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Thankfully, we consulted a slew of dermatologists and skin experts to share their picks for the best skincare products every collection should have. From drugstore favorites to medical-grade serums and moisturizers, these skincare products are worthy of your attention and your coins. Ahead, scroll down to find the 23 best skincare products derms can’t live without.
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1
A Tinted Sunscreen
Isdin Eryfotona Ageless
1
A Tinted Sunscreen
Isdin Eryfotona Ageless
Pros
- Lightweight and absorbs easily
Cons
- May leave a cast on darker skin tones
No skincare routine is complete without sunscreen. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Divya Shokeen frequently calls upon this tinted version from Isdin because of how flattering it is on most skin tones. “This tinted SPF is perfect for literally every single skin type; it is very hydrating and perfect for anyone looking for the no-makeup makeup glow,” she explains.
The mineral sunscreen is formulated with skin-loving ingredients, including peptides, vitamin E, and Q10—an enzyme that works against fine lines and wrinkles—to protect the skin against the sun and other skin stressors.
Isdin rating: 4.7/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Zinc oxide, Q10, vitamin E |
|---|---|
| Size | 3.4 fl oz |
| Blob | undefined |
2
A Sunscreen With Blue Light Protection
Oath MD Inzincable Sunscreen
2
A Sunscreen With Blue Light Protection
Oath MD Inzincable Sunscreen
Pros
- Protects skin from blue light-emitting devices
Cons
- Pump can get stuck
An advocate for sunscreen (for obvious reasons), Dr. Shokeen’s sun protection lineup also includes Oath MD’s Inzincable Sunscreen, which is “a broad spectrum SPF 50 [that’s] completely mineral, with blue light protection and leaves no white cast—it is almost too good to be true,” she gushes.
While most sunscreens can feel thick or sticky, the Inzincable sunscreen is weightless and dries down without any residue.
Oath MD rating: 4.5/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Zinc oxide |
|---|---|
| Size | 3.3 fl oz |
3
A Multitasking Sunscreen
iS Clinical Extreme Protect SPF 30
3
A Multitasking Sunscreen
iS Clinical Extreme Protect SPF 30
Pros
- Doubles as a moisturizer
Cons
- Can feel greasy
“People are always shocked to hear this, but if I could only have one product for the rest of my life, this sunscreen would be it,” says Candace Marino, a Los Angeles-based medical aesthetician and founder of The LA Facialist. The IS Clinical sunscreen is a mainstay in Marino’s collection for its “multitasking, anti-aging” properties. “Not only does it contain both physical and chemical sunscreens to thoroughly protect the skin, but it’s also packed with antioxidants to protect the cells and fight free radicals that enter the skin from the environmental aggressors like UV rays, pollution, and blue light,” she explains. Speaking of multitasking, this sunscreen also offers nourishment and can be used as a moisturizer.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Zinc oxide, centella asiatica, olive leaf |
|---|---|
| Size | 3.5 fl oz |
4
An All-Purpose Red Light Therapy Device
Vital Red Light Vital PRO
4
An All-Purpose Red Light Therapy Device
Vital Red Light Vital PRO
Pros
- Skincare and body care benefits
Cons
- Pricey
If your skincare routine is missing a red light therapy device, the Vital Pro deserves your attention. According to Marino, this is the device that helped transform her skin. “By now, a lot of us have experienced the magic of red light therapy for our complexions; it’s incredibly anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and healing all while stimulating collagen production,” she adds. This device provides skincare benefits, and Marino says it’s also improved her overall quality of life. “Using the Vital red light has improved my life by helping me achieve better sleep, making me more energized, and speeding up recovery from sports injuries and sore muscles from working out. This light is powerful, and third-party tested for efficacy which puts it in a league of its own amongst the LED lights available on the market,” she says.
Vital Red Light rating: 4.9/5 stars
| Wavelengths | Red (630, 660nm) & NIR (810, 850nm) |
|---|
5
A Warming Cleanser
iS Clinical Warming Honey Cleanser
5
A Warming Cleanser
iS Clinical Warming Honey Cleanser
Pros
- Anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial
Cons
- Can leave a film on the skin
A warming cleanser might be the one thing you’ve been missing out on. Marino is a major fan of this cleanser because of its main ingredient: honey.
