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Dermatologists Recommend 3 Essential Skincare Products for Healthy Skin

admin — Fri, 06 Nov 2026 15:57:50 +0000

If your morning skincare routine involves 10 different products, multiple serums and more time than your morning coffee, you might be doing more than your skin actually needs.

Between TikTok’s elaborate skincare routines, celebrity-endorsed beauty products and seemingly endless promises of brighter, smoother, younger-looking skin, it’s easy to believe that more products equal better results.

But dermatologists say that’s not necessarily true.

In fact, a complicated skincare routine can sometimes do more harm than good, especially when you’re layering multiple active ingredients without understanding how they interact.

The good news? Healthy skin doesn’t require an overflowing bathroom cabinet or an expensive collection of products. For most people, three basics are a good place to start.

Related: We Asked 6 Dermatologists Which Anti-Aging Ingredient They’d Never Skip—They All Said the Same Thing

The 3 Skincare Products Dermatologists Say You Actually Need

If you’re looking to simplify your routine, start with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and broad-spectrum sunscreen.

“Your skin doesn’t need ten products to stay healthy. For most people, a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher are enough,” says Dr. Priyanka Sutariya, MD, of Skin Experts Advanced Skin, Laser & Cosmetology Clinic.

“The cleanser removes excess oil and impurities, the moisturizer supports your skin barrier, and the sunscreen protects against pigmentation and premature aging.”

Here’s why each product deserves a place in your routine.

1. A Gentle Cleanser

Think of your cleanser as the foundation of your skincare routine.

Throughout the day, your skin accumulates oil, sweat, dirt, makeup and sunscreen. A gentle cleanser helps remove those impurities without stripping away the natural oils that help keep your skin comfortable.

But there’s a difference between clean skin and overly cleansed skin.

If your face feels tight, dry or irritated after washing, your cleanser may be too harsh.

Look for a gentle formula suited to your skin type. If you regularly wear heavy makeup or water-resistant sunscreen, you may benefit from using a cleansing balm or oil before your regular cleanser.

The goal isn’t to make your skin feel squeaky clean. It’s to remove buildup without disrupting your skin barrier.

2. A Moisturizer That Works for Your Skin Type

One of the biggest skincare misconceptions is that people with oily skin don’t need moisturizer.

In reality, moisturizing can benefit a variety of skin types, including oily, combination and sensitive skin.

Moisturizers help maintain hydration and support the skin’s protective barrier, which helps limit moisture loss and protect against environmental irritants.

The trick is choosing the right formula.

People with dry skin may prefer a richer cream, while those with oily skin might find a lightweight, noncomedogenic lotion or gel more comfortable.

Ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid and ceramides can help support hydration, depending on the formulation.

You don’t necessarily need the most expensive moisturizer on the shelf. You need one that works for your skin.

Related: The 15 Best Retinol Body Lotions, According to Celebrity Dermatologists

3. Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen With SPF 30 or Higher

If there’s one skincare step dermatologists consistently emphasize, it’s sunscreen.

Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher helps protect against UVA and UVB rays, which contribute to sun damage, premature skin aging and skin cancer.

And no, sunscreen isn’t just for beach days.

UV exposure can occur during everyday activities, including walking the dog, running errands or spending time outdoors on a cloudy afternoon.

Apply sunscreen as the final step of your morning skincare routine, before makeup, and reapply approximately every two hours when outdoors, as well as after swimming or sweating.

Consistency matters more than how many other products you’re using.

Do You Really Need Vitamin C, Retinol or Toner?

Once you’ve established the basics, you can consider adding targeted treatments based on your skin concerns.

But just because an ingredient is trending doesn’t mean it belongs in everyone’s routine.

Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C is a popular antioxidant ingredient that may help improve the appearance of uneven skin tone, dark spots and dullness.

It’s often included in morning skincare routines, although the effectiveness of a vitamin C product depends on its formulation, concentration and stability.

If hyperpigmentation or uneven tone is a concern, vitamin C may be worth considering.

But if your skin is already healthy and you’re primarily focused on maintaining hydration, it isn’t necessarily essential.

