I'd like to think that I'm Who What Wear's resident rosacea expert. A dermatologist diagnosed me with the inflammatory skin condition nearly a decade ago, and ever since, I've struggled to keep my skin smooth, calm, and redness-free. Rest assured, I know how stubborn it can be. If I'm so bold as to use the wrong skincare product, drink a glass of wine, or go for a run, my skin erupts in splotchy red patches. If these flare-ups happen back-to-back, I'll see a bumpy, uneven texture accompany the angry redness. Thank goodness for my favorite redness-disguising foundations!

As with any inflammatory skin condition, the right skincare products can help manage it. Before we talk about serums, moisturizers, or sunscreen, though, it makes sense to start with face wash. Celebrity aestheticians say it's the most important step in any skincare routine, as it sets the foundation for everything that follows. From personal experience, it's also the easiest way to either improve or exacerbate rosacea. It all comes down to which cleanser you choose.

I've tested an unknown number of rosacea-friendly face washes over the years. I loved some and hated others, but I wanted a tight curation of expert-recommended, editor-vetted cleansers—tried-and-true formulas I can return to when my skin needs some serious soothing. So I sorted through hundreds of first-person reviews, consulted three top dermatologists for their recommendations, and put over 20 products to the test. At the end of it all, I discovered the eight best face washes for rosacea. I'm talking about the gentle, hydrating, redness-relieving formulas of dermatologist dreams. Keep scrolling for the full list.

The Top 5 Picks

• Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
• Best for Minimizing Redness: Prequel Redness Reform Sulfur Cleanser
• Best for Dry Skin: Avène Tolérance Extremely Gentle Cleanser Lotion
• Best Pore-Cleaning Cleanser: Ourself Daily Purifying Cleanser

The Best Face Washes for Rosacea

Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser

Best for Extremely Sensitive Skin: Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

Best for Minimizing Redness: Prequel Redness Reform Sulfur Cleanser

Best for Extremely Dry Skin: Avène Tolérance Extremely Gentle Cleanser Lotion

Best Pore-Cleaning Cleanser: Ourself Daily Purifying Cleanser

Revision Skincare Gentle Foaming Cleanser

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

Dr. Loretta Gentle Hydrating Cleanser

Rosacea FAQs

What cleanser ingredients should someone with rosacea look for?

The experts agree that simple is best when it comes to finding a good face wash for rosacea. "For rosacea-prone skin, my primary recommendation is to always keep 'less is more' in mind," Schwarzburg says. "The fewer ingredients, the better."

Spearman seconds that. "The main goal is to find ingredients that decrease redness and protect the outer layer of the skin," she says. "Glycerin and hyaluronic acid are excellent choices because they help the skin retain water while washing, so the face does not feel tight or dry afterwards. Soothing ingredients like aloe and green tea are great for calming down active irritation. It is also smart to look for ceramides, which help build up the skin barrier so the skin is less reactive to everyday irritants."

What cleanser ingredients should someone stay away from?

"It is important to avoid anything that strips natural oils or irritates the facial skin. Common triggers for a flare-up include harsh sulfates, drying alcohols, and fake scents or dyes," Spearman says. "Face scrubs with rough beads or strong exfoliating acids like glycolic acid should also be avoided because those ingredients are simply too aggressive for sensitive skin."

Schwarzburg adds essential oils, menthol, eucalyptus, peppermint, and alcohol-based formulas to the list, and Manges cautions against using witch hazel and high concentrations of glycolic and salicylic acid, especially during flares.

How We Chose

Beauty editor Kaitlyn McLintock has nearly a decade of experience testing and reviewing beauty products. She curated this list of the best face washes for rosacea by consulting three top dermatologists. Then, she personally put their recommendations to the test on her own rosacea-prone skin. At the end of it all, she had a robust, deeply researched list.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

Ask any dermatologist, and they'll tell you that the one part of your skincare routine you should never skip is sunscreen. And despite the reported rise of people skipping on sunscreen in exchange for tanning oil, tanning, and peak UV hours, sunscreen is just as important now as it's ever been.

"The face is one of the most consistently sun-exposed areas of the body and is often where we first see signs of cumulative UV damage," says board-certified dermatologist Dmitriy Schwarzburg, MD,."Daily sunscreen use helps reduce the risk of skin cancer, premature aging, hyperpigmentation, collagen breakdown, and the development of fine lines and wrinkles." And yes, this applies to cloudy days or days spent indoors—it all adds up over time.

I'm well aware that I can use a standard sunscreen made for my body on my face, but using a face sunscreen specifically gives me a different kind of peace of mind. And over the course of my six-year career in beauty, I know a thing or two about which formulas are well worth the investment. So without further ado, here are the 10 face sunscreens to complete any well-rounded skincare regimen.

The Best Face Sunscreens, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Beauty of Joseon Dayscreen 2-in-1 SPF 30 Moisturizer With Green Tea-Ha + Ceramides
• Best for Combination Skin: Lion Pose Unghosted 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 42 With Zinc & Squalane
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Osea Marine Screen Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
• Best Serum: Kiehl's Better Screen UV Serum Spf 50+ Facial Sunscreen With Collagen Peptide
• Best Tinted: Merit The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45

The Best Face Sunscreens of 2026

Best Overall: Beauty of Joseon Dayscreen 2-in-1 SPF 30 Moisturizer

Best for Combination Skin: Lion Pose Unghosted 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 42

Best for Sensitive Skin: Osea Marine Screen Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Best Serum: Kiehl's Better Screen UV Serum SPF 50+ Facial Sunscreen

Best Gel: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50 Invisible Sun Protection

Best Tinted: Merit The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45

Best for Dry Skin: Isdin Fusion Water Magic SPF 40 Sunscreen

Best for Dark Spots: Tatcha The Milky Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+

Best for Fine Lines: Youth to the People Youthscreen Daily Hydration + Pollution Defense Invisible Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 60

Best Stick: Eadem Sunsuede SPF 50+ Lightweight Sunscreen & Blurring Primer Stick

What should people look for in a face sunscreen?

With plenty of options available on the market, there are a few things to keep in mind before making a purchase. Here are some key pointers from our experts:

SPF level: According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it's recommended to use sunscreen with an SPF level of 30 or higher. "SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%," says board-certified dermatologist Sejal Shah, MD. She adds that it's also crucial to select a sunscreen labeled "broad-spectrum," which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Skin type: A good sunscreen is one that you'll be comfortable using every day. That said, it's important to invest in a product that caters to your skin type. "For acne-prone skin, lighter noncomedogenic formulations are often preferable," says Schwarzburg. "For sensitive skin, mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide tend to be well tolerated."

Water resistance: This may go without saying, but if you plan on spending a lot of time swimming or sweating, you'll want to opt for a water-resistant sunscreen. Just be sure to reapply frequently.

Type: As you saw on our list, there is a wide variety of formula types. There are sticks, gels, serums, creams, etc., so think about what works best for your lifestyle, and go from there. Shah notes that keeping this in mind will also make it easier to stay on top of daily use.

What’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreens?

This is one of the more common questions when it comes to sunscreen, but it ultimately comes down to the ingredients and how they function to protect the skin barrier. "Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface that reflects and scatters ultraviolet rays," says Shah. "Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin."

Although one isn't better than the other, your skin type may be an indicator for which formula is best for you. "Mineral sunscreens are often preferred for sensitive skin because they tend to be less irritating and are less likely to cause stinging around the eyes," says Schwarzburg. "Meanwhile, chemical sunscreens often offer a lighter texture and greater transparency on the skin making them easier for many people to wear consistently." With that in mind, that doesn't mean you can't wear chemical sunscreen if you have sensitive skin; you may just want to consider patch testing it before fully committing to it.

How often should sunscreen be reapplied?

The general rule of thumb is to reapply sunscreen every two hours if you're out in the sun. But depending on what your day looks like, you may need to reapply it more or less often. "It should also be reapplied after swimming, sweating, or towel drying," says Shah. "For people spending most of the day indoors a single morning application may be sufficient if UV exposure is minimal." She adds that you might also want to throw on another layer if you sit near windows for long period of time, commute, or eat outdoors during the day.

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best facial sunscreens, we leaned heavily on firsthand testing and expert insight. We also considered several factors, including type, shade range, fragrance, and key ingredients. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.

Why Trust Who What Wear

Since 2006, Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

Despite all of the skincare products out there, a good routine doesn't need to be super extensive. This is especially the case for people with mature skin who are trying to find the right balance to address some of their most common concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. At the same time, with changes to our skin come changes to our regimen. So although you may not need dozens of products, you'll still need to hunt for the right formulas.

In fact, I've been keeping a close eye on my mother's trial-and-error process as she finds herself dealing with dryness and new sensitivities, and it's made me super aware of just how delicate skin becomes as we age. So naturally, I've been curious about what exactly it is that mature skin needs to continue thriving.

To find out, I chatted with leading board-certified dermatologists Dendy Engelman, MD, and Anetta Reszko, MD, for a full day and night step-by-step guide for the ultimate anti-aging skincare routine.

Morning Skincare Routine

Step 1: Cleanser

Before any cream or serum, it's best to start with a clean base with the help of a cleanser. "An effective anti-aging morning routine should focus on protecting the skin from environmental damage while supporting hydration and barrier function," says Reszko. "Cleansing removes excess oil, sweat, and debris accumulated overnight without compromising the skin barrier." For your ideal formula, Engelman notes that formulas with ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, and soothing botanical extracts are key.

Step 2 (Optional): Face Mist

This step is optional, but if you have a face mist you love, this is the time to use it. "A hydrating mist can help replenish moisture and prepare the skin for subsequent products, particularly during the hotter summer months when increased heat and sun exposure can contribute to dehydration," says Reszko. For a lightweight formula that leaves skin soft and hydrated, she recommends Bioeffect's EGF Essence.

Step 3: Serum

Once you have a clean base, grab your toner or serum for a boost of antioxidants. "Serums are one of the most important morning steps because ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, and other antioxidant complexes help protect against oxidative stress generated by UV exposure and environmental pollutants while supporting collagen health and overall skin radiance," explains Reszko. She's a big fan of the SKORR Anti-Ox Serum with vitamin C and E.

Step 4: Eye Cream

If you've been skipping on eye cream, this step is a must. A lot of standard face moisturizers aren't meant for the delicate skin around the eyes, so finding specific formulas for it is essential. "The skin around the eyes is thinner and often shows signs of aging first," says Engelman. "Look for formulas with peptides, caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to help hydrate, smooth and visibly refresh the eye area."

Step 5: Moisturizer

This step is a given for anyone. And while there are plenty of formulas out there, there are still certain ingredients to look for. "A good moisturizer helps maintain a healthy skin barrier, improve hydration, and support overall skin resilience," says Engelman. "Look for ingredients like ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid and nourishing lipids." For best results, Reszko suggests using Augustinus Bader's The Cream.

Step 6: Sunscreen

No matter your age or skin concerns, sunscreen is a nonnegotiable. Using one daily can prevent signs of premature aging and prevent further damage from occurring. "Daily sunscreen remains the most important anti-aging product in any skincare routine because it helps protect against UV-induced collagen breakdown, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging," says Reszko, who recommends Isdin's Eryfotona Ageless SPF 50." Engelman adds that it's best to look for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher (as recommended by The American Academy of Dermatology).

Nighttime Routine

Step 1: Cleanser

Some people prefer to cleanse only once a day, but both of our experts agree that cleansing twice is a good opportunity to get rid of any dirt that accumulates on your face throughout the day. "Nighttime cleansing removes sunscreen, makeup, pollution, and daily buildup, creating a clean canvas for your treatment products," says Engelman. "Double cleansing may be beneficial for those who wear makeup or water-resistant sunscreen."

Step 2: Toner

Once again, a toner or treatment serum will be needed as a follow-up step to your cleanser. "Skin naturally enters repair mode overnight, making this the ideal time for targeted treatments," says Engelman. "Look for ingredients such as peptides, growth factors, niacinamide, antioxidants, and hydrating actives that help support firmness, texture, and overall skin quality." She adds that ELM Biosciences' A30 Elemental Serum is a great option for supporting skin health and promoting a stronger, more resilient complexion.

Step 3: Eye cream

An eye cream before bed can reduce fine lines and promote plumpness. "Overnight hydration helps support the delicate eye area and minimize the appearance of fine lines and fatigue," says Engelman. "Look for formulas with peptides, humectants and barrier-supporting ingredients."

Step 4: Moisturizer

Whether you prefer a moisturizer or a mask, deep hydration to repair and protect the skin overnight will set you up for success with consistent use. Engelman says ingredients like ceramides, fatty acids, peptides and other barrier-strengthening ingredients will keep skin smooth, supple, and healthy-looking

Dermatologists agree that microneedling is incredibly effective. For the uninitiated, microneedling treatments involve using tiny needles to superficially puncture the skin and create "micro-injuries," which trigger the natural wound-healing response and dramatically boost collagen and elastin production. Translation? It can give you smoother, plumper, and more youthful-looking skin. It can even drastically minimize the appearance of acne scars.

Here's the thing, though. Not all microneedling treatments are the same. Dermatologists back professional microneedling treatments, undergone in an office setting under the guidance of an expert. They often caution against at-home microneedling treatments, aka derma-rollers, because they can do more harm than good (more on that in a minute).

However, that doesn't mean there aren't other options if you can't shell out hundreds or thousands of dollars for professional microneedling. Experts recommend three other microneedling substitutes. The first is a gold-standard collagen-boosting ingredient: retinol. The second is a safe, hygienic, and dermatologist-developed "Micro-Infusion" system. The third is spicule skincare—a K-beauty phenomenon that's only recently caught on in the U.S. Ahead, learn about each one and find out which is right for you.

The Dangers of Derma-Rollers

Azadeh Shirazi is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of AziMD Skincare. She says that while derma-rollers are marketed as a DIY microneedling treatment, they come with "real risk" when used incorrectly. "The main things I worry most about as a dermatologist are infection, irritation, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and potential scarring, especially in patients with sensitive skin or deeper skin tones," she says. "Many people also don't realize that the lack of sterilization or overly aggressive use can damage the skin barrier and worsen conditions like acne or rosacea. In my opinion, microneedling is a procedure that benefits from professional oversight and proper technique."

For context, derma-rollers have a rolling head covered in microneedles. Derms say this design is the entire problem. "This device, although effective at inducing holes, also drags on the skin," Luke Maxfield, DO, FAAD, and board-certified dermatologist, previously told Who What Wear. "It tears the skin surface as it moves along, which can result in unnecessary trauma, hyperpigmentation, or even scarring. Additionally, as this device does not have single-use tips, the risk of infection and onus of sterility is on the user. Also, the length of needles on the derma-rollers ranges from small to unnecessarily large, and any supporting ingredients or products used alongside derma-rollers may or may not be formulated well to go deeper into the skin through the channels that needling creates. All of this makes safety a primary concern." Professional microneedling, on the other hand, works via a stamping motion, which is considered far safer.

Alternative #1: Retinoids

Yes, retinoids are an effective alternative for DIY microneedling treatments. They support collagen production and resurface the skin for a plumper, smoother, and more even look. The benefits compound over time, leading to more youthful-looking skin the longer you use them.

"For most patients, I recommend focusing on proven skincare ingredients that support collagen production without physically injuring the skin," Shirazi says. "Retinoids are my go-to because they can improve texture, fine lines, and overall skin quality over time. Peptides, growth factors, antioxidants, and gentle chemical exfoliants can also be helpful additions. Consistency with a well-formulated skincare routine is often safer and can be much more effective than at-home microneedling devices."

Check out Who What Wear's guide to retinoids to find the right one for you.

Shop 3 Editor-Recommended Retinoids

Alternative #2: The Qure Micro-Infusion System

Remember how derma-rollers can pull or tug on the skin as they go, causing micro-tears, irritation, inflammation, and more? Qure's Micro-Infusion System is the fix. It's one of my favorite at-home skin treatments, and I've seen a real difference in the smoothness and plumpness of my skin after only a single use (but the results are even better when I use it consistently). I love it so much, I refuse to touch another derma-roller again.

It's not just me, either. Many experts recommend it as a safe and hygienic alternative to other DIY micro-needling treatments because it works by gently stamping needles into the skin—rather than rolling needles across it—for less potential skin tearing and trauma. "Micro-stamping, or micro-infusion devices such as the Qure Micro-Infusion System, balances the efficacy of micro-needling with safety," Maxfield says. "This system uses 24-karat gold-plated, sterile, single-use needle tips, which maximally offsets the risk of infection. The needle length is deliberately set to maintain effectiveness while still being safe for both thicker and thinner sensitive skin, like that around the eyes and mouth. To round it out, Qure also has serums that are intended to be used alongside the device."

The micro-stamping technique causes my skin to look red for an hour or so after treatment. (I have sensitive skin, so this isn't unusual for me.) After just 24 hours, though, my skin looks smooth, plump, calm, and generally enhanced.

There's one more thing to note. When you purchase the Qure Micro-Infusion System, you can choose between three different serum combinations (one for dark spots, one for wrinkles, or a combination of both). You can also choose between a one-month, three-month, and six-month supply of serums and needle heads. Personally, I recommend the six-month supply for best results.

Shop the Qure Micro-Infusion System

Alternative #3: Spicule Skincare

If you haven't heard of spicule skincare, you're not alone. These products are wildly popular in South Korea, but they've only recently made their way Stateside. Spicules are tiny microspears typically derived from hydrolyzed sponges or bio-engineered silica. When applied to the skin, they create micro-channels in the epidermis, which help boost collagen production and enhance ingredient absorption. No wonder it's often referred to as "liquid microneedling."

"Spicule skincare can be a gentler alternative to derma-rolling because it doesn't involve a reusable device creating repeated punctures in the skin," Shirazi says. "These products can help stimulate skin renewal and enhance ingredient penetration."

Spicule skincare isn't without its own risks, though. Shirazi says it can still cause irritation, redness, or stinging, which is why you should practice caution when using them. "As with any active skincare product, it's important to introduce them gradually and make sure to pay attention to how your skin responds," she says.

Shop the Best Spicule Skincare Products

How We Chose

Beauty editor Kaitlyn McLintock has nearly a decade of experience testing and reviewing beauty products. She curated this list of the best at-home microneedling alternatives by consulting top skin experts, personally putting products to the test, polling her fellow Who What Wear editors, and reading real-world reviews. At the end of it all, she had a robust, deeply researched list.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. This ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

If you struggle with dull skin and feel like you need to do a million different things just to get that boost of radiance you've been craving, I'm here to tell you that sometimes you don't need that extremely expensive facial or treatment. In fact, all you need is a well-rounded skincare regimen, and one type of product that should definitely be in the mix is retinol. In case you didn't know, it's basically like the MVP of skincare, but if you don't want to take it from me, just know that leading dermatologists swear by it too.

"Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that work by binding to retinoic acid receptors, which then can act as transcription factors and affect gene expression," explains board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD. "They increase the turnover of skin cells, reduce the tendency of cells and keratin debris to clump together and clog up pores, increase collagen production, and decrease discoloration."

The science is relatively simple, but finding the right formula can be tricky, especially with so many options available at different price points. The good news is you don't have to spend a ton of money to find a quality retinol. Sure, there are luxury options out there, but even experts agree that the most effective formulas can be found at the drugstore. To make things easy, I chatted more with King along with two other dermatologists to find out which formulas get their stamps of approval. Read on for their picks.

The Best Drugstore Retinol, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Olay Regenerist Retinol24
• Best for Acne: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
• Best for Wrinkles: RoC Deep Wrinkle Rich Cream Moisturizer
• Best K-Beauty: Dr.Reju-All Advanced Retino-Mela Serum
• Best for Pores: Celimax The Vita-A Retinal 0.1% Shot Booster Treatment

The Best Drugstore Retinol in 2026

Best Overall: Olay Regenerist Retinol24

Best for Acne: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment

Best for Wrinkles: RoC Deep Wrinkle Rich Cream Moisturizer

Best K-Beauty: Dr.Reju-All Advanced Retino-Mela Serum

Best for Pores: Celimax The Vita-A Retinal 0.1% Shot Booster Treatment

Best for Uneven Skin: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

Best Night Cream: Fig.1 Retinol Night Cream

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best drugstore retinols, we leaned heavily on expert insight and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including key ingredients, fragrance details, and retinol concentrations. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.

