28 Best Skincare Products, According to Experts

Dec 3

By Nerisha Penrose | Beauty & Health Editor at Elle

Shopping for skin care can feel so fun until it’s time to treat a concern, and suddenly, product labels read like a foreign language. With buzzy products cropping up at lightspeed, it’s easy to grow frustrated and buy anything that a friend, influencer, or, mommy dearest recommends.

One bad skin day can seem like you’re undoing years and months of hard work, but a solid routine with the absolute best skincare products money can buy can get you right back on track. We’re inundated with new skincare releases daily, so finding the best face cleansers or hydrating moisturizers can seem like an endless journey. Since we already provided a guide on how to correctly order your skincare, it was only right we shared the best skincare products to bring you closer to the skin of your dreams. Remember, quality is better than quantity.

Thankfully, we consulted a slew of dermatologists and skin experts to share their picks for the best skincare products every collection should have. From drugstore favorites to medical-grade serums and moisturizers, these skincare products are worthy of your attention and your coins. Ahead, scroll down to find the 29 best skincare products derms can’t live without.

A Glossy Lip Balm: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm
Key ingredients: grapeseed oil, elderberry extract, colloidal oatmeal
Size: 0.5 fl oz
One swipe of Summer Fridays’ viral Lip Butter Balm turns into five, and then moments later, you realize you’re still swiping the velvety texture across your lips. Glossy and nourishing, this formula uses shea and murumuru seed butters to moisturize the lips. Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is a huge fan of this balm, which “smells delicious and is full of nourishing moisturizers like shea butter and murumuru seed butter. This is my go-to daily lip protectant,” she says.
Sephora rating: 4.4/5 stars
An ELLE Editor says: “Not going to lie, I own just about every flavor of the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm. At first, it was a welcome departure from my usual glittery, glossy, or plumping lip products. Then, I experienced how nourishing and smooth my lips felt for hours and I barely needed to re-apply. As long as Summer Fridays keeps launching these, I’ll keep buying.”—Nerisha Penrose ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
A Soothing Cream for Sensitive Skin: Embryolisse Lait Creme Sensitive
Key ingredients: aloe vera, shea butter, soy proteins
Size: 3.38 fl oz
Choosing the right moisturizer takes a bit of trial and error, especially considering what ingredients are packed into a formula that may feel good on the skin, but could be pore-clogging or too strong. Embryolisse’s Lait Creme Sensitive was designed to soothe and protect sensitive skin. Dr. Murphy-Rose enjoys that it can also work as an overnight treatment. “It is a rich, hypoallergenic moisturizer that doubles well as an overnight cream mask. Lait Creme Sensitive was developed for sensitive skin of all ages and contains intensely moisturizing shea butter, beeswax, soy proteins, and aloe vera. I use this to repair skin after a day of skiing or under makeup when skin is dry,” she says.
Embryolisse rating: 4.73
An Embryolisse reviewer said: “I love this, but best of all, my skin loves it! The regular Lait Creme works fine most days, but if I have any irritation from other products, the sensitive formula calms my face down immensely.”
A Calming Gentle Cleanser: Skincare Junky Jelly Facial Cleanser
Key ingredients: coconut-based surfactant blend, ceramides, cucumber, niacinamide, glycerin
Size: 6 fl oz
A gentle cleanser is a win in any skin care routine. This one from Skincare Junkie is packed with soothing ingredients, like cucumber, niacinamide, and ceramides, that provide a cushion for the skin. “I can’t live without the Skincare Junkie Gentle Jelly Facial Cleanser. This is the perfect gentle cleanser that cleans thoroughly, removing even sunscreen and makeup without stripping or drying skin. It is formulated with ceramides, niacinamide and cucumber to nourish skin while cleansing. Other gentle cleansers just don’t remove the product as well. Skincare Junkie is clean and hypoallergenic,” Dr. Murphy-Rose says.
Amazon rating: 5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “The consistency of this face wash is fantastic - not too heavy, not too light. It glides on and you feel the dirt and makeup of the day wash away. Feeling refreshed! Also, the bottle and packaging are super cute and look great on my counter.”
A Multipurpose SPF: Dr. med Christine Schrammek Optimum Protection Cream
Key ingredients: Water lily extract, vitamin E
Size: 2.5 fl oz
Suncare is perhaps one of the most essential steps in your routine. In this formula, SPF 30 protects the skin, as vitamin E helps to delay aging. “Sun protection! Sun protection! Sun protection! Even if you think that you don’t really need sun protection because the sun is not shining or we are in the cold season, UV radiation has a very big influence on skin aging. I use sunscreen every day (at least SPF 20, ideally SPF 50 in summer). Optimum Protection Cream is a multi-active ingredient skincare cream and SPF in a one-step product. It works well with all skin types and is suitable for all skin tones as it doesn’t cast a white film on the surface of the skin,” Dr. Christina Drusio, a medical specialist for dermatology and venerology at Dr. med Christine Shrammek
Be Beautiful Cosmetics rating: 5/5 stars
A Be Beautiful Cosmetics reviewer said: “I have been using this cream for many years and absolutely love it. Had a little wait for my order but received it in good condition.”
A Powerful Eye Balm: Dr. med Christine Schrammek Sensiderm Eye Balm
Key ingredients: centella asiatica, ayurvedic
Size: 0.5 fl oz
As you age, the skin around your eyes loses elasticity. The earlier you incorporate an eye cream, the better. This one from Dr. med Christine Shrammek firms, smoothes, and protects. “Why specialized eye care? For one thing, it supports the thin skin around the eyes, which is heavily stressed by the constant blinking of the eyes. On the other hand, eye creams are specially designed for this anatomical region,” explains Dr. Drusio.
