Ever Wondered What a Dermatologist's Skin-Care Routine Looks Like? We Asked 13 to Find Out

"I cleanse with a mild non-soap cleanser — the Dove Beauty Bar Gentle Exfoliating ($20). I always love the lather that doesn't lift away essential lipids or nutrients from my skin barrier."

"Then, I apply a pea-size amount of a retinoid gel or lotion. I go between over-the-counter Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment ($13) and prescription Tazorac Gel. Retinoids build collagen in the skin, the gel vehicle absorbs excess oils."

"I only use Obagi Professional-C Serum 20% ($127) in the summer both morning and night. I double up on antioxidant in the summer because I'm spending more time outdoors in contact with UV light and the free radicals it produces. Lastly, I put on a light lotion to moisturise."

"I follow this with an antioxidant serum. I am currently loving Skinsei Take Time Off Serum, which is rich in antioxidants and hydrating ingredients and leaves my skin feeling plump and smooth."

"Then I apply Revision Intellishade TruPhysical ($75) tinted moisturiser with broad-spectrum SPF 45. It's a physical blocker with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and I like the lightweight consistency and coverage."

"I finish with Brush On Block Translucent Mineral Powder Sunscreen ($32), which I also use for reapplications and touch ups. It absorbs excess oil so it serves a dual purpose as a finishing powder and sun protection."

"I like to use a gentle foaming cleanser at night, like Schaf Facial Cleanser ($40). This is a gentle foaming cleanser that emulsifies dirt and oil, pollution, and makeup, while also hydrating with hyaluronic acid and aloe."

"I use the CeraVe Hydrating Face Wash ($15): a hydrating, gentle gel cleanser."

"[Next, I use] SkinBetter Science InterFuse Treatment Cream EYE 15ML ($105) with neuro-calming peptides, vitamin C, humectants, moisturising ingredients, and caffeine to decrease puffiness, dehydration, and under-eye bags"

"While sunscreen remains the number-one way to protect against ultraviolet radiation, it's not enough. Studies consistently show that not only are people not applying enough or as often as they should, but broad-spectrum sunscreen does not provide enough protection against free radicals. Using an effective antioxidant serum is therefore part of a comprehensive method to protect. Given my worsening pigmentation in the summer, I use ISDIN Melaclear Dark Spot Correcting Serum ($82) which has L-ascorbic acid as well as phytic acid for skin brightening."

"A dermatologist's favourite and must skin-care step. I have consistently used ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Sunscreen Zinc Oxide and 100% Mineral Tinted Sunscreen ($66). This is an elegant, lightweight but effective pure mineral blocker with 11 percent zinc oxide with DNA repair enzyme, antioxidants, and peptides."

"I use a clean cotton pad to gently remove my make-up with ISDIN Micellar Solution 4 in 1 Makeup Remover ($33). I love micellar water because it's minimal in the amount of additives and relies mainly on water and oil. The oil molecules surround makeup and dirt and gently remove the residue off the skin. If you have oily skin, I do like make-up removing wipes since it gives the additive physical exfoliation, which helps remove oil, makeup, and dirt from the skin."

"I alternate with an effective exfoliating cleanser, NeoStrata Foaming Glycolic Wash ($39). It contains 18 percent glycolic acid and lactobionic acid to exfoliate, smooth irregularities, and brighten skin."

"I alternate between prescription strength Altreno, which is a well tolerated Tretinoin 0.05% lotion, and SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream 30ML ($125), which is an intensive concentration of glycolic acid, retinol, peptides, and antioxidants."

"I use Alastin Restorative Skin Complex ($195) as my nighttime moisturiser, which has a proven and effective TriHex peptide complex and antioxidants which not only moisturises but also brightens and evens out texture."

"The Rodan + Fields Recharge 3-In-1 Exfoliating Face Cleanser ($40) gives skin a balanced, thorough cleanse. It features Australian lime pearl extract, an innovative alternative to AHAs for gentler exfoliation, electrolytes to help rebalance moisture levels to target visibly dull skin, and second skin shield, which forms a non-occlusive film on the skin surface to help block pollutants and leave skin feeling soft, not stripped or tight."

"The Revision Skincare D.E.J. Eye Cream ($97) hydrates while creating a barrier to protect eyelids from all other actives."

"I apply Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36 ($55) to my face, décolletage, and hands. Melasma blocker makes this a must for summer to protect from discoloration from infrared heat."

"Then, [I apply] the Revision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30% ($160) to my face and décolletage — it makes your SPF work stronger and harder."

