We Asked Top Dermatologists to Share Their Skin-Care Routines—Plus, the Products They Actually Use

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Discovering the best skin-care routine is a never-ending task. It seems that whenever you find one that works, there’s suddenly a new concern to tackle. Even those with years of experience will share that the journey to clear and glowing skin was not without a bit of trial and error.

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There seems to be an endless amount of skin-care advice out there too–tips sourced from TikTok to your peers to your local Sephora makeup artist. But how do you know what to trust? As we look to answer that question ourselves, we thought to take a peek into the routines of our favorite dermatologists. They are, after all, the ultimate experts in the space who can provide medical guidance on achieving your best skin yet. And although it may seem obvious, they have the typical skin concerns like acne, sensitivity, eczema, hyperpigmentation, and more, just like us.

Dermatologist-Recommended Skin Care

• Best Vitamin C Serum: SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic, $182
• Best LED Face Mask: HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask, $349
• Best Night Serum: Elizabeth Arden Retinol Serum Ceramide Capsules, $92
• Best Daily Cleanser: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Gentle Cleanser, $17
• Best Face Mask: Babor Lifting Rx Silver Foil Face Mask, $65
• Best Exfoliating Wash: CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser, $20
• Best Skincare Supplement: WelleCo The Super Elixir Supplement, $80
• Best Tinted Sunscreen: Isdin Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Tinted SPF 50, $75

So, we asked five top dermatologists to share their actual skin-care regimens from morning to night. Generally speaking, a proper routine might consist of a gentle yet effective cleanse, a specialized treatment based on their skin type, and a quenching moisturizer—supplemented by perhaps a carefully-chosen face mask or high-tech beauty gadget. All these details and more below: read on to shop dermatologist-recommended skin care and discover some helpful insights to inform your routine.

In This Story

Best Skin-Care Routine for Normal Skin

Dr. Dendy Engelman

Skin Type: “Overall, I have what is referred to as ‘normal’ skin,” Engelman notes. “Occasionally, I experience some mild oiliness in my T-zone, but I’m not particularly sensitive, nor do I tend to be blemish-prone.”

Morning

Step One: “In the mornings, I keep it simple with the LoveCraftBeauty Micellar Water," says Engelman. “This helps to gently remove the products I’ve used the night prior.” The formula uses a blend of aloe, neroli water, cucumber, and chamomile to soothe, renew, and cleanse the skin.

LoveCraft Beauty Micellar Water

$20

LOVECRAFT BEAUTY

Step Two: Next up is eye cream. “My go-to is the Valmont L’Elixir Des Glaciers Vos Yeux Swiss Poly-Active Cream, a really rich eye cream packed with hyaluronic acid to minimize dehydration lines and increase radiance and brightness,” she explains. When she’s applying makeup, on the other hand, she reaches for SkinMedica’s cooling eye patches because they “catch the fallout from eyeshadow application and smooths the intraorbital skin.”

Valmont L'Elixir Des Glaciers Vos Yeux Swiss Poly-Active Cream

$365

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Masks

$50

AMAZON

Step Three: Then comes vitamin C serum. “I use SkinBetter Science’s Alto Defense Serum, which contains a rich blend of antioxidants for protection against free radical damage caused by environmental assailants like UVA/UVB and pollution,” she says. The serum also promises to reduce the look of redness and uneven skin tone.

Skinbetter Science Alto Defense Serum

$130

SKINBETTER

Step Four: “Next, I layer on my moisturizer,” she details. “I love the Isdin Hyaluronic Concentrate, which is a water-gel serum that contains hyaluronic acids, BioMarine extract, skin-firming peptides, and lentil extract. It’s so hydrating and soothing.”

Isdin

Isdinceutics Hyaluronic Concentrate Ultra Hydrating Serum

$109

AMAZON

$109

DERMSTORE

Step Five: Engelman is sure not to forget lip care in her regimen—reaching for Sara Happ’s balm even over lipstick. “It helps keep my lips hydrated while giving a fresh, glossy appearance,” she says.

Sara Happ The Lip Slip One Balm

$30 $24

AMAZON

Step Six: “Like any good dermatologist, sunscreen is a huge part of my skin-care routine,” Engelman explains. “One of my favorites is the Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart SPF 50, which is a lightly tinted mineral sunscreen with antioxidants to protect the skin against both the sun and environmental pollutants. In my bag, I keep the Isdin Mineral Brush Daily Protection Powder for re-application throughout the day. I love this because it helps absorb excess oil and can be applied over makeup.”

