14 Top Dermatologists Reveal Their Summer Skin-Care Routines
Ever Wondered What a Dermatologist's Skin-Care Routine Looks Like? We Asked 14 to Find Out

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"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."
Dr. Dendy Engelman
Dendy Engelman, is an MD, FACMS FAAD, New York City board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon.
Dr. Dendy Engelman's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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 favorite 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."
Dr. Dendy Engelman's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"The Biologique Recherche Lotion P50 Original 1970 ($101) is a beauty lover's cult favorite 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)."
Dr. Dendy Engelman's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I use the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic ($166) every morning to give my skin extra protection against sun damage and environmental aggressors. Five drops in the morning boost UVA/UVB ray protection by protecting against free radical damage. It's a multi-functioning product that will improve texture and appearance. I consider CE Ferulic the gold standard for topical antioxidants. It is backed by copious clinical studies and is widely lauded by dermatologists (myself included)."
Dr. Dendy Engelman's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"My philosophy is to spend the money on the things that you will keep on your face the longest. The eye area is one of the most important areas to treat because it is 40 percent thinner than the rest of the face, meaning it can be the first to show signs of aging. I use Valmont L'Elixir Des Glaciers Vos Yeux Swiss Poly-Active Cream ($350) because it is designed to repair, nourish, and protect the delicate skin surrounding the eyes. Its rich texture plumps fine lines and protects with antioxidants."
Dr. Dendy Engelman's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Next I layer a moisturizer. 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."
Dr. Dendy Engelman's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I love the Elizabeth Arden PREVAGE City Smart Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Hydrating Shield ($68). It is a mineral sunscreen with a tint. This line also contains antioxidants, including idebenone, which helps to combat free radical damage from harmful UV/UB rays as well as pollution."
Dr. Dendy Engelman's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Mona Gohara
Mona Gohara, MD, is a Yale-trained, board-certified dermatologist.
Dr. Mona Gohara's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Mona Gohara's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Mona Gohara's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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 moisturize."
Dr. Hadley King
Hadley King, MD, is a New York City board-certified dermatologist.
Dr. Hadley King's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I wash my face with a gentle exfoliator. I am currently using Herla Beauty Kakadu Plum Brightening and Revitalizing Exfoliating Scrub ($35). This very gentle exfoliator combines physical exfoliation from tiny cellulose particles with chemical exfoliation from caviar lime, a gentle but effective exfoliator that is a source of natural alpha hydroxy acids that help to remove dead skin cells and evens out skin pigmentation. Rich in free radicals from Kakadu plum, rooibos tea, and gingko biloba, the scrub also helps combat free radicals."
Dr. Hadley King's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Hadley King's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Then I moisturize; I'm currently using GoodJanes H2OMyGod Water Moisturizer ($42). This rich cream hydrates and moisturizes with dimethicone, squalane, safflower seed oil, argan kernel oil, and glycerin. Licorice, daisy, and rose extracts provide additional skin-soothing properties. It also contains anti-aging peptides, vitamin C, and plant stem cell extracts with potent antioxidant properties. And I love that it's vegan and cruelty-free."
Dr. Hadley King's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Then I apply Revision Intellishade TruPhysical ($75) tinted moisturizer with broad-spectrum SPF 45. It's a physical blocker with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and I like the lightweight consistency and coverage."
Dr. Hadley King's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Hadley King's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Hadley King's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"Then I apply a retinoid. I have recently been alternating between Altreno and Aklief Cream, 0.005%, both prescription-strength retinoids."
Dr. Hadley King's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"And then I moisturize. I have been using Schaf Moisturizer ($45). It hydrates and locks in that moisture with hyaluronic acid and a blend of hemp seed, avocado, grape seed, and pumpkin seed oils. It also contains antioxidants and anti-aging peptides, as well as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties."
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin
Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology, and clinical assistant professor at NYU Langone.
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I use the CeraVe Hydrating Face Wash ($15): a hydrating, gentle gel cleanser."
