As someone who has had sensitive, dry, acne-prone skin for basically my entire existence, I trust my dermatologist with my life. She saw me through the pimples and blackheads phase in middle school, the cystic acne in middle school, and many, many episodes of dry, irritated skin. While my skin—like most people’s—has fluctuated over the years, one thing that’s never changed is her tried-and-true mantra: No need for a complex 10-step ritual. That’s why I’ve kept the same routine for years.
“The best way to get healthy, hydrated skin is to follow a minimal routine full of gentle, hydrating products,” says Mona Gohara, doctorboard-certified dermatologist and associate clinical professor at Yale School of Medicine. “Ultimately, your skin is healthier if you use the right ingredients and avoid the wrong ingredients,” adds the New York-based board-certified dermatologist. Rachel Nazarian, MD.
So what kind of formulas are best? “Look for simple, alcohol-free and fragrance-free products,” explains New Jersey dermatologist Margarita Lolis. “Also, look for ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid.”
Luckily for all of us, you can find many of these products — and your entire dry skin routine — on Amazon. From CeraVe to La Roche-Posay, this derm-approved routine is a surefire way to get your best skin ever — plus, obviously, consulting your own dermatologist.
Step 1: Clean with a gentle cleanser
The first thing you need to do is throw out those grapefruit-scented cleansers filled with brightly colored microbeads and harsh exfoliants. Next, buy a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizing cleanser to cleanse your face of any makeup, sweat, and dirt on your face. “You want something that doesn’t disrupt your skin’s natural pH, doesn’t foam, and is a pure cleanser,” explains Dr.
CeraVé
The main thing about this fan-favorite cleanser is that it is exactly that – a cleanser and not a soap. “It strikes the perfect balance between cleansing the skin without stripping too much of its natural oils,” says Dr. Nazarian.
This is all thanks to skin-loving ingredients like ceramides, which are lipids that are already hidden in the skin. “They are essential for protecting the skin by retaining moisture and preventing skin permeability,” explains Dr. Lollis. All of this keeps moisture firmly locked into the skin, even while the cleanser does its cleaning work.
Amazon
Formulated specifically for sensitive skin and accepted by the National Eczema Association, this cleanser has been reviewed according to strict guidelines to ensure it is free of fragrances, soaps, dyes, gluten, and more ingredients that could aggravate the condition.
A hero ingredient in the formula that Dr. Lolis loves? Ultra-hydrating glycerin. “Glycerin has a cooling effect on the skin, which can help soothe irritation and soothe inflamed or sensitive skin,” explains Dr.
Amazon
This gentle cleanser from the beloved French pharmacy brand also features a variety of ceramides along with glycerin and niacinamide—according to Dr. Lolis, these ingredients work together to soothe dry, irritated skin.
However, this cleanser contains the brand’s famous prebiotic thermal water, sourced from the city of La Roche-Posay, France. The water contains minerals and selenium, a natural antioxidant, to further soothe the skin.
Step 2: Apply Your Topical Retinoid
While they are excellent at combating fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scars and signs of aging, retinols are not at all a requirement in your skincare routine – in fact, they can do more harm than good when they are. used. treats dry skin, because they are very tough.
If you really want to, there is a way to get the wrinkle-eliminating benefits without burning your skin. “Using a moisturizer before applying the retinoid is a more tolerable method that offers the same benefits and reduces irritation,” suggests Dr. “Additionally, there are many new-generation retinoids available that offer equivalent acne and anti-aging benefits, but without unnecessary dryness and irritation.
Note: Because retinol is a very strong active ingredient, you should always consider consulting a dermatologist before taking the plunge.
CeraVé
Great for mature skin, this CeraVe formula contains encapsulated retinol to reduce the appearance of fine lines. While you need to be careful when using retinol on dry skin, this guy comes with some extra cushioning in the form of niacinamide and glycerin.
“The niacinamide here has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties,” explains Dr. Lolis. “Improves the skin barrier, reduces redness and regulates oil production.” Basically, this retinol does everything a retinol should do – but without overdoing it.
Amazon
If you’re dealing with dry skin, fine lines, wrinkles, acne, acne scars, and lots of sensitivity, Differin is your best bet thanks to the less intense adapalene.
“It’s a good option for more sensitive skin because it’s among the least strong in this class of actives,” explains Dr. “However, it used to be prescription only, so you still get the benefit of the prescription strength, but over the counter.”
