Many of us rely on dermatologists to tell us what to do with our skin, but how the heck do the experts keep their skin healthy? Every day, they spend hours prescribing topical treatments and offering advice on how to treat acne, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and more, so you know a product is good when they too rely on a formula. To help find the best of the best, we consulted top dermatologists to find out the buys they swear by. Check them out ahead and get ready to shop — because, hey, if they're good enough for the pros . . .
Elta MD SPF 46 UV Clear Acne Sunscreen
"No matter what time of year it is, I always use sunscreen. Combinations of physical and chemical blockers provide good UVA and UVB coverage. Elta MD SPF 46 UV Clear Acne Sunscreen [1] ($33) is a great option, as it's gentle and a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF above 30." — Dermatologist Dr. Michele Farber, MD, of Schwieger Dermatology Group [2]
Obagi Professional-C Serum 20%
"I love the Obagi Professional-C Serum 20% [3] ($115). It is light, is cosmetically elegant, and absorbs so quickly. Super easy to layer and packs a big punch in terms of wrinkle reduction and antiageing." — Dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara [4], MD
SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator
"SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator [5] ($178) is a hyaluronic acid product that plumps the skin and leaves it velvety soft. Whether I'm heading to the grocery store or a gala, I put it on." — Dr. Gohara [6]
Natura Brasil Skin Brightening Exfoliator
"During the Summer months, I increase my exfoliation because my skin becomes oilier and more prone to holding dirt, debris, and pollution. I love Natura Brasil Skin Brightening Exfoliator [7] ($20) and I use it two to three times weekly. It leaves my skin soft and clean, and brightens with glycolic acid." — Dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry [8], MD
PCA Skin HydraLuxe Intensive Hydration
"PCA Skin HydraLuxe Intensive Hydration [9] ($147) is an intense hydrator with a light, fast-absorbing formulation that is totally necessary in the Summer." — Dr. Henry [10]
SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel
"I use SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel [11] ($40) morning and night for soothing my acne-prone skin." — Dermatologist Dr. Marnie Nussbaum [12], MD
CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturising Face Lotion With Sunscreen
"CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturising Face Lotion With Sunscreen [13] ($14) is a super moisturising, invisible sunscreen that is hypoallergenic and safe for even the most sensitive skin types. It is so cosmetically elegant that even on really deep, rich skin tones, it does not leave a white cast." — Dr. Henry [14]
Vaseline Intensive Care Body Lotion
"I hate when my skin feels heavy or greasy, so I prefer light lotions like Vaseline Intensive Care Body Lotion [15] ($14). It has tried and true ingredients in an easy-to-spread lotion formula that doesn't weigh my skin down." — Dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner [16], MD
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Acid
"To protect against the elements, I love antioxidant serums; SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Acid [17] ($166) is gentle and helps brighten." — Dr. Farber
Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash
"The key ingredient in Dove Body Wash [18] ($6) is a gentle cleanser mixed with actual moisturiser — it's the best." — Dr. Gohara
Senté Dermal Repair Cream
"To help tolerate aggressive serums, I opt for a hydrating but noncomedogenic moisturiser like Senté Dermal Repair Cream [19] ($150). Layering the right moisturiser allows your skin to tolerate other active ingredients in the rest of a skincare regimen." — Dr. Farber
NeoStrata Skin Active Triple Firming Neck Cream, 2.8 oz
"I also use NeoStrata Skin Active Triple Firming Neck Cream [20] ($65) every day, twice a day." — Dr. Nussbaum [21]