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"[Next, I use] SkinBetter Science InterFuse Treatment Cream EYE 15ML ($105) with neuro-calming peptides, vitamin C, humectants, moisturizing ingredients, and caffeine to decrease puffiness, dehydration, and under-eye bags"
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I use a prescription acne medication called Aczone Gel 7.5% to my entire face as a once daily, gentle medication."
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I use a lightweight moisturizer, EltaMD AM Therapy Face Moisturizer ($35), for the summer with witch hazel, ceramides, and niacinamide."
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"A dermatologist's favorite 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."
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"I use Alastin Restorative Skin Complex ($195) as my nighttime moisturizer, which has a proven and effective TriHex peptide complex and antioxidants which not only moisturizes but also brightens and evens out texture."
Dr. Rita Linkner
Rita Linkner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist of Spring Street Dermatology.
Dr. Rita Linkner's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"The Rodan + Fields Recharge 3-in-1 Super 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."
Dr. Rita Linkner's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"The Revision Skincare D.E.J. Eye Cream ($97) hydrates while creating a barrier to protect eyelids from all other actives."
Dr. Rita Linkner's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Rita Linkner's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Then, [I apply] the Revision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30% ($160) to my face and décolletage — it makes your SPF work stronger and harder."
Dr. Rita Linkner's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Rita Linkner's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"I use RVL Skincare Face & Body Acne Pads ($70) on my face and décolletage. They're AHA/BHA toner pads to get the day and summer off my face to prep my skin for bed."
Dr. Rita Linkner's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"Then, [I use] the Revision Skincare D.E.J. Eye Cream ($97), same as in the morning."
Dr. Rita Linkner's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"To my face and neck, I use Regenerating Skin Nectar ($195). It contains anti-aging technology to build in elastin and keep the life of my filler extended."
Dr. Rita Linkner's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"To my face and neck, [I use] Akleif Retinoid Cream to prevent acne all summer long."
Dr. Rita Linkner's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"[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."
Dr. Sandra Lee
Sandra Lee, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of SLMD Skincare, AKA Dr. Pimple Popper.
Dr. Sandra Lee's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"At night when I'm winding down, I first use Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover ($30), with my favorite cotton pads to remove my mascara and eyeliner. Then, I'll use Step Zero: Cleansing Wipes to remove any excess makeup."
Dr. Sandra Lee's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Sandra Lee's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"Next, I'll use SLMD Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($50), a great hydrator for parched skin."
Dr. Sandra Lee's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Sandra Lee's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Sandra Lee's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"Then, I apply CeraVe Healing Ointment for Dry and Chafed Skin ($16) around my lips and my eyes. (I have very dry skin.)"
Dr. Caroline Robinson
Caroline Robinson, is an MD, FAAD, founder and CEO of Tone Dermatology.
Dr. Caroline Robinson's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"First, cleanse with Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser ($24)."
Dr. Caroline Robinson's Morning Skin-Care Routine
Dr. Caroline Robinson's Morning Skin-Care Routine
Dr. Caroline Robinson's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Protect with SkinBetter Science Sunbetter Sheer SPF 56 Sunscreen Stick ($45)."
Dr. Caroline Robinson's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
Dr. Caroline Robinson's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
Dr. Joshua Zeichner
Joshua Zeichner is an MD, FAAD, New York City board-certified dermatologist.
Dr. Joshua Zeichner's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Joshua Zeichner's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I apply a Vitamin C serum under sunscreen to protect the skin against free radical damage. Solara Suncare JuiceBoost Defense Boosting Serum ($42) provides antioxidant benefits of vitamin C along with CoQ10."
Dr. Joshua Zeichner's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"The Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer SPF 30 ($7) contains skin brightening soy and broad spectrum UV protection."
Dr. Joshua Zeichner's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Joshua Zeichner's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Joshua Zeichner's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"I apply a moisturizer or a moisturizing face oil like the Carter + JaneThe Everything Oil ($128) to hydrate and calm the skin followed by retinol."