Dr. med Christine Shrammek rating: 5/5 stars
Our expert says: “Unlike some day products, [Sensiderm Eye Balm] does not contain any penetrating oils that could irritate the mucous membranes around the eyes. Sensiderm Eye Balm has been dermatologically tested to effectively reduce dark circles, crow’s feet, and puffiness; most importantly, it’s fragrance-free for sensitive skin.”—Dr. Drusio
A Barrier-Supporting Cleanser: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser
Key ingredients: ceramides, niacinamide, thermal spring water
Size: 13.5 fl oz
If you’re using actives or retinol, your skin barrier needs all the support it can get. This product helps you build support from the first step. With La Roche-Posay’s signature thermal spring water, niacinamide, ceramides, and more, this cleanser nourishes the skin while cleansing away dirt and impurities.
Ulta rating: 4.5/5 stars
Our expert says: “Big bang for your buck. Formulated with hydrating ingredients like glycerin and ceramides, its creamy texture works great at removing makeup, sunscreen, oil, and impurities without overdriving the skin. It’s fragrance-free and suitable for all skin types. It goes well with powerful products, like retinol or exfoliants, in any given skincare routine.”—Dr. Shirazi
A Bacteria-Killing Facial Spray: SkinSmart Facial Cleanser for Acne
Key ingredients: hypochlorous acid
Size: 8 fl oz
Among all the threats to our skin, bacteria reigns supreme. Here's a facial spray that kills acne-causing bacteria without leaving a sticky film behind or drying out the skin.
Our expert says: “Formulated with hypochlorous acid, a natural molecule found in our own bodies to defend against infections, it’s an easy, on-the-go facial spray to use after workouts or on the go. I also use it after laser treatments to reduce the risk of infections. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and safe around the eyes.”—Dr. Shirazi
A Tinted Sunscreen: Isdin Eryfotona Ageless
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, Q10, vitamin E
Size: 3.4 fl oz
No skincare routine is complete without sunscreen. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Divya Shokeen frequently uses this tinted version from Isdin because it flatters most skin tones. “This tinted SPF is perfect for literally every single skin type; it is very hydrating and perfect for anyone looking for the no-makeup makeup glow,” she explains.
The mineral sunscreen is formulated with skin-loving ingredients, including peptides, vitamin E, and Q10—an enzyme that works against fine lines and wrinkles—to protect the skin against the sun and other skin stressors.
Isdin rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Isdin reviewer said: “My dermatologist recommended this sunscreen to me twelve years ago. I have been a faithful user ever since. I love the protection I get, the way my face glows with the tint and how it makes my skin feel. It never feels heavy or sticky. It is the only face sunscreen I will use.”
A Multitasking Sunscreen: iS Clinical Extreme Protect SPF 30
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, centella asiatica, olive leaf
Size: 3.5 fl oz
“People are always shocked to hear this, but if I could only have one product for the rest of my life, this sunscreen would be it,” says Candace Marino, a Los Angeles-based medical aesthetician and founder of The LA Facialist. The IS Clinical sunscreen is a mainstay in Marino’s collection for its “multitasking, anti-aging” properties. “Not only does it contain both physical and chemical sunscreens to thoroughly protect the skin, but it’s also packed with antioxidants to protect the cells and fight free radicals that enter the skin from the environmental aggressors like UV rays, pollution, and blue light,” she explains. Speaking of multitasking, this sunscreen also offers nourishment and can be used as a moisturizer.
Dermstore rating: 4.6/5 stars
A Dermstore reviewer said: “This is literally the BEST sunscreen I have ever used!!! And I have tried so, so many. It is so hydrating, makes me look almost glowy, and I really feel as though my skin is protected from the elements. Also wears wonderfully under makeup. I will buy again and again!”
An All-Purpose Red Light Therapy Device: Vital Red Light Vital PRO
Wavelengths: Red (630, 660nm) & NIR (810, 850nm)
Size: 12.5" x 8.5"
If your skincare routine lacks a red light therapy device, the Vital Pro deserves your attention. According to Marino, this is the device that helped transform her skin. “By now, a lot of us have experienced the magic of red light therapy for our complexions; it’s incredibly anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and healing all while stimulating collagen production,” she adds. This device provides skincare benefits, and Marino says it’s also improved her overall quality of life. “Using the Vital red light has improved my life by helping me achieve better sleep, making me more energized, and speeding up recovery from sports injuries and sore muscles from working out. This light is powerful, and third-party tested for efficacy which puts it in a league of its own amongst the LED lights available on the market,” she says.
Vital Red Light rating: 4.9/5 stars
A Vital Red Light reviewer said: “I can already tell what a difference red light therapy is having on my mood and my skin! I love this!”
iS Clinical Warming Honey Cleanser
Key ingredients: Hoeny, papaya enzymes
Size: 4 fl oz
A warming cleanser might be the one thing you’ve been missing out on. Marino is a major fan of this cleanser because of its main ingredient: honey.
“It’s made of real honey, an ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties. It’s also a humectant that helps bind moisture to the skin,” Marino explains. Even better, this cleanser actually warms up when rubbed into the skin and “provides gentle enzymatic exfoliation and warrants a polished, healthy glow.”
A Hydrating Tinted Sunscreen: AziMD Skincare Hydratint BB SPF 44
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid

Size: 2.1 fl oz
When a product can provide multiple benefits that cut your beauty stash in half, it’s a win in our book. Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD Skincare, recommends this Hydratint from her brand, as it’s a mineral sunscreen that has a “lightweight yet hydrating formula that also gives me light coverage. I stopped wearing foundation as this gives my skin a dewy filter-like appearance,” Dr. Shirazi notes.
AziMD rating: 4.8/5 stars
A Hydrating Essence: SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

Key ingredients: Pitera

Size: 2.5 fl oz
When your routine is full of actives, it’s important to restore moisture whenever you can. Enter: SK-II’s Facial Treatment Essense. The treatment is “a hydrating essence that’s rich in antioxidants [and I] apply it to my damp skin under my moisturizer then SPF. It’s my go-to product right after cleansing when my skin isn’t in the mood to tolerate actives like vitamin C or exfoliants,” Dr. Shirazi explains.
Dermstore rating: 4.2/5 stars
A Dermstore reviewer said: “Makes my skin softer and with more clarity than anything I have ever used! Also seems to hydrate my skin and I only need moisturizer in a few extra dry spots when I use this.”
An Exfoliating Body Spray: AziMD Skincare THE ONE
Key ingredients: glycolic acid, salicylic acid

Size: 3 fl oz
Textured skin is no match for this multi-tasking body spray, formulated with glycolic and salicylic acid—two exfoliants that improve skin texture and appearance. Dr. Shirazi uses the spray “on the legs and arms, breakouts, razor bumps, and ingrown hairs; it smooths out rough dark elbows and knees, hyperpigmentation, and thick heels. My patients love it for back and butt acne,” she says.
AziMD Skincare rating: 4/5 stars
An AziMD Skincare reviewer said: “I was suffering from razor bumps/ ingrowns really badly and this spray once nightly before bed clears me right up. It works, buy it!”
A Buildable Serum: Alumier MD EverActive C&E™ + Peptide
Key ingredients: vitamin C and E

Size: 0.5 fl oz/ each
“This potent antioxidant serum features 15 percent vitamin C to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Unique to this product is that it is only activated when mixed into the bottle of serum to maximize freshness,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marina Peredo explains. The vitamin C is housed in a separate cap to prevent oxidization, so you only use what you actually need instead of wasting the product.
My Lip Addiction reviewer said: “This serum is Incredibly beautiful science and it’s liquid GOLD to me. It keeps my skin bright and plump! You must be consistent with products to see them WORK . 2 years and never stopping on the particular serum . Holy Grail – Ride or Die and I would recommend it to anyone 20 and up.”
An Overnight Worker: Kiehl's Since 1851 Midnight Recovery Concentrate Face Oil
Key ingredients: Squalane, evening primrose