Elizabeth Arden Prevage City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Hydrating Shield

$72

ULTA

Isdin Mineral Brush Powder

$55 $44

AMAZON

More to Know: “Before a big event or filming anything, I always apply Isdin Instant Flash to my face, neck, and chest. It makes my skin look amazing and makeup goes on beautifully on top,” she says. Otherwise, Elle Macpherson’s WelleCo supplement is a must each morning. “It’s designed to support 11 systems of the body, including skin, hair, and nails.”

Isdin Isdinceutics Instant Flash Firming and Lifting Serum

$42 $34

AMAZON

WelleCo The Super Elixir Supplement

$80 $64

AMAZON

Night

Step One: “Because I wear makeup most days, I’m a big fan of the double cleanse, and I love the Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm to lift any makeup, dirt, or grime from the day,” explains Engelman. “This balm uses papaya extract, sunflower, and ginger root oils to remove impurities and nourish the skin and feels really luxurious on the skin. To finish the double cleanse, I follow with my favorite Epionce Lytic Gel, which has willow bark extract, which is naturally anti-inflammatory and a [has] specific complex that helps optimize skin’s pH levels.”

Farmacy

Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm

$36

AMAZON

Epionce

Lytic Gel Cleanser

$40

AMAZON

Step Two: Post cleanse, she moves onto toner disclosing her appreciation of Biologique Recherche’s cult favorite Lotion P50 Original 1970, which she applies every other day. “It contains niacinamide, AHAs, and PHAs for a thorough and gentle exfoliation,” she says. “It also helps to maintain the proper pH of the skin’s acid mantle (pH – 5.5).” When she isn’t using P50, Humphrey’s Clarifying Cleansing Pads do the trick. “We use Humphrey’s toners at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue to prep patient’s skin prior to treatments, so I was excited that they’ve created these easy-to-use pads, which are also great for when I’m traveling.”

Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 Original 1970

$81

RESCUE SPA

Humphrey's Clarifying Cleansing Pads

$9

AMAZON

Step Three: At night, she opts for SiO’s Super EyeLift Patches. “These are easy to use and help me look younger and well rested (even though neither of those is accurate),” she says. Made from medical-grade silicone, the patches are designed to plump, lift, and smooth the look of wrinkles overnight.

SiO Super EyeLift Patches

$25

AMAZON

$25

TARGET

Step Four: “You probably already know how much dermatologists love retinol; this ingredient helps to increase cell turnover, build collagen, improve discoloration, treat wrinkles, hydrate skin and even reduce acne!” says Engelman, who is a years-long fan and a consulting dermatologist for Elizabeth Arden—the brand that crafts her retinol of choice. “[The Retinol Ceramide Capsules] are perfectly dosed in anhydrous, preservative-free, single-use, biodegradable capsules. They contain ceramides to help mitigate any potential dryness.” Alternatively, when she is not using retinol, she’ll reach for the M-61 PowerGlow Peel, “which is a one-minute treatment that combines glycolic and salicylic acid, [to] help exfoliate and improve skin texture.”

Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules

$95

AMAZON

M-61

PowerGlow Peel

$32

AMAZON

Step Five: Lastly, Engelman locks in moisture with a night cream. Skinbetter Science’s Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment is just the ticket for its gel-like consistency and featured three types of hyaluronic acid. “The time-release HA helps keep my skin feeling hydrated all night long and I wake up with softer, smoother skin in the morning.”

SkinBetter Science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment

$130

SKINBETTER

Step Six: “I’ll often finish with the Lanolips Superbalm, especially right now in the winter when it’s extra dry, to keep my lips moisturized overnight,” she says of the lanolin-rich multipurpose hydrator.

Lanolips The Original 101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm

$17

ULTA

$17

TARGET

Step Seven: “On wash nights, I like to use the NatureLab Tokyo Scalp Scrub, which doubles as a scalp scrub and a lathering shampoo,” she details. “It gently exfoliates with sugar crystals (instead of the traditional salt crystals), so it’s very gentle and color safe.”