Related: 11 Best Skin-Tightening Moisturizers, According to Celebrity Derms

Retinol

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative commonly used to address fine lines, uneven skin texture and certain acne concerns.

It can be effective, but it can also cause dryness, peeling, redness and irritation, particularly when first introduced.

If you’re new to retinol, start with a lower-strength formula, use it gradually and avoid combining it with multiple potentially irritating active ingredients until you understand how your skin responds.

Retinoids should generally be avoided during pregnancy, so check with your healthcare provider if that applies to you.

Toner

Toners have changed considerably over the years.

While older formulas were often associated with removing excess oil, today’s toners can contain hydrating ingredients, exfoliating acids or other targeted treatments.

Some people enjoy using them, and certain formulations may address specific concerns.

But if your cleanser, moisturizer and other treatments are already working, there’s no reason to add toner simply because it’s popular.

Can Using Too Many Skincare Products Actually Damage Your Skin?

Surprisingly, yes.

A 10-step routine isn’t automatically harmful, but using more products increases the number of ingredients your skin encounters, potentially raising the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.

Layering multiple exfoliating acids, retinoids and other active ingredients can be particularly problematic for people with sensitive skin.

“Actives like retinol, vitamin C, or salicylic acid can be added for specific concerns, but too many at once often lead to irritation, dryness, and a damaged barrier,” Sutariya explains.

Signs that your routine may be too aggressive include persistent redness, stinging, flaking, tightness and increased sensitivity.

If these symptoms develop, consider simplifying your routine and temporarily avoiding potentially irritating treatments. Persistent or severe symptoms warrant a dermatologist’s evaluation.

How to Build a Simple Morning and Nighttime Skincare Routine

You don’t need an elaborate schedule to take care of your skin.

For many people, a straightforward routine looks like this:

Morning:

Gentle cleanser, if needed
Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher

Evening:

Targeted treatment, if needed

Depending on your skin type and concerns, your dermatologist may recommend additional steps or prescription treatments.

The important thing is to introduce new products thoughtfully rather than adding several at once.

The Bottom Line

You don’t need to follow every viral skincare trend to maintain healthy skin.

For many people, a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and daily sunscreen provide a practical foundation. Additional treatments can be useful, but they should serve a specific purpose.

And if your current routine is working? There’s no need to complicate it just because someone on social media uses 10 products.

When it comes to skincare, more isn’t always better—and consistency often matters more than complexity.

Sources:

Next: 9 Drugstore Serums That Target Sagging Skin, According to Dermatologists

This story was originally published by Parade on Nov 6, 2026, where it first appeared in the Beauty section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The post Dermatologists Recommend 3 Essential Skincare Products for Healthy Skin appeared first on Best oLive.

This Is the Nighttime Skincare Order Dermatologists Recommend

admin — Tue, 27 Oct 2026 23:56:37 +0000

I’m not exaggerating when I say I spend all day counting down the minutes until it’s time to shower, get into a matching pajama set, and complete my nighttime skincare routine. There’s no better feeling than being freshly glazed and lying in bed with my Kindle. But it turns out there can be a downside to using too many products in my treasured ritual.

I chatted with dermatologist Hallie McDonald, MD, cofounder of barrier-focused skincare brand ERLY, who broke down everything you need to know about creating a proper nighttime routine. Let’s just say her advice most definitely has me rethinking some of my steps. And Cosmo’s beauty team shared our very own regimens. Keep scrolling for everything we rely on to wash, treat, and hydrate nightly. Spoiler alert: It might be time for us to pare back…a lot.

How many steps should your nighttime skincare routine be?

For most people, three steps is plenty: cleanse, moisturize, and, if you need it, a targeted treatment. You don’t need a 10-step routine to have healthy skin. In fact, I’m a big believer that a simple routine you actually stick with is much better than a complicated one that leaves your skin irritated or overwhelmed.

Is there a downside to using too many skincare products?

Absolutely. More products means more opportunities for irritation, dryness, clogged pores, and disrupting your skin barrier. Layering a lot of products can also change how they interact with one another and how well they absorb, so more isn’t necessarily more effective. It can also make it difficult to figure out what’s actually working or what’s causing a reaction.