Size: 0.5 fl oz
“One of my all-time favorite products from them is the Midnight Recovery Concentrate. It contains a blend of essential oils that work together to hydrate and restore the skin overnight,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry gushes. Formulated with squalane, lavender, and evening primrose, this oil works overnight to boost the skin’s appearance and texture as you catch Zzz. “I have noticed a significant improvement in the overall texture and radiance of my complexion since I started using this oil. Plus, it has a lovely lavender scent that helps me relax before bed,” says Dr. Henry.
Nordstrom rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer said: “This product is awesome. It absorbs quickly and my face feels so smooth with fewer wrinkles. So grateful for my stylist who recommended it!”
A Daily Moisturizer: Kiehl's Since 1851 Ultra Facial Cream
Key ingredients: Squalane

Size: 1.7 fl oz
Dr. Michelle Henry’s desert island must-have is this moisturizer from Kiehl’s, which she loves for its “lightweight yet incredibly hydrating” formula. The moisturizer also “absorbs quickly into the skin and leaves my face feeling plump and soft. I also love that it comes in a large tub, which lasts for months and makes it a great value for the price,” she says.
Ulta rating: 4.7/5 stars
An ELLE Editor says: “I swear by this magic recovery cream for my easily irritated skin. Whenever my skin is dry from too many actives or could use an extra blanket of moisture, I reach for my ever-reliable facial cream to whip my skin back into shape.”—Nerisha Penrose
A Soothing Daily Moisturizer: L'Oreal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care Oil-Free Face Moisturizer
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, aloe water

Size: 3.04 fl oz
Dr. Henry’s collection also includes this super hydrating moisturizer from L’oreal Paris. “Hydra Genius Liquid Moisturizer is lightweight formula perfect for those who want the hydration of cream without the heaviness. Plus, it has a cooling effect that feels amazing on hot summer days,” she adds.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “I have been using this for several years. It just glides on your skin. It’s is like silk, not sticky at all. My skin is dry so I get the dry skin formula. As soon I put it on my skin is hydrated. You won’t be disappointed with this product. It is a large bottle so it lasts a long time.”
A Potent Anti-Aging Serum: SkinMedica SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Key ingredients: TNS®-MR (peptide complex)

Size: 1 fl oz

Here’s a medical-grade serum that targets anti-aging threats like wrinkles and fine lines. “[It’s] a lightweight, anti-aging serum that contains a perfect blend of patented topical growth factors: peptides, botanicals, and marine extracts. It improves fine lines and wrinkles and skin elasticity, and it is ideal for all skin types. It is pricey, but it is worth the money,” Dr. Peredo shares.
Dermstore rating: 4.4/5 stars
A Dermstore reviewer said: “The SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum is my can't-live-without-it part of my skin care routine! I'm completely addicted to this serum for how smooth it makes my skin feel. Just last night I got 3 compliments about my complexion, which used to be problematic with dry, ruddy creepy skin. Highly recommend this serum to improve appearance of aging skin!”
An Effective Moisturizer for Mature Skin: Restorative Skin Complex Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex Technology®
Key ingredients: TriHex technology, niacinamide

Size: 1 fl oz
You can never have too many moisturizers, especially ones that target anti-aging and improving the skin’s overall health. Dr. Peredo suggests the Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex Technology™ or the HydraTint sunblock, as “they work synergistically to combat all visible signs of aging around the face, eyes, neck, and décolleté. The products help volumize and lift sagging skin while smoothing lines and wrinkles. Plus, the TriHex Technology™ helps rebuild and recycle the skin’s extracellular matrix (ECM) by clearing out byproducts of aging from exposure to sun and pollution,” Dr. Peredo explains.
Dr. Shokeen agrees: “This skin complex is perfect for anyone looking to have long-term collagen enhancement and improve the quality of their skin over time. It has a combination of several different peptides, including hexapeptide, to even help maintain the effects of neurotoxin longer.”
Alastin rating; 4.7/5 stars
An Alastin reviewer said: “My go-to product for after-procedure skincare. Repeat purchase.”
A Repairing Serum: RescueMD DNA Repair Complex Scar Treatment Serum
Key ingredients: lapachol, antioxidants