"Lastly, [I apply] the Restorative Skin Complex ($195) to the face and décolletage. Mushroom extract gives your skin a beautiful finish before you start your makeup."

"Then, [I use] the Revision Skincare D.E.J. Eye Cream ($97), same as in the morning."

"To my face and neck, I use Regenerating Skin Nectar ($195). It contains anti-ageing technology to build in elastin and keep the life of my filler extended."

"[I apply] Vaseline All-Over Body Balm Stick ($6) to my lips and hands. I need extra hydration given my toner pads and retinoid over these sensitive areas so they don't peel."

"At night when I'm winding down, I first use Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover ($30), with my favourite cotton pads to remove my mascara and eyeliner. Then, I'll use Step Zero: Cleansing Wipes to remove any excess makeup."

"I alternate between SLMD's Salicylic Acid Cleanser if I want an exfoliating one, and CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser ($11) if I want a hydrating one."

"Next, I'll use SLMD Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($50), a great hydrator for parched skin."

"After, I'll use SLMD Retinol Serum ($40), a time-release retinol gel that helps speed up the cell turnover process throughout the night and keeps my skin feeling fresh and glow-y."

"Next, because it's summertime and I'm trying to be on top of this stuff, I apply SLMD Dark Spot Fix ($50). It's a skin lightening cream with Hydroquinone, which minimizes the appearance of pigmentation from melasma, sun exposure, and acne."

"Then, I apply CeraVe Healing Ointment for Dry and Chafed Skin ($16) around my lips and my eyes. (I have very dry skin.)"

"[Next, use] the Revision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30% ($160)."

"Cleanse with the Sente Labs Daily Soothing Cleanser ($34)."

"Hydrate with the Josh Rosebrook Vital Balm Cream($45)."

"For toner, [I use] the Biologique Recherché Lotion P50 ($101). It exfoliates and hydrates at the same time, helping to gently improve my skin texture and reduce the appearance of my pores."

"For serum, I use SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum ($154) to fight pesky hyperpigmentation. It contains tranexamic, acid one of my favourite ingredients for uneven skin tone."

"The SkinBetter Science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment 50ML ($135) is one of my favourite moisturisers. It moisturises like a cream, with the consistency of a lotion. It contains urea and ceramides to moisturise and improve skin texture."

"The CeraVe Face Moisturiser with SPF 30 ($15) is quite moisturising and blends into my dark skin."

"For toner, [I use] the Biologique Recherché Lotion P50 ($101), the same as in the morning."

"The Alastin Renewal Retinol ($55) is a great non-irritating formula to soften fine lines and wrinkles, reduce acne, and fight hyperpigmentation with minimal risk of inflammation."

"My skincare routine is not complicated, but effective. The goal is to protect the skin and prevent damage during the day. The evening is a time of rest and repair.

I wash my face with Dove Beauty Bar Sensitive Skin ($7), which effectively cleansers without disrupting the skin barrier."

"The Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturiser SPF 30 ($7) contains skin brightening soy and broad spectrum UV protection."

"I use an exfoliating face wash at night to make sure I fully remove dirt, oil, and pollution that build up during the day. The Dove Men+Care Deep Clean + Facial Cleanser Exfoliating Face Wash ($5) uses ultra gentle manual exfoliation that does not irritate my skin."

"If my skin feels extra oily, I use the INNBeauty Project Down to Tone ($26) toner that uses a gentle blend of alpha and polyhydroxy acids, which complements the physical scrub."

"The Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream ($20) contains a stabilized form of retinol that does not cause skin irritation."

"I cleanse my face in the morning to remove the sweat, oils and, sebum that may have gotten trapped in my pores overnight. I use La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser ($15), which is infused with prebiotic thermal water, ceramides, and niacinamide to gently cleanse while also protecting my epidermal barrier."

"I then apply CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion PM ($14), even in the morning. This moisturising lotion contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide which hydrates and minimizes inflammation."

"Our eyes (specifically "crow's feet") are one of the first places you start to notice signs of ageing. Due to the thin nature of the skin in addition to the many tiny eye muscles which causes repetitive eye movements, the under-eye area is very susceptible to fine lines and wrinkles. There are also very few oil glands in the under-eye area, making external hydration in the form of an eye cream essential.

I usually apply SkinBetter Science InterFuse Treatment Cream EYE 15ML ($105), which boosts collagen and elastin while fighting dark circles and also smoothing fine lines. It has neuro-calming peptides that smooth muscle action, making it a perfect match for when I use botox. It also features a blend of humectants to keep the delicate eye area hydrated."