What’s the ideal nighttime skincare routine order?

Think of it like getting your skin ready for bed: Clean it, treat it, then tuck it in. Start with a cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, oil, and dirt. If you use a treatment, that comes next, followed by moisturizer to support your skin barrier and keep hydration locked in. My favorite rule of thumb is to apply products from thinnest to thickest. Generally, your lighter serums go before your creams. And you don’t need to wait between every step; once one product has been absorbed, you can move on.

Are there any product types you think most people are missing in their night routines?

I think most people are missing a really good moisturizer. There’s so much emphasis on serums and active ingredients that people forget that supporting the skin barrier is foundational. Hydration and oil are also not the same thing—acne-prone or oily skin still needs hydration.

Team Cosmo’s Nightly Routine:

Jasmine Hyman, assistant beauty editor

Age: 26

Skin concerns: Acne and hyperpigmentation

Jasmine Hyman for Cosmopolitan

My focus these days is all things acne. My chin is a hotbed for closed comedones and painful pimples, so I’ve been relying on acne-centric ingredients and keeping my routine as simple as possible. Second to acne comes hydration. Because I’m super dry and eczema-prone, I need to keep my skin barrier in check, especially overnight.

I start off with Reale Actives’ Cleansing Balm to remove all the makeup and sweat and gunk that accumulated on my skin throughout the day. Then I dab my face dry with Q-tips’ new towels (I have sworn off ever wiping my face on a shower towel again). Then I follow with Sofie Pavitt’s Clean Clean Cleanser—it has the best lather of any face wash while still being very gentle and non-stripping, because my skin can’t afford to lose any of its precious moisture. Then I go in with the Moisture Balance Toner from Face Reality (I know toner can be a superfluous step at night, but this one is super gentle and my pores need all the help they can get!).

I then layer on Face Reality’s Sulfur Spot Treatment over my CPOTD (chin pimples of the week), and let that dry for a few minutes. I finish off with OMAD’s Miracle Balm, which is a heaven-sent nourishing moisturizer for sensitive, dry, and acne-prone skin. Once my acne is sorted out, I hope to add more targeted serums into my routine, but for now, simplicity is key.

Julee Wilson, beauty editor-at-large

Age: 44

Skin concerns: everything (but if I had to choose: firmness and hyperpigmentation)

Julee Wilson for Cosmopolitan

Listen, my nighttime skincare routine is extensive—and somewhat bougie. But every step has a purpose! At this stage in my life, I’m all about correction and prevention. Plus, I consider this routine dedicated self-care time.

When it comes to my topicals, I start by double cleansing with my beloved ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm (morning and night, I don’t play about this product) followed by ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse to remove anything left behind. Next comes all my devices, usually while watching TV with my husband after the kids are asleep. My CurrentBody LED Neck and Décolletage device gets used four to seven nights a week, while my Shark Beauty CryoGlow LED Face Mask makes an appearance five to seven nights. The CryoGlow’s cooling technology helps depuff my under-eyes, but because that area isn’t getting LED treatment, I also use my Dr. Rajani PlasmaGlo LED Duo Under Eye Corrector, too. Consistency is key, folks!

After that, I apply the Activist Mānuka Honey Mask for 15 minutes. It’s incredibly nourishing and preps my skin for my serum and creams. Once I rinse it off, I put on Dr. Diamond’s Metacine EyeLift Bioremodeling Peptide Multiplex eye serum, followed by Trinny London The Elevator Neck Concentrate on my neck and chest and La Mer The Lifting Firming Serum on my face for extra attention to firmness and elasticity.

After everything absorbs, I reach for Eighth Day’s night cream, which is a luxe RetinalXR complex to support skin renewal. It’s pricey, babes, but works! I finish with Lenox and Sixteenth Soft Landing Smoothing Peptide Moisturizer to seal in hydration and protect my skin barrier. I love to finish my routine off with Tatcha The Kissu Lip Mask right before my head hits the pillow. I know it’s a lot, but it works for me, my skin, and my soul!