Size: 0.5 fl oz
As the name suggests, this Rescue MD serum works as the magic elixir for a slew of skin woes. “This multitasking serum uses a blend of lapachol, antioxidants, peptides, and anti-inflammatory ingredients to support the skin’s natural healing process, making it a great option for scars and bites, post-procedure, and overall signs of skin aging,” Dr. Marisa Garshick, board-certified dermatologist and clinical assistant professor at Cornell University notes.
Amazon rating: 3.9/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “I have had 6 surgeries and used multiple scar treatments in the past. No one as good as this one! It’s been only two weeks and I can already see a difference. Can’t wait to see the final result in a few months. I highly recommend it.”
A Set of Exfoliating Peeling Pads: Skinbetter AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads 30 ct
Key ingredients: glycolic, lactic and salicylic acid

Size: 30 ct
Dr. Garshick reaches for these peeling pads whenever her skin is in need of a quick glow. “These exfoliating peel pads contain a combination of three key hydroxy acids—lactic acid, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid—in combination with AlphaRet, a proprietary retinoid. It is easy to use and is a great option for those looking for an exfoliant to help brighten the skin and improve the skin tone and texture,” she shares.
Skinbetter rating: 5/5 stars
A Skinbetter reviewer said: “I love love this product!!! This helped me so much with getting my skin to feel softer and smoother! Definitely recommend it!!”
An Oil-Free Moisturizer: La Roche-Posay La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, Daily Moisturizer Face Cream with Ceramide and Niacinamide for All Skin Types, Oil Free, Fragrance Free
Key ingredients: niacinamide

Size: 3.38 fl oz
To understand the world of La Roche-Posay is to familiarize yourself with its different collections, tailored to specific skin needs. The Toleraine line focuses explicitly on repairing sensitive skin with ingredients that restore the barrier and boost moisture. Another favorite of Dr. Garshick, this oil-free moisturizer “contains a combination of ceramides to help strengthen the skin barrier and niacinamide to soothe the skin. This lightweight cream helps to replenish moisture using glycerin and can be used all year. It is a great option for all skin types as it is oil-free and won’t leave the skin feeling greasy,” she explains.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “Great moisturizer overall. I have sensitive skin and have had trouble in the past finding a good moisturizer that doesn't make me break out. Leaves my face so soft!”
A Brightening Eye Cream: Colorescience Total Eye Firm & Repair Cream
Key ingredients: squalane, caffeine

Size: 0.6 fl oz
The delicate skin around the eyes needs all the nourishment and strength it can get. Reach for this eye cream, which uses Colorsciene’s own Total Eye Complex (pull of peptides, plant extracts, and hyaluronic acid) along with other vitamins and nourishing ingredients to plump and awaken the eyes.
“This hydrating cream uses humectants such as glycerin and sea buckthorn fruit oil, and emollients such as meadowfoam seed oil and squalane to support the skin barrier and improve the overall texture of the undereye skin. It also incorporates the Total Eye Complex, which works to firm the under-eye skin and improve discoloration, as well as caffeine to reduce overall puffiness. It is safe even for those with sensitive skin as it is free of parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrance,” Dr. Garshick explains.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “I do like the texture which is not creamy and it doesn’t run.”
A Non-Stripping Cleanser: CeraVe CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser | Moisturizing Non-Foaming Face Wash with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides and Glycerin | Fragrance Free Paraben Free | 16 Fluid Ounce
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides

Size: 16 fl oz
Cerave offers affordable yet effective skincare, and this hydrating cleanser is a bestseller for a good reason and one of Dr. Garshick’s favorites. “This cleanser effectively gets rid of dirt and buildup without leaving the skin feeling dry. It contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin as well as ceramides to support and strengthen the skin barrier. It is a great option for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin, as it is fragrance-free,” Dr. Garshick shares.
Amazon rating: 4.7/5 stars
An ELLE Editor says: “This cleanser is a must-have in any beauty stash. It doesn’t lather as much as the cleansers I’m used to, but I’ve realized that just because a cleanser doesn’t lather or leave a squeaky clean feeling doesn’t mean it’s ineffective. My skin feels nourished after each wash, not stripped, and lasts forever. A little goes a long way!”—Nerisha Penrose
A Refreshing Serum: Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
Key ingredients: Pure hyaluronic acid, volcanic water