NatureLab Tokyo Perfect Shine Clarifying Scalp Scrub

$19

AMAZON

More to Know: High-tech beauty tools are part of Engelman’s at-home regimen, too, pointing out three devices as her top picks. There is Medicube Age-R Booster-H, a glow-boosting tool she uses for five minutes each night. She’s also a fan of the Lyma Laser, which she describes as “a powerful at-home device that addresses anti-aging, wrinkles, skin elasticity, skin texture, and skin tone.” (Each morning, Engelman also takes Lyma’s daily supplement that’s engineered to improve one’s sleep, complexion, mood, and stress levels through ingredients like ashwahgandha root extract, plant-based vitamin D, and soluble keratin.) Conversely, if she’s low on time, she might put on HigherDose’s silicone LED face mask, which combines red and near-infrared light to rejuvenate skin and quell inflammation in one 10-minute treatment.

Medicube Age-R Booster-H

$299 $230

AMAZON

Higherdose

Red Light Face Mask

$349

AMAZON

Lyma Laser

$2,695

VIOLET GREY

Lyma Supplement Starter Kit

$269

VIOLET GREY

Best Skin-Care Routine for Acne-Prone Skin

Dr. Corey L. Hartman

Skin Type: “My skin is oily and acne-prone, so I really must watch what I use on it and stay away from oils and heavy creams,” Hartman explains.

Morning

Step One: “I start by applying the Cyspera Intensive Pigment Corrector for 15 minutes before I shower, and then cleanse my face with either SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel or La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser,” he says. Both face washes are powered by exfoliating acids to remove excess oils and decongest pores, particularly on breakout-prone skin.

SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel

$42

SKINCEUTICALS

La Roche-Posay

Effaclar Medicated Gel Facial Cleanser

$17

AMAZON

Step Two: For Hartman, specialized treatments are next. The SkinMedica Brightening Treatment Pads are enriched with glycolic acid (a well-known alpha hydroxy acid), witch hazel, lotus sprout extract, tranexamic acid, and niaconamide to slough away dead skin cells, even tone, and smooth skin texture. This is followed by a prescription acne cream, Winlevi, and a few drops of SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF—an oil-free vitamin C serum designed for blemish-prone skin types.

SkinMedica Even & Correct Brightening Treatment Pads

$60

AMAZON

SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF

$182

SKINCEUTICALS

Step Three: Face creams are his third step. Versed Dew Point delivers lightweight moisture thanks to a jelly-like texture enriched with hyaluronic acid, aloe leaf juice, and green tea. “Right before sunscreen, I spot treat and dark spots with SkinMedica Even & Correct Dark Spot Cream,” he details. The spot treatment uses a blend of glycolic acid, retinol, kojic acid, and vitamin C to diminish the appearance of dark spots from acne or sun damage.

Versed

Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream

$15

AMAZON

SkinMedica

Even & Correct Dark Spot Cream

$88

AMAZON

$88

DERMSTORE

Step Four: Sunscreen is last, specifically a La Roche-Posay Anthelios formula known to quell shine or clog pores. “This combination of products works well to address any active acne, prevent future breakouts, and help to even out discoloration left behind by previous acne,” he details. “My skin is appropriately moisturized and protected from the sun without being overly dry or extra shiny or sticky. It helps me to maintain an active regimen to keep breakouts under control.” On choosing the best sunscreen for face, look for an SPF 30 or higher.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60

$20

AMAZON

Night

Step One: Hartman starts his nighttime routine with Neutrogena’s Hydroboost cleanser. The lightweight gel formula is powered by hyaluronic acid to nourish skin while sloughing away dirt, oil, and buildup. Not to mention, its non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic for sensitive skin types.

Neutrogena Hydroboost Hydrating Facial Cleansing Gel

$9

AMAZON

Step Two: Similar to his daytime regimen, a serum duo is next. He pairs Skinbetter’s retinoid and AHA-powered serum with Paula’s Choice’s formula enriched with retinoid, niacinamide, and hexylresorcinol (an acclaimed skin-brightening ingredient). Sometimes, this is supplemented by SkinMedica’s aforementioned spot treatment. “This combination of products works well to address any active acne, prevent future breakouts, and help to even out discoloration left behind by previous acne,” Hartman says. “My skin is appropriately moisturized and protected from the sun without being overly dry, or extra shiny or sticky. It helps me to maintain an active regimen that keeps breakouts under control.”

SkinBetter AlphaRet Clearing Serum

$135

SKINBETTER

Paula’s Choice Triple Active Total Repair Serum

$48

PAULA’S CHOICE

Step Three: “I apply Revision D.E.J. Daily Boosting Serum as the last step at night,” he says. Designed to energize fatigued skin and strengthen the skin barrier, this serum promotes a soft, hydrated, supple complexion through a complex antioxidant blend.

