Winter has been a bit of a merciless… shall we say… ‘lady’ this year. The combined effects of the cold and indoor heating can be extremely drying, as anyone who has ever stepped outside sans gloves can attest to. These days, staying moisturized requires more regular maintenance than city streets (#brokenwatermain). With temperatures like these, getting your hands on a good lotion isn’t an option, it’s a serious necessity. So it’s imperative to find products that give you the most for your money. While the occasional splurge can be fun (until your Visa bill arrives), sometimes you’ve got to make the best decision for your budget. Have no fear, because I’ve compiled a list of the best moisturizers under $20, with everything from old favourites to new natural products…

Nivea Creme
This company has been bringing moisture to the masses for over 100 years. Though they’ve updated their product line to include everything from body wash to deodorant, nothing beats their iconic (and affordable) lotion straight from the signature blue tin.

Ponds Cold Cream
The classic cream is part makeup remover/part moisturizer, and all affordable. Kylie Minogue even credits Ponds with keeping her skin looking youthful.

Lush Potion Lotion
Just squeaking in under the $20 mark, and with an ingredient list that boasts almond oil and Fair Trade cocoa butter, it’s guaranteed money well spent. Lush products are completely animal and cruelty free, ensuring you can indulge in some guilt-free moisture.

Organic Coconut Oil
People have been singing coconut oil’s praises for quite some time now, and they’re definitely well deserved. Coconut oil is kind of a Jack of All Trades, and it’s especially great for skin because it absorbs quickly as opposed to sitting on the surface of the skin. Plus organic coconut oil doesn’t contain the chemicals and by-products found in many mainstream moisturizing products.

Body Shop Body Butter
It’s pretty much blasphemous to have a lotion list and not mention The Body Shop. If you’ve ever walked by their store in the mall, you can attest to the fact that it’s almost impossible to ignore their sweet scents, quality products, and amazing deals. If you’re a fan of fruit scents, Satsuma Body Butter is a good go-to, made with Fair Trade cocoa butter.

Cetaphil
This mild lotion is great for people with allergies, or people that prefer their lotions scent-free. It takes a more clinical approach, and is also ideal for those who suffer from chronic dry skin or acne. Cetaphil is water-based, meaning that it helps to bind water to the skin and keep moisture in. Which is all anyone could ask for in a moisturizer, really.