Why Trust Who What Wear

Since 2006, Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

Acne is a stubborn skin concern, but stubborn doesn't mean impossible. There are so many methods and modalities to turn to in the quest for clear skin, including in-office treatments (chemical peels and professional extractions), at-home devices (high-frequency wands and blue light LED masks), and powerful skincare ingredients. As for the latter, there's salicylic acid, niacinamide, retinoids… The list goes on. However, there's one ingredient that's *still* considered the anti-acne gold standard, and dermatologists continue to recommend it to their acne-prone patients. It's benzoyl peroxide, of course.

Not only does it kill acne-causing bacteria before it can lead to breakouts, but it's also anti-inflammatory and available in a countless number of affordable products. Yep, this potent ingredient is right at home in the drugstore beauty aisles. Ahead, learn why benzoyl peroxide belongs in your skincare routine, and see the eight products that are derm and editor approved.

What is benzoyl peroxide?

Sandra Oska, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. She says benzoyl peroxide is one of the most widely used skincare ingredients for acne treatment. "It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin. Benzoyl peroxide has actually been used in dermatology for decades since the 1960s," she explains. "It is an important part of acne treatment because it is effective and accessible. An important upside is that there is no bacterial resistance associated with benzoyl peroxide use."

Sejal Shah, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York. She agrees, saying that benzoyl peroxide was officially approved for use as an acne treatment in the United States in 1960, though its medical use dates back much earlier. "It was proposed as a woundcare treatment as early as 1929, and evidence suggests it was already being used to treat acne by 1934," she says. Let that sink in; it has an almost 100-year-long proven track record for clearing skin.

How does it work?

Brendan Camp, MD, is a double-board-certified dermatologist in New York. He, along with the other experts, says benzoyl peroxide works in three major ways. It's antibacterial, an exfoliant, and an anti-inflammatory agent.

"It primarily acts as an antibacterial agent, killing cutibacterium acnes (formerly propionibacterium acnes), the bacteria closely associated with acne development," Shah says. "Unlike antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide does not appear to contribute significantly to bacterial resistance. This is one reason dermatologists often recommend it. Secondarily, it acts as a keratolytic (exfoliant) to help remove dead skin cells, preventing clogged pores and clearing existing blockages. Lastly, some research suggests it may also reduce inflammation associated with acne lesions."

It's this holistic, multi-approach efficacy that makes it *the* gold-standard ingredient for clearing acne. As Camp explains, it's often used to treat "conditions like rosacea, folliculitis, bromhidrosis, and pitted keratolysis."

What's the ideal concentration?

If you shop for benzoyl peroxide products, you'll notice that they range in concentration. According to Camp, that range is usually 2.5%, which is often found in spot treatments, to 10%, which is often found in bodywashes. The right one for you can vary based on multiple factors.

"The best concentration depends on your skin type, acne severity, treatment area, and the formulation used," Shah says. "Benzoyl peroxide is typically available in strengths ranging from 2.5% to 10%, but 2.5% to 5% is sufficient and better tolerated for most people—2.5% is usually the best starting point, especially for dry or sensitive skin. Studies show it can be nearly as effective as higher strengths while causing significantly less irritation. Five percent may be appropriate if lower strengths are ineffective and your skin tolerates it well. Five to 10% is sometimes used for more stubborn or body acne, where skin is often less sensitive."

Don't automatically assume that you need a higher concentration to see the best results. "Higher percentages are more likely to cause irritation, especially in patients with sensitive skin," Oska says. "When I use benzoyl peroxide, I am generally starting at 5%. I do not usually go up to 10% on the face or neck." That brings us to the potential downside of using benzoyl peroxide as an acne treatment.

Are there downsides?

"The main side effects include potential dryness, irritation, peeling, and redness," Oska says. "The risk is higher when patients combine with multiple other actives. … People with very sensitive skin, eczema, or rosacea-prone skin may not be able to tolerate it. I usually advise patients to start every other day at a lower concentration and moisturize liberally."

Shah seconds this, saying it's important to avoid using benzoyl peroxide with retinoids, exfoliating acids, and harsh scrubs specifically. Combining them will do more harm than good, often causing more redness and inflammation rather than the intended effect of smooth, calm, clear skin.

Oh, and one more important note. All three dermatologists say it has another less-than-ideal effect, and it has to do with the "peroxide" part of benzoyl peroxide. "Benzoyl peroxide can also bleach fabrics and hair, so it's important to be careful with towels, pillowcases, clothing, and bedding," Shah says. To avoid this, Camp recommends making sure any spot treatments or leave-on products are 100% dry before changing your clothes or lying down on your pillowcase. Meanwhile, Oska recommends switching to white towel to avoid any permanent bleach stains.

As always, it's best to perform a patch test before using a new product, as allergies can occur. "People with very sensitive skin, eczema, or impaired skin barriers may find it difficult to tolerate," Shah says. "Rarely, some individuals experience allergic contact dermatitis and should discontinue use if severe swelling, itching, or blistering occurs."

The Best Benzoyl Peroxide Products

How We Chose

Beauty editor Kaitlyn McLintock has nearly a decade of experience testing and reviewing beauty products. She curated this list of the best benzoyl peroxide products by consulting three top dermatologists for recommendations. She also polled her fellow Who What Wear editors and read real-world reviews. At the end of it all, she had a robust, deeply researched list.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

If there's one thing we can all agree on, it's that finding products that pair well with different skin types can be quite the hassle. Between thousands of cleansers, hydrating moisturizers, sunscreens, and everything else in between, calling it a trial-and-error process would be an understatement. This is especially the case for oily skin because the goal is often to eliminate excess sebum without drying your skin out completely.

What causes extra sebum to begin with? "While sebum is essential for protecting and hydrating the skin, overproduction leads to shine, enlarged pores, and breakouts," says board-certified dermatologist Kristina Collins, MD. "The biggest drivers are genetics and hormones, particularly androgens, which stimulate oil production, along with factors like stress, humidity, and using overly harsh skincare that disrupts the skin barrier."

To make your hunt for the best skincare easy, I asked Collins and board-certified dermatologist Danny Guo, MD, for their top picks for each step of a well-rounded routine. Keep scrolling for the products that get it right for shine-free skin.

The Best Skincare for Oily Skin at a Glance

• Best Cleanser: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
• Best Toner: Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner
• Best Moisturizer: CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream
• Best Serum: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum
• Best Sunscreen: Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free SPF 42 Face Sunscreen

The Best Skincare for Oily Skin in 2026

Best Cleanser: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser

Best Toner: Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner

Best Moisturizer: CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream

Best Serum: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum

Best Sunscreen: Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free SPF 42 Face Sunscreen

Best Retinol: Celimax The Vita-A Retinal 0.1% Shot Booster Treatment

Best Shine Control: Tatcha Aburatorigami Blotting Papers

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best oily-skin products, we leaned heavily on expert insight and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including key ingredients, price, and customer reviews. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details.

Why Trust Who What Wear

Since 2006, Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

I'm a beauty editor who has sensitive skin. That means I must walk a metaphorical tightrope with my routine—testing hundreds of new skincare products per year (it's literally my job) without causing irritation, exacerbating inflammation, or setting off a rosacea flare-up. It's difficult but not impossible.

I accomplish this by A) slowly introducing new products into my routine, B) taking it easy on active ingredients, and C) using fragrance-free moisturizers. The last one is particularly important because nothing irritates my skin like a highly fragranced face cream. According to Sandra Oska, MD, board-certified dermatologist, the link between fragrance and irritation is well-documented. "People with sensitive, reactive, or compromised skin should generally avoid fragranced products," she says. "This includes those with conditions like atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and acne, as well as anyone prone to allergies or recovering from skin treatments. Fragrance can trigger irritation, redness, or flare-ups regardless of whether it’s natural or synthetic, so fragrance-free products are usually the safest option for these skin types."

Briana Germano, registered nurse, aesthetic injector, and founder of The Aesthetic Bar, agrees, reiterating the importance of avoiding fragrance if you're post-procedure (e.g., after lasers, injectables, or peels). "Fragrance is one of those ingredients that can quietly keep the skin inflamed without people realizing it."

Ahead, the experts share their top recommendations for fragrance-free moisturizers. These won't stress, irritate, or inflame your skin—promise.

The Best Fragrance-Free Moisturizers, at a Glance

• Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
• Best for Dry/Damaged Skin: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
• Best for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Neutrogena Daily Facial Moisturizer
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer
• Best for Mature Skin: Skinfix Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream

Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Best for Dry/Damaged Skin: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

Best for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Neutrogena Daily Facial Moisturizer

Best for Sensitive Skin: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer

Best for Mature Skin: Skinfix Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream

Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Lotion

Cetaphil Deep Hydration Healthy Glow Daily Cream

EltaMD Skin Recovery Light Moisturizer

Synthetic vs. Natural Fragrance

Some people claim that natural fragrance is less irritating than synthetic fragrances, or vice versa. However, the experts say this is a myth, and they're here to debunk it. "Both natural and synthetic fragrances can irritate the skin, neither is automatically safer," Oska says. "Natural ingredients may seem gentler but often contain complex compounds that can cause reactions or become more irritating over time, while synthetic fragrances can also trigger sensitivity depending on their formulation. Ultimately, irritation depends on the specific ingredients, concentration, and your skin type, so 'fragrance-free' products are usually the safest choice for sensitive skin."

Germano agrees, saying this is something that comes up often in her practice. "This is something I educate my patients on all the time. Natural doesn’t mean better when it comes to fragrance. Both synthetic fragrance and natural fragrance (like essential oils) can be irritating to the skin. In fact, a lot of 'natural' ingredients are actually more reactive. At the end of the day, fragrance is one of the most common causes of irritation I see in practice. It doesn’t add any benefit to the skin; it’s just there for the experience."

Fragrance and Rosacea

As someone who has rosacea, I avoid fragrance wherever I can because it's known to trigger and exacerbate inflammatory skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, and acne included). Let Oska explain. "Fragrance ingredients can act as irritants, triggering nerve endings in the skin and leading to increased redness, flushing, burning, and stinging, all hallmark symptoms of rosacea," she says. "Because rosacea-prone skin already has a more reactive barrier, it is less able to tolerate these added compounds. Over time, repeated exposure to fragranced products can contribute to more frequent flare-ups. That’s why dermatologists typically recommend sticking with fragrance-free, gentle formulations to help keep inflammation at bay."

Germano has firsthand experience with this as a provider. "I’ve seen patients struggle with persistent redness and sensitivity, and once we strip out fragrance from their routine, their skin becomes much more stable," she says. "Fragrance, whether synthetic or from essential oils, can increase inflammation, trigger flushing, and cause that burning or stinging sensation rosacea patients often describe."

How to Spot Fragrance in an Ingredient List

Avoiding fragrance seems like it would be simple, but it's not. That's because fragrance isn't always listed as such on an ingredient label. "Fragrance isn’t always obvious on an ingredient list, so you have to know what to look for," Oska says. "It’s most commonly listed simply as 'fragrance' or 'parfum,' which are catchall terms that can represent dozens of undisclosed scent chemicals. You might also see 'aroma' or more specific fragrance allergens like limonene, linalool, citronellol, geraniol, and eugenol. These are often derived from essential oils but can still be irritating. Plant extracts and essential oils (like lavender oil or citrus oils) can also function as fragrance, even if they’re not labeled as such."

The fix? Both experts recommend looking for skincare products that are labeled "fragrance-free," but not "unscented." Believe it or not, those terms don't mean the same thing. "One thing I always tell patients: 'Unscented' doesn’t mean fragrance-free," Germano says. "It can still contain masking fragrances. If you’re trying to avoid irritation, you want to specifically look for 'fragrance-free.'"

How We Chose

Beauty editor Kaitlyn McLintock has a decade of experience testing and reviewing beauty products. She curated this list of the best fragrance-free moisturizers by asking top-level skin experts (a board-certified dermatologist and a registered nurse/aesthetic injector) for recommendations. Then, she put them to the test, ensuring texture, feel, and efficacy met her strict standards. At the end of it all, she had a robust, deeply researched list.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

As much as we wish there were one, there truly is no face wash around that can remove makeup and properly cleanse your skin in one. Believe us—we Who What Wear editors have tried them all. Some products claim to do both, but they often leave a greasy residue that requires an additional water-and-soap cleanse. Even when we do diligently double-cleanse, it’s not always enough to release the death grip waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and liquid eye shadow have on our eyes. That's when we reach for effective eye makeup removers.

Though it’s easy to stroll into your local drugstore and pick up the first thing on the shelf, it’s important to consult a dermatologist first (or listen to our contributing derm, Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD). “I recommend gentle, fragrance-free formulations that remove makeup effectively without requiring a lot of friction,” says the board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. “The skin around the eyes is very thin and delicate, so it is important to remove makeup gently.” She also recommends starting with a cleansing oil, which makes the process of removing stubborn makeup easier.

If you're in the market for a good remover, look no further. We’re sharing the 10 formulas that editors and dermatologists consistently vouch for.

The Best Eye Makeup Removers, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover
• Best Budget: Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
• Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Micellar Water
• Best Drugstore: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Soothing Micellar Cleansing Water
• Best Makeup Remover Pads: Sofie Pavitt Micellar Cleansing Pads

Best Overall: Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Best Budget: Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Micellar Water

Best Drugstore: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Soothing Micellar Cleansing Water

Best Makeup Remover Pads: Sofie Pavitt Micellar Cleansing Pads

Best for Lash Extensions: Lashify Melt Away Remover

Best Balm: Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm

Best Wipes: Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes

Best Hydrating: Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Replenishing Cleansing Oil

Best Organic: Éminence Organic Skin Care Herbal Eye Makeup Remover

What to Look For in Eye Makeup Removers

• Skin type: The right eye makeup remover is largely dependent on your skin type. If you have dry skin, you'll likely want to stick to an oil formula, balm, or dual-phase water-and-oil formula like Lancôme’s to help remove makeup. If you have sensitive eyes or wear contacts, a gentle remover with micellar water may work best for you. Those who are prone to breakouts might want to stick to a simple micellar formula or oil-free remover, though they won’t be as tough on waterproof formulas.
• Makeup use: Another thing to consider is the amount and kind of makeup that you wear. If you’re a lover of waterproof formulas (or live in a hot climate or consistently perform an act, like swimming or sweating, that requires it), you’ll want something with a bit more power to effectively remove eye makeup. We like the Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover for a liquid option that does the job and doesn’t break the bank. If you wear less cosmetics on a day-to-day basis (and gentler formulas), reach for a micellar water like Bioderma’s Sensibio H2O.

How do dermatologists recommend taking off eye makeup?

“The skin around the eyes is very thin and delicate, so it is important to remove makeup gently," says Engelman. "I recommend pressing a cotton pad soaked with remover over the closed eye for about 10 to 15 seconds to help break down mascara and liner before softly wiping it away," she adds. "This allows the product to dissolve the makeup so you don’t need to pull at the skin." The dermatologist also recommends starting out with a cleansing oil (the first step in a double-cleanse routine) to better dissolve waterproof and stubborn formulas and save that thin, sensitive skin the elbow grease.

What is the best eye makeup remover for anyone with blepharitis?

According to Mayo Clinic, blepharitis is a fairly common and harmless bacterial infection of the eyelids, causing red and swollen skin. “For those with blepharitis, eyelid hygiene is essential," says Engelman. "I recommend starting with a warm compress to help loosen buildup along the lash line, followed by gentle cleaning with a soft cotton pad and a mild remover. People with blepharitis can still wear makeup, but it is best to keep it minimal, avoid waterproof formulas, and replace eye products frequently to reduce bacterial buildup," she instructs. "If the eyelids are inflamed or irritated, it is best to avoid eye makeup until the condition improves.”

How We Chose

We chose the best eye makeup removers of 2026 by testing a handful of ol' reliables and new-to-market formulas alike, updating our past list to a version that better suits our current standards. Several were saved, like the Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover and Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover, while some reformulations entered the chat (hi, Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm). A few new editor-loved and derm-recommended products made their ways onto the list as well, including Sofie Pavitt's Micellar Cleansing Pads and La Roche-Posay's Micellar Water. We will continue to update this list as we stumble across more we love.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

Ask any beauty editor, and they can probably list off a handful of treatments designed to give your skin a more youthful and glowy appearance. Whether you want to get a monthly facial or try Botox, there’s no shortage of options out there.

Admittedly, as I've gotten older, I've become curious about how to keep my fine lines and wrinkles practically invisible. At the same time, I'm apprehensive about going for injections. It truly comes down to personal preference, but if you prefer to go the natural route, a peptide serum might be your closest thing to magic in a bottle.

The list of benefits is long (more on that below), but one of the biggest appeals is the way these serums boost collagen. In case you didn't know, collagen makes up 30% of your body's protein and provides strength for bones, muscles, connective tissue, and skin, per Cleveland Clinic. Over time, our body's collagen production slows down and reduces in quality, which is why so many derms recommend peptide serums.

Still, finding the right serum for you can be a hassle. To get the full rundown, I spoke with four leading dermatologists to find out which peptide serums rival injectables. Keep scrolling for their top picks.

The Best Peptide Serums, at a Glance

• Best Overall: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
• Best Hydrating: Korres Black Pine Primus 6xHA Wrinkle Smoothing Youth Activator
• Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Collagen Bank Vitamin C Face Serum
• Best for Wrinkles: Beekman 1802 Milk Rx Advanced Better Aging Wrinkle Serum
• Best Lifting: Biossance Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum

The Best Peptide Serums of 2026

Best Overall: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum

Best Hydrating: Korres Black Pine Primus 6xHA Wrinkle Smoothing Youth Activator

Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Collagen Bank Vitamin C Face Serum

Best for Wrinkles: Beekman 1802 Milk Rx Advanced Better Aging Wrinkle Serum

Best Potent Formula: Medik8 Liquid Peptides

Best Lifting: Biossance Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum

Best Splurge: Skinceuticals P-Tiox Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Serum

Best Preventable Formula: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% for Wrinkles and Skin Elasticity

Best Firming: Environ Vita-Peptide C-Quence Serum 3

What are peptides?

If you know that peptides are good for you but you aren't quite sure why, just know you're not alone. "Peptides are short chains of amino acids that serve as the building blocks for important proteins in the skin, including collagen and elastin," explains Reszko. "In skincare, they function as signaling molecules that help support the skin’s natural repair processes and maintain overall skin integrity."

How do peptides benefit the skin?

The benefits of peptides are relatively straightforward. For starters, they support the skin's ability to repair and renew itself. "By encouraging collagen and elastin production, they can improve firmness and soften the look of fine lines over time," says Reszko. "Many peptides also help reinforce the skin barrier, improving hydration and overall skin strength, while certain peptide formulations may help calm inflammation and support clearer, more balanced skin."

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best peptide serums for this roundup, we leaned heavily on expert insight and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including key ingredients and fragrance. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.

Why Trust Who What Wear

Since 2006, Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

It's been three years since I made a startling discovery that reframed how I went about choosing products to test as a beauty editor: aloe vera causes my skin to go into distress. I developed an allergic reaction to one of the most popular skincare ingredients at the height of the pandemic, just as the wellness and beauty industries were booming from the comfort of our homes. I discovered the allergy while on a six hour flight to NYC after slathering my parched lips with an aloe-infused lip balm to help combat the dry airplane air. There were hives by the time we landed.