Revision Skincare D·E·J Daily Boosting Serum

$225

DERMSTORE

More to Know: For the most part, Hartman follows this routine each day—only toggling his cleansers in the morning to address any immediate needs and quickly deal with active breakouts. “But I do add either Hyper Even Fade and Glow Mask and/or Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial one to two times per week to help control oil production and add another layer of skin tone evening,” he continues. Otherwise, the dermatologist supplements his routine with the “Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Mask a few times a week, as well as in-office chemical peels, Hydrafacials, and SkinPen microneedling, which [he] cycles every four to six weeks rotating.”

Hyper Skin

Fade and Glow AHA Mask

$48

NORDSTROM

Drunk Elephant

T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial AHA + BHA Mask

$80

SEPHORA

Best Skin-Care Routine for Hyperpigmentation

Dr. Nkem Ugonabo

Skin Type: “I would describe myself as having combination skin that is prone to hyperpigmentation,” says Ugonabo.

Morning

Step One: “The first thing I do [in the morning] is use a cleanser, typically one that has some sort of active ingredient in it,” Ugonabo explains, citing these picks by Replenix and SkinMedica as current favorites. “Both products have very gentle exfoliating acids that help me control my oily T-zone and also provide cell turnover on my skin, which is helpful for discoloration from prior acne, for example.”

SkinMedica

AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

$48

AMAZON

$48

DERMSTORE

Replenix

Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Cleanser

$38

AMAZON

$39

DERMSTORE

Step Two: “I typically follow with my vitamin C serum, which I love for providing extra protection, underneath my sunscreen against free radicals in the environment,” she continues. “It also has a brightening effect on the skin and helps give the skin an overall ‘glow’.” Like many other dermatologists we speak with, she gives the Vogue Verified SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic her stamp of approval.

SkinCeuticals

C E Ferulic

$182

SKINCEUTICALS

Step Three: Now it’s time to lock in hydration with “a lightweight moisturizer such as Obagi Hydrate” that, she says, leaves her skin feeling soft and moisturized, without clogging pores.

Obagi Medical

Hydrate Facial Moisturizer

$58

AMAZON

Step Four: “Finally and most importantly, I always apply a tinted sunscreen with at least SPF 50 protection,” she says. “I use a tinted sunscreen in particular because it provides extra protection for hyperpigmentation, which I am very prone to.” Isdin's Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Tinted Mineral SPF 50 is her current go-to.

Isdin

Eryfotona Ageless Ultralight Tinted Mineral SPF 50

$75

AMAZON

$75

DERMSTORE

Night

Step One: Removing all traces of makeup and sunscreen is top priority at night for Ugonabo. “Double cleansing (with an oil-based cleanser first) is a great way to do this,” she details. “I start with La Roche-Posay’s Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil followed by RoC SkinCare Barrier Renew Gel-to-Foam Cleanser—both of which are gentle formulas that work great together for removing all my makeup/SPF, while also adding moisture back into my skin.”

La Roche-Posay

Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil

$18 $14

AMAZON

$75

DERMSTORE

RoC

Barrier Renew Gel-to-Foam Cleanser

$13

AMAZON

Step Two: Next up is a retinol treatment. Though she uses a prescription retinoid (Tazarotene 0.045% lotion, currently), she cites SkinBetter's AlphaRet serum as an excellent alternative. “Retinoids are great because they not only help with acne but also help improve skin texture, uneven skin tone, and help boost collagen production over time,” she says.

Skinbetter

AlphaRet Clearing Serum

$140

SKINBETTER

Step Three: With retinol in place, it's time to treat les yeux. “Next, I will sometimes use an eye cream, particularly when I notice puffiness underneath my eyes,” she explains. “I am currently using Clinique's Smart Clinical Repair Eye Cream.”

Clinique

Smart Clinical Repair Eye Cream

$59

NORDSTROM

$65

ULTA

Step Four: Last on the agenda is moisturizer, “which helps mitigate any drying effects/irritation from my retinoid.” For this, she turns to her daily face moisturizer—Obagi's shea and mango butter-enriched salve.

Obagi Medical

Hydrate Facial Moisturizer

$58

AMAZON

More to Know: Her daily regimen aside, Ugonabo is also keen on weekly exfoliation. “Currently, I am using Neova's Intensive Retinol Spray with AHA/BHA (which, in addition to retinol, contains glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid to help provide cell turnover and also helps with blemishes),” she says. “It is strong, though, so I only do so once per week and skip my normal retinoid when doing so.” Otherwise, lip treatments are of equal importance. “I also make sure to hydrate lips, which helps prevent dry, cracking lips, especially in the winter months,” the derm names Avène's restorative lip cream and CeraVe's Healing Ointment as excellent formulas.

