As a skincare enthusiast, I’ve always been a fan of Drunk Elephant’s high-quality products. However, their price points can be a barrier for many who want to achieve flawless skin without breaking the bank. That’s why I’ve been on the lookout for Drunk Elephant dupes – more affordable alternatives that deliver similar results.
In my quest for budget-friendly options, I’ve discovered some fantastic dupes that mimic the effectiveness of Drunk Elephant’s popular products. These alternatives contain similar or identical ingredients, which allow us to achieve the same desired outcomes, but at a much lower cost.
Throughout this article, I’ll share some of the best Drunk Elephant dupes I’ve come across that have not only saved me money but have also become staples in my skincare routine. I’m excited to help others find accessible alternatives for a beautiful complexion without compromising on quality or effectiveness.
Top Drugstore and Affordable Alternatives
Drunk Elephant Product | Dupe Brand | Dupe Product | Price |
---|---|---|---|
C-Firma Vitamin C Serum | The Ordinary | Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% | $5.80 |
T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum | The Ordinary | AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution | $7.20 |
Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser | Paula’s Choice | RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser | $19.00 |
A-Passioni Retinol Cream | Paula’s Choice | Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment | $58.00 |
Lala Retro Whipped Moisturizer | The Inkey List | Peptide Moisturizer | $14.99 |
T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial | The Inkey List | Apple Cider Vinegar Acid Peel | $14.99 |
In this section, I will explore some top drugstore and affordable alternatives to Drunk Elephant’s popular skincare products. I will specifically discuss dupes from The Ordinary, Paula’s Choice, and The Inkey List.
The Ordinary Dupes
When it comes to Drunk Elephant dupes, The Ordinary has some fantastic options. For a more affordable alternative to the Drunk Elephant C-Firma Vitamin C serum, I suggest trying The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%, which has similar effects at a fraction of the cost. The thick suspension formula contains 23% vitamin C and 2% hyaluronic acid, offering brightening and hydration benefits for your skin.
As a dupe for Drunk Elephant’s T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum, The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a great fit. It provides AHA and BHA exfoliation benefits and helps improve skin texture at a much more affordable price.
Paula’s Choice Dupes
Paula’s Choice is another reliable brand for finding dupes of Drunk Elephant products. If you’re looking for a gentle, effective cleanser like Drunk Elephant’s Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser, I recommend Paula’s Choice RESIST Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser. This cleanser is suitable for all skin types and is also effective at removing dirt and makeup without causing irritation or dryness.
The Inkey List Dupes
The Inkey List is yet another brand that offers affordable alternatives to Drunk Elephant’s skincare products. To substitute Drunk Elephant’s Lala Retro Whipped Moisturizer, I would try The Inkey List Peptide Moisturizer. This peptide-rich moisturizer nourishes the skin and boosts collagen production without breaking the bank.
For fans of Drunk Elephant’s T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial, The Inkey List’s Apple Cider Vinegar Acid Peel is a great alternative. This exfoliant combines AHAs and BHAs to achieve a smoother, more radiant complexion at a fraction of the cost.
Key Ingredients in Drunk Elephant Dupes

In my research on Drunk Elephant dupes, I’ve discovered that these products often contain similar key ingredients that make them comparable to their more expensive counterparts. One important ingredient found in many of these dupes is ceramides, which help to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier and retain moisture, making them a great option for sensitive skin.
Glycolic acid is another ingredient commonly found in Drunk Elephant dupes. Often included in exfoliating products, glycolic acid helps to remove dead skin cells and reveal a smoother, more radiant complexion. This ingredient can be found in alternative products such as the Quill dupe which utilizes glycolic acid in its AHA/BHA solution for skin exfoliation.
Many Drunk Elephant dupes also include antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea. These antioxidants protect the skin from environmental damage and promote a healthier complexion. For example, The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2% is a popular dupe that contains both vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to brighten and hydrate the skin.
Collagen-stimulating peptides are another key ingredient found in Drunk Elephant dupes. These peptides help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In the alternative Acure Radically Rejuvenating Whipped Night Cream, you’ll find plant-derived peptides that provide similar benefits to Drunk Elephant’s Protini Cream.
Lastly, many of these dupes contain moisturizing and soothing ingredients like vitamin B5, salicylic acid, and squalane. These ingredients help to hydrate and calm the skin, making them ideal for those with sensitive skin or acne-prone skin. The d’Alba cream is one such dupe that contains a combination of these ingredients, offering a more affordable option for those seeking the benefits of Drunk Elephant products.
