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Aldi launches affordable skincare range resembling luxury brands
Rachael Parnell, 34, was eager to try Aldi's new Lacura face cream after noticing its striking resemblance to Augustinus Bader's £240 product. The supermarket version, priced at £8.49 for 50ml, features nearly identical packaging-a sleek blue tube with a gold lid.
Though Parnell hasn't tested the high-end cream, she reports satisfaction with the Lacura product so far. Aldi confirmed to the BBC that its skincare line has drawn new customers and was developed to match or exceed the quality of leading beauty brands.
The rise of skincare dupes
Parnell is part of a growing trend: over a quarter of UK shoppers have purchased skincare or makeup dupes-products mimicking luxury brands at lower prices. Among 18- to 34-year-olds, that figure jumps to 44%, according to a February Barclays survey.
Dupes often replicate packaging and branding but may differ significantly in ingredients. Parnell, who frequently buys budget alternatives, says she struggles to distinguish between high-end and affordable versions of products like cleansing balms.
Expert opinions on dupes
Skincare professionals acknowledge that some dupes offer quality comparable to luxury brands. Consultant dermatologist Sharon Belmo notes, "Not every low-budget skincare brand is bad-and not every luxury product is the best."
"Some [dupes] are absolutely amazing. They sell out so fast, it's insane."
Scott McGlynn, podcast host
Aesthetic doctor Ross Perry suggests dupes are suitable for basic skincare like moisturisers and cleansers but may lack the refinement of premium products. Dermatologist Ketaki Bhate adds that single-ingredient products (e.g., hyaluronic acid) are safer bets for budget alternatives.
When to splurge vs. save
Experts caution that higher prices sometimes reflect superior ingredients, formulation technology, or clinical testing. Facialist Rhian Truman warns that ultra-cheap dupes may contain fillers or poorly sourced ingredients, asking, "How is it so cheap?"
For complex products like retinols or vitamin C serums, Bhate advises sticking to specialised brands with proven safety records. She compared two salicylic acid toners-one six times pricier than the other-and found similar active ingredients but differing formulations that could affect performance.
Navigating ingredient lists
Pharmacist Riya Asher recommends focusing on the position of active ingredients (e.g., retinol) in the list, as higher placement indicates greater concentration. Dermatologist Emma Wedgeworth explains that UK regulations require brands to substantiate effectiveness claims, though they may reference existing studies rather than conduct their own.
Victoria Woollaston, founder of skincare review site Mamabella, tested both Augustinus Bader's serum and Aldi's version. She found the latter thinner but noted that the luxury product's potency could irritate sensitive skin. Woollaston argues that dupes democratise skincare, offering value to consumers who couldn't afford high-end options.
"What my years of tests show is that value and efficacy can 100% coexist."
Victoria Woollaston, Mamabella