Neova

Intensive Retinol Spray

$68

ECOSMETICS

CeraVe

Healing Ointment

$15 $10

AMAZON

Best Skin-Care Routine for Oily Skin

Dr. Karen Kagha

Skin Type: “I am naturally more oily, acne-prone,” Kagha explains. “With my skin type, mild hyperpigmentation can arise.”

Morning

Step One: “In the morning, I use a gentle wash. Depending on how my skin is doing, I alternate between CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser, Senté Exfoliating Cleanser, and Revision Skincare Brightening Facial Wash.” Senté and Revision Skincare’s formulas are powered by exfoliating acids to brighten and slough away impurities, and CeraVe’s is infused with benzoyl peroxide to remove excess dirt and oil and prevent new breakouts.

CeraVe

Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser

$18

AMAZON

$19

ULTA

Revision Skincare Brightening Facial Wash

$44

DERMSTORE

Step Two: “Then, I apply a vitamin C serum; I’m currently using SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF.” Formulated with oily and acne-prone skin in mind, this serum features a cocktail of silymarin (milk thistle extract), L-ascorbic acid, and ferulic and salicylic acid to reduce oiliness, breakouts, and skin texture.

SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF

$182

SKINCEUTICALS

Step Three: Next is moisturizer, which at the moment is the Alastin Ultra Nourishing Moisturizer. This is packed with linoleic acid, oat kernel, and silver mushroom to soothe and nourish the skin.

Alastin Ultra Nourishing Moisturizer

$72

ALASTIN

Step Four: “Finally, I apply sunscreen. Currently, I am using EltaMD UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44,” Kagha says. The tinted mineral sunscreen provides universal sheer coverage to most skin types, along with protection against UV rays. “For fancier days, if I want more coverage, I may mix a drop of Dermablend Flawless Creator foundation with my sunscreen.”

EltaMD UV Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44

$40

AMAZON

Dermablend Flawless Creator Lightweight Foundation

$42

AMAZON

Night

“At night, I alternate between the same washes mentioned in my morning routine,” she says. “I then use a small pea-size amount of Arazlo 0.045% lotion. Finally, I apply a moisturizer, which is sometimes La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer.” This coveted French pharmacy find is known to be incredibly gentle and nourishing thanks to its featured ceramides, niacinamide, and prebiotic thermal water.

La Roche-Posay

Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

$22

AMAZON

More to Know: “Depending on active breakouts, I do have a prescription benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin lotion that I apply intermittently to problem areas,” Kagha said of what supplements her routine. In light of her specialties in aesthetics and lasers, she often treats her diverse clientele and her own skin with this approach. “One of the most common complaints of my personal skin type is hyperpigmentation,” she notes. “For this, I enjoy combining other less frequent in-office options, including non-ablative fractional lasers and chemical peels for more stubborn areas. I always encourage patients to take a more preventative approach and begin caring for their skin early for better results.”

Best Skin-Care Routine for Dry Skin

Dr. Whitney Bowe

Skin Type: “My skin is sensitive, dry, and I am prone to occasional breakouts,” Bowe says.

Morning

“My morning skin-care routine is consistent and streamlined—I do not skin cycle in the morning,” Bowe explains. “My goal is to protect my skin from the daily stressors that can generate free radicals, like ultraviolet rays and pollution.”

Step One: “Cleanse using a gentle cleanser and warm (not hot) water,” she advises. “One of my long-time favorites is La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Gentle Hydrating Cleanser, which is milky and leaves my skin feeling hydrated and nourished, not stripped and tight.”

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

$17

AMAZON

$19

TARGET

Step Two: Next up, vitamin C serum. “I’ve been using SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF because their CE Ferulic tends to break me out, but I’m really excited about the newer, more stable vitamin C derivatives like tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate because we know that L-ascorbic acid, the more traditional form of vitamin C, is highly unstable.”

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF

$182

SKINCEUTICALS

Step Three: “I moisturize using Bowe Glowe Microbiome Nourishing Cream, which was clinically tested using an instrument called a Tewameter to measure TEWL, or transepidermal water loss, meaning how much water is evaporating from the surface of the skin,” she says. “It’s powered by a proprietary blend of deeply hydrating and restorative ingredients including prebiotics, postbiotics, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and squalane.”

Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty Bowe Glowe Microbiome Nourishing Cream

$95

DR. WHITNEY BOWE BEAUTY

Step Four: For sun protection, she reaches for Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics Sunscreen, a lightweight K-beauty cream powered by rice extract and grain fermented extracts to be ultra moisturizing. Otherwise, she likes Supergoop!’s Glowscreen for a dewy and sun-kissed glow.

Beauty of Joseon

Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics Sunscreen

$18

BEAUTY OF JOSEON

Supergoop!

Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40

$38

NORDSTROM

$38

AMAZON

Step Five: “The last and final step of my morning routine is drinking my Bowe Growe,” she says. The elixir targets inner skin care—what she considers the missing layer of your skin-care routine. “Bowe Growe is a vegan elixir made with a blend of polyphenols which are powerful plant-based nutrients that help rebalance your gut microbiome and support healthy skin from the inside out. I treat the skin from the inside out and from the outside in as part of my three-dimensional approach to skin health, and although I eat an incredibly healthy diet, I also believe in smart, strategic supplementation.” Bowe drinks one to three drops of the elixir in four ounces of water once per day.

Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty Bowe Growe Pomegranate Microbiome Water-Enhancing Elixir

$49

DR. WHITNEY BOWE BEAUTY

Night

“My nighttime routine, called skin cycling, has gone viral on social media in the past few weeks,” Bowe explains of her approach to a balanced nighttime regimen. “I introduced skin cycling as a less-is-more approach, being thoughtful and deliberate about your skin-care routine. Rather than adding more products on top of one another, skin cycling encourages you to use products in a strategic way to complement one another and set you up for success while dialing down unnecessary irritation.” Her skin cycling routine consists of four nights, then repeats: exfoliation, retinoid, then recovery.

Night One, Exfoliation: “I reach for chemical exfoliating products over harsh physical scrubs. This type of exfoliation gives your skin an immediate glow, but also preps you to get the most out of night 2, retinoid night,” she explains. “On top of your exfoliating product, you want to apply a fragrance-free moisturizer that specifically rebalances the skin microbiome and repairs the skin barrier, but you [also] don’t want to use a product that is too heavy or greasy because that can drive the exfoliating acid into the skin unpredictably and create unnecessary irritation.” For the same reason, Bowe cautions against using Vaseline or occlusive oils (like coconut oil) on exfoliation nights as the skin is more vulnerable. “Bowe Glowe moisturizing cream is an ideal final step on exfoliation night, after any tingling sensation from the exfoliating serum subsides.”

Night Two, Retinoid: “One of my favorite retinol products (I have sensitive skin) is Dermalogica’s Overnight Retinol Repair,” she says. The retinol treatment is also infused with peptides, amino acids, vitamin C, and ceramides to target fine lines and improve firmness. Then, she’ll lock in moisture with her Bowe Glow Cream. “It boosts hydration and repairs the barrier with nourishing ingredients like squalane, ceramides, and sunflower seed oil without creating that heavy, occlusive effect that you want to make sure to avoid on retinoid nights.”

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair

$92

DERMALOGICA

Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty Bowe Glowe Microbiome Nourishing Cream

$95

DR. WHITNEY BOWE BEAUTY

For very sensitive skin, Bowe would recommend applying the moisturizer first to act as a buffer, allowing your skin to adapt to your retinoid. “If your skin still feels tight or dry after applying your retinoid, you can apply another layer of your moisturizer on top.” She calls this a “sandwich technique.”

Nights Three and Four, Recovery: “On my recovery nights, I skip active ingredients like exfoliating serums or retinoids,” she says. “For me, recovery nights are all about hydration and repairing the skin barrier.” Here, she’ll again reach for the Bowe Glow Cream to rebalance the skin microbiome and boost hydration. “I use this cycle, in this order, to allow my skin to experience the benefits of these actives while minimizing irritation for optimal results.”

More to Know: “I use a silk sleep mask over my eyes at bedtime to block out light and help me sleep more soundly throughout the night,” she says. “Beauty sleep is real, and getting quality, deep, restorative sleep each night is critical when it comes to maintaining the health of my skin.”

Slip Silk Sleep Mask

$50

NORDSTROM

Best Skin-Care Routine for Combination Skin

Dr. Robera Del Campo

Skin Type: “I am combination skin with a predisposition for melasma,” says Del Campo.

Morning

Step One: A thoughtful cleanse is Del Campo's first step each morning; specifically, her label's Skinprep formula which she notes can be used on even sensitive skin types. “This ultra-gentle foaming cleanser prepares the skin for the maximum effectiveness of skin-care products,” she says.

