Winter usually spells trouble for my skin in the form of dry patches, blotchiness, and eczema flare-ups. But this year, I’m committed to keeping my complexion dewy, luminous, and clear by relying on derm-formulated products. Being at the forefront of skin health, dermatologists know what works. And since we write tons of content on skincare at Who What Wear, we’ve had access to multiple derms in both NYC and L.A. To share their wisdom, I compiled a list of the top products from stories we’ve done over the last year. I’ve included serums that bring your glow back, moisturizers that expertly lock in hydration, and even some makeup to fake a sun-kissed glow. Keep scrolling to see all the derm-approved products you need for your winter skincare routine.
Harold Lancer, MD is a renowned dermatologist whose client list includes Ariana Grande and Kim Kardashian. These drops are a favorite for winter—they have a potent blend of amino acids and peptides to instantly illuminate dull skin.
The Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare line launched 25 years ago, and this peel is still one of the most popular products. I’m opting for the ultra-gentle version, but you can also get the original Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Pads ($92).
This lip plumper was specifically designed by Lara Devgan, MD to mimic the hydrating look you get from a syringe of filler. "It’s powered by mixed molecular weight hyaluronic acid, niacin, and ceramides, which gives the lips a visible increase in volume, softness, and pinkness,” she told Who What Wear.
Beverly Hills–based plastic surgeon Catherine Chang, MD shared all her favorite products on The Lineup, and this editor-favorite sunscreen was high on her list. "Sunscreen is one of the trickiest skincare options for people to find,” she said. "This is my favorite because it doesn’t make my face feel greasy and gives a subtle glow without too much shimmer. I’ll use this during the daytime if I need a subtle tint but don’t want to apply foundation.”
An innovative product from Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare, this mask helps skin produce and retain moisture. It’s enriched with professional-grade alginates, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid for a smooth, bouncy complexion.
A mist ensures your skin stays fresh and dewy throughout the day despite the dry winter air. I’d recommend this one from German doctor and aesthetics expert Dr. Barbara Sturm.
This polish is the most popular product from Lancer’s line—the pumpkin and pomegranate extracts are super-effective natural exfoliants that leave you with an indescribable glow.
This is the derm-approved version of the iconic SkinCeuticals serum. It’s even $37 cheaper.
Board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD recently told Who What Wear about edelweiss extract, the under-the-radar ingredient that rivals vitamin C for its anti-aging, antioxidant, and skin-soothing benefits. You can find the trendy ingredient in this serum.
Boost radiance with this scrub by Dr. Lara Devgan Skincare. It’s enriched with green tea, apple, lemon, and sugarcane to help reduce dryness and hyperpigmentation.
Restore skin to dewy, plump perfection with this serum from Los Angeles–based naturopathic doctor Nigma Talib, ND.
This popular, ultra-rich cream from Augustinus Bader supports cell renewal to give you your most radiant complexion. The brand’s founder is a renowned German doctor, so you know it’s good.
Eighth Day is the minimalist skincare brand that you need to have on your radar. This high-tech serum was formulated by company founder and board-certified dermatologist Antony Nakhla, DO.
"Discovering Santal 33 was a revelation,” Devgan told us. She reaches for this body lotion on the daily.
This mask from Dr. Nigma Talib has a cocktail of unique ingredients including prebiotics, marine collagen, and edelweiss extract to give you bright, hydrated skin.
Another iconic, internet-famous product from Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare. This LED mask has red light to stimulate collagen production and blue light to target breakouts. You can currently get it in a limited-edition magenta colorway.
Scalp health has been trending in 2023, so it makes sense that Dr. Barbara Sturm branched into haircare. This balancing serum will immediately soothe a dry winter scalp.
This moisturizer contains derm-approved ingredients such as peptides, ferulic acid, and amino acids. I’m relying on it for a glowing complexion, even in the winter.
I’m super impressed by this body cream from derm- and scientist-founded brand Macrene Actives. It has 38 Grecian botanicals for next-level hydration and softness.
This German-made serum from Dr. Barbara Sturm has purslane, echium, and sunflower to soothe my extra-sensitive skin.
Another one of Dr. Lara Devgan Skincare’s acclaimed serums. Psst: You get all three of them in the brand’s Serum Superheroes Collection ($690). "They will help you achieve all of your skincare goals: tighter pores, reduced fine lines, a clear and even complexion, and bright, hydrated skin,” Devgan told Who What Wear.
This eye cream contains powerful, derm-loved antioxidants including kojic acid, goji berry, and bilberry extract to completely transform your under-eyes.
Devgan has a long list of celebrity clientele, and this is one of their favorite products for long, luscious lashes.
One thing that all derms preach? Wear sunscreen all year round. This tinted one from Lancer Skincare has a mineral formula but still blends flawlessly for the perfect dewy glow.
Chapped lips are kind of inevitable in the winter, but this lip balm from Dr. Barbara Sturm is here to help. It’s packed with plant-based emollients including shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E to hydrate your pout.
My hair needs a little extra TLC in the winter, and this nourishing mask is the perfect treat.
"This bronzer has become my secret weapon for bringing a touch of sunshine to even the cloudiest of days,” said Devgan.
Glaze your skin with this ultra-luxe face oil from Augustinus Bader.
Lancer Skincare is the best of the best, so naturally, the bodycare is next-level, too.
My skin is already dry, but the chilly weather makes it even drier. I’m reaching for this antioxidant-rich moisturizer from Dr. Lara Devgan Skincare to hydrate my skin and bring back the radiance.
According to Devgan, this oil is "like liquid gold for my skin.” That’s the only convincing I need.