Beth Gillette, beauty editor

Age: 29

Skin concerns: acne and hyperpigmentation

Beth Gillette for Cosmopolitan

My skincare routine has drastically changed over the past few months. What used to consist of the simplest formulas to heal my hormonal acne is now filled with hydrating serums, barrier-repair oils, and even a dark spot corrector. Is this 30?

I take off all my makeup with Reale Actives Get Bare Cleansing Balm (the only formula I’ve found that removes everything but doesn’t cause acne; I’m on my third jar), then I thoroughly cleanse with Hypothesis’s Daily Acne Cleanser. One or two nights a week or just before my period, I use a benzoyl peroxide cleanser to reduce the likelihood of breakouts.

Once I’ve got a clean canvas, it’s serum time. Layering on all my serums is what I imagine Picasso felt like staring down a blank easel. Endless possibilities! I always start with Prequel Multi Quench Plumping Face Serum to hydrate. Then it’s my treatment step. I switch between Sofie Pavitt’s Mandelic Clearing Serum and use this most nights, and I just started testing Biologique Recherche’s Serum Vivant, which regulates sebum production and supports your skin microbiome to gently reduce acne. A few nights per week, I’ll incorporate Lancer’s Gravity Dark Spot Correcting Serum with exosomes to help even out my skin tone. On the chance I do have a breakout, I’ll dab on a little bit of Face Reality’s Sulfur Spot Treatment.

I used to be very “whatever” about moisturizer because my skin was very oily. But that troll that steals your youth a little bit every year recently paid me a visit, and now I care a lot about hydration. La Roche-Posay’s Hyalu B5 Suractivated Face Cream is my favorite moisturizer of this year. It is thick and feels way more expensive than a $40 drugstore cream. And as it gets colder, I’ve been layering the Sweet Chemistry Barrier Repair Oil-Serum on top, giving me the same comforting feeling of massaging in an oil without clogging my pores.

Meet the expert

Hallie McDonald, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and the cofounder of barrier-focused skincare brand ERLY.

Why trust Cosmopolitan?

Jasmine Hyman is the assistant beauty editor at Cosmo who covers all things skincare. She, along with team Cosmo, have spent years testing products and perfecting their nighttime skincare routines to find the best formulas to address acne, fine lines, dryness, and more.

Jasmine Hyman is the Assistant Beauty Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she writes about the latest beauty trends and must-have products. Her most prized beauty possessions are a meticulous skincare routine and salon blowouts. You’ll also likely find her in bed reading a good book or endlessly scrolling TikTok (spoiler: it’s usually the latter) while listening to Harry Styles’ entire discography on repeat. Follow her on Insta to be inundated with pictures of her meals.

The post This Is the Nighttime Skincare Order Dermatologists Recommend appeared first on Best oLive.

Skincare Ingredients Dermatologists Recommend

admin — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:15:07 +0000

If you’re dealing with acne, dermatologists recommend focusing on ingredients that target oil production, clogged pores, and inflammation rather than layering multiple trendy products that may irritate your skin.

“For acne-prone skin, ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and prescription-strength retinoids are highly effective, as they target clogged pores, inflammation, and excess oil production,” says Whitney Hovenic. “Niacinamide can also be helpful for regulating oil and calming inflammation, while topical alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) can support gentle exfoliation.”

However, more isn’t always better, especially when it comes to acne treatments. “It’s important to avoid formulas with high concentrations, as this can lead to irritation and potentially worsen breakouts,” Hovenic adds. The key, she explains, is choosing a few effective ingredients and introducing them gradually to avoid overwhelming your skin.

Best for:

Acne-prone skin
Oily skin
Clogged pores
Inflammation

Read More About Salicylic Acid

The post Skincare Ingredients Dermatologists Recommend appeared first on Best oLive.

7 Anti-Ageing Tips Dermatologists Recommend For Women

admin — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:03:14 +0000

According to Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi, Senior Consultant and Dermatologist, MedLinks, “The focus on modern dermatology has changed from reversing the clock to supporting it, and we are moving away from an era of frozen expressions and toward a philosophy of skin health longevity. The goal for women today isn’t to cover up their age, but to ensure their skin remains structurally resilient and vibrant throughout their 40s, 50s, and beyond. If you are someone looking to evolve your regimen, here are seven expert-recommended strategies to maintain your skin’s biological vitality.”