Dr. Roberta Skincare

SkinPrep Foaming Cleanser

$65

DR. ROBERTA SKINCARE

Step Two: Next is wiping her face, neck, and chest with the Dr. Roberta Skin Science Revitalize Pads. “The pads contain mandelic acid and niacinamide ,which are a powerhouse exfoliators for even the most sensitive skin types,” she explains, continuing that skin appears radiant immediately after use. Overtime, one can expect improved skin texture and tone.

Dr. Roberta Skincare

Revitalize Pads

$70

DR. ROBERTA SKINCARE

Step Three: A nourishing face serum is next. “[My Daily Vitamin Serum] is a potent but non-irritating daily antioxidant serum containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid to help combat free radicals and air pollution,” she says. “It helps to boost sunscreen effectiveness and [diminish] skin discoloration.”

Dr. Roberta Skincare

Daily Vitamin Serum

$160

DR. ROBERTA SKINCARE

Step Four: Last up is sunscreen, of course. Her brand's Silk SheerScreen 100% mineral SPF is her UV protectant of choice. “The product is completely clear when applied to the skin and does not leave any residue, so it can be layered under or on top of other products and makeup.”

Dr. Roberta Skincare

Silk SheerScreen

$60

DR. ROBERTA SKINCARE

Night

Step One: Del Campo's nighttime routine begins the same way as her morning regimen—with her foaming cleanser. “It removes dirt, oil, and makeup thoroughly without stripping the skin," she says. "No residue is left leaving a clean canvas for skin care products and makeup.”

Dr. Roberta Skincare

SkinPrep Foaming Cleanser

$65

DR. ROBERTA SKINCARE

Step Two: “These pads are a gamechanger for anyone with an uneven skin tone,” she says of her ColorBlend Brightening Pads which she uses after cleansing. Each pad is drenched in arbutin, salicylic, kojic, and ascorbic acid, to unclog pores, reduce surface oils, and diminish discoloration. “With my history of melasma I use this nightly to combat new pigmentation and keep my skin glowing,” she says. “I use them my on face, neck, chest, and hands.”

Dr. Roberta Skincare

ColorBlend Brightening Pads

$200

DR. ROBERTA SKINCARE

Step Three: “I love the Neocutis Bio Serum Firm as a collagen and elastin booster,” she says.  “When used nightly, it helps to strengthen and tighten skin due to its human derived growth factors and peptides.  It’s a serum base so easy to layer and absorbs quickly.”

Neocutis

Bio Serum Firm

$275

AMAZON

$275

DERMSTORE

Step Four: As someone with combination skin, she prefers a hydrating, but lightweight moisturizer that's easy to layer, like her NiaHydrate lotion. “[This] contains 5% niacinamide to strengthen the skin and lipids to plump, hydrate, and smooth your complexion.”

Dr. Roberta Skincare

NiaHydrate

$95

DR. ROBERTA SKINCARE

Step Five: Last up every night before bed is eye cream. “[EyeSPNX is] full of peptides to strengthen the skin and improve elasticity, so it tightens and firms the area.”

Dr. Roberta Skincare

EyeSPNX

$85

DR. ROBERTA SKINCARE

Step Six: “I use a gua sha on my face (but I avoid my eye area as it is a very sensitive area for me) several times a week,” she says. “I tend to need it most on Mondays after a weekend of having fun; this helps to remove some of the puffiness I may have accrued from a weekend of indulgence.”

Mount Lai

Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool

$40

SEPHORA

Sunday

Step One: “Also, I use Sundays as my ‘spa day,’” she says. “Every Sunday evening I wash my face, followed by Valmont’s Purify Face Exfoliant which is my favorite scrub because its made of fine particles; so it is gentle yet does the job!”

Valmont

Purity Face Exfoliant

$110

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

Step Two: "Then, I apply Babor’s Power Serum Ampoules and its Lifting Rx Silver Foil sheet mask to really hydrate and plump the skin," she explains, thanks in large part to potent levels of hyaluronic acid that lead both formulas.

Babor

Power Serum Ampoules Hyaluronic Acid

$60

AMAZON

Babor

Lifting Rx Silver Foil Face Mask

$65

AMAZON

Step Three: Following her skin T.L.C. is hair care. “Next, I apply Valmont’s Recovering Hair Mask which I leave on overnigh,” Del Campo explains. The reparative mask transforms damaged, dry hair via a nourishing blend of ceramides, keratin, glacial spring water, liposome RNA, and triple DNA.