Unfortunately, that's not where my fateful experiences with aloe ended. Less than a year later, I remained untested and thoughtlessly applied a hair mask using fresh aloe and triggered yet another allergic reaction (albeit less severe than the last, but just as uncomfortable). Since then, I've been on a mission to replace all my aloe-infused skincare favorites that I can no longer use with ones possessing equally as beneficial on my skin. Below, I'm sharing several of the ones that have made the list along with tips and tricks for identifying the best ingredients for sensitive skin like mine from an expert in the field.

Which ingredients are similar to aloe vera?

If your skin isn't receptive to aloe vera, rest assured there are ingredients that offer similar benefits without putting stress on your skin. To learn which ones will help my skin look and feel its best, I reached out to Michelle Henry, MD FAAD, board-certified dermatologist, Mohns surgeon, and CEO of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan. "When we think about aloe vera, we think about the fact that it's soothing, it hydrates, it reduces inflammation. There are a lot of ingredients that can do similar things," she begins.

According to Henry, hyaluronic acid and glycerin are great options, with colloidal oatmeal also being good for adding hydration to all skin types. "Centella asiatica is good for its anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, and it also supports the skin barrier," Henry continues. "Ceramides are really going to help too. There are many, many ingredients that have the same properties." If you've been on the hunt for products that will keep your complexion healthy and happy, make sure to take a look at the back of the packaging from time-to-time.

How can these ingredients be used?

There are endless ways to incorporate aloe free products into an effective routine that promotes your hydration, elasticity, and overall health, but Henry has some suggestions of where attention should be for sensitive skin. "You want to start with a cleanser. Whenever we do skincare, we go lightest to heaviest—so, cleanser, then an essence or a toner, then a serum, then a moisturizer," says Henry. She suggests opting for a gentle cleanser enriched with ingredients like ceramides and glycerin to deliver ample hydration to the skin.

After that, use a gentle serum infused with hyaluronic acid since it’s a powerful humectant (ingredients with the ability to bind moisture to skin cells). "From there, you can do a barrier cream that has ceramides in it. And then, of course, sunscreen afterwards," she advises. Her top product picks for skincare powered by formula that deliver all the benefits of aloe vera without actually including the ingredient are from popular drugstore brands with accessible price points. One of Henry's top picks, La Roche-Posay's Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer ($11), has a formula that includes ceramides and niacinamide. Henry also likes Avène's Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream ($26), and Cetaphil's Gentle Skin Cleanser ($17). Keep scrolling to discover some of my skincare favorites that deliver the hydration and comfort my skin craves without putting it at risk.

The Best Products for Aloe-Sensitive Skin, Listed

• Best for Barrier Repair: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer
• Best for Soothing Skin: Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream
• Best for Balanced pH Levels: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
• Best for Minimizing Pores: SkinCeuticals Daily Moisture
• Best for Signs of Aging: Caudalie Premier Cru The Cream

If you have a skincare routine (or you're just building one), odds are you've heard of the importance of a serum. This step should go after your toner and before any creams to pack on moisture and plump skin. Sure, there are a lot of products out there that promise softer, hydrated skin, but as someone with dry skin, I've learned that serums are particularly powerful.

"Hydrating serums penetrate deeper than heavier creams because they have smaller molecular weights and higher concentrations of active ingredients," says double board-certified dermatologist and founder of Metropolis Dermatology, James Y. Wang, MD. "They can instantly plump and smooth the skin’s surface while enhancing moisture retention over time."

The result? Better skin texture and a stronger skin barrier that's less prone to becoming irritated. Still, there are a lot of serums on the market. So to narrow down the best of the best, we spoke to several leading dermatologists for their top picks. Read on for all the details.

The Best Hydrating Serums, at a Glance

• Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
• Best Budget: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum With Ceramides
• Best Anti-Aging: Image Skincare Image Skincare Vital C Hydrating Anti-Aging Serum
• Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum
• Best for Makeup: Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Serum With Vitamin C

The Best Hydrating Serums of 2026

1. Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum

2. Best Budget: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum With Ceramides

3. Best Anti-Aging: Image Skincare Image Skincare Vital C Hydrating Anti-Aging Serum

4. Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum

5. Best for Makeup: Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Serum With Vitamin C

6. Best Splurge: SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel

7. Best for Dullness: Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum With Hyaluronic Acid

8. Best for Sensitive Skin: Cerave Hyaluronic Acid Serum

What's the difference between hydrating and moisturizing ingredients?

In case you didn't know, there's actually a difference between ingredients that hydrate versus moisturize. So how do you tell them apart? "Hydrating ingredients, aka humectants, draw water into the skin to increase its water content and increase plumpness," explains Spearman. "Moisturizing ingredients help lock in that hydration by reinforcing the skin barrier and preventing water loss."

What are some ingredients to look for in a hydrating serum?

Since hydrating ingredients are what you'll want to be looking for, there are a few in particular that can be extra helpful for dry skin. "Great hydrating serums often contain humectants, like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, panthenol, and sodium PCA," says Graf. "I also like formulas that include ingredients like aloe, ceramides, or niacinamide because they help support the skin barrier while hydrating." Ideally, you want to attract moisture and also seal it in.

What are some signs you need a hydrating serum?

Anyone can benefit from a hydrating serum, but there are still some signs to look out for. "If your skin feels tight after cleansing, looks dull, has fine lines that appear more pronounced, or if makeup flakes and clings unevenly, those are all signs your skin is dehydrated," says Wang. "Dehydrated skin can occur at any age, but it’s especially common as natural hyaluronic acid levels decline with time."

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best hydrating serums for this roundup, we leaned heavily on expert insight and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including key ingredients, size, and fragrance. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.

Why Trust Who What Wear

Since 2006, Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

For the longest time, I mainly relied on my haircare routine to get softer curls. I made sure to stay on track with my hair masks, styling creams, hair oils… the list goes on. And while I'm very happy with the progress that I've made in developing a routine that works well for my hair, there was one additional step that I was leaving out. It wasn't until I realized that my shower water could have been a contributing factor to the dryness and dullness I was experiencing that I decided to look into showerhead filters.

Naturally, I did some digging and became eager to test a few out to see if it was actually worth the investment. In case you didn't know, showerhead filters can be relatively budget-friendly, but the ceiling (as far as price goes) can be pretty high. Two years of testing and a few showerhead filters later, I now have a pretty good idea of which ones are worth the money in order to achieve softer, shinier hair.

Of course, the science around this can be a lot to understand, so to help break things down, I spoke with board-certified dermatologist Maryam Safaee, MD, FAAD, to break down all the details in addition to my list of the top four showerhead filters to try in 2026. Read on for the full scoop!

Best Showerheads Filters, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Canopy Filtered Showerhead
• Best Design: Jolie Filtered Showerhead
• Best Budget: Weddell Duo Shower Filter
• Best High-Tech: Higherdose Red Light Showerhead Filter

Best Showerheads Filters in 2026

Best Overall: Canopy Filtered Showerhead

Best Design: Jolie Filtered Showerhead

Best Budget: Weddell Duo Shower Filter

Best High-Tech: Higherdose Red Light Showerhead Filter

How does hard water affect hair and skin?

There's a lot of info out there about how hard water affects hair and skin, and Safaee calls out that those with sensitive skin can benefit from the improvements in water quality that come with using a filter. "Hard water leads to compromising of the skin barrier, and in those who already suffer from sensitive skin, even the slightest change in skin barrier protection can lead to a drastic worsening of conditions," she says.

As for hair, a 2018 study showed that using hard water actually decreased the strength of hair and led to more breakage. "There is some interesting evidence to help support hair texture changes and mineral deposition from hard water," says Safaee. "Some studies have found that the increase in calcium and magnesium deposition from hard water can lead to a ruffled texture to the hair cuticle and decrease in hair thickness when compared to hair that was washed with distilled water."

Do showerhead filters really make a difference?

Technically, yes. Shower filters reduce the amount of chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants in your water. That said, it's important to keep in mind that while it does help, it's not the top solution to dry hair or skin. "All things considered, I would say that if you struggle with sensitive skin or notice hair texture changes, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to trial a water filter," says Safaee. "However, relying on this one change to dramatically improve your condition would be insufficient for your overall care." To get the results you truly want, you'll have to incorporate a good hair and skincare routine. You can always reach out to your derm or hairstylist to determine which products are best for you to reap the maximum benefits.

Are there any downsides to using a showerhead filter?

There are a few downsides to using a showerhead filter, with the main one being the cost of maintenance and replacing filters. "Depending on the concentration of chemicals and minerals in your tap water, the filter typically needs replacement every three to six months," says Safaee. "For instance, in areas with highly chlorinated tap water, such as California, it's advised to change the filter quarterly (every three months)." Over time, that cost adds up, depending on how expensive it is to buy new filters. But the best way to get your money's worth is getting a system that pairs well with your shower setup and making sure it has all the features you want.

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best showerhead filters, we leaned heavily on expert insight, firsthand testing, and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including color options, spray settings, filter life, and filter material. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.

Why Trust Who What Wear

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Welcome to Drugstore Heroes, a monthly series in which we spotlight the often-overlooked and under-hyped drugstore beauty products that industry experts count on. From editors to content creators and even celebs, we’re asking tastemakers to share their top recommendations for affordable yet effective products. Get ready to see the best of drugstore beauty, period.

Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of DermClick. However, you might know her by her Instagram handle, @dermguru. If so, you're likely one of the 1.6 million(!) people who follow her for in-depth advice, myth-busting skincare science, and expert-vetted product recs.

How does a dermatologist rack up a celebrity-size social media following, you ask? It's simple. Zubritsky's Instagram and TikTok are full of actionable, insider info that's guaranteed to level up your beauty routine. While there's no shortage of content to reference, I've recently been loving her hair-removal tips, retinol how-to, and hot-girl beauty hacks. (I instantly saved the last one and ordered Rogaine for my eyebrows. IYKYK.)

As a beauty editor, I follow a lot (and I mean a lot) of dermatologists and other skin, hair, and nail experts. My feed is full of them. However, Zubritsky's content is some of my favorite. (Am I allowed to say that?) I've long admired her helpful, no-nonsense POV, and the high-performing drugstore products she recommends. I am, after all, Who What Wear's self-appointed drugstore beauty specialist, and I know that price doesn't equal performance. Zubritsky obviously agrees, saying, "There’s a common misconception that a higher price automatically means better quality or results, especially in skincare," she says. "Often, marketing and packaging drive the splurge, even when affordable products can be just as effective." Ahead, see Zubritsky's six desert-island drugstore products. This is proof that "skincare" and "splurge" need not go hand in hand.

Zubritsky's All-Time Favorite Drugstore Products

Zubritsky's six desert-island drugstore products clock in at just $56. A luxury shopping haul could never.

As a beauty editor, I'm always dying to know what's next. Which hair, makeup, and skincare trends are heading straight for us? What product, ingredient, or technique will take over Instagram and TikTok? It should come as no surprise, then, that trend-spotting is one of my favorite parts of my job. It feels good to get ahead of the curve.

I already got my download on the biggest 2026 hair and makeup trends thanks to my chic and eternally trend-forward colleagues. However, one major category was missing: skincare. I did what any good beauty editor would do and reached out to the experts—dermatologists, to be exact. All three agree that 2026 is the year of skin longevity. People will be focusing on simple, streamlined, and highly effective routines to make their skin health the best it can be. Keep reading for all the details and product recommendations.

IN: Skin Longevity

Aderonke Obayomi, MD, MPH, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Mount Sinai in NYC. She says we're moving away from quick fixes and entering an era in which the overwhelming focus is on skin longevity and preserving and maintaining healthy skin over time. "We're moving away from chasing the next viral ingredient and toward building skin health that lasts," she says. "My patients are getting much more informed. They're asking 'Will this actually work long-term?' rather than 'Will this give me instant results?' It's less about aggressive treatments and more about supporting your skin's natural function: maintaining a strong barrier, protecting with sunscreen daily, and using proven ingredients consistently."

This aligns with the top 2026 wellness trend, which is centered on long-term optimization rather than short-term results. "Patients are becoming more informed and more cautious about where they get their health information and treatments," Krysha Mallari, board-certified nurse practitioner and functional health expert at Body+Beauty Lab, recently told Who What Wear. "Practices that prioritize safety, individualized care, and long-term optimization rather than generic solutions will continue to stand out and deliver the most meaningful results." Beauty and wellness have always been intrinsically linked, so I'm not surprised by this crossover.

Obayomi says consistency is everything when it comes to longevity, which is why she recommends products that people will *actually* use every day. She starts with sunscreen: "EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen SPF 46 ($45) and La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen ($35) are some of my favorites because they're elegant enough to wear daily under makeup. For a treatment that builds results over time, the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum ($19) is accessible and effective without being too aggressive and irritating. Peptide serums are also becoming very popular and can boost collagen stimulation without being quite as irritating as retinoids. I particularly like SkinCeutical's P-Tiox ($150)."

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IN: Skincare as Wellness

Speaking of wellness, the experts agree that the line between it and skincare will get even blurrier in 2026. Azadeh Shirazi, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of AziMD Skincare. She says wellness is set to become the new luxury in skincare. "Glowing skin is no longer just about what you put on your face. [It's] how you care for your body overall," she says. "Tools like LED masks will continue to rise but alongside a deeper appreciation for sleep, stress management, movement, and diet as part of a true skincare journey."

As for which LED mask she recommends, Shirazi is a big fan of the CurrentBody LED Mask ($470). "I recommend LED therapy often in my practice because red light has real, science-backed benefits and clinical studies for collagen stimulation, inflammation reduction, and overall skin clarity. This is one of those tools that can quietly elevate your entire routine and give really great results when used consistently," she says.

Kseniya Kobets, MD, FAAD, is the director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care. She agrees that skincare and wellness are becoming even more intimately intertwined, noting that personalized, AI- and tech-advanced tools and products are going to boom—namely "wearable tech like the Oura Ring ($500), which can track your beauty sleep and recovery [and] more personalized skincare and makeup routines driven by data." She also notes Korean innovations, like sunscreen filters and PDRN aka the internet-famous salmon sperm–derived ingredient, will continue to gain momentum.

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IN: Streamlined Routines

"The days of 50 different serums are done," Obayomi says. "People are exhausted, their skin is sensitized, and they're realizing that more steps often mean more problems." She references past trends like skin cocktailing, which involved layering exfoliating acids, retinol, and other potent ingredients. The idea was that more ingredients would offer better, faster results. However, Obayomi says it can actually do the opposite: "Dermatologists like myself have been saying this for years: More products do not equal better skin. In 2026, the focus is on fewer, smarter products—multitasking formulas that actually deliver. Moisturizers with built-in actives. Sunscreens that also moisturize. The goal is a routine you'll actually stick to, not one that takes 45 minutes and you forget the steps." To put it simply, Obayomi says "we're seeing a correction where patients are stripping back to basics, and their skin is thanking them for it."

Shirazi agrees. "We're also moving away from the overwhelming 10- to 20-step routines and toward smarter, more comprehensive formulas that do more with less," she says. Think peptides, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory ingredients. She continues, "I believe people are starting to understand that overexfoliating and constantly doing more can actually sabotage healthy skin."

Simplified, streamlined routines save time and money. Take it from Obayomi. "You don't need to spend a fortune on a cleanser or moisturizer, and many great products can be bought at your local drugstore. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser ($13) and Vanicream Moisturizing Cream ($14) are workhorse products that do exactly what they're supposed to do—nothing more, nothing less. For a serum that multitasks, La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum ($40) hydrates, plumps, and helps with fine lines all in one step," she says.

Shirazi recommends AziMD's Restore Cream ($110). She says, "It's a hydrating, age-defying moisturizer packed with so many beneficial ingredients, including peptides, plant stem cells, and ceramides. [It's] great for both day and nighttime use for strengthening, plumping, and restoring youthful skin." She also loves Neutrogena's Collagen Bank Moisturizer With SPF 30 ($22). "I tell patients all the time that if you're doing nothing else, moisturize and protect your skin from the sun," she says. "This one helps support collagen while giving daily broad-spectrum protection, which is truly one of the most effective anti-aging steps you can take long-term."

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IN: Sophisticated Barrier Repair

While barrier-supporting skincare products and ingredients aren't new, Obayomi says we're going to see an even greater emphasis on them in 2026. Not only that, but they're going to get more sophisticated and effective too. "We're past the slugging trend and into targeted repair using ceramide-rich and lipid-based formulations that restore balance without feeling heavy. Patients now understand that a healthy barrier is the foundation for everything else. If your barrier is compromised, none of your other products will work properly," she says.

There's no shortage of barrier-focused products to choose from, but luckily, Obayomi has some recommendations to cut through the noise: "La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 ($19) is a hero product I recommend constantly for compromised skin. It soothes, repairs, and protects. For the face, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer ($25) is packed with ceramides and niacinamide to restore the barrier. And for those willing to splurge, SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore ($155) is a gold-standard formula for serious barrier support."

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OUT: Beef Tallow and Other Natural and DIY Remedies

Beef tallow (rendered cow fat) certainly had people talking in 2025. It's often used as cooking fat, but people started using it as a natural form of skincare, and more and more "natural" brands started formulating it into moisturizers and even sunscreen. Obayomi says it's sure to fall by the wayside in 2026, especially since it doesn't deliver on its internet claims. "I need to address this one directly because I see it constantly on TikTok, and patients come in asking me as well," she says. "Beef tallow is not the miracle moisturizer the internet wants it to be."

First, Obayomi says it's extremely thick and fat derived, meaning it's comedogenic. "It can clog pores. If you have acne-prone or oily skin, this is a recipe for breakouts," she explains. Second, it hasn't been adequately studied for use in skincare. "Better alternatives exist that actually have research behind them," she says. "The FDA doesn't even regulate it for skincare, which means there's no consistency in sourcing, purity, or quality. What's in that jar depends entirely on the cow: what it ate, what hormones it was exposed to, and its overall health." Third (yes, there's a third!), there's no evidence that it's a good substitute for retinol, as some people on the internet claim. "Many TikTok creators compare beef tallow to retinol because it supposedly contains vitamin A. According to the USDA, that's simply not accurate in any meaningful concentration," she says.

At the end of the day, Obayomi says there are so many affordable, effective, and dermatologist-tested moisturizers out there. These products have been formulated, studied, and optimized for skin health. To put it simply, "skip the beef tallow."

That goes for any and all DIY skincare formulas. "The homemade mask and kitchen-counter-serum trend is losing steam because people have learned the hard way that consistency and formulation matter," Obayomi says. "A yogurt mask might feel nice, but it's not going to give you the results of a well-formulated product. Plus, many 'natural' ingredients like essential oils can actually be irritating or allergenic."

Shirazi agrees. "Patients are becoming more educated and asking better questions about efficacy, safety, and formulation," she says. "Just because something is traditional or trendy doesn't mean it's appropriate for facial skin, especially for those prone to acne, sensitivity, or pigmentation. As a dermatologist, I always encourage my patients to choose ingredients and products that are studied, stable, and truly beneficial for their long-term skin health."

OUT: Aggressive Overexfoliation

Remember how the experts said barrier support is bigger than ever? That means aggressive exfoliation is on the outs. It's one of the best ways to damage the skin barrier. "I've spent a lot of time in my practice repairing skin that's been damaged by too many acids, too much retinol, and too much exfoliation," Obayomi says. "The 'more is more' approach to actives is fading because people are finally connecting the dots between their irritated, dry, reactive skin and their overly aggressive routines."

Kobets agrees. She says, "I also think overstripping and excessive exfoliation are becoming less popular, as there is growing recognition that maintaining a healthy skin microbiome and skin barrier is essential—especially in acne-prone skin." Consider this your sign to skip the aggressive at-home peels and opt for gentle, consistent exfoliation instead.

OUT: Overdone Botox and Filler

While Botox and filler will continue to be popular, Kobets says purely using either one is on its way out. This is aligned with the newfound focus on skin longevity. Expect "a shift toward regenerative medicine such as PRP, which tends to look more natural and less overdone." Consulting a dermatologist is the best way to know which regenerative treatments are best for your specific skin concerns.