“It’s made of real honey, an ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-microbial properties. It’s also a humectant that helps bind moisture to the skin,” Marino explains. Even better, this cleanser actually warms up when rubbed into the skin, and “provides gentle enzymatic exfoliation and warrants a polished, healthy glow.”
Dermstore rating: 4.47
| Key ingredients | Hoeny, papaya enzymes |
|---|---|
| Size | 4 fl oz |
6
A Hydrating Tinted Sunscreen
AziMD Skincare Hydratint BB SPF 44
6
A Hydrating Tinted Sunscreen
AziMD Skincare Hydratint BB SPF 44
Pros
- Lightweight formula
Cons
- Could be more moisturizing
When a product can provide multiple benefits that cut your beauty stash in half, it’s a win in our book. Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD Skincare, recommends this Hydratint from her brand, as it’s a mineral sunscreen that has a “lightweight yet hydrating formula that also gives me light coverage. I stopped wearing foundation as this gives my skin a dewy filter-like appearance,” Dr. Shirazi notes.
AziMD rating: 4.8/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid |
|---|---|
| Size | 2.1 fl oz |
7
A Retinol Alternative
Caudalie Caudalie Resveratrol-Lift Instant Firming Serum (1 fl. oz.)
7
A Retinol Alternative
Caudalie Caudalie Resveratrol-Lift Instant Firming Serum (1 fl. oz.)
Pros
- Plumps and firms skin
Cons
- May not be suited for sensitive skin
“I have a love affair with Resveratrol, which is a patented complex in this product,” Dr. Shirazi adds. Resveratrol addresses sagging skin, but firming and lifting, as hyaluronic acid provides hydration. “This is a great gentle option particularly if your skin can’t tolerate retinols. Backed by Harvard scientists and research, it’s available in a nourishing serum and cream,” she offers.
| Key ingredients | Resveratrol, hyaluronic acid |
|---|---|
| Size | 1 fl oz |
8
A Hydrating Essence
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
8
A Hydrating Essence
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence
Pros
- Restores hydration to the skin
Cons
- Pricey
When your routine is full of actives, it’s important to restore moisture whenever you can. Enter: SK-II’s Facial Treatment Essense. The treatment is “a hydrating essence that’s rich in antioxidants [and I] apply it to my damp skin under my moisturizer then SPF. It’s my go-to product right after cleansing when my skin isn’t in the mood to tolerate actives like vitamin C or exfoliants,” Dr. Shirazi explains.
| Key ingredients | Pitera |
|---|---|
| Size | 2.5 fl oz |
9
An Exfoliating Body Spray
AziMD Skincare THE ONE
9
An Exfoliating Body Spray
AziMD Skincare THE ONE
Pros
- Contains powerful exfoliants glycolic and salicylic acid
Cons
- May not be suited for sensitive skin
Textured skin is no match for this multi-tasking body spray, formulated with glycolic and salicylic acid—two exfoliants that improve skin texture and appearance. Dr. Shirazi uses the spray “on the legs and arms, breakouts, razor bumps, and ingrown hairs; it smooths out rough dark elbows and knees, hyperpigmentation, and thick heels. My patients love it for back and butt acne,” she says.
| Key ingredients | Glycolic acid; salicylic acid |
|---|---|
| Size | 3 fl oz |
10
A Buildable Serum
Alumier MD EverActive C&E™ + Peptide
10
A Buildable Serum
Alumier MD EverActive C&E™ + Peptide
Pros
- Vitamin C capsules remain active
Cons
- Can be too strong for sensitive skin
“This potent antioxidant serum features 15 percent vitamin C to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Unique to this product is that it is only activated when mixed into the bottle of serum to maximize freshness,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marina Peredo explains. The vitamin C is housed in a separate cap to prevent oxidization, so you only use what you actually need instead of wasting the product.
| Key ingredients | Vitamin C and E |
|---|---|
| Size | 0.5 fl oz/ each |
11
An Overnight Worker
Kiehl’s Since 1851 Midnight Recovery Concentrate Face Oil
11
An Overnight Worker
Kiehl’s Since 1851 Midnight Recovery Concentrate Face Oil
Now 15% Off
Pros
- Strengthens skin barrier and radiance
Cons
- Scented
“One of my all-time favorite products from them is the Midnight Recovery Concentrate. It contains a blend of essential oils that work together to hydrate and restore the skin overnight,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry gushes. Formulated with squalane, lavender, and evening primrose, this oil works overnight to boost the skin’s appearance and texture as you catch Zzz. “I have noticed a significant improvement in the overall texture and radiance of my complexion since I started using this oil. Plus, it has a lovely lavender scent that helps me relax before bed,” says Dr. Henry.
