, priced at £19, quickly became the star. Despite outdated packaging and lesser-known status, its formula—rich with natural moisturising factors—worked wonders. The unscented cream smoothly applied, serving as an excellent base for makeup.

What made it effective? Urea, a component that retains water, strengthening skin’s barrier function, along with glycerin and sodium lactate, other skin-conditioning agents.

Conclusion: A Worthwhile Investment

Alice’s journey through the Arctic concluded with Eucerin reigning supreme among affordable moisturisers. According to Metro.co.uk, the internet had spoken, and Alice’s experience only cemented this product’s place as a must-have for any cold-weather adventure.

In conclusion, whether trekking the frosty fjords or simply braving a chilly commute, this £19 treasure is your skin’s defence against the cold.