Dr. Joshua Zeichner's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"The Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream ($20) contains a stabilized form of retinol that does not cause skin irritation."
Dr. Michelle Henry
Michelle Henry, MD, is a Mount Sinai and Harvard-trained, board-certified dermatologist.
Dr. Michelle Henry Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I use the PCA SKIN Pigment Bar ($46). I find it gentle enough to be used in the morning, and I love that it helps to fight the hyperpigmentation — one of my major struggles."
Dr. Michelle Henry Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Michelle Henry Morning Skin-Care Routine
"For serum, I use SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum ($154) to fight pesky hyperpigmentation. It contains tranexamic, acid one of my favorite ingredients for uneven skin tone."
Dr. Michelle Henry Morning Skin-Care Routine
"The SkinBetter Science Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment 50ML ($135) is one of my favorite moisturizers. It moisturizes like a cream, with the consistency of a lotion. It contains urea and ceramides to moisturize and improve skin texture."
Dr. Michelle Henry Morning Skin-Care Routine
"The CeraVe Face Moisturizer with SPF 30 ($15) is quite moisturizing and blends into my dark skin."
Dr. Michelle Henry Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"I use the SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser ($47) to remove the dirt, oil, environmental pollutants, and debris from the day."
Dr. Michelle Henry Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"For toner, [I use] the Biologique Recherché Lotion P50 ($101), the same as in the morning."
Dr. Michelle Henry Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Michelle Henry Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"For moisturizer, the SkinSeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 ($128) [helps] to repair and restore my skin while I sleep."
Dr. Marnie Nussbaum
Marnie Nussbaum, MD, is a New York City board-certified dermatologist.
Dr. Marnie Nussbaum's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Marnie Nussbaum's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"After cleansing, I always apply an antioxidant serum to help fight free radicals. I have acne-prone skin and prefer to use an oil-free formula that is less likely to cause breakouts. One of my favorites is SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF with Ferulic Acid ($166), which contains a potent blend of vitamin C, phloretin, and ferulic acid to combat sun damage and give my skin a more even texture and tone."
Dr. Marnie Nussbaum's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I then apply CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM ($14), even in the morning. This moisturizing lotion contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide which hydrates and minimizes inflammation."
Dr. Marnie Nussbaum's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Our eyes (specifically "crow's feet") are one of the first places you start to notice signs of aging. 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."
Dr. Marnie Nussbaum's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I then apply a hydrating lip balm that is butter, oil and wax-based – my favorite 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."
Dr. Marnie Nussbaum's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Marnie Nussbaum's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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."
Dr. Marnie Nussbaum's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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)."
Dr. Elyse Love
Elyse Love, MD, is a New York City board-certified dermatologist at GlamDerm and Spring Street Dermatology.
Dr. Elyse Love's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I cleanse with the SkinBetter Science Refresh Collection Infusion Wash ($38)."
Dr. Elyse Love's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Then, [I] treat hyperpigmentation with Azelaic Acid 15% Gel (prescription) and Obagi Clinical Vitamin C+ Arbutin Brightening Serum ($90)."
Dr. Elyse Love's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Next, prevent aging with the Obagi Clinical Kinetin+ Rejuvenating Serum ($95)."
Dr. Elyse Love's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Replenish [skin] with the Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Moisturizer with Niacinamide ($59)."
Dr. Elyse Love's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Protect [your skin] with the First Aid Beauty Weightless Liquid Mineral SPF 30 ($34)."
Dr. Ellen Marmur
Ellen Marmur, MD, New York City board-certified dermatologist and founder of Marmur Metamorphosis Skincare.
Dr. Ellen Marmur's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"My morning workout includes tennis, wearing a crewneck long-sleeve shirt and four-inch rim boating hat. For extra SPF I use the EltaMD UV Aero Broad-Spectrum SPF 45 ($33) on my scalp, neck, hands, and body."