Nordstrom rating: 4.6/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Squalane, evening primrose |
|---|---|
| Size | 0.5 fl oz |
12
A Daily Moisturizer
Kiehl’s Since 1851 Ultra Facial Cream
12
A Daily Moisturizer
Kiehl’s Since 1851 Ultra Facial Cream
Pros
- Boosts hydration
Cons
- No pump applicator
Dr. Michelle Henry’s desert island must-have is this moisturizer from Kiehl’s, which she loves for its “lightweight yet incredibly hydrating” formula. The moisturizer also “absorbs quickly into the skin and leaves my face feeling plump and soft. I also love that it comes in a large tub, which lasts for months and makes it a great value for the price,” she says.
ELLE.com beauty commerce editor Nerisha Penrose also swears by this “magic recovery cream for my easily irritated skin. Whenever my skin is dry from too many actives, or could use an extra blanket of moisture, I reach for my ever-reliable facial cream to whip my skin back into shape.”
Ulta rating: 4.7/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Squalane |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.7 fl oz |
13
A Soothing Daily Moisturizer
L’Oreal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care Oil-Free Face Moisturizer
13
A Soothing Daily Moisturizer
L’Oreal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care Oil-Free Face Moisturizer
Pros
- Affordable
Cons
- Product can get stuck in the pump
Dr. Henry’s collection also includes this super hydrating moisturizer from L’oreal Paris. “Hydra Genius Liquid Moisturizer is lightweight formula perfect for those who want the hydration of cream without the heaviness. Plus, it has a cooling effect that feels amazing on hot summer days,” she adds.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, aloe water |
|---|---|
| Size | 3.04 fl oz |
14
A Potent Anti-Aging Serum
SkinMedica SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
14
A Potent Anti-Aging Serum
SkinMedica SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Pros
- Works to reduce wrinkles
Cons
- Pricey
Here’s a medical-grade serum that targets anti-aging threats like wrinkles and fine lines. “[It’s] a lightweight, anti-aging serum that contains a perfect blend of patented topical growth factors: peptides, botanicals, and marine extracts. It improves fine lines and wrinkles and skin elasticity, and it is ideal for all skin types. It is pricey, but it is worth the money,” Dr. Peredo shares.
Dermstore rating: 4.52/5 stars
| Key ingredients | TNS®-MR (peptide complex) |
|---|---|
| Size | 1 fl oz |
15
An Effective Moisturizer for Mature Skin
Restorative Skin Complex Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex Technology®
15
An Effective Moisturizer for Mature Skin
Restorative Skin Complex Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex Technology®
Pros
- Improves dullness and uneven tone
Cons
- Takes time to see results
You can never have too many moisturizers, especially ones that target anti-aging and improving the skin’s overall health. Dr. Peredo suggests the Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex Technology™ or the HydraTint sunblock, as “they work synergistically to combat all visible signs of aging around the face, eyes, neck, and décolleté. The products help volumize and lift sagging skin while smoothing lines and wrinkles. Plus, the TriHex Technology™ helps rebuild and recycle the skin’s extracellular matrix (ECM) by clearing out byproducts of aging from exposure to sun and pollution,” Dr. Peredo explains.
Dr. Shokeen agrees: “This skin complex is perfect for anyone looking to have long-term collagen enhancement and improve the quality of their skin over time. It has a combination of several different peptides, including hexapeptide, to even help maintain the effects of neurotoxin longer.”
Alastin rating; 4.7/5 stars
| Key ingredients | TriHex technology; niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Size | 1 fl oz |
16
A Repairing Serum
RescueMD DNA Repair Complex Scar Treatment Serum
16
A Repairing Serum
RescueMD DNA Repair Complex Scar Treatment Serum
Pros
- Helps fade scars
Cons
- Takes some time to see results
As the name suggests, this Rescue MD serum works as the magic elixir for a slew of skin woes. “This multitasking serum uses a blend of lapachol, antioxidants, peptides, and anti-inflammatory ingredients to support the skin’s natural healing process, making it a great option for scars and bites, post-procedure, and overall signs of skin aging,” Dr. Marisa Garshick, board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at Cornell University notes.