"I then apply a hydrating lip balm that is butter, oil and wax-based – my favourite is eos Super Soft Shea Lip Balm Stick & Sphere ($5). It contains skin-nourishing and vitamin-rich shea butter which provides lips with 24-hour hydration, and the balm helps to lock in moisture by occluding the skin barrier and preventing trans-epidermal water loss. This is an especially important step for me these days as I'm wearing a mask all day when I see patients and the friction against the mask can be irritating without a lip balm providing a protective barrier."

"Next up, I take care of my neck & décolleté area. I often use Neostrata Triple Firming Neck Cream ($88) which contains amino acids and neoglucosamine to firm and tighten the skin."

"While there are numerous effective sunscreens out there, I tend to use EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 ($36). I like that it's an oil-free formula that doesn't cause my skin to breakout. It is also easily absorbed without any residue."

"Before I walk out the door, I apply my eos Shea Better Coconut Hand Cream ($3) which is infused with natural oils and butters to keep my hands hydrated all day (this has been especially importantly lately as I'm wearing gloves non-stop and my hands need extra TLC)."

"Then, [I] treat hyperpigmentation with Azelaic Acid 15% Gel (prescription) and Obagi Clinical Vitamin C+ Arbutin Brightening Serum ($90)."

"Next, prevent ageing with the Obagi Clinical Kinetin+ Rejuvenating Serum ($95)."

"Replenish [skin] with the Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Moisturiser with Niacinamide ($59)."

"Protect [your skin] with the First Aid Beauty Weightless Liquid Mineral SPF 30 ($34)."

"Summer is often a lot more hot and humid and my skin tends to be more oilier and prone to breakouts. My approach to a summer skin-care routine adapts to this. It is a routine aimed at decreasing oiliness and addressing hyperpigmentation that darker skin types like mine are prone to getting from breakouts and other irritation.

I use CeraVe Renewing SA Face Cleanser ($12). It contains salicylic acid and is very gently formulated with other great ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide. The salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum and removes build up of dead skin cells. It's great for my oil prone and acneic skin.

"UV rays affect all skin types, including skin of colour, all year round causing inflammation, worsening hyperpigmentation, and inducing DNA damage to skin cells that can lead to skin cancers. It's essential to use sunscreen if you're prone to hyperpigmentation like me. For this, I like the ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Zinc Oxide and 100% Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ ($55). It's a non-greasy, light-weight sunscreen, perfect for the summer. It that does not leave a whitish cast and repairs DNA damage already done to skin."

"I always double cleanse my skin, especially when I wear makeup. First, I use the Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm ($34) to lift dirt, grime, and dissolve makeup. This balm uses papaya extract, sunflower, and ginger root oils to remove impurities and nourish the skin. Then I follow with a second cleanser to wash it all away. My favourite is Epionce Lytic Gel ($38). It contains willow bark extract which is naturally anti-inflammatory and a specific complex that helps balance skin's pH levels."

"The Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 Original 1970 ($101) is a beauty lover's cult favourite that I have used and loved for years. It combines niacinamide, AHAs, and PHAs for an effective, yet gentle exfoliation. I use chemical exfoliants to eliminate dullness and improve my skin texture. It also maintains the proper pH of the skin's acid mantle (pH - 5.5)."

"Next I layer a moisturiser. The SkinBetter Science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment 50ML ($135) has a gel-like consistency and three different types of hyaluronic acids so it can penetrate deep into my dermis. The time release HA works perfectly for hydration throughout my day."

"I use the ISDIN Mineral Brush Daily Protection Powder ($55) for re-application throughout the day. It helps absorb excess oil and can be applied right over my makeup."

"During the summer, various environmental assaults — including heat, sweating, sunburns, exposure to certain chemicals in sunscreens, swimming, etc. — can actually make the skin more dry and sensitive, and diminish the healthy protective moisture barrier, so maintaining a comprehensive skin-care routine is essential.

I recommend looking for products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic, since heat, sweating, and sunscreen can lead to clogged pores and breakouts, while sun exposure itself can cause the skin to dry out, so it's really important to use the right cleansers and moisturisers in the warmer weather.

I, along with most dermatologists, recommend washing your face twice daily, both morning and evening. Try the Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Foaming Facial Cleanser ($8)."

"Then, I apply a retinoid. One of my favourites is No7 Advanced Retinol 1.5% Complex Night Concentrate ($35)."

"And finally, moisturising. In the summertime, specifically, you can opt for lighter moisturising lotions like the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Gel Face Moisturiser ($17)."