Drunk Elephant Dupes for Different Skin Types
As a skincare enthusiast, I’ve found that one of the best ways to maintain healthy skin is to find products tailored to my specific skin type. With the popularity of the Drunk Elephant brand, it’s no surprise that there are some great dupes available for different skin types. In this section, I’ll share some amazing Drunk Elephant dupes I’ve come across that cater to various skin needs, such as oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin.
For those with oily skin, you might want to consider a dupe for Drunk Elephant’s renowned T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum. This product gently exfoliates and unclogs pores, which is ideal for keeping oily skin in check. A fantastic dupe is The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid 10% + HA. It has a similar exfoliating effect, but with a more budget-friendly price tag.
If you have dry skin, it’s crucial to find products that provide ample hydration. Drunk Elephant’s Virgin Marula Antioxidant Face Oil is a wonderful choice for moisturizing and nourishing your skin, but it can be quite pricey. I’ve found that The Ordinary’s 100% Cold-Pressed Virgin Marula Oil is a more affordable alternative that delivers similar antioxidant-rich hydration.
For combination skin, finding products that can address both oily and dry areas can be a challenge. Drunk Elephant’s B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum is great for combination skin as it provides lightweight hydration without clogging pores. I’ve discovered that First Aid Beauty’s Ultra Repair Hydrating Serum is an impressive dupe, offering hydration and suitable for all skin types.
If you have sensitive skin, the search for gentle yet effective products can be daunting. Drunk Elephant’s F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial Mask is ideal for soothing sensitive skin, but the cost can be steep. In my experience, Bliss Mighty Marshmallow Bright & Radiant Face Mask offers a more budget-friendly option, providing hydration without causing irritation.
Products to Target Specific Skin Concerns
While exploring the world of Drunk Elephant dupes, I’ve found several products that can effectively address specific skin concerns. Here are some fantastic alternatives that target dark spots, uneven skin tone, breakouts, dehydration, redness, and dullness:
For dark spots and uneven skin tone, Herbivore Botanicals Blue Tansy Resurfacing Clarity Mask is an affordable alternative to Drunk Elephant’s T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial AHA + BHA Mask. It clarifies skin and helps control shine, reducing the look of pores instantly. The mask is available for $48 at Sephora. Source.
When dealing with breakouts, a product like The Ordinary Exfoliating Peeling Solution is a great option. Despite having a slightly different formula, this $9 dupe compares to the Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial in terms of targeting skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, and pore size. The Ordinary Exfoliating Peeling Solution has 30% AHA and 2% BHA, while Drunk Elephant’s version only has 25% AHA. Source.
If you’re experiencing dehydration in your skin, a dupe for Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum is worth considering. This serum can effectively restore and maintain skin hydration levels. The B-Hydra™ Intensive Hydration Serum is available for $48. Source.
For those suffering from redness, an alternative to Drunk Elephant’s D-Bronzi Drops is Saie Glowy Super Gel Lightweight Dewy Highlighter in “Sun Glow.” It is available for $28 and helps calm redness while providing a beautiful glow. Source.
Finally, to tackle dullness in the skin, Lala Retro™ Whipped Cream with Ceramides from Drunk Elephant is a solid choice for reinvigorating and brightening your complexion. This product is reef-safe and retails starting at $24. Source.
Shopping Tips and Recommendations
When it comes to finding Drunk Elephant dupes, I’ve discovered that Sephora is a goldmine. They carry a variety of brands that offer similar benefits at a fraction of the cost. For instance, Sephora Collection has an affordable alternative to Drunk Elephant’s popular moisturizer.
One thing I always keep in mind when using these products, especially those with active ingredients like AHA or BHA, is to ensure appropriate sun protection. Applying SPF is crucial as my skin may be more sensitive after using these products.
As a face oil lover, I found The Ordinary’s Squalane Oil to be an excellent alternative to Drunk Elephant’s luxury face oil offering. It is important to remember to always patch test when trying new products, as everyone’s skin reacts differently.
I also keep an eye on TikTok for the latest product recommendations and reviews. The beauty community on TikTok often shares budget-friendly dupes and honest opinions, helping me make informed decisions.
Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that some links in reviews or recommendations could be affiliate links. This means the reviewer might earn a commission on the sales; however, this does not affect my final decision. I always prioritize my skin’s needs and choose products based on their efficacy and suitability for my skin type.