Step 3: Use a (very) simple moisturizer
While all skin can benefit from fragrance-free moisturizers packed with hydrating and restorative ingredients, this is especially true for dry, acne-prone, and sensitive types. Just like with cleansers, look for simple but powerful ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid, and avoid moisturizers that use exfoliating ingredients like lactic acid, salicylic acid, or glycolic acid (unless your dermatologist says so!).
Amazon
This moisturizer went viral on social media, thanks to the extremely moisturizing and creamy formula. Contains three essential ceramides to strengthen skin and superstar hyaluronic acid.
“The hyaluronic acid here is an important component when it comes to improving the skin’s barrier function. This can help protect sensitive skin from irritants,” explains Dr. Lolis. “Furthermore, because it is non-irritating and does not cause acne or allergens, it is suitable for all skin types, including very sensitive skin prone to breakouts.”
Psst: This 2-for-1 set also comes with a mini version of the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser.
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Another affordable formula that contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides, this Vanicream moisturizer has the same National Eczema Association seal of approval as the brand’s cleanser.
Even though it’s packed with expert-approved hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides for soft, bouncy skin, it’s still super lightweight without feeling watery. Pro tip: use in the morning before makeup.
Neutrogen
If you prefer the texture of a lighter gel-cream, Neutrogena Hydro Boost will be your new choice, which penetrates super quickly and is filled with hyaluronic acid. “This formula attracts water to the skin and holds it like a sponge,” explains Dr. Lolis. The result? Seriously hydrated, bouncy skin.
For a double whammy of moisture, Dr. Nazarian suggests layering this Neutrogena formula under the CeraVe and Vanicream moisturizers above. The first layer absorbs moisture using hyaluronic acid, while ceramides in the second layer lock everything in.
Step 4: Finish with SPF in the morning
While the experts I spoke to may be pickier when it comes to other parts of your dry skin routine, like retinols, there’s one non-negotiable: sunscreen. You’re wasting your money if you don’t follow your morning skin care routine with sunscreen. To prevent dangerous skin damage from the sun, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends an SPF of at least 30. And no, the SPF in your moisturizer or foundation is not enough. Sun damage is also main culprit when it comes to visible aging and dryness of the skin.
“Any and all sunscreen is better than no sunscreen,” explains Dr. Gohara. Since there are countless options to sift through, scroll below to see some options loved by Amazon shoppers to round out your routine.
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Loved by dermatologists and celebrities alike, this SPF is exceptionally good for dry, sensitive, or mature skin—which is why it’s worth the higher price. It’s packed with a ton of recommended ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to keep your face moist and protected.
“I have very sensitive eyes and practically all other sunscreens cause very painful burns,” he explains. an Amazon buyer which gave EltaMD sunscreen a five-star rating. “Not this one! I can rub it on my eyelids and eye area and I’ve never had any irritation. I also have very sensitive skin, and this leaves it shiny and hydrated.”
Amazon
Tinted sunscreen is ideal for those makeup-free days, and this La Roche-Posay formula is considered top-notch among derms and Amazon shoppers. It contains a mixture of titanium dioxide and iron oxides for SPF protection, as well as La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal water (the same one the cleanser contains!) to soothe, hydrate and protect the skin.
“I’ve been using this tinted moisturizer for a little over a year,” he explains. a dedicated Amazon customer. “I love how hydrating it is and how it glides on so easily…it’s just a sheer coverage that magically matches your skin tone so it’s even and looks like you’re wearing nothing. I’m a mom of four, so sometimes I’m the last one to get ready. On these days, this jewel works alone and combined with a little blush or bronzer gives a finished look.
CeraVé
Sheer and lightweight, this hybrid formula blends seamlessly into the skin and is great for layering under makeup. It also contains essential ceramides and niacinamide to help skin retain moisture – even when exposed to the sun.
“I’ve done a lot of research and tried a lot of sunscreens, and this has been my favorite,” explains one happy Amazon buyer. “Great for daily use and penetrates directly into the skin. It doesn’t leave a film, feels really light, doesn’t dry out and leaves my skin moist and fresh. Great to use under makeup too. Five stars for perfume because it doesn’t have a strong scent and is almost imperceptible.”
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The revisions cited above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