Lately, I’ve been seeing ear seeding content flood my FYP on Instagram and TikTok. (You know how the algorithm works—you engage with one video and you’re suddenly served 100.) If you’re like me, this isn’t a term or a topic you’re familiar with. So if you’re asking me what on earth ear seeding is, I get it. Allow me to explain. Ear seeds are tiny magnets, dots, or balls that are applied to the outer ear and secured with adhesive. The idea is to place them on specific pressure points, which can provide certain skincare and wellness benefits. Proponents of the practice say it can do everything from facilitate lymphatic drainage to sculpt the appearance of the skin and even reduce anxiety and alleviate insomnia.

Ear seeding is taken from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), so while it’s not new, it seems to be trending nonetheless. In one video, a content creator applies ear seeds ahead of a long-haul flight, stating that she won’t fly without them, because they ease her anxiety. In another, a content creator places ear seeds on one ear but not the other. After a few hours, the ear-seed side of her face looked like it had been treated to a luxury facial; it was more lifted, sculpted, and defined than the other side. Intriguing? Yes, but I wasn’t sold just yet. I’ve been a beauty editor long enough to know research is required before jumping into anything, internet-viral or not. And, often, TikTok and Instagram don’t communicate the history and context behind any given product or practice. So I did what any good beauty editor would do, and I reached out to the experts. Ahead, read what dermatologists and TCM doctors have to say about ear seeding.

The History of Ear Seeding

Gudrun Snyder is the founder and CEO of Moon Rabbit. She’s also a doctor of acupuncture and Chinese medicine. “Ear seeding is ancient—its roots go back thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine,” she says. “The idea is that the ear is a microsystem of the body, with different points corresponding to organs, emotions, and systems. In the 1950s, a French neurologist mapped the ear in the shape of an inverted fetus and helped formalize what’s now called auriculotherapy, but the foundation was already deeply established in TCM.”

Haley Parker is a board-licensed acupuncturist and herbalist as well as a professor and director of clinical operations at Virginia University of Integrative Medicine. She seconds this, saying the concept comes from TCM, and it’s based on the idea that the ear is a “microcosm: a small reflector of the entire body and nervous system.” However, systemic auriculotherapy maps (like the ones found in modern acupuncture clinics) were formalized by French physician Paul Nogier in the 20th century. “Ear seeds specifically are a noninvasive extension of this tradition, providing acupressure rather than needle puncture,” she says. “Ear seeds became popular as a gentle, accessible option for people who want acupressure without needles.”

Interestingly enough, Snyder says it’s called “ear seeding” because practitioners would traditionally use the seeds of the Vaccaria plant, which are small, round, and “perfect for applying pressure” as in acupuncture, but without the needles. “These days, we’ve zhuzhed things up with gold, stainless steel, and even Swarovski crystals. So they’re not just functional—they’re also kind of fabulous. Healing, but make it chic.”

Wellness Benefits

This is the burning question, and it seems the answer is yes—mostly. Let’s talk about ear seeding regarding wellness benefits first (namely, stress, anxiety, sleep, and pain). Snyder says ear seeding can legitimately improve all of the above. “When done correctly, ear seeds are incredibly effective. They’re based on auriculotherapy, a traditional Chinese medicine technique that treats the ear as a map of the entire body. Specific points on the ear connect to different organs, systems, and emotional states. When you apply light pressure to those points with a seed, you're essentially sending a message to your body to reset, regulate, or rebalance. We use ear seeds in the clinic all the time to help with stress, sleep, pain, and anxiety. It’s like acupuncture you can take home with you.”

Parker agrees, saying there’s truth to the claims, albeit with important clarifications. “The outer ear is highly innervated and reflects the nervous system. For years, clinicians have used points on the ear to influence stress response, sleep regulation, and pain modulation. Ear seeding provides constant acupressure stimulation throughout the day, which can support many things like pain and ‘fight or flight’ stress.” Parker says ear seeding is so impactful that some of her patients notice the moment the ear seeds fall out.

She references multiple potential theories for why ear seeding works:

• Polyvagal Theory: “Ear stimulation ‘talks directly’ to the nervous system and helps shift the body out of survival mode.”
• Embryological Development Theory: “During fetal development, the ear forms from multiple embryological layers. Because of this shared origin, the ear maintains deep neurological connections throughout life, which is why ear stimulation can have whole-body effects.”
• Neurovascular and Autonomic Reflex Theory: “The ear has blood vessels and reflexes and modulation pathways to send signals to the rest of the body.”
• Traditional East Asian Medicine (Meridian and Qi Theory): “Ear work helps the body return to balance by improving flow and communication.”

Skincare Benefits

When it comes to using ear seeds for skincare (lifting, sculpting, and de-puffing), it’s not the magic wand that Instagram and TikTok videos might claim it is. Take it from board-certified dermatologist Jenna Queller, MD, FAAD. “From a medical standpoint, there is no high-quality evidence that ear seeding produces true lymphatic drainage, facial sculpting, or long-term de-puffing. Anatomically, the face drains through the deep cervical lymph nodes, not the ear, so there’s no established pathway for ear seeds to redirect lymphatic flow.”

While she says some people may notice a mild, short-term effect, it’s likely related to relaxation and stress reduction, which can transiently lower cortisol and fluid retention. However, it will be a temporary and indirect side effect. “Ear seeding cannot change facial fat, muscle tone, or skin laxity. The dramatic before-and-after images circulating online are often influenced by lighting, angles, facial massage, or timing rather than the ear seeds themselves.” (There! My burning question, answered.) “Some small studies suggest auricular acupressure may reduce stress and anxiety, which can indirectly influence inflammation through neuroimmune pathways. However, these effects are nonspecific and not targeted to facial skin.”

Snyder seconds this, saying the skincare side of ear seeding is often misunderstood. “Ear seeds alone won't ‘snatch’ your face, but what a lot of people don’t notice is that the viral videos often include a mini lymphatic massage during application. That’s what’s giving the immediate lift or de-puffing effect. The seeds themselves don’t physically sculpt your face. That said, they can definitely support healthy skin from the inside out. Certain points on the ear help regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and calm stress—all of which are big players in how our skin looks. So while they’re not your next contour tool, they are a great companion to a holistic skincare routine.”

And any IG or TikTok videos that claim ear seeding can improve skin tone and/or reduce facial redness, especially from rosacea, aren’t to be trusted. Take it from Judy Kim, an aesthetician at Body + Beauty Lab in Radnor, Pennsylvania. “At this time, there is no strong medical or clinical evidence to support claims that ear seeding improves skin tone, reduces facial redness, or significantly decreases inflammation. Any perceived improvements are likely indirect and temporary, related to overall stress reduction and nervous system regulation rather than a direct effect on the skin itself.”

Queller agrees, “Ear seeding does not affect cutaneous blood vessels, rosacea or erythema pathways, melanin or pigmentation, skin barrier function, or collagen remodeling. Any perceived improvement in redness is most likely temporary and stress-related, not a true dermatologic treatment effect.”

At the end of the day, Kim says the “primary functions” of ear seeding are to regulate the nervous system, modulate mild to moderate pain, and reduce stress throughout the body. “As a result, the face or body may appear healthier due to reduced tension, improved circulation, and a more relaxed nervous system.” While some individuals report mild, temporary benefits, there is “limited scientific evidence” to support claims that it directly or dramatically impacts the skin.

How to Use Ear Seeds at Home

The experts say ear seeding can be effectively practiced at home. “Ear seeds are one of the few TCM tools that are super user-friendly,” Snyder says. “You don’t need to be a pro to get benefits, especially if you have a good guide or a practitioner’s advice to start. We design our Moon Rabbit kits with clear diagrams to help people use them confidently at home. That said, if you're dealing with something specific or complex, a licensed acupuncturist can help tailor point placement to your needs.”

Parker agrees that ear seeds can be used at home, but “placement and awareness matter.” She recommends referencing a guide or diagram to pinpoint the precise placement areas. “Home kits often have instructions, and a practitioner can help to guide users during their treatment for at-home care between their professional treatments,” she says. “A licensed clinician (like an acupuncturist) can be more specific for points, conditions, and constitutional treatment goals, and adjust the points based on the presentation. Just remember if you have complex symptoms (chronic pain, significant sleep disruption), a professional assessment is highly valuable and may need a referral or would be a candidate for acupuncture or herbs.”

Below, Snyder and Parker share a few highly effective ear seeding placements to consider:

• Shen Men: This is helpful in reducing stress. “Shen Men is one of the most popular calming points,” Snyder says. “It helps quiet the mind and reset the nervous system.”
• Endocrine Point: This is helpful for hormonal balance
• Sympathetic Point: This helps boost circulation and reduce inflammation
• Heart Point: This is helpful for emotional support.
• Kidney Point: This is “traditionally linked to adrenal and inner quiet,” Parker says.
• Lung Point: This is “associated with releasing tension and fluid regulation.”
• Point Zero: This helps bring the body into balance

Parker recommends using light pressure when placing ear seeds at home. “Ear seeds are about stimulating the nervous system, not aggressive massage,” she says. And, as with any wellness practice, it will work best when paired with other healthy lifestyle habits, especially as it pertains to the skin. “For visible relaxation, combine with hydration, rest, and gentle lymphatic facial techniques,” she says. “Never underestimate the power of drinking more water and going out to exercise to move the blood and lymph!”

“It’s also important to know that even subtle ear stimulation can bring about a noticeable shift in tension and breath pattern, which cascades into mood,” Parker says. “Don’t underestimate the power of touch and just taking a moment to tune into the self. This is a great way to shift [your] mood. Encouraging mindful breathing along with seeding enhances the benefit.”

How Long Ear Seeds Last

While it may depend on the specific at-home ear seeding kit and/or adhesive being used, you should generally expect to keep ear seeds in place for a few days at a time. “For my patients, I tell them to keep the seeds in for about as long as a Band-Aid and change it every three to five days,” Parker says. “Remove if irritation occurs, like with sleeping or overstimulation.”

What to Be Cautious Of

The experts agree that ear seeding is generally safe; there are just a couple of considerations. “Individuals with sensitive or reactive skin may experience irritation, allergic reactions, or contact dermatitis from certain adhesives or metal materials used,” Kim says. “For those prone to hyperpigmentation, repeated pressure on the ear may cause lingering dark spots, and if ear seeding is done too frequently, it can temporarily compromise skin comfort or texture. Anyone considering ear seeding should consult with a licensed or medical acupuncturist to determine whether they are an appropriate candidate.”

Queller agrees, adding, “While generally low risk, ear seeding can cause irritant or allergic contact dermatitis, local inflammation, or infection if hygiene is poor. Potential dermatologic risks include contact dermatitis from adhesives (glues) or metals, local irritation or pressure-related inflammation, and infection if seeds are worn too long or not kept clean. Rarely, cartilage irritation or chondritis occurs with excessive pressure. Patients with sensitive skin, eczema, metal allergies, or a history of keloids should be especially cautious.”

What to Look For in an At-Home Kit

Parker recommends looking for the following in an at-home kit:

• Sterile, hypoallergenic seeds or pellets (maybe alcohol wipes)
• Clear point charts
• Simple, user-friendly instructions

On the flip side, she recommends avoiding products that “claim miraculous, guaranteed results or “use irritating adhesives or cheap materials.” The latter can lead to potential skin reactions.

My mom is 62, and for the past few years, I've heard her talk about her dark spots from time to time. I think she has great skin (if mine looks anything like hers when I'm in my 60s, I'll be happy). That said, I know we're always our worst critics, and I'm a firm believer that if something bothers you, you should feel empowered to do something about it. So, when she formally asked me how to get rid of them a few weeks ago, I decided to help out. I'm a beauty editor, after all. What kind of daughter would I be if I didn't share the benefits of my position with my mom?

There was one caveat. As the bargain-buyer she is, my mom only wanted to spend around $150 on her entire routine. Luckily, I'm Who What Wear's resident drugstore enthusiast, so I had no shortage of products to share. On that note, check out my series Drugstore Heroes, where I ask industry insiders to share their diamond-in-the-rough recommendations.

Ahead, see the exact routine I recommended. Don't worry—it's all approved by derms (I checked).

1. Retinoids

My first recommendation was to incorporate a retinoid, specifically Naturium's Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05%. (I'm a fan of Naturium and use a lot of its products myself, so it was an obvious choice, especially due to its budget-friendly price point.) Why this retinoid, specifically? Let me explain.

Retinoids are the gold standard for treating fine lines and wrinkles, rough and bumpy texture, and, yes, dark spots. This class of vitamin A ingredients includes retinol, retinyl esters, and retinaldehyde—also known as retinal. "Retinol can be very effective for dark spots because it increases cell turnover and helps disperse existing pigment, says Dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, MD, FAAD. "In my practice, I recommend introducing it gradually to avoid irritation, especially in mature or sensitive skin. Shirazi specifically recommends her AziMD Lift + Renew Serum. "[It's] formulated to offer results similar to prescription Tretinoin without the side effects. This serum combines all-trans-retinol, bakuchiol, and antioxidants to improve discoloration. With regular use, expect visibly brighter, firmer skin in just four to eight weeks. Other well-formulated retinoids from brands like SkinBetter Science or Alastin can also be effective when used correctly."

Tama Tran, NP-C, is a board-certified aesthetic nurse practitioner. She says using too much retinol, too fast, can cause irritation, which can actually worsen dark spots. "Over-the-counter retinol is useful but less effective, whereas medical-grade or prescription RetinA is more effective," she says.

All non-prescription forms must convert to retinoic acid to be used by the skin. The gentler a retinoid is, the more conversions it needs to undergo before it can be used by the skin. The more potent a retinoid is, the fewer conversions it needs to undergo before it can be used by the skin. This handy conversion chart explains it.

My mom has used retinoids before and doesn't have super sensitive skin, so I recommended she go right to retinaldehyde. Since it only requires one step to convert to retinoic acid, it's the strongest nonprescription retinoid. It will increase cell turnover to help fade dark spots over time.

She started slow, per the expert's advice. Now, she uses Naturium's Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05% about three to four times a week and always at night. Retinoids work best in the evening, due to the skin's natural repairative rhythm and the fact that they can increase sensitivity to the sun. On that note, if you're using retinoids, it's critical to wear sunscreen every day, but more on that in a minute.

Derm-Recommended Retinoids to Try

More Expert-Approved Retinoids to Try

2. Gentle Exfoliation

I recently discovered that my mom didn't have a consistent exfoliation routine until now. I recommended she use a standalone exfoliation product once a week. (This was per Shokeen's recommendation. She says you shouldn't use exfoliating acids more than one or two times per week.) I sent her a link to Versed's Doctor's Visit Instant Resurfacing Mask, which uses AHAs, BHAs, and enzymes to slough off dead skin and reveal brighter, smoother, more even skin in just two minutes. That's important, as my mom is a busy woman and I know she doesn't want to spend a ton of time on her skincare routine.

"In mature skin, dark spots are more than just pigment," Shirazi says. "They can also be due to the buildup of keratinocytes (skin cells), making them more challenging … As we age, our skin has accumulated more sun exposure, with more spots to treat. The skin also becomes lazy, meaning skin turnover slows down, thereby taking dark spots longer to fade, adding to greater cumulative sun exposure. That does not mean they are untreatable, but it does mean consistency and patience are essential. Supporting the skin barrier while gently encouraging renewal becomes especially important."

To put it another way, ingredients that gently increase cell turnover can be incredibly helpful, such as exfoliating acids. "Mature skin tends to hold onto pigment longer because turnover slows, and the skin barrier may be more fragile," Tran reiterates. "That means aggressive treatments can backfire. A steady, supportive approach usually delivers better and safer results over time."

More Exfoliants to Try

3. Brightening Serums

Next, I told her she absolutely needs to incorporate a brightening serum into her routine. This serum contains a highly stabilized L-ascorbic acid complex, as well as a bioactive fruit blend, that douses the skin in antioxidants, fades dark spots, and defends against environmental aggressors. It's one of my favorite drugstore vitamin C serums!

Brightening serums are often rich in antioxidants, like vitamin C, which help control melanocyte activity (aka the skin cells that produce pigment). Not only that, but they can also protect the skin from free radicals in the environment, keeping signs and symptoms of aging like collagen degradation at bay. That's why I recommended she apply Naturium's Vitamin C Complex Serum every morning.

Take it from Shirazi, who says, "Vitamin C and antioxidants help by inhibiting excess melanin production and protecting skin from oxidative stress that can worsen discoloration," Shirazi says. "They also enhance overall brightness and even tone. I often recommend a stabilized vitamin C serum like AziMD Glow Serum, applied in the morning under sunscreen. Powered by a 20% vitamin C complex (L-ascorbic acid + tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate) and enriched with potent antioxidants, this serum visibly fades discoloration and improves skin tone."

I also suggested incorporating Naturium's Tranexamic Topical Acid 5% one or two nights a week, when she's skipping her retinoid. While this could be too much for someone with sensitive skin, my mom has had no trouble with it. In fact, it's already made a visible difference in her skin.

Tranexamic acid is a tyrosinase inhibitor. Tyrosinase is a key enzyme responsible for pigment production in our skin. So, it brightens the skin, evens tone, and fades dark spots—an obvious choice for the topic at hand!

Naturium's Tranexamic Serum goes three steps further, adding kojic acid (another great brightening ingredient), niacinamide, and licorice root extract to the equation. All of these help fade the appearance of dark spots. It's basically my mom's skincare secret weapon.

More Derm-Recommended Brightening Serums to Try

4. Sunscreen

It's always important to wear sunscreen from a skin-health perspective. That said, if you're trying to fade dark spots, it's even more imperative. That's because the more sun exposure you get—especially unprotected sun exposure—will lead to more pigment production. As dermatologist Divya Shokeen, MD, FAAD, puts it, "Without sunscreen, no pigment treatment will succeed."

My mom hates greasy, overly glowy sunscreens. In fact, she prefers matte SPF formulas. Enter La Roche-Posay's Anthelios Sunscreen Melt-In-Milk. It's lightweight, fast-absorbing, and oil-free. She literally has it sent on subscription, so she never runs out.

More Sunscreens to Try

5. LED Mask

I know what you're thinking. This isn't in the $150-and-under budget! And you're right, however, I mention it because A) I got it for her, so she didn't technically spend the money, and B) it can indeed help fade dark spots if it is in your budget, but it's not crucial. I'll let the experts explain.

"LED masks, particularly those using red light, can support skin health by reducing inflammation and promoting cellular repair," Shirazi says. "They do not directly target pigment, but they can complement a brightening routine by improving overall skin function and helping topical treatments work more effectively over time."

Tran agrees, saying, "LED masks can be a helpful support tool, especially red light, which reduces inflammation and promotes healing. They do not erase pigment on their own, but they can improve skin resilience and help minimize triggers that lead to new discoloration." Shokeen puts it this way: "Think of LED as supportive therapy, not a standalone dark-spot solution."

This one uses two clinically recognized wavelengths of red and near-infrared light. The treatment only takes 10 minutes, and results appear in as few as four weeks. My mom uses hers *almost* every night.

Why Do Dark Spots Happen in the First Place?

"Dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, are areas where the skin produces excess melanin," Shirazi says. "This typically happens as a response to inflammation, sun exposure, hormonal changes, or skin injury such as acne. Melanocytes become overstimulated and deposit pigment unevenly in the skin, which is why these spots appear darker than the surrounding area."

Tran adds heat to the list. Yep, excessive heat exposure can cause dark spots, so be warned, sauna-sitters! "The issue is both pigment production and uneven distribution, which causes dark spots to linger long after the initial trigger is gone."

Shokeen says dark spots form as follows: "Melanocytes [pigment-producing cells] overproduce melanin. Melanin is transferred to surrounding keratinocytes [skin cells]. Pigment becomes unevenly distributed and sometimes drops into the dermis. In some cases (especially PIH), inflammation damages the basement membrane, allowing pigment to fall deeper, making it harder to fade." This is why it can be helpful to see a dermatologist when you're aiming to fade dark spots. As experts, they can look at your specific case and help you develop the most suitable treatment plan.