Size: 7.41 fl oz
Here’s a serum that feels like a refreshing splash of water. “This serum is formulated with natural-origin hyaluronic acid and Vichy Volcanic Water to help hydrate and plump skin. It has been clinically proven to strengthen and repair the skin barrier,” Dr. Garshick notes. Because of its hydrating properties, Dr. Garshick says it’s also great for year-round use.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “The texture is thick and it absorbs pretty quickly into my skin! Perfect for winter.”
A Firming Neck Cream: Revision Skincare Nectifirm Advanced Neck Firming Cream
Key ingredients: gallic acid, lingonberry extract

Size: 1.7 fl oz
As much as we focus on our faces, we can’t neglect our necks. Dr. Garshick uses this neck cream to prevent any signs of aging around the area. “It contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin E; It is lightweight, oil-free, absorbs easily, and is great for all skin types,” she adds.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer said: “I am traumatized with the loose skin on my neck. The reality is that I have been taking care of my face for so many years and I neglected my neck. And now, at 46, it shows, the difference is really noticiable. I have tried several products and this is the only one in which I actually notice a good result.”
A Plumping Cream: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream Face Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid
Key ingredients: vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid, peptides, aloe vera

Size: 0.5 oz
Proper skincare prep is required to maintain a long-lasting base. Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream plumps the skin via its nourishing hyaluronic acid-packed formula. Your skin feels softer and appears visibly smoother.
“This cream works to boost moisture and improves the radiance of the skin, offering both immediate and long-term improvements. Containing a combination of hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamins C and E, and more, it can help to plump the skin as well as improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” Dr. Garshick offers.
Nordstrom rating: 4.5/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer said: “I use the CT serum follows by this magic cream every morning and night. My skin feels and looks absolutely amazing. I have incredibly dry skin and use this as a primer. I love that there is no strong scent too. Highly recommend for all skin types!!”

What should you look for in a skincare product?
Before you shop for skincare, it’s important to understand your skin type and needs. “Consider product formulations, such as gel-based or oil-free products, for oily skin. Heavier cream or oil-based products best suit dry skin types. Lightweight formulas work best in warmer, more humid climates and during the day, whereas heavier, richer formulas are best in cooler, drier climates and best applied at night since our skin loses more water overnight. Look for ingredients that target your specific skin concern. If you have hyperpigmentation, look for ingredients that brighten the skin, such as retinoids, vitamin C, azelaic acid, kojic acid, glycolic acid, and licorice root. If you have acne-prone oily skin, products with salicylic acid and niacinamide are great options,” Dr. Shirazi says.
Can you briefly describe how to determine if your skin is normal, dry, combo or oily?
“I suggest using a mild cleanser to wash your face, then wait 30 minutes to an hour to determine your skin type. Normal skin feels normal as it's well-balanced, not too oily, and not too dry, given its ability to balance oil production without excess shine or dryness. If your skin feels dry and tight, appears dull, or feels a bit itchy, then you have dry skin. If your skin feels oily all over and looks shiny, then you have oily skin. Those with oily skin may also complain of makeup not lasting as long with excessive shine in the t-zone, as well as being acne-prone. If you have combination skin, then you have oily skin in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), while other areas (cheeks, jawline) are normal or dry. You may have dry patches in the drier areas and acne in the oily areas,” Dr. Shirazi explains.
What’s the correct way to layer your skincare?
According to Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, the most important products to own are a gentle cleanser, topical antioxidants, moisturizer, and sunscreen. The correct way to layer your skincare is to start with a cleanser and add in your toner and serums before sealing everything in with a moisturizer. Of course, you can't forget the sunscreen. At night, the routine changes a bit to make room for heavier actives or retinol that repair and address your specific skin issues.
Meet the experts
Dr. Azadeh Shirazi is a California-based board-certified dermatologist and founder of Azimd Skincare.
Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is a board-certified dermatologist at Laser & Skin Surgery Center in New York.
Dr. Marina Peredo is an NYC-based board-certified dermatologist.
Dr. Michelle Henry is an NYC-based board-certified dermatologist
Dr. Marisa Garshick is an NYC-based board-certified and clinical assistant professor at Cornell University.
Dr. Divya Shokeen is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of the California-based practice Ocean Skin And Vein Institute.
Candace Marino is a Los Angeles-based medical aesthetician and founder of The LA Facialist.
Dr. Christina Drusio is the medical specialist for dermatology and venerology at Dr. med Christine Schrammek.
Why trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor Nerisha Penrose interviewed dermatologists to curate a list of the best skin care products of all time.