Valmont

Recovering Hair Mask

$160

AMAZON

Step Four: She isn't set until she puts her hair up with a silk scrunchie and switch her typical silk pillowcase for a cotton one “so I don’t ruin it with the hair mask.”

Slip

Silk Scrunchies

$39

AMAZON

Best Skin-Care Routine for Sensitive Skin

Dr. Jessica Wu

Skin Type: “I have oily skin that’s sensitive, with occasional eczema rashes,” Wu says.

Morning

Step One: Wu’s first step is “Garnier’s Water Rose Micellar Cleansing water to gently remove oil and prepare for makeup.” You might be surprised that her regimen doesn’t begin with a traditional cleanser, but there are well-known merits to a micellar water or floral toner.

Garnier

SkinActive Water Rose Micellar Cleansing Water

$12

AMAZON

$12

ULTA

Step Two: “[Next I] use the Avene Hydrance Light Emulsion to soothe any dry patches,” she continues. “It’s a light emulsion, so it hydrates but won’t clog pores or make me shiny.” The formula uses conditioning agents (thermal spring water, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and lipids) for a host of good-for-skin benefits, like absorbing excess oils, preventing water loss from the skin, and alleviating skin discomfort.

Avène

Hydrance Light Hydrating Emulsion

$40

AVENE

$40

AMAZON

Step Three: To round out her skin-care routine, she reaches for her Dr Jessica Wu Cosmeceuticals AntiAging SunCare SPF 32," which features “zinc oxide to protect against UVA and UVB rays”—essential year-round in sunny Los Angeles. With skin prepped, she’s ready for makeup wear. Her foundation of choice? Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk, of course.

Dr. Jessica Wu

AntiAging SunCare SPF 32

$75

DR. JESSICA WU COSMECEUTICALS

Night

Step One: Wu’s nighttime regimen begins in a similar fashion to her AM one—with micellar water; this time, Garnier’s SkinActive elixir, which she says “really does remove waterproof eye and lip color.” It’s as simple as dousing a cotton pad with the liquid, and wiping away all traces.

Garnier

SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water

$8

AMAZON

$12

ULTA

Step Two, Option A: Once all traces of makeup is gone, Wu heads into active-packed treatments. On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, she opts for “prescription strength tretinoin 0.05% all over the face and neck, including under-eyes.” (Remember: tretinoin is a potent topical retinoid, also known as Retin-A.)

Step Two, Option B: On other nights, her treatment of choice is the "Sente Cysteamine Pigment & Tone Corrector to control a few sun spots on my cheeks." Its skin-evening benefits are achieved via two active ingredients: Heparan Sulfate Analog and Cysteamine HC, to address pigmentation concerns in 8-16 weeks.

Senté

Cysteamine HSA Pigment & Tone Corrector

$149

DERMSTORE

Step Three: Avene’s Hydrance Light Emulsion is Wu’s moisturizer of choice at night too, along with the SkinFix Eczema + Balm on any eczema patches. Whipped into a rich, emollient cream, colloidal oatmeal, sweet almond oil, ceramides, and a host of other nourishing ingredients come together to relieve dryness and itchiness (like, eczema, rashes, or dermatitis) in an instant.

Avène

Hydrance Light Hydrating Emulsion

$40

AVENE

$40

AMAZON

Skinfix

Eczema+ Dermatitis Face Balm

$29

SEPHORA

Step Three: Last on Wu’s list is eye cream, her label’s White Peony Eye Contour, “which hydrates without causing milia cysts under the eyes.”

Dr. Jessica Wu

White Peony Eye Cream

$135

DR. JESSICA WU COSMECEUTICALS

More to Know: “I’m a minimalist because I have eczema, so I have to be selective with my products,” Wu explains on her routine which is notably free of the serums and elixirs you might expect a skin expert to use. “I do recommend a vitamin C serum in the AM to my patients, & occasionally use one myself, but often it makes my eczema flare when combined with my nighttime retinoid.”

She does, however, appreciate the Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Calming Serum Mask when her eczema is flaring up. “[It] contains centella asiatica (also called tiger grass) and niacinamide to calm inflamed skin,” she says. “I also like to use this whenever I fly or if I’ve been outside in traffic – to fight against free radicals in dry air.”

Dr. Jart+

Cicapair Tiger Grass Calming Serum Mask

$9

SEPHORA

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60+ skincare, makeup, hair, and fragrance picks.

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