7 Anti-Ageing Tips Dermatologists Recommend For Women

1. Defend Against Photo-Ageing

It is a clinical reality that nearly 90% of visible skin changes, including loss of elasticity and uneven pigment, stem from cumulative UV damage. Dermatologists now view high-factor, broad-spectrum sunscreen as a daily medical necessity rather than a seasonal option. Since UVA rays, often referred to as the ageing ray, can penetrate glass and clouds, protecting the skin even while indoors or on overcast days remains one of the most effective ways to slow visible signs of ageing and maintain the skin’s structural integrity.

2. Protect the Skin Barrier

In the pursuit of achieving a glass skin, many women over-process their faces with aggressive peels, which strip away the skin’s natural barrier, triggering inflammaging, which is a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation that actively destroys collagen. Therefore, incorporating a regimen that is aimed at promoting longevity and focusing on ingredients such as ceramides and fatty acids can support the skin’s barrier function. When the skin maintains a healthy barrier, it will hold onto its moisture naturally, causing the skin to look plump without the need for additional treatments.

3. Integrate Smart Retinoids

The gold standard for cellular health is Vitamin A derivatives or retinoids. They are incredibly effective at improving the turnover of skin cells and promoting the production of new collagen. Some people experience a retinol burn and peel from using these products too frequently. Many experts suggest the following sandwich method, which starts with a low concentration formula just twice a week, until the skin becomes used to it is beneficial, and individuals can experience the benefits of texture improvement over time.

4. Invest in Bio-Remodelling

While traditional skincare works on the surface, bio-remodelling has revolutionised how we address deeper structural ageing. Unlike dermal fillers, which are used to sculpt or add volume to specific features like the lips, bio-remodelling, specifically via treatments like Profhilo, acts as an internal hydrator.

It utilises a high concentration of ultra-pure hyaluronic acid that flows through the skin’s layers. Instead of remaining in one place to simply fill a wrinkle, it initiates a process known as bio-remodelling that stimulates the production of multiple types of collagen and elastin. By improving the underlying structure of the skin, this technique can also enhance the skin’s firmness, elasticity, and hydration levels, which can lead to a healthier and more glowing look that might not be possible with topical applications.

ALSO READ- 5 Best Pre-Swim Lotions To Shield Your Skin From Chlorine Damage

5. Target Cellular Dehydration

Hydration is an essential component in keeping the skin supple and elastic. Even oily skin types can become dehydrated, and this makes lines look more prominent. Ingredients such as glycerin and multi-molecular weight hyaluronic acid are humectants, which attract moisture into the skin at various levels. This helps to increase hydration levels, making the skin smoother, softer, and more supple.

6. Extend Care Beyond the Jawline

The neck, chest, and hands are often the first places to show signs of ageing, as the skin in these areas is much thinner and contains fewer oil glands than the face. A comprehensive approach must be applied to all areas of the body, including the face, when applying products. Be sure to extend antioxidant serums and sunscreen to the neck and chest as well, as these areas are often prone to early signs of ageing, such as sun spots and thinning, crepey skin. Consistent protection and care can help maintain a more even and healthy skin appearance over time.

7. Neutralise Oxidative Stress

Every day, the skin is under constant attack due to urban pollution and blue light, which can create free radicals that can harm your DNA. Antioxidants like Vitamin C, Ferulic Acid, and Resveratrol provide a second line of defence. When used in the morning under your SPF, they act as neutralisers against the environmental aggressors that can break down your natural support structures.

Conclusion

Ageing is a gift, and your skin is the storyteller of your life. By shifting the focus of your skin from fixing to nourishing it, you align your routine with your skin’s actual biology. Whether through consistent daily protection or advanced structural support like bio-remodelling, the most effective routine isn’t the one with the most steps. It is the one that respects your skin’s long-term health.

Image credits: Freepik

ALSO READ- How To Choose The Best Facewash For Summers For Fresh And Oil-Free Skin

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