How Long Does It Take to Fade Dark Spots?

"Most people see visible improvement around the 10-to-12-week mark when they are consistent and protecting their skin properly," Tran says. (Yes, that means sunscreen, people!). "Long-standing or deeper pigmentation can take several months, and maintenance is key to keeping results stable."

If you have deep and/or long-lasting dark spots, Shokeen says to expect a 6-to-12 month timeline with maintenance required. That last part is essential. Once the dark spots start to fade, don't make the mistake of falling back into old or inconsistent habits. "Long-term maintenance is just as important as initial treatment to prevent recurrence," Shirazi says.

What Else Helps Fade Dark Spots?

Shirazi recommends looking to ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, and gentle exfoliating acids to help reduce pigment long-term. Also, she suggests focusing on keeping the skin barrier strong and supported. "Barrier-supporting moisturizers are key so the skin can tolerate active ingredients without irritation," she says.

Shokeen agrees, saying that ingredients like ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids (all commonly found in barrier-supporting creams) actually reduce inflammation-induced pigment.

And if you want to go the professional route, there are highly effective options. "Laser treatments and microneedling help fade dark spots," Tran says. See a skin expert to discuss the right treatments for you.

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When I was 29, I got Botox for the first time and detailed the entire experience for you, dear reader. Well, it was actually Dysport. (Botox and Dysport, as well as Xeomin, Jeuveau, Daxxify, and Letybo, are different brand names of neurotoxin. They all relax muscles and reduce wrinkles yet differ in speed, spread, and typical use areas.) It all started because I couldn't stop staring at the deep groove that was forming between my brows. I blame it on unintentional RBF and bad eyesight, both of which cause me to squint and/or furrow my brow often. Nonetheless, I took the leap, loved the results, and never looked back.

Since then, I've committed to a twice-a-year injection schedule. I'm lucky in that the effects last about six months for me, which is longer than the three- to four-month average. Regardless, Botox, Dysport, or any other neurotoxin is expensive. If I can enhance, maintain, or even extend the results of it, I'm going to.

Enter copper peptides. I'd seen a lot of talk about them online—namely, how they're the perfect skincare ingredient for people who get neurotoxin injections. I was curious if that was true. I was also wondering how they differ from other peptides. So I did what any good beauty editor would do, and I reached out to the experts. Ahead, learn everything you need to know about copper peptides.

What Are Copper Peptides?

Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. He says copper peptides are tripeptides (a grouping of three amino acids that act as highly effective cell messengers) that are bound with copper (yep, the same stuff you'd find in a penny).

Natia Rufolo, FNP, NP-C, is the founder of Injx by Nat Aesthetics and a board-certified aesthetic injector and PDO thread specialist. She says the fact that these peptides are bound with copper is the key to their efficacy. "The copper component gives them added regenerative and antioxidant benefits, making them especially helpful for healing and improving skin firmness," she says. "Copper peptides help support collagen and elastin production, promote skin repair, and improve overall skin strength and elasticity." In other words, they help keep skin looking plump, smooth, and youthful.

What Skin Types Should Use and Avoid Copper Peptides?

The experts say copper peptides are usually well-tolerated by most skin types. "I find they work well for most skin types, but they are especially beneficial for aging, damaged, or compromised skin, as well as those looking to improve firmness and texture without irritation," Rufolo says.

However, both Camp and Rufolo say you should exercise caution if you have extremely sensitive or reactive skin. (Camp recommends performing a patch test regardless of skin type.) "Copper peptides are generally well tolerated, but I’m cautious using them on very sensitive or reactive skin, especially if there’s an impaired barrier or active inflammation," Rufolo says. "In those cases, I prefer to introduce them slowly or avoid them altogether until the skin is more stable, since they can sometimes cause irritation when overused or layered with strong actives."

Can Copper Peptides Really Extend the Results of Botox?

Now for the burning question that's been on mind for months: Can copper peptides really enhance, maintain, and extend the results of neurotoxins like Botox and Dysport? The experts say yes, but also no. Let them explain. "I wouldn’t say copper peptides truly extend the lifespan of a neurotoxin, as there’s no solid clinical evidence to support that," Rufolo says. "What they can do is improve overall skin quality—like texture, firmness, and healing—which can complement toxin results and make the skin look smoother and healthier while the neurotoxin is active."

Camp puts it this way: "Copper peptides are unlikely to augment the effects of neurotoxin injections, but they may complement the impact of in-office cosmetic treatments because they can potentially help address changes related to aging, namely fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots."

So in other words, they can enhance and even help maintain the impact of neurotoxins, but they won't necessarily augment or extend it. For me, that's more than enough reason to introduce them into my skincare routine. Ahead, see the best copper peptide–spiked skincare products to try.

The Best Copper-Peptide Skincare Products

Welcome to Drugstore Heroes, a monthly series in which we spotlight the often-overlooked and under-hyped drugstore beauty products that industry experts count on. From editors to content creators and even celebs, we’re asking tastemakers to share their top recommendations for affordable yet effective products. Get ready to see the best of drugstore beauty, period.

Dermatologists are skin experts—everyone knows that. They spend years studying, researching, and working hands-on with patients. However, their expertise goes beyond that. They have a scientific understanding and practical grasp of cosmetics as a whole. They know what products and ingredients are well worth the time, effort, and money and, conversely, which ones should be left alone, lest they lead to irritation, allergic reactions, or other unsavory effects. Take the scalp and hair, for example. People tend to forget that dermatologists are also the go-to medical experts in this area. (The scalp is skin, after all.) That's why patients can turn to them when experiencing all kinds of issues, whether that's something as simple as dryness and irritation or something as potentially serious as hair loss.

All that's to say when a derm offers me a product recommendation, I take it, especially when it's Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology. I've been following her IG for years. (I highly suggest scrolling through it if you, like me, love getting in-depth, expert info on the fly.) So I knew she had some stellar advice and product recommendations to offer. Still, I wasn't prepared for all 12 of her favorite drugstore beauty products. Let's just say I have a new shopping list to work from.

How often do you use and recommend drugstore hair products?

I reach for drugstore hair products all the time and recommend them to patients. If a formula is cosmetically elegant, evidence-based, and plays nicely with the scalp and hair, I don’t care whether it came from a prestige counter or the drugstore. It is very important to me that a brand leads with science and studies their formulas, not just trendy ingredients. There are definitely drugstore staples I rely on repeatedly for things like scalp health, gentle cleansing, and basic conditioning. I love the Royal Oils line by Head & Shoulders, for example, because of its evidence-based, gentle formulas. And I have no problem pairing drugstore products with higher-end treatments when it makes sense in a patient’s routine.

What would you say to someone who thinks only expensive products are effective?

Price does not guarantee a skin or hair outcome. You’re often paying for packaging, marketing, and sensorial experience, not necessarily better ingredients or data. There are beautiful, innovative formulas at a higher price point, but there are also excellent, well-formulated options at the drugstore. I don’t think there is any problem with paying more for something if it really speaks to you; the sensorial experience is also important. But always make sure the basic needs of your skin and hair are taken care of first. I care far more about the final formula and how it performs in the real world than the price tag. I’m constantly getting feedback from my patients and curating my recommendations.

Any tips or tricks for finding effective products at the drugstore?

There are so many options at drugstores now that it can be very confusing. My simple advice is to go in with a plan and shop by your skin or hair concern, not by look and feel. It’s good to do some research first and look at ingredients, consumer reviews, and expert reviews and create a list of products that make sense to try. Basically, don’t shop vibes, shop your skin and hair condition. Buy small quantities first and give products a few months before you decide if they are working, unless they are causing irritation. It can be tricky to know the difference between a product breaking you out and a normal purging reaction common with retinols, for example. Overall, if your skin is not getting better after a few rounds of drugstore and over-the-counter products, it is more than worth the investment to see a board-certified dermatologist to guide you the rest of the way. Dermatologists deeply understand skin and can teach you how to better understand yours.

Here are a few drugstore rules I live by:

• For scalp issues (flakes, dandruff, and itch): I recommend looking for ingredients like salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide.
• For dry or damaged hair: Look for conditioning agents like ceramides, amino acids, or light proteins.
• For clogged pores: I like AHAs and BHAs. I’m partial to a cleanser form so that you avoid overdrying the skin. I also like to pair benzoyl peroxide in the morning with retinoids in the evening for breakouts.

Robinson's All-Time Favorite Drugstore Products

All in all, Robinson's 12 favorite drugstore beauty products clock in at a mere $189.

Welcome to Worldly Beauty, a quarterly franchise in which we highlight beauty products, ingredients, and traditions rooted in culture. To offer an in-depth look, we're sharing perspectives and recommendations from local experts and tastemakers. A celebration of diversity, this column goes beyond what we know to shed light on the beauty practices and philosophies that make the world go round.

A certain country or region solidifies its reputation when it becomes synonymous with the product it produces. Take French wine, for example, or Italian leather. Sure, high-quality products exist elsewhere, but there’s something authentic and standard-setting about sourcing them from a highly reputable locale. When it comes to the skincare industry, that locale is South Korea. Over the years, it has cemented itself as the leader of innovation and engineering. It doesn't just set trends—it envisions, creates, and dictates them.

It's easy to take for granted the sheer amount of new technology, product formats, and aesthetic trends that South Korea has contributed to the global beauty landscape—things like overnight masks, cleansing oils, and the "glass skin" trend. It's even easier to take for granted the sheer number of ingredients it has popularized—ingredients that have spread Stateside and are found in hundreds, if not thousands, of best-selling skincare products. So what makes South Korea a leading authority in skincare? Experts say there's no simple answer.

Anna Karp, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at NYU School of Medicine. She says South Korea's stellar reputation for skincare stems from multiple social, economic, and scientific factors, including strong consumer demand, a highly competitive marketplace, and robust research and development. There are also cultural considerations. "In the culture, skincare starts early with emphasis on sun protection," she says. "The consumers are very skincare literate, pushing companies to constantly improve formulas. Korean brands reinvest heavily into research, biotech, and new formulations."

Sylvia Eunsun Cho is Sulwhasoo's Americas R&I associate director. She says accessibility is the key to understanding South Korea's influence on the skincare industry. "In Korea, skincare is incredibly easy to find, from dedicated beauty stores to pharmacies with over-the-counter options, and even budget-friendly shops like Daiso. (Think of dollar stores in the U.S.) High-quality products are available at every price point, making skincare affordable, approachable, and part of everyday life for everyone."

She also notes Korea's use of unique ingredients "that are not commonly used in many other parts of the world." While there are so many to discuss (Birch sap! Rice water! Fermented ingredients!), we'll be taking a look at five in particular: ginseng, mugwort, snail mucin, Centella asiatica, and PDRN. Each one is grown, extracted, and/or utilized in its unique way, but they all have one thing in common: efficacy. They're wildly popular not only in the U.S. but around the world thanks to their skin-transforming potential. Ahead, learn everything you need to know about these five innovative ingredients.

Ginseng is a well-established ingredient in the skincare, wellness, and food and beverage industries, but not all ginseng is the same (not even close). The type you use, as well as the way in which you extract it, makes all the difference. Sulwhasoo, the luxury heritage Korean beauty brand, is the skincare industry's leading authority on ginseng. It's the brand's hero ingredient and is formulated in its iconic, best-selling products, such as the First Care Activating Serum ($89).

According to Cho, there are three major species (Panax) in the world: Panax ginseng from Korea, Panax quinquefolius from the U.S., and Panax notoginseng from China. "They may look similar, but they are quite different from a genetic view. Among these, Panax ginseng—also known as Korean ginseng—is considered the most effective. Korean ginseng is proven to contain the highest levels of ginseng actives when compared to Chinese and American ginseng."

It's native to the Korean Peninsula and Northeastern China. "Known as 'Koryo Insam,' Korean ginseng earned its reputation because it was found to be much more effective compared to ginseng from other regions," Cho says. It has been part of Korean culture for over 2000 years, especially in regard to traditional medicine and cuisine. "Beyond skincare, Koreans have long used ginseng as a key ingredient in herbal remedies to improve stamina, immunity, and overall vitality. It appears in traditional tonics, teas, and medicinal broths that are still widely consumed today." In Korean cuisine, ginseng is used both for its flavor and its wellness-boosting benefits. "The most iconic example is 'samgyetang', a chicken soup stuffed with ginseng, jujube, and sticky rice, believed to replenish energy and strengthen the body," Cho says. "Ginseng is also used in liqueurs, and many people even make their own ginseng-infused versions at home using fresh ginseng and high-quality soju. These homemade liqueurs are often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings."

In regard to skincare, ginseng is a powerful and potent ingredient when used at peak concentration. It's rich in antioxidants, can reduce inflammation, prevent accelerated skin aging, and support a healthy-looking complexion. However, Cho says it's "especially beneficial for those concerned with firmness, dullness, and visible signs of aging. In Korea, Sulwhasoo is particularly popular among 'ajummas,' a Korean term referring to middle-aged women, who appreciate ginseng for its visible firming, brightening, and revitalizing effects."

Jae Yong Ban is a board-certified dermatologist and the medical director of Banobagi Dermatology Clinic and CEO of Bano Cosmetics. He notes that the modern use of Korean ginseng in cosmetics began in 1966, which was when AmorePacific (Sulwhasoo's parent company) launched the ABC Ginseng Cream. "Among its components, saponins—specifically ginsenosides—are the most essential," he says. "Ginsenosides help reduce signs of aging and diminish wrinkles."

The key is to cultivate and extract it carefully and correctly to achieve peak potency, and no other brand has achieved this like Sulwhasoo. It starts with the growing process. Michelle Shieh is Sulwhasoo's scientific communications associate director. She says the brand has revolutionized ginseng cultivation through advanced smart-farm technologies. "Rather than relying on traditional fields vulnerable to disease and extreme weather, we use sensors and automated controls to precisely regulate temperature, humidity, light, and nutrient levels, creating an optimized environment for ginseng growth," she says. "Only ginseng that reaches four years of age and passes Sulwahsoo's rigorous standards is selected. Our ginseng actually undergoes more safety testing than food-grade ginseng, with over 300 individual tests performed. This uncompromising approach means that only a small fraction of ginseng meets the high standards, ensuring the highest quality for our ginseng ingredients."

Once the ginseng has passed the rigorous tests, it can be extracted for use in skincare products. "Sulwhasoo extracts ginseng and then refines it using a proprietary Bioconversion Technology developed by AmorePacific," Cho says. "This method transforms ginseng saponins into forms that the skin can utilize more efficiently. Through this process, the ginseng’s active saponins are converted into smaller, biologically active molecules that the skin can readily recognize and absorb. Bypassing the skin’s own metabolic conversion step, the ingredient maintains a higher level of bioavailability and delivers benefits effectively. As a result, the formula provides a more concentrated and highly effective anti-aging benefit."

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Mugwort is another herbal ingredient Koreans have used for millennia. These days, it's a key component of skincare products, wellness rituals, and food and beverages. The perennial plant belongs to the daisy family, and it's native to Alaska, Europe, North Africa, and Asia. In South Korea, specifically, it has a long history of being consumed in teas, soups, and rice cakes. It's also used in medicinal baths to relieve aches and pains.

As for the skin, Karp says it's been widely incorporated into skincare over the past 10 to 20 years and is known for its soothing, protective properties. As a known antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient, it's particularly suitable for sensitive skin types—think acne and/or rosacea, Karp says.

Ban agrees. "Mugwort is known for its excellent soothing properties, offering strong calming and anti-inflammatory effects. It is rich in minerals and vitamins A and C. While mugwort has been used for thousands of years as a medicinal herb in Korea and China, its incorporation into modern skincare formulations is relatively recent, less than 10 years. It has reemerged as a trend in the past five to 10 years."

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Snail mucin has to be one of the most popular and widely used Korean skincare ingredients on the market right now. In fact, snail mucin skincare products continue to go viral on social media. (The most notable is perhaps CosRx's Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence. It's all over IG and TikTok.)

Snail mucin is exactly what it sounds like—the gel-like substance that's secreted by, well, snails. It might sound off-putting to the uninitiated, but snail-mucin lovers know how it can transform dry and dehydrated skin into smooth, plump, and moisturized skin. "Snail secretion filtrate is rich in glycoproteins, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants," Karp says. "It provides excellent hydration, supporting the skin barrier."

While it was popularized in K-beauty, Ban says it has an interesting international history. "In 1974, a Chilean brand called Elicina (also known as Coesam) introduced the first snail-mucin product. Farmers who handled snails noticed that their skin wounds healed unusually fast. Researchers later discovered that this was due to the mucin in snail secretions, which led to its use in skincare."

Since then, it's become lauded for its skin-regenerating and wound-healing benefits. Although, Ban agrees that its primary benefit is hydration through moisture retention. He says it can improve "the skin's oil-to-moisture balance." Hence it's particularly useful for people with dry and dehydrated skin types.

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Mugwort isn't the only stellar soothing ingredient to be popularized by Korean skincare companies. Centella asiatica is another prime example. This ingredient is also referred to as "tiger grass" and "cica." Despite its many names, it's known for one thing: soothing irritation and "putting out the fire," so to speak. It's a well-studied, highly praised ingredient that targets skin inflammation.

"Centella asiatica has long been used as a folk remedy by Indigenous populations along the Indian Ocean for treating skin conditions," Ban says. That includes Korean, Chinese, and Indian cultures. The secret to its soothing success is two key active ingredients. The first is madecassoside. The second is asiaticoside. Both are compounds known as terpenes (aromatic organic compounds), and they're behind most of cica's skin-soothing and wound-healing benefits. The other beneficial compounds, according to Ban, are vitamins B and C and carotenoids (antioxidants).

Both experts say it's "excellent" for sensitive skin types, including anyone who struggles with acne, rosacea, or eczema, which is why you'll find it in all kinds of cooling masks, gentle serums, and skin-balancing toner pads. Consider it a gold standard ingredient for skin soothing.

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If 2025 taught us one thing, it's that the internet loves PDRN (also known as salmon sperm—yep, you read that correctly). This buzzy ingredient went viral on social media with the help of celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Aniston, who are reportedly fans of in-office PDRN skin treatments. So what's the deal with it, and why is everyone and their mother stocking up on PDRN-infused skincare products? The experts can answer that.

First, PDRN stands for polydeoxyribonucleotide. "PDRN is a DNA-derived molecule (traditionally from salmon sperm) used in regenerative dermatology," Karp says. "PDRN improves skin healing and regeneration, boosts fibroblast activity, increases collagen stimulation, and reduces inflammation."

Ban says you might also see salmon-derived PDRN referred to as "sodium DNA." Regardless, it works through DNA synthesis. "DNA is the fundamental building block of all living organisms," he says. "Through DNA synthesis, amino acids and peptides are formed, which are, in turn, the essential components of proteins like collagen and elastin in our body. Since PDRN helps synthesize DNA more efficiently, it plays a key role in promoting skin regeneration by supporting the rebuilding of these core structural proteins."

It works so well it can actually promote the formation of tiny blood vessels. "These microvessels play a critical role in delivering essential nutrients and energy to the areas of the body where they are most needed," Ban says. "You can think of PDRN as building a high-speed expressway—it enhances the efficiency of this delivery system, ensuring that regeneration and repair processes happen faster and more effectively."

As such, PDRN offers myriad benefits for the skin—everything from post-laser healing to boosting elasticity and minimizing visible wrinkles. Karp calls out its efficacy for fading acne scars, specifically. Here's the thing, though. Not all PDRN-spiked skincare products are the same. In fact, they can differ greatly in formulation and efficacy. That's because most PDRN skincare products use plant-derived versions, rather than those from salmon sperm.