Amazon rating: 3.9/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Lapachol, antioxidants |
|---|---|
| Size | 0.5 fl oz |
17
A Set of Exfoliating Peeling Pads
Skinbetter AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads 30 ct
17
A Set of Exfoliating Peeling Pads
Skinbetter AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads 30 ct
Pros
- Sloughs away dead skin and smooths texture
Cons
- Will need to re-purchase frequently
Dr. Garshick reaches for these peeling pads whenever her skin is in need of a quick glow. “These exfoliating peel pads contain a combination of three key hydroxy acids—lactic acid, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid—in combination with AlphaRet, a proprietary retinoid. It is easy to use and is a great option for those looking for an exfoliant to help brighten the skin and improve the skin tone and texture,” she shares.
| Key ingredients | Glycolic, lactic and salicylic acid |
|---|---|
| Size | 30 ct |
18
An Oil-Free Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, Daily Moisturizer Face Cream with Ceramide and Niacinamide for All Skin Types, Oil Free, Fragrance Free
18
An Oil-Free Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, Daily Moisturizer Face Cream with Ceramide and Niacinamide for All Skin Types, Oil Free, Fragrance Free
Pros
- Repairs the skin barrier
Cons
- Can pill
To understand the world of La Roche-Posay is to familiarize yourself with its different collections, tailored to specific skin needs. The Toleraine line focuses explicitly on repairing sensitive skin with ingredients that restore the barrier and boost moisture. Another favorite of Dr. Garshick, this oil-free moisturizer “contains a combination of ceramides to help strengthen the skin barrier and niacinamide to soothe the skin. This lightweight cream helps to replenish moisture using glycerin and can be used all year. It is a great option for all skin types as it is oil-free and won’t leave the skin feeling greasy,” she explains.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Size | 3.38 fl oz |
19
A Brightening Eye Cream
Colorescience Total Eye Firm & Repair Cream
19
A Brightening Eye Cream
Colorescience Total Eye Firm & Repair Cream
Pros
Cons
- Pricey
The delicate skin around the eyes needs all the nourishment and strength it can get. Reach for this eye cream, which uses Colorsciene’s own Total Eye Complex (pull of peptides, plant extracts, and hyaluronic acid) along with other vitamins and nourishing ingredients to plump and awaken the eyes.
“This hydrating cream uses humectants such as glycerin and sea buckthorn fruit oil, and emollients such as meadowfoam seed oil and squalane to support the skin barrier and improve the overall texture of the undereye skin. It also incorporates the Total Eye Complex, which works to firm the under-eye skin and improve discoloration, as well as caffeine to reduce overall puffiness. It is safe even for those with sensitive skin as it is free of parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrance,” Dr. Garshick explains.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Squalane, caffeine |
|---|---|
| Size | 0.6 fl oz |
20
A Non-Stripping Cleanser
CeraVe CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser | Moisturizing Non-Foaming Face Wash with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides and Glycerin | Fragrance Free Paraben Free | 16 Fluid Ounce
20
A Non-Stripping Cleanser
CeraVe CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser | Moisturizing Non-Foaming Face Wash with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides and Glycerin | Fragrance Free Paraben Free | 16 Fluid Ounce
Pros
- Hyaluronic acid nourishes the skin
Cons
- May need something stronger to remove makeup
Cerave offers affordable yet effective skincare, and this hydrating cleanser is a bestseller for a good reason and one of Dr. Garshick’s favorites. “This cleanser effectively gets rid of dirt and buildup without leaving the skin feeling dry. It contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin as well as ceramides to support and strengthen the skin barrier. It is a great option for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin, as it is fragrance-free,” Dr. Garshick shares.
Even ELLE.com’s beauty commerce editor, Nerisha Penrose, says this cleanser is a must-have in any beauty stash. “It doesn’t lather as much as the cleansers I’m used to, but I’ve realized that just because a cleanser doesn’t lather or leave a squeaky clean feeling doesn’t mean it’s ineffective. My skin feels nourished after each wash, not stripped, and lasts forever. A little goes a long way!” she says.
Amazon rating: 4.7/5 stars
| Key ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, ceramides |
|---|---|
| Size | 16 fl oz |
Beauty Commerce Editor
Nerisha is the beauty commerce editor at ELLE.com, covering all things beauty (and fashion and music). She has a penchant for sneakers and nude lip glosses, and spends way too much time re-watching 90s sitcoms.
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