12 Drugstore Skincare Products Dermatologists Actually Use
Jan 16, 2019
Having a proper skincare routine is essential for a clear complexion, but that doesn't mean you have to spend a month's worth of rent on your toners, moisturizers, and cleansers. The drugstore beauty aisle is a treasure trove of budget-friendly skincare goodies. If you don’t believe us, consider what the pros have to say. Ahead, top dermatologists share their favorite drugstore skincare picks.
Dove Sensitive Skin Unscented Beauty Bar ($7): NYC-based dermatologist Rachel Nazarian says this elevated bar soap is anything but over-drying. "It's pH balanced and incredibly gentle for sensitive skin," she explains.
Cetaphil Pro DermaControl Oil Removing Foam Wash ($10): If your face tends to be on the oilier side, board-certified dermatologist David Lortscher recommends reaching for this foaming cleanser that won't strip your skin.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Soothing Care Face Moisturizer ($37): This daily moisturizer may be a pricier drugstore beauty buy, but according to NYC-based board-certified dermatologist Susan Bard, it's worth every penny. "It's made with soothing thermal water to help calm irritation," she says. "It's also preservative- and fragrance-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Plus, it's non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog pores as thicker moisturizers sometimes can."
Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment ($8): Relieve itchy, parched skin with Lortscher’s favorite drugstore bath treatment. "Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment is a go-to for relieving itchiness and redness, and for calming sensitive skin," he says. "This is due to its formulation with colloidal oatmeal, which supplies antioxidants, soothes dry and irritated skin, and helps to reduce associated itching."
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Water Gel Face Moisturizer ($17): "Hyaluronic acid is like a sponge that binds to 1000 times its weight in water to hydrate and plump the skin," board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner says.
La Roche-Posay Unscented Toleriane Double Repair Facial Moisturizer ($20): If your skin is in need of some winter TLC, Nazarian recommends using this oil-free, moisture-replenishing niacinamide moisturizer.
Pharmaceutical Specialties Free & Clear Liquid Cleanser for Sensitive Skin ($10): Lortscher says this simple formula is a must-have for sensitive skin. It's free of any harsh fragrances, dyes, or chemical irritants, so you don’t have to worry about irritating your face.
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Accelerated Retinol SA Night Moisturizer ($17): To help reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, try using Bard's go-to night cream. "I like it because it's based in a hyaluronic acid moisturizer to help prevent irritation and dryness," she explains.
Yes to Carrots Nourishing Daily Cream Facial Cleanser ($10): This soothing cleanser contains a cocktail of moisturizing aloe vera, anti-inflammatory shea butter, and vitamin-C packed carrots, making it a top pick for Lortscher.
Aveeno Active Naturals Eczema Therapy Itch Relief Balm ($18): For extremely uncomfortable skin, apply this soothing oatmeal-infused balm. "It’s glycerin-based, so it's thick but not sticky," says Bard.
Dove Dermacare Scalp Dryness & Itch Relief Anti-Dandruff Shampoo ($5): To give your scalp the same soothing care as your skin, Zeichner recommends adding this purifying shampoo to your shower lineup. "Dandruff is caused by yeast on the scalp leading to inflammation," he says. “[This shampoo] contains zinc pyrithione, which lowers levels of yeast on the skin to help treat flaking.” To reap all of the benefits, he suggests massaging the product into your scalp while singing the alphabet to ensure it has enough time to do its job.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid ($34): This tinted moisturizer is another one of Bard's favorite picks. "It’s titanium-based for people who can’t tolerate or prefer to avoid chemical-based sunscreens," she says.
What are your favorite drugstore beauty buys? Tell us @BritandCo!
What are your favorite drugstore beauty buys? Tell us @BritandCo!
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