"Plant-derived PDRN is considered 'PDRN-like'—it offers similar, but not identical, benefits," Ban says. "Salmon PDRN is regarded as the first generation, plant-based PDRN as the second generation, and Banobagi’s b-PDRN as the third generation microbial PDRN." The latter refers to Ban's own PDRN-infused skincare products. They use a microorganism-derived version isolated from banana sugar spots. "Banana sugar spots contain large amounts of saccharomyces, a yeast with a cell structure similar to human skin cells and rich in amino acids that support elasticity and cell growth. This third-generation Biome PDRN is yeast-derived and helps restore the skin’s natural elasticity."

Karp says that while salmon-derived PDRN has clinical studies to support its wound healing and regenerative properties, more research into plant-derived sources would be helpful. "I think more clinical studies are needed to see how well it works," she says.

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If you've ever struggled with acne, you know it can feel like an undertaking trying to find the right ingredients for your skin—especially if it's also extremely sensitive. To be perfectly honest, it took me years (and connecting with the right aesthetician) to figure out what ingredients worked for my sensitive, breakout-prone skin, but once I found the right routine, my whole life changed.

For a long time, I struggled after tretinoin seriously damaged my skin barrier. My skin became extra dehydrated, red, and prone to acne after that, and I found it frustrating trying to find ingredients that didn't make it worse. The ingredient that really turned things around for me, though, was beta-glucan. While you may have seen this ingredient pop up in a formula or two in your routine, I still feel that it doesn't get the spotlight that it deserves. It's truly fantastic for dehydrated, damaged, acne-prone, and barrier-damaged skin because it's known for its skin-healing properties.

My aesthetician Sonia Vargas is a huge fan of it and told me it was worth adding to my lineup because it accelerates wound healing and tissue repair. It sounded like exactly what I needed at the time. My skin has taken a huge turn for the positive since I started using it regularly four months ago. For everything you need to know about why this powerhouse ingredient should be on your shelf, straight from the experts, keep on reading.

What is Beta-Glucan?

Vargas explained that beta-glucan is a polysaccharide (made up of sugar molecules) derived from sources like oats, yeast, and fungi. "[They] benefit all skin types," she says. "It's good for all skin because it provides deep hydration, strengthens the skin's moisture barrier, and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. This combination makes it excellent for soothing irritation and protecting the skin from environmental damage."

Keep in mind, beta-glucan may not be the best ingredient for you if you deal with fungal acne, but if your breakouts are not fungal, it can be an amazing assistant when you're in the process of clearing up your skin. Although it's helpful for breakouts, it's also generally great for skin that's dry or dehydrated because provides moisture without being overly heavy on the skin.

Why Should You Add Beta-Glucan to Your Routine?

Plastic surgeon and founder of Asian Pacific Plastic Surgery Shim Ching, MD confirms that beta-glucan is a superhero when it comes to traumatized skin. "Most of the research around beta-glucans have been around how they help heal damaged skin," he says. "We're theorizing that they can help other skin problems by reducing inflammation, hydrating the skin, repairing the skin barrier and boosting the skin's immune system." Ching is referring to the fact that beta-glucan is known to stimulate the Langerhans cells—the immune cells within the skin's epidermis layer. This initiates its immune and reparative functions.

Not only that, beta-glucan is really helpful for treating traumatized skin (like tretinoin damage), abrasions, damage, burns, oxidative stress, premature aging, acne, inflammation, and even calming rosacea. Basically, it does it all and everyone could benefit from adding it to their routine. Ching also suggests taking beta-glucan as a dietary supplement to get the full list of benefits. Beta-glucans can be found in oats, barley, wheat, rye, and certain mushrooms like shitake, maitake, and reishi.

If you struggle with breakouts, though, Vargas says it's especially key. "Beta-glucan is an essential ingredient for acne-prone skin because it targets multiple issues that contribute to breakouts, including inflammation, a compromised skin barrier, and impaired healing," she explains. "Traditional acne treatments can be harsh—beta-glucan is gentle and non-irritating, making it a safe choice for inflamed and impaired skin."

Vargas knew beta-glucan would be perfect for my skin because I struggled with all of the above. It was tough to find ingredients that would clear my breakouts without causing more irritation and barrier damage. What truly helped was stopping all retinoids, exfoliating less, and giving my skin the time it needed to reset and heal. Adding DMK's signature Beta Gel formula on top of that was the key to my success. Vargas recommended it to me and I haven't looked back since.

The Best Products With Beta-Glucan

The Lineup is a monthly series where we're giving you an inside peek at the beauty lineups of the most sought-after experts and tastemakers in the industry. Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at all the can't-live-without products that make their worlds go 'round.

A laser dermatologist (meaning, one who specializes in laser- and light-based therapies to treat skin concerns like rosacea, melasma, acne, scars, skin cancers, and signs of aging) for over 22 years, Ellen Marmur, MD, is a human encyclopedia when it comes to LED. Seriously, whenever I'm lucky enough to visit her Upper East Side office, I walk away with no less than five game-changing tips and seven hot takes. One of the biggest discoveries I've brought home? Don't sleep on green light.

"While red light has captured the imagination of social media, and it is a potent anti-inflammatory with many benefits, green light is very underappreciated," the derm and founder of MMSkincare tells me. Namely, it's a godsend for hyperpigmentation and redness, but Marmur actually conducted a clinical study that showed multiple skin benefits associated with green light: improved collagen, improved fat, improved retinoic acid benefits (aka, more bang for your buck when using retinol), and reduced inflammation. Given these science-backed perks, she made sure to include full-range green light when creating her own LED device, which features five colors and nine light settings in total. She personally uses the green setting for 20 minutes three times a week, noting "it’s [her] secret to keeping [her] skin young." If you've ever seen Marmur's smooth, glowing skin up close like I have, the only logical response becomes "Sign me up."

For those looking for a no-BS derm to shepherd you through your skin journey, consider Marmur your pro. In fact, when I ask her to bust three pervasive skincare myths, she responds with: "Only three?!" There are a number of TikTok-born notions that make her cringe (namely #FillerMigration; "Fillers do NOT last forever," she shares), and she's quick to share the hard, cold facts of retinol and vitamin C. "The entire world—okay, I exaggerate, but it seems so—believes that the more you use these two holy-grail ingredients, the younger your skin looks," she says. In reality, using them together or too often can result in cosmeceutical contact dermatitis, marked by red, peeling skin with inflamed pimples. "Less is more with these two ingredients," she adds.

As for her personal beauty routine? That "less is more" philosophy rings true, as you'll find an edited lineup of calming, smoothing serums, full-face makeup palettes, and multitasking hair tools below—plus, of course, some high-quality LED.

Let me be clear: No topical skincare ingredient will completely replicate the effects of an in-office procedure. A professional skin-tightening treatment (e.g., Sofwave, Ultherapy, Fraxel lasers) will be much more targeted than a firming peptide serum—no other way to slice it—but that's not to say you should toss your serums and potions out the window! A solid skincare routine is A+ for delaying skin-aging concerns like sagging and dark spots for as long as possible, and for those who do go the in-office route, at-home maintenance is crucial in between appointments. If you neglect proper skincare, you'll essentially be throwing money away.

Not to mention, beauty ingredients become more sophisticated every day. While they won't plump your skin as quickly as, say, an injectable, a few standout players have suspiciously similar effects with more gradual, natural-looking results. I consulted derms to learn about the most popular ones to seek out this fall and winter, which I've outlined just below. Scroll ahead—your glowing skin will thank you for it.

PDRN

"The biggest 'trend' right now is PDRN," shares board-certified dermatologist David Kim, MD, of New York Dermatology Group. "It's been buzzy for more than a year now, and it's hard to miss on IG and TikTok!" We can likely thank celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Aniston for the buzz, both of whom reportedly receive PDRN facials on the regular.

"What's most important, though, is that this is not just a trend. It's very effective," Kim adds. For the uninitiated, PDRN (or polydeoxyribonucleotide) is derived from salmon sperm DNA—hence why you might see "salmon sperm facials" going viral on TikTok—and has been wildly popular in Korea for over a decade. (Let it be known that salmon sperm in skincare is not new. It's just new to the U.S.) The ingredient has been shown to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness, but these benefits are much stronger in PDRN's injectable form, which isn't FDA approved in the U.S. quite yet. Either book a trip to Seoul or opt for topical PDRN products, which do have a skin-plumping effect.

"I think PDRN will carry the buzz for quite some time," shares Kim. "It can be used topically in combination with other treatment modalities, like lasers and microneedling, to enhance the delivery without injecting it directly into the skin."

Shop PDRN Skincare Products

Exosomes

If you consider yourself well-versed in skincare innovations, you've likely seen exosomes popping up everywhere—from eye creams and moisturizers to hair and scalp oils. "Exosomes are vesicles secreted by cells that contain growth factors, RNA, mRNA, and other goodies," Geeta Yadav, MD, board-certified dermatologist of Facet Dermatology, previously explained to Who What Wear. "You can think of them almost like email—when cells 'send' exosomes, the material inside the exosomes delivers important messages to cells throughout the body, giving them information and telling them to do things."

Some of those "things" include increased collagen production, faster wound healing, and reduced inflammation. "They can carry anything from soothing ingredients to actives that stimulate repair," adds dermatologist Muneeb Shah, DO. As such, exosome-spiked skincare products have skyrocketed in popularity, but we're only just getting started when it comes to their purported benefits. "Once we start loading them with more innovative actives, I think they could be game-changing," Shah adds.

Shop Exosome Skincare Products

Copper Peptides

"Copper peptides are great collagen and elastin stimulators, which means firmer skin and fewer fine lines," Shah notes. Different types of peptides have targeted benefits (some are lauded for skin tightening, and others are known wound healers), and the copper variety is particularly adept at smoothing lines. "Unfortunately, they're expensive to formulate with, so not every product actually contains an effective concentration," Shah caveats. Generally, it helps to look for a blue hue in your serums and creams—that's a sign of the copper ion's quality, assuming the product doesn't include any dyes.

Shop Copper Peptide Skincare Products

Peptides

Of course, peptides as a whole are showing no signs of slowing down. "Some work as hydrators, some as collagen boosters, and others are too large to do much at all," Shah adds. One of my favorites is Argireline (or acetyl hexapeptide), a nifty neurotransmitter peptide that blocks the nerve signal responsible for muscle contractions. Some even go so far as to say it has Botox-like effects. "These are much weaker than but work in a similar way to botulinum toxins to weaken the movement of the facial muscles so that expression lines are both improved and prevented," board-certified dermatologist Robyn Gmyrek, MD, once told WWW about the ingredient.

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Ectoin

When it comes to hydrators, ectoin is a very underrated MVP. It's technically an emollient, which means it's super moisturizing and fills in the teeny microcracks in your skin. "Emollients work by helping skin retain moisture, but ectoin also offers protective and anti-inflammatory properties as well as skin-brightening benefits," Yadav previously shared. "This is a great ingredient for those with inflammatory skin conditions, like eczema, to rely on as well as those who have overexfoliated with retinoids. It'd also be a good pick for use in the wintertime when the skin barrier may be imbalanced due to harsh weather conditions." As we dive headfirst into the cozy season, I can't think of a better time to prioritize this soothing, anti-inflammatory wonder.

Shop Ectoin Skincare Products

Mucin

Ah, mucin—the slimy substance we know and love for smooth, well-hydrated skin. Notice how I said mucin, not snail mucin. It's true that the snail-derived K-beauty hero "improves the 'bounce' of skin," as double board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD, of MDCS Dermatology once told WWW, but there have been some concerns about ethical sourcing methods over the years. As a result, brands have innovated with plant-based mucin substances, such as prickly pear and wild yam. Both contain a gel-like mucus that helps you achieve a similarly smooth, bright skin texture—take it from my glowing review.

Shop Mucin Skincare Products

Spicules

Not a fan of needles? Spicule-laced skincare was basically made for you. Spicules are tiny microspears derived from hydrolyzed sponges that create tiny microchannels in the skin for better product absorption. Essentially, it's like microneedling without the actual needles. Another K-beauty mainstay, the ingredient originated as part of a liquid microneedling treatment, but gentler spicule skincare products have been popping up as of late for an at-home option with similar benefits. Note, the serums do come with a slight prickly sensation as you rub them in, but they shouldn't feel too spicy. Make sure to follow up with an ultra-hydrating, skin-plumping formula to encourage the juiciest results.

Shop Spicule Skincare Products

Ask any derm, and they'll say it: You don't exactly need all the bells and whistles of a 15-step skincare routine. Sure, a roster of skin-plumping masks or a few passes with a jawline-carving tool can up the ante for a smooth, lifted complexion, but a simple (and consistent!) regimen really does a lot of the heavy lifting. Get the basics down pat, and then you can upgrade the lineup to your heart's—and wallet's—desire.

The nonnegotiables, however, are as follows: a nourishing moisturizer, a targeted treatment (depending on your individual skin goals), and a good cleanser—two of them, to be specific. Trust, double cleansing will take your skin from good to really freaking great, and derms will be the first to stand by that philosophy. Scroll below for all you need to know, including a step-by-step breakdown and editor-approved face washes for a glass-like glow.

What Is Double Cleansing?

Essentially, double cleansing involves washing your face twice with two different products. "This can include an oil or balm, as well as a water based cleanser for the second step," says board-certified dermatologist Dhaval Bhanusali, MD FAAD. The first wash dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and lingering oil, while the second whisks away all that grime and preps your skin for subsequent steps in your routine.

See, makeup and sunscreen are typically oil-based, so you need an oil-based cleanser to lift those products from your skin (like dissolves like, if you remember from chemistry class). Once all that pigment and SPF dislodge from your pores, a water-based cleanser helps ensure a super-clean canvas.

It's a technique that has long been used in Korea but has become quite popular stateside over the last several years—and derms everywhere often praise it as a best practice. Take board-certified dermatologist Jeannette Graf, MD, who adds, "The two-step approach helps to ensure that you’re removing all the buildup and bacteria that can clog pores or interfere with your skincare product’s effectiveness."

Benefits for Skin

A good, solid cleanse is sneakily the most important part of your skincare routine, regardless of your overall goal. You can invest in all the spendy retinol, peptide, and vitamin C serums as you please, but none of those potent ingredients will be able to penetrate pores clogged with lingering gunk. "Good cleansing will set you up for success!" agrees board-certified dermatologist David Kim, MD, of New York Dermatology Group. "Removing makeup before [your] skincare routine is crucial so it doesn't clog your pores and break you out."

That first oil cleansing step also helps dissolve excess sebum, which makes double cleansing great for those with oily or acne-prone skin as well. In short: Double cleansing is ideal for pretty much everyone. "It’s especially helpful at night when your skin has been exposed to pollutants and product buildup throughout the day," adds Graf. "The real perk is that it gives your skin a clean slate, so your serums and moisturizers can sink in and be their most effective."

Who Should Avoid Double Cleansing?

Now, here's the catch: "If you have extremely dry, sensitive, or compromised skin, like during a flare-up of eczema or rosacea, you might want to skip it or limit how often you [double cleanse]," Graf shares. "Too much cleansing with the wrong products can disrupt your skin barrier, so it’s all about listening to what your skin needs each day." If your skin is feeling particularly tender and tight, you might want to stick with an oil-based wash (which simultaneously infuses your skin with moisture) and call it a night.

Otherwise, everyone can go ahead and double cleanse. You technically could get away with just one cleansing step if you don't wear heavy makeup, but it's also helpful for removing sunscreen too. I personally follow a double cleansing routine every single night—even if I don't wear a stitch of makeup—to ensure my skin is clear of SPF and excess oil. "Just have it as an option [for an] extra oomph when removing makeup or after a long day outside," advises Bhanusali.

How Do You Double Cleanse?

Step 1: Use an Oil-Based Cleanser

First thing's first: Choose your oil-based wash. You can opt for a cleansing balm, cleansing oil, or even micellar water (which is technically water-based but contains tiny "micelles" that attract oil), but make sure the formula is gentle and non-stripping. Apply your product of choice to dry skin (remember: oil and water don't mix!), massaging it in with your fingertips to break down any makeup and sunscreen. Really take your time with this step, says Graf, to ensure you fully dissolve any buildup. "Oil cleansing can be really effective at drawing out impurities and is best achieved when done for several minutes," she adds.

After your face looks nice and oily, briefly wet your hands and massage once again. At this point, the oil should emulsify and transform into a milky solution.

Step 2: Follow Up With a Water-Based Cleanser

"From there, [you] can use a gentle, water-based cleanser to really make sure you remove all the debris clogging your pores," advises Bhanusali. Water-based solutions will typically come in gel or foam formats, though you can also find super-gentle cream confections if your skin runs really sensitive. Again, massage your face wash of choice in gentle, circular motions to break up all the lingering grime and whisk away all that oil from your first cleansing step.

Don't ignore that last bit. Says Kim, "Make sure to do the second cleanse thoroughly as well, so the oil-based cleanser doesn't stay in your skin and clog your pores. Each step needs to be thoroughly washed off."

Step 3: Proceed With the Rest Of Your Routine

Rinse your face with lukewarm water, pat your skin dry, then proceed with your subsequent serums and creams. Your skin should feel fresh and clean but not too "tight," which indicates a compromised barrier (likely from a harsh cleanser). If you do face discomfort, you might want to switch up your face wash—catch our recs below.

Should You Double Cleanse Every Day?

You certainly can! It's best for removing heavy makeup, but double cleansing also helps dissolve SPF buildup. So even on no-makeup days, you can find success with a double cleanse.

That said, you don't have to double cleanse more than once per day. "For most people, double cleansing is best reserved for the nighttime skincare routine, especially if you’ve worn makeup or SPF," caveats Graf. "In the morning, a gentle single cleanse is usually enough."

Shop Oil-Based Cleansers

Shop Water-Based Cleansers

If you haven't noticed yet, we're obsessed with all things French skincare here at Who What Wear. Apparently, we're not the only ones. Dermatologists can't get enough either, and I have the proof. "The French pharmacy is always a must-see on any trip to France," says board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick. "Not only can you stock up on some of your favorite U.S. favorites for less, [but] there are some products exclusively available in France and some formulations that may vary slightly from the version that exists in the U.S., making it worth trying out."

It never took much convincing for me when fellow beauty editors would mention that French skincare is superior. From a dermatologist's standpoint, though, Garshick can confirm. "It prioritizes key ingredients without sacrificing the sensorial experience," she shares. "In general, the French approach to skincare emphasizes gentle yet effective products and overall simple daily routines. French products deliver effective results while still ensuring that the formulation feels good when being applied to the skin."

In the age of 12-step beauty routines, the French approach gives us a bit of peace. An uncomplicated way of caring for our skin that almost feels like a lost art. I asked dermatologists to share their all-time-favorite French beauty staples. From the cult-loved retinol cream they hoard to the sunscreen you can't buy in the U.S., keep scrolling! They shared it all ahead.

In a shocking turn of events, I just turned 30. I say "shocking" because I feel like I should be no older than 25 on the inside, and if you ask me how a decade passed since my 20th birthday, I couldn't give you an answer. Despite that, I'm genuinely excited to enter a new decade of life. Everyone says your 30s are a time of greater stability, confidence, and contentment. You know more about who you are, what you want, and what's worth your time. I think that's lovely… and much better than paying any attention to the internal or societal pressure that often goes along with turning 3-0.

As a beauty editor, I couldn't help but reflect on my 20s through the lens of, well, beauty. I embrace signs of aging (I always remind myself lines and wrinkles are a privilege, not a curse), but that doesn't mean I want to welcome them all at once or—even worse—see them set in because of skin damage. I always aim to care for my skin as best as I possibly can because it's part of me and inextricable from my overall health. That said, that doesn't mean I haven't made some mistakes along the way.