Dr. Ellen Marmur's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"For extra SPF on my face, I use ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Tinted Mineral Sunscreen ($66)."
Dr. Ellen Marmur's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I replenish the face SPF with Colorescience Brush-On Sunscreen Mineral Powder ($65), even over sweat, [because it] helps reduce my acne rosacea."
Dr. Ellen Marmur's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"[After,] I wash off the SPF with Skinfix Barrier+ Foaming Oil Cleanser ($28) — the oil removes SPF easily."
Dr. Ellen Marmur's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"Then, I apply the MMBalance Serum ($85) to maskne areas, followed by a spot treatment with the new Amzeeq prescription. I also started taking spironolactone for summer maskne."
Dr. Ellen Marmur's Morning Skin-Care Routine
"[Lastly] repose and The MMSphere 2.0 ($795) for ten minutes [on the] green and red light setting to reduce UV damage by 22 percent, as shown in clinical studies."
Dr. Shari Marchbein
Shari Marchbein is a New York City board-certified dermatologist.
Dr. Shari Marchbein's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"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 moisturizers 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)."
Dr. Shari Marchbein's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"Then, I apply a retinoid. One of my favorites is No7 Advanced Retinol 1.5% Complex Night Concentrate ($35). It is an encapsulated 0.3 percent retinol that also contains 0.2 percent bisabolol (to soothe the skin) and proprietary peptide complex Matrixyl 3000 (which builds both elastin and collagen). The No7 encapsulated technology allows for slow release and improved retinol tolerance while still be highly effective."
Dr. Shari Marchbein's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"Exfoliation is an important part of a skin-care routine because it helps maintain a dewy hydrated glow, can even tone and texture, and can unclog pores by removing dead cells from the skin's surface that enlarge pores.
Chemical exfoliants such as AHA and BHAs (glycolic, lactic and salicylic acid) are often more gentle and easily controlled than physical exfoliants (like particles and beads in scrubs, microdermabrasion, brushes, etc.).
Once a week I use the SkinBetter AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads ($95) in place of retinol."
Dr. Shari Marchbein's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"I use an eye cream one to two times per day to help hydrate and improve the appearance of dark under-eye circles and fine lines. The SkinBetter Science InterFuse Treatment Cream Eye 15ML ($105) has a combination of peptides, antioxidants, glycerin, niacinamide, and caffeine. This under-eye cream can be used to the delicate eyelid skin twice daily to add hydration and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles as well as hyperpigmentation and redness."
Dr. Shari Marchbein's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"[Next comes the] Alastin Restorative Skin Complex ($195). With TriHex Technology, this helps restore volume to the skin, as well as supports the production of new, healthy elastin and collagen, in addition to a variety of other benefits."
Dr. Shari Marchbein's Nighttime Skin-Care Routine
"In the summertime, specifically, I opt for lighter moisturizing lotions (as opposed to heavier creams in the winter). For hyaluronic acid, my go-to choice is SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier ($100)."
Dr. Adeline Kikam
Adeline Kikam, DO, dermatologist in South Texas and founder of @Brownskinderm for Derm & Skincare in Skin of Color.
Dr. Adeline Kikam Morning Skin-Care Routine
"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.
Dr. Adeline Kikam Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I incorporate vitamin C, a potent antioxidant helps to combat the oxidative damage caused by free radicals induced by sun, environmental pollution, and aging overall. I am a big fan of the Vichy LiftActiv Specialist Peptide-C Anti-Aging Ampoules ($30) with its high concentration of 10 percent pure vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and phyto peptides."
Dr. Adeline Kikam Morning Skin-Care Routine
"I like hydrating serums for the summer because they are a lot lighter and non-greasy. I tend to interchangeably use the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($30) with other hydrating serums and combine them with the Goodscience Beauty 003-Hy Hydrating Face Cream ($98)."
Dr. Adeline Kikam Morning Skin-Care Routine
"UV rays affect all skin types, including skin of color, 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."