Before turning 30, I committed all the classic skin sins. I used harsh acne products in middle school (even when I didn't have active breakouts). I didn't wear daily sunscreen in high school. I only moisturized my chest, hands, and limbs when they were visibly flaking. (Yikes.) Once I became a beauty editor, though, I stepped up my game. I started taking skincare super seriously, and I've been diligent about it ever since. Yet there was still room for improvement (lots of it). And I'm about to put it all out in the open in the hopes that it can help someone else. So, yeah, I guess I'm stepping into the role of your beauty editor big sister.

Ahead, see seven expert-approved skin tips I wish I knew and/or practiced more diligently in my 20s. The last thing I'll say: Please learn from my mistakes.

The Top Expert-Approved Skin Tips I Wish I Followed in My 20s

• Cleanse your skin for way longer than you think you should
• Use an antioxidant serum morning and night
• Simplify your skincare routine by focusing on a few, effective hero ingredients
• Yes, you really do need a dedicated eye cream
• Give yourself an at-home face massage every single day
• Don't forget bodycare… your body skin is aging too
• Invest in the right tools and devices that can help (but remember: they're not the end game)

1. Cleanse Your Skin for Way Longer Than You Think You Should

I always thought I cleansed my skin thoroughly. I mean, I double-cleanse when I wear makeup and sunscreen, and I take my time. I let the oil cleanser melt into my skin to dissolve stubborn sunscreen and makeup. I work the gel cleanser into a foamy lather, massaging it in circles across my face and neck. So, imagine my surprise when I found out that I wasn't even cleansing my skin for half the time I was supposed to.

It all started when I heard Joanna Vargas, celebrity facialist, founder of Joanna Vargas Salons and Skin Care, and author of Glow From Within, call cleansing the "holy" step. She said barely anyone cleanses their skin as long as they should, recommending you take (wait for it) a full five minutes. She admits it might feel "excruciatingly long," but it will ensure your skin is free of sunscreen, makeup, dirt, and oil. "Spend a good five minutes washing your face while concentrating on doing mini circles and really penetrating the cleanser into the face," says Vargas.

I wanted to know how long I cleanse my skin on average, so I timed myself. Turns out, I was only spending 30 seconds on this super-crucial step. I realized I needed to spend more time on it (even one to two minutes would be an improvement). Not only does thorough cleansing prevent acne and irritation, but it also allows other (often expensive) skincare products to, you know, actually work, since invisible skin debris will prevent toners, essences, and serums from penetrating the skin. Take this as your sign to ritualize—not rush—your cleansing step.

A Few of My Favorite Cleansers

2. Use an Antioxidant Serum Morning and Night

I learned this tip from celebrity aesthetician Renée Rouleau. Most people use an antioxidant serum (like vitamin C) in the morning, since it helps defend the skin against free radicals from environmental aggressors (think smoke, exhaust, and UV light, among other things). But it's actually a good idea to use one both morning and night. That's because the skin's antioxidant supply can run out during the day while it's in "defense" mode.

At night, the skin enters "repair" mode. Giving it an extra boost of antioxidants can help with important processes, not to mention brightening the skin and fading dark spots and discoloration. So, go ahead and use that vitamin C serum twice. Alternatively, you can use another antioxidant-rich product (vitamin C isn't the only one). For example, retinoids can function as an antioxidant.

A Few of My Favorite Antioxidant Serums

3. Simplify Your Skincare Routine by Focusing on a Few, Effective Ingredients

Speaking of skincare ingredients like vitamin C, it's a good idea to choose one or two to base your routine on and leave it at that. Yep, it's true. Sometimes, the simpler, the better.

In the age of Instagram and TikTok, people tend to think complicated, multistep routines are best, but according to countless dermatologists I've spoken to, that's not true. The more products you layer and active ingredients you use, the higher the risk of irritation, clogged pores, and even allergic reactions. That's why I like to simplify my skincare routine by basing it around a couple of hero ingredients.

For me, that's an antioxidant like vitamin C, and a skin-soothing, barrier-supporting ingredient, such as exosomes, snail mucin, or ectoin. The first is an anti-inflammatory ingredient that all but erases redness (here's proof). The second is incredibly moisturizing and also offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. The third is a do-it-all ingredient that strengthens and supports the skin barrier. Below, I've listed three of my favorite products to use for each ingredient.

A Few of My Favorite Ingredient-Specific Products

4. Yes, You Really Do Need a Dedicated Eye Cream

I hate to admit it, but I didn't use eye cream for most of my 20s. I only started using it after hearing countless dermatologists say that it really, truly works (seeing fine lines appear after I turned 28 might have had something to do with it, too).

I, like so many other people, assumed eye cream was another unnecessary step and expense. Isn't moisturizer the same thing? Experts say no. The skin around the eyes is incredibly thin and delicate, and eye creams are supercharged with the right ingredients, in the right concentrations, to target signs of aging without irritating.

I've only been consistently using eye cream for two years, but it's already made a real difference. I don't see those fine lines anymore, and my chronic dark circles and puffiness have improved. There are so many fantastic formulas to choose from, but I tend to reach for Korean eye creams most often. I've found that they generally feel lightweight, play well with makeup, and, you know, work.

A Few of My Favorite Eye Creams

5. Give Yourself an At-Home Face Massage Every Single Day

I've always loved at-home facial massage, because 1) it feels good, 2) it makes my face look more sculpted, and 3) I swear it even makes my skin look brighter. Apparently, I'm not delusional. Multiple estheticians—including Billie Eilish's and Miley Cyrus's aesthetician, Biba De Sousa—say there's real merit to it.

Not only does it boost circulation for glowing skin, but it also encourages lymphatic drainage. "The lymphatic system is the system that carries the waste into the lymph nodes and then into the spleen and kidneys," De Sousa says. "It eliminates the toxic waste from the cells. It's that intracellular liquid that is sometimes stagnant, and it's full of dead skin cells, metabolic waste, sometimes viruses, and bacteria."

Activating the lymphatic system and encouraging lymph movement is important for overall health and aesthetics. Just like I thought, it makes the skin look brighter and more sculpted (no puffiness here). You can reference a face-massage tutorial, but I tend to spend five minutes applying light pressure to my face and neck, moving upwards and outwards. It takes me less than five minutes, and if I'm short on time, I'll do a little face massage while I'm cleansing to combine steps.

A Few of My Favorite At-Home Face Massage Essentials

6. Your Body Skin Needs Just as Much TLC as Your Facial Skin

Throughout my 20s, I rarely put the same time and energy toward my body skincare as I did towards my face and neck skincare, and it's hands down the biggest skin mistake I made. Life got busy, deadlines loomed, and I neglected to give my body skin the TLC it needed. As such, I'm currently trying to reverse some premature signs of aging on my neck, chest, shoulders, and arms.

Learn from me—wear body SPF whenever your skin is exposed (and be just as diligent with it as you are with your trusty face sunscreen). Moisturize dry limbs with a luxurious oil or lotion (bonus points if it's packed with antioxidants or glow-boosting actives). You can even consider using a body sculpting tool to reap the benefits of lymphatic drainage from the neck down. My go-to is the Wooden Body Sculptor from De La Heart.

A Few of My Favorite Bodycare Products

7. Invest in Tools and Devices That Can Help (Remember: They're Not the End Game)

Tools and devices can be effective at targeting specific skin concerns, but they're not the end game. In other words, no tool or device can make up for an inconsistent skincare routine, a lack of daily SPF, or unhealthy lifestyle choices. They should be an addition to an existing routine, not the focus. I'll put it this way: if healthy skin habits are your diet, then tools and devices are your supplements.

I didn't always think that way. Even as a young beauty editor, I thought if I could get my hands on the latest and greatest skin tech, I'd never have to worry about clogged pores, irritation, redness, or aging, well, ever. Now that I'm older and wiser (and I've talked to every celebrity derm and/or aesthetician I could get access to), I see the error in my ways.

These days, I keep a simple yet consistent skincare routine, supplementing it with only a few tried-and-true tools and devices. The first is the Qure Micro-Infusion System, which is an at-home micro-needling kit that boosts collagen in the skin. Unlike derma-rollers, which can tear the skin and introduce bacteria (please don't use them), this kit contains six single-use needle heads and a micro-stamping chamber for a safe spin on at-home micro-needling. For all the nitty-gritty details, read my full review.

The second is an LED mask. Experts approve of LED light therapy for boosting collagen and refining skin texture, among other things. I've tried so many different masks over the years, but my current favorites are the Omnilux Contour Face LED Mask and the Currentbody Skin LED Face Mask. You have to be consistent with it, but I bet you'll see the same skin-firming, smoothing, and glow-boosting results I did.

A Few of My Favorite Tools and Devices

These tips are meant to remind you that skincare is self-care, and you'll never regret investing time in yourself—whether you're in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or any other decade of life. While I can't go back in time to tell my 20-something self to take note, I'll follow these tips until I reach my 40s (and beyond).

If you have sensitive skin like me, you know the struggle. Use a high concentration of an active ingredient, reach for the wrong product, or even just rub your skin a little too hard, and you'll see redness and irritation pop up in large, unsightly patches. From there, it often takes the skin a few days (if not longer) to return to baseline. In the meantime, I either have to deal with it or cover it with foundation and concealer. Either way, it's unfortunate.

That's why I consider myself an expert on soothing skincare ingredients. I want to prevent redness and irritation from ever appearing and soothe it if it does come up. My MVPs include heartleaf, hypochlorous acid, ectoin, and exosomes. Lately, I've been seeing another soothing ingredient listed on the back of my products (namely Korean ones), and I wanted to know more. I reached out to two top dermatologists, and they said it can soothe, hydrate, and prevent irritation. Ahead, learn everything there is to know about this trendy ingredient called madecassoside. (I know—it's a mouthful.)

What is madecassoside?

According to Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology, "madecassoside is a compound known as a terpene found in the centella asiatica plant." The centella asiatica plant is also known as cica, gotu kola, and tiger grass. It's a skincare ingredient renowned for its soothing and reparative benefits, which explains why it's found in so many products formulated specifically for sensitive skin. Centella asiatica gets all the credit, but Yadav says, "Madecassoside is responsible for many of the benefits associated with centella asiatica."

Noah Gratch, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, agrees, adding that it's the primary active ingredient and bioactive compound in centella asiatica.

It's worth noting that this ingredient is found in many Korean skincare products and less so in American ones. When I asked the dermatologists why that is, they had some theories. "Korean skincare often includes gentle, anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as madecassoside, that are known to help repair the skin barrier," Gratch says. "While centella asiatica is widely used in the States, this compound alone has yet to be recognized much."

Yadav has a similar take. "I think there is a focus on active skincare in products in the U.S. that prioritizes changing the skin, while K-beauty has an emphasis on supporting the skin's health, beauty, and function," she says. "Centella asiatica has increased in popularity in recent years stateside, so I would expect that madecassoside isn't too far behind."

How does it benefit the skin?

Madecassoside offers some serious skin benefits, specifically for sensitive and acne-prone skin. "Madecassoside is beneficial to all skin types, but especially skin that is sensitive or has a compromised skin barrier," Yadav says. "Its greatest benefit is its anti-inflammatory properties—madecassoside helps quell inflammation as well as redness, which makes it great for irritated, sensitive skin as well as skin prone to developing painful, swollen blemishes." It also functions as an antioxidant, meaning it helps "to defend the skin from free radical damage that can accelerate skin aging," Yadav adds.

As if that's not enough, it's also hydrating. "Studies show that it helps to both hydrate and moisturize the skin while working to prevent transepidermal water loss," Yadav says. Translation? It keeps moisture in the skin—right where it should be.

Last but certainly not least, madecassoside has a regenerative effect on the skin. "Finally, it also has wound-healing benefits, with studies showing that it can stimulate collagen production," Yadav says. How's that for a do-it-all ingredient?

To sum it up, here are all the benefits of madecassoside, according to Gratch:

• Anti-Inflammatory: "Madecassoside reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can help reduce redness and irritation of the skin."
• Antioxidant: "It works like a shield to protect your cells. Madecassoside neutralizes free radicals (which damage and age the skin)."
• Hydration + Wound Healing + Collagen Production: "It helps boost collagen production, neutralizes free radicals, and reduces inflammation, all of which contribute to hydration and anti-aging."

Is there anyone who should avoid it?

Both dermatologists say madecassoside can be beneficial for all skin types, including acne-prone skin. Since it's noncomedogenic, you don't have to worry about it contributing to the formation of new acne. "Madecassoside is extremely beneficial to those with inflammatory skin conditions, including acne," Yadav says. "Madecassoside is proven to inhibit the inflammation caused by acne, making it a helpful ingredient to have on deck for treating breakouts. … Centella asiatica has been shown to also be helpful in the treatment of eczema or atopic dermatitis due to its anti-inflammatory effects."

Still, it's better to be safe than sorry, which is why Gratch recommends performing a patch test. "Whenever you try out a new product/ingredient, it's always smart to patch-test first to ensure there's no irritation," he says. "Always consult with your dermatologist before trying something new." Still, he says, "It's generally well-tolerated by most skin types."

It might go without saying, but Yadav cautions against using madecassoside if you have a known allergy to centella asiatica. "Centella asiatica and its derivatives are generally well-tolerated, but allergies are possible in rare cases," she says. "Anyone with an allergy to centella asiatica should avoid madecassoside or other centella asiatica–derived compounds."

The Best Madecassoside Products

Many years ago, as a young 20-something, I moved to L.A. My first few weeks as a West Coaster went well. I enjoyed starting my career, seeing the sights, and meeting new people, but I also noticed something unpleasant. My skin was uncharacteristically dull and irritated, and my hair was similarly out of sorts—think flat, straw-like strands. I was using the same beauty products I had before, and my lifestyle hadn't changed all that much, so what was the problem?

Eventually, I pinned it on the water. My shower had orange rings, my cleanser and shampoo didn't lather as well as they used to, and my skin and hair never felt clean. I was dealing with hard water when I was used to living with soft water. And if you're thinking water can't make that much of a difference, think again. According to experts, hard versus soft water makes a big difference in the state of skin and hair. One leaves them soft, supple, and shiny, and the other leaves them dull, rough, and residue-covered. Ahead, learn why that is and what you can do about it.

Hard Water vs. Soft Water

First, we need to know the difference between these two types of water and what makes one "hard" and the other "soft." According to Helen Reavey, a celebrity trichologist, hairstylist, and the founder of the scalpcare brand Act+Acre, "Hard water is simply water that’s high in dissolved minerals—mainly calcium, magnesium, and iron. These minerals accumulate as water flows through soil and rock. Soft water, by contrast, is either naturally low in minerals or has been filtered to remove them." As Dermatologist Timothy Tran, MD, of Westlake Dermatology, puts it, "The more minerals, the 'harder' the water."

As silly as it might sound, these dissolved minerals can massively impact the skin and hair (but more on that in a minute). Whether or not you have hard water can depend on where you live. Take it from dermatologist Donna Hart, MD, of Westlake Dermatology, who says hard water is often found in "areas with higher levels of limestone or chalk deposits as the water percolates through these geological areas."

Editor's Note: You can check whether or not you have hard water via this interactive map. Zoom into your state or type in your postal code to see average water hardness in your area. See below for more telltale signs of hard water.

How to Tell If You Have Hard or Soft Water

It's pretty easy to tell if you have hard water. Tran provides some telltale signs:

• Face wash, soap, bodywash, and shampoo don’t lather well
• You notice white spots on glass and dishes
• You notice a chalky, white buildup around faucets and shower heads
• You have dry skin and dull hair
• Your clothes feel rough after washing them

Hart adds that hard water may even create low water pressure due to mineral buildup. Reavey adds, "If your hair feels dull no matter how often you wash, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with hard water." Yep, that explains my L.A. hair struggles.

Effects of Hard Water on Hair

As I'm sure you've already guessed, hard water isn't so great for skin and hair. "It can leave hair feeling dull, dry, and frizzy," Hart says. This is due to the water's mineral content building up and leaving residue on the hair shaft, which also makes it harder to properly rinse products off hair." Tran agrees, saying, "It can make hair feel dry, heavy, brittle, and harder to manage. It may also cause color-treated hair to fade faster."

Reavey makes note of a few more less-than-ideal effects. "You might also notice your hair feels dry or straw-like, lacks shine, tangles more easily, or your scalp feels tight and itchy. Another red flag is when your styles won’t hold, or your color fades faster than expected. That residue is literally creating a barrier between your hair and any product you apply."

As if that's not enough, she says it actually affects hair and scalp health. "Hard water is sneaky—it doesn’t just dry out your strands, it actually weakens them. The minerals coat the hair shaft, blocking moisture, weighing hair down, and making it more prone to breakage, frizz, and tangles. It can even disrupt your curl pattern. If you color your hair, hard water can cause premature fading by lifting color molecules from the shaft. And because it creates so much buildup, your products stop working the way they should.

"Your scalp takes a major hit, too. Hard water can strip away natural oils, which causes dryness, itching, and irritation. The mineral residue can clog follicles, disrupt the microbiome, and trigger conditions like dandruff or eczema. Over time, all that stress on the scalp can contribute to hair thinning and shedding."

Effects of Hard Water on Skin

"On the skin, similar deposits can happen, which can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts," Hart says. That's not to mention that soap bonds with calcium ions, making it harder to rinse off the skin. "Soaps that are not thoroughly dissolved off the skin can interfere with the skin’s natural oils and lead to dry and irritated skin," she says. "Hard water is more alkaline (higher pH), and our skin is naturally more acidic (lower pH); this imbalance can leave the skin more susceptible to infections and irritation."

As if that's not enough, Tran says it can worsen skin conditions like eczema.

What to Do About Hard Water

The experts say there are a couple of things you can do to mitigate the effects of hard water on the hair and skin. First and foremost, they recommend investing in a showerhead filter. This will remove the minerals from the water so they can't coat the skin and hair and cause problems. It's a simple and effective twofold approach. "Shower filters are a great, inexpensive solution to help remove some of the mineral deposits in the water for those having noticeable symptoms from their water," Hart says.

Faucet filters are another option. These fit over the bathroom sink faucet so you can wash your face outside the shower in soft (or, at the very least, soft-er) water.

Shop Shower and Faucet Filters

Shop Clarifying Shampoos

All three experts also recommend investing in a clarifying shampoo. "Shampoos that contain gentle acids like vitamin C (ascorbic acid), citric acid, and apple cider vinegar can help combat the effects of hard water," Hart says.

There are many multitasking skincare ingredients out there, including retinol, niacinamide, and vitamin C—all of which are effective in their own right. However, there are only a select few that editors and experts rely on for "glass skin." You know, the trend that originated in South Korea and is all about smooth, plump, and ultra-shiny skin.

One of those ingredients is snail mucin. (If you don't use it already, I highly recommend you give it a try.) Another one of those ingredients is galactomyces. It might sound like something straight out of a science fiction movie, but it's actually a popular Korean skincare ingredient that has major glass skin–giving abilities. Keep scrolling to learn all about this effective ingredient that's slowly making its way Stateside. Then, shop the best galactomyces-infused skincare products, according to dermatologists.

What is galactomyces?

According to Brendan Camp, MD, double board–certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York, galactomyces is a type of yeast. (The suffix "-myces" means fungus.) "It is used in fermented products like rice wine (sake)," he says. "Fermentation refers to the yeast's conversion of carbohydrates or sugars into simpler compounds like alcohols or acids."

Noah Gratch, MD, FAAD, another board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, says galactomyces is usually formulated into skincare products after it's fermented, becoming a nutrient-dense yeast by-product. "When seen as a skincare ingredient, it will typically be listed as galactomyces ferment filtrate, or GFF," he says.

How does it benefit the skin?

Like other fermented skincare ingredients, the dermatologists say GFF benefits the skin in multiple ways. "GFF is used in skincare primarily because of its ability to address discoloration by reducing melanin (pigment) production. It is also a rich source of antioxidants that protect skin from free oxygen radicals. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that contribute to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots," Camp says, adding that it even helps hydrate the skin for a plump, youthful appearance.

Gratch agrees, saying, "Galactomyces is utilized for its hydrating and brightening antioxidant properties. Any skin type can benefit from this ingredient since it helps retain moisture for dry skin and can help balance sebum production for oily skin. The antioxidant properties are also great for dull or aging skin for brightening purposes and improved skin elasticity."

To sum it up, GFF targets everything from dryness to dullness, hyperpigmentation, signs of aging, and excess oil. No wonder it's an integral ingredient in "glass skin" skincare products and routines.

Are there any downsides?

While GFF is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, both dermatologists say there are instances in which you should be cautious. Camp recommends performing a patch test no matter what, but especially if you deal with sensitive skin and conditions like rosacea and eczema. As for Gratch, he says to avoid it altogether if you're someone who struggles with fungal acne. Remember, GFF is a yeast by-product, and "yeast is a fungus that may exacerbate" this type of acne.

As for the ideal consistency of use, most GFF-containing skincare products can and should be used daily for best results. Still, there are exceptions to this rule, which is why Camp says to "check the recommended use of the specific product you are using to determine how often is should be applied."

The Best Galactomyces Skincare Products

To be honest, I approach most beauty-related kitchen projects with a critical eye. I've simply heard too many DIY horror stories to ever attempt my at-home acid peel (ouch) or sugar scrub. I'm no Nara Smith, and I'm certainly no cosmetic chemist, so I'd rather drop coin on a commercially formulated product than wind up spending even more money repairing my skin barrier after a treatment gone wrong.

That being said, there is one food-grade ingredient I'll happily slather on my face on any given day: manuka honey. It's a single-ingredient hero, so there's no need to play chemist and gamble with my skin's health—and the benefits abound. Experts agree, though they have a few tips to keep in mind before diving headfirst. Find them below, along with a skincare starter pack for the all-natural MVP.

What is manuka honey?

Manuka honey is a specific type of honey derived from manuka trees native to New Zealand and coastal Australia. "Unlike regular honey, manuka honey is raw and monofloral, meaning it is derived from the nectar of a single flower, while regular honey is processed and taken from various sources," explains board-certified dermatologist Nicole Lee, MD, MPH, FAAD, owner of Epoch Dermatology. That doesn't mean manuka honey is always hive to face; the honey still goes through a series of processes to remove impurities, notes cosmetic chemist Krupa Koestline, founder of KKT Labs. Otherwise, it can't really be formulated into cosmetic products. But generally, it doesn't receive excessive heating or other processing methods that could compromise its nutrients.

It's that powerful nutritional profile that gives manuka honey its prized reputation. "Manuka honey is more potent than regular honey for the skin due to its high methylglyoxal (MGO) content, giving it superior antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties," Lee notes. "While both honeys hydrate the skin, manuka honey is clinically recognized for treating acne, eczema, and wounds, making it a more effective choice for skin repair and barrier support."

How is it used in skincare?

As Lee mentioned, manuka honey has amazing antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. In fact, "A study showed that lesions formed from atopic dermatitis (aka eczema) improved significantly after topically applying manuka honey," says Koestline. So if you struggle with sensitive, inflamed skin, manuka honey can deliver soothing, healing effects. It also has humectant properties, meaning it attracts and retains water from its surroundings (just like hyaluronic acid, another popular humectant).

And because it's antimicrobial, the honey can even benefit acne-prone skin. "Its natural antibacterial effects can help reduce breakouts and support overall skin healing," Lee adds. In short, this single ingredient is the closest thing to liquid gold.

You can find manuka honey in a host of skincare products (from cleansers to serums to nutrient-rich creams), but my favorite way to use it is by smearing it on as a healing mask. "Merely wet the face and apply a thin layer of honey, leaving it on for 15–20 minutes before rinsing," Lee advises. She says you could also mix the goop with oats, water, and yogurt for more of a DIY venture, but I prefer to keep it simple.

Does manuka honey help with wrinkles?

It sure can! That MGO content (aka, what gives manuka honey its special anti-inflammatory power) is sky-high in antioxidants, which help protect against free radicals that contribute to skin aging—think fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. Manuka honey's regeneration properties are also thought to support collagen production, which is directly responsible for your skin's firmness and smoothness.

Finally, as Lee noted, manuka honey has some incredible humectant properties, which means it literally plumps the skin with hydration (which, in turn, can help improve the look of fine lines). So while the ingredient doesn't necessarily stimulate cell turnover (like a retinol or AHA), it can totally have an impact on wrinkles down the line.

Are there downsides to manuka honey?

There aren't many downsides to manuka honey, as it's effective for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone folks. That said, if you have a bee or honey allergy, you'll definitely want to steer clear. Both Lee and Koestline also recommend patch-testing any new product you introduce to your skincare routine, lest you experience an adverse reaction. Simply apply it on a small area of skin (like behind your ear) before slathering it on your entire face.

Another note: "While manuka honey is often praised for its antibacterial and healing properties, there is limited clinical evidence fully confirming its medical benefits in skincare," Lee explains. That doesn't mean all those skincare benefits we just discussed are all hype; it just means that manuka honey may have its limitations in the medical-grade sphere. "That said, it’s still a great ingredient to incorporate into your routine, especially for soothing inflammation, repairing the skin barrier, and calming conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea," Lee adds.

What grade of manuka honey is best for the face?

Alas, not all manuka honey is created equal. "Manuka honey is graded by a UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) scale that determines the potency of its three signature ingredients—MGO, DHA (dihydroxyacetone), and leptosperin," explains Lee. Pay attention to this rating—the higher the grade, the more powerful its nutrients. "To be considered therapeutic, the UMF should be a minimum of 10+," she adds. Sometimes you might see an MGO number on your labels, which refers to how much methylglyoxal the formula has. This rating can go up to 2000+, which is considered ultra-premium manuka honey (and thus is probably rather expensive). An MGO of 800+ is what you'll typically see in effective, highly potent skincare products.

Grading aside, Lee recommends looking for raw, minimally processed formulas to ensure potency. "Look for other ingredients such as ceramides and hyaluronic acid to enhance the benefits," she adds.

Shop the Best Manuka Honey Skincare Products

I'd do virtually anything to get rid of my stubborn, post-acne dark spots. Test every skin-brightening formula under the sun? Yep. Pray to a higher power? Been there (multiple times). Take a seven-hour flight to the biggest skin aesthetics conference in the world? I'm game, especially when I can attend the lecture of one of the most decorated (and chic, might I add) derms in the biz.

Suzan Obagi, MD, is quite literally the definition of "a wealth of knowledge." She's not only the chief medical director at Obagi (the eponymous medical-grade skincare brand) but also an associate professor of dermatology and plastic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine with over 50 (yes, 50!) publications in peer-reviewed dermatologic journals. So when I received the opportunity to follow her to Paris for this year's IMCAS conference, suffice it to say I was stoked. What made me even giddier was finding out Obagi would lead an entire presentation on the exact skin issue I've been struggling with: hyperpigmentation. "Evening out skin tone [is] the most common reason people see the dermatologist," she told me over coffee a couple days before the event. Given the complexity of different types of discoloration—post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, sunspots—this makes total sense. Still, it's good to know I'm not alone!

It's been over a month since the conference, and I'm still thinking about Obagi's tailored advice (which included some piping-hot takes). No need to travel over 3000 miles for the main takeaways—here, all the skin-transforming tips I learned from the lecture and my personal chat with the sought-after derm herself.

1. Apply Antioxidants Twice a Day

When it comes to skin-brightening, antioxidant-infused serums (think vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B3, pomegranate, etc.) are the crown royals. These supercharged formulas help neutralize free radicals that come from sun damage, pollution, and general inflammation. I'm likely not telling you groundbreaking information here. However! According to Obagi, you should be slathering on antioxidants twice a day—if you're not, you're doing your skin a major disservice.

"The biggest mistake people do [is] limit their antioxidants to the morning," she tells me. For context, the general skincare advice is to apply a vitamin C serum in the a.m. and a retinol or acid-infused serum at night. That's all well and good, but if dark spots are your main gripe, you'll want to make sure you double up on those skin-brighteners. "Any antioxidant you put on in the morning is going to be depleted within a few hours of being outdoors or throughout the course of the day," Obagi explains. (Antioxidants do their work rather quickly, she adds.) "You should reapply it again at night because nighttime is when our body repairs itself. … When you go into deep sleep, your cells are [renewing]. The mitochondria is replenishing itself and getting rid of damaged proteins, and that's the powerhouse of the cells. You can help that by putting on an antioxidant."

For those that also use retinol, don't fret. As long as you have a super-gentle, high-quality antioxidant serum (more on that in just a moment), Obagi says you can technically use them in the same routine. "Put the serum on first and your retinoid on over that," she advises. If you have hypersensitive skin, you could even wait a few minutes in between steps to ensure the active ingredients fully absorb.

2. Commit to Gentle Acids

Glycolic acid is a dermatology darling for fading dark spots, so I was quite surprised when Obagi told me to personally steer clear for the time being. Because my skin is sensitive (I even have early signs of rosacea—fun!), she says it's important to maintain a balance between sloughing pigmented cells and keeping the skin calm—more inflammation might thwart all my even-toned progress.

"Glycolic acids, by nature, are inflammatory. That's why in my office, I don't do glycolic acid peels," she says. "It's a wild horse; you can't really control it. In some people it's going to penetrate very quickly, and it may give an unintended deeper peel, or it's inflammatory and can trigger pigmentation in some patients." For sensitive skin types like me, she recommends more soothing players like gluconolactone and lactobionic acid. If you read those words and immediately thought, "Gesundheit!" I hear you. Just know them as popular polyhydroxy-acids (PHAs) that buff dead skin without causing irritation. "They'll gently exfoliat but at a higher pH, so they're less acidic on your skin. So that's going to be more tolerable," Obagi notes.

3. Pre-Condition the Skin Before Procedures

This is arguably the most important tip of all. Obagi is a fan of lasers and peels (she actually just had one herself before making the trip!), but for patients struggling with hyperpigmentation, she doesn't immediately resort to treatments. This may sound strange coming from someone so renowned in the cosmetic dermatology space, but as Obagi shared at the conference, procedures work better (and have far fewer complications) when you ensure the skin barrier is actually strong enough to receive them. "Don't give in—educate" is her golden rule.

That said, she preps her patients for at least six weeks (12 to 18 weeks for those with deeper skin tones) before any skin-brightening procedures—a concept she calls "pre-conditioning the skin." After committing to gentle yet effective antioxidant serums, retinoids, and lightly exfoliating formulas, the skin should be primed and ready to finally receive those laser zaps. Plus, there will likely be fewer spots to treat after weeks of dedicated skincare. (Obagi has the clinical before-and-after photos to prove it!)

"[People] don't realize that if you take good care of your skin, you need far fewer procedures," she tells me. "If you have a limited budget, I would much prefer that you're using a good skin care regimen rather than coming to my office to do procedures. I want to set [you] up for success."

4. Treat the Full Face, Every Time

It's common to spot-treat patches of hyperpigmentation, especially if they tend to be concentrated in a specific area, but do your skin a favor and commit to treating the whole face. "Damage is everywhere," Obagi says. "Even though you're only seeing hyperpigmentation popping up in one spot, give it time—it'll start to show in others. That's an indicator to treat the whole face."

5. Approach Spots From Multiple Pathways

Here's the thing about OTC skin-brightening products: A single-ingredient formula can only do so much. If you want to fully fade hyperpigmentation, you'll want to approach those spots from every angle possible—which, oftentimes, requires multiple actives. "It turns out there are five different pathways that you need to tackle in order to really reduce pigment in the skin," Obagi shares. Stabilizing melanocytes (aka, pigment-producing cells) are just one of those pathways. In short: You need a robust bouquet of actives to target the root of those dark spots.

Enter the multifaceted formulas below. I've specifically been using the Super Antioxidant Serum and Moisture Restore cream for the past six weeks (making sure to follow Obagi's advice on how to use them), and my dark spots have drastically improved—even the old, deep ones clustered on my chin. My skin barrier is absolutely thriving, so I may have to make the trip down to Obagi's Pittsburgh office and get the lingering marks (safely) zapped off. I've traveled much farther in the name of clear, even-toned skin—what's 300 more miles?

Shop the Dark Spot–Fading Routine

Skincare can be so confusing these days. With so many emerging ingredients on the market, it's hard to know which ones are right for you to prevent premature aging, repair damage, and keep your skin clear. Lately, we've seen ingredients like growth factors and exosomes have a moment in the spotlight, but there's another potent skin-renewal helper that we often forget about: stem cells.

According to board-certified dermatologist, stem cell scientist, and cosmetic surgeon Nathan Newman, MD, human stem cells aren't always ideal for use in skincare, because they may carry undesirable pathogens and genes, but plant stem cells don't have this issue and communicate almost identically to human ones.

Newman thinks that stem cells trump all the other options out there—and for good reason. I chatted with him about the difference between stem cells, exosomes, and growth factors to get the full picture. Keep reading for everything he had to share.

Exosomes vs. Growth Factors vs. Stem Cells

Newman broke down the difference between the industry's most popular youth-enhancing ingredients right now.

Exosomes: Exosomes are small vesicles that play a role in intercellular communication and tissue regeneration. They can be derived from stem cells, plants, or human cells. "They are usually processed and not used as they are produced by the cells," says Newman. "The products are unstable and need to be processed and preserved. They are not consistent from batch to batch, so each time it is manufactured, it will have a different set of signals."

Growth factors: Similar to exosomes, growth factors are proteins that play a key role in regulation cell growth and survival. They're already produced by various cells in the body, but many companies make synthetic versions to put into skincare formulas. These proteins signal molecules to promote cell proliferation, tissue repair, and the formation of new blood vessels. According to Newman, though, their effects are short-lived and do not always regenerate tissue. Basically, you can think of exosomes as a vehicle to deliver the message and growth factors as the actual message.

Stem cell factors: Plant stem cells, on the other hand, are the means by which cells communicate and impart their actions on other cells in your body. "The entirety of this cellular language is referred to as secretomes," explains Newman. "Some of these factors are released directly into the space in between cells and others need to be packaged, as they will be degraded outside the cell, and delivered from one cell to another cell. This cellular language is a dialogue between cells, and it sets off a domino effect that can influence thousands of cells in your body by what is referred to as paracrine effect (much like hormones do as part of your endocrine effect)."

How Stem Cells Work in Skincare

Plant stem cells use a similar language to communicate as human cells. Plant-derived stem cell factors are also more accepted for use in skincare and don't carry the risks of communicable diseases as human cells do. Honestly, we don't see too many plant stem cell–derived products out there on the market, and that's because the process of reproducing the same set of secretosomes from batch to batch is pretty difficult. But Newman has found a way to create an ideal set that helps the skin regenerate.

"For the first time, there is a patented process that allows the stem cells to be grown in such a way that it will not only produce a consistent set of factors, called Consortia Factors, but the process mentors the cells to produce a specific set of directions to direct the skin or hair to regenerate," he says. "In addition, this process allows the use of any cell, human or plant, to be used to produce Consortia Factors. Unlike exosomes, or isolated factors, Consortia Factors utilize a complex, synergistic network of bioactive molecules that mimic the skin’s natural healing and regenerative environment. This process allows for consistent and reproducible set of signals that can be studied and used for specific purposes, such as wrinkle correction, hair growth, skin tone [correction], etc."

Take a look below at what I'm using from Newman's stem cell–rich line.

Stem Cell Skincare Products I'm Using Lately

More Stem Cell Skincare to Try

Welcome to Drugstore Heroes, a monthly series in which we spotlight the often-overlooked and under-hyped drugstore beauty products that industry experts count on. From editors to content creators and even celebs, we’re asking tastemakers to share their top recommendations for affordable, yet effective products. Get ready to see the best of drugstore beauty, period.

I've been in the beauty industry for close to a decade now, and I've learned countless lessons along the way. Some of those lessons were things I'd heard over and over again but rarely felt the need to follow in my youth. For example, no matter how much you want to pick that pimple, it will only make it worse. And sunscreen truly is the best anti-aging skincare product—so whatever you do, don't skip it.

Then there’s the classic price tag conundrum: Expensive doesn’t always mean effective. In fact, the opposite can often be true. Some of the best beauty products are found at the drugstore. But don’t just take my word for it—Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD, a double board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City, has access to high-tech treatments and big-budget skincare formulas, yet he regularly recommends affordable, accessible options. From a skin-plumping hyaluronic acid serum to an acne-fighting retinoid, keep scrolling to see his expert-approved drugstore picks.

How often do you recommend drugstore skincare products to patients?

Most dermatologists recommend drugstore skincare products on a daily basis. They are convenient, accessibly priced, and often produced by companies with a long history of work and dedication in the skincare industry.

What would you say to someone who thinks drugstore products aren’t as good as luxury options?

Drugstore products will cover the basics of what is needed to maintain healthy skin.

Do you have any tips and tricks for navigating the drugstore skincare aisle? It can be overwhelming!

Go to the drugstore with a plan in mind, such as finding a specific type of product, like a salicylic acid cleanser, for example. Do your research before going to the store to compare prices, read reviews, and have backup options in case the product you are seeking is out of stock.

Camp's All-Time Favorite Drugstore Products

Camp's drugstore shopping cart comes through at a cool $163. That's impressive, considering it contains eight effective products (iconic French pharmacy, sensitive skin-soothing, and acne-busting ones included).

When a lip product is developed by a top dermatologist, we take note. When a lip product promises to boost lip volume by up to 20% (no needles necessary), we pay attention. When it earned a 2000-person waiting list, immediately sold out, and is now back after months of waiting, we click *add to cart* in a rush.

That's the case with Whitney Bowe, MD, FAAD's Tri-Liptide Peptide Lip Enhancing Treatment. Bowe, an industry-leading dermatologist with an impressive social media following, built an extensive waiting list of over 2,000 people for the product ahead of its February launch. People couldn't wait to get their hands on it (and put it on their lips), after learning that it promised to mimic the look of lip injections, without, well, actual injections. It quickly sold out. After months of waiting, it's finally back...for now, at least. Keep scrolling to snag one of these buzzy lip treatments while you still can, because it's sure to sell out again.

The Stats:

• Increases lip smoothness up to 40%
• Reduces lip lines by up to 33%
• Boosts lip volume up to 21%
• Enhances the definition of the cupid's bow by up to 28%
• Hydrates the lips
• Complements in-office lip procedures, expediting recovery and enhancing results (yes, that means you can use it alongside lip filler if you so wish)

Now for the texture, finish, and color. It is lightweight and non-sticky, has a glossy finish, and is transparent pink. It is also vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and noncomedogenic.

If you're as eager to get your hands on a tube of it as we are, you can snag one starting today, June 23. Act fast, though. We're guessing it won't last long if history repeats itself.

Shop 5 More Lip Products We Love

There's a new trend making its rounds on the internet. People are either A) avoiding or B) substituting neurotoxin injections like Botox for noninvasive options, whether that's at-home products, in-office procedures, or a combination of both. The trend, which the internet has coined "notox" (a combination of the words "no" and "Botox") has been embraced by everyone from content creators to celebrities and beyond.

Proponents of the trend seek Botox-level results—namely, taut, wrinkle-free skin—without any of the, well, toxins. But what do the experts have to say? Is this even possible? How far can these so-called Botox alternatives go? We reached out to three skin experts to get answers to these questions and more. Keep scrolling!

What Is the "Notox" Trend?

Rukmini Rednam, MD, a board-certified reconstructive and plastic surgeon, says this trend of swapping neuromodulators like Botox and Dysport for noninvasive options comes down to two things: First, these injections can be costly, so it stands to reason that people want less expensive options for smooth, wrinkle-free skin. Second, treatments like Botox have been labeled as "unnatural," and some people look to limit or exclude that from their routine.

Catie Boucher, DCNP, FNP-C, is a board-certified dermatology nurse practitioner and says she has patients who choose to forgo neurotoxin. "The fact that not getting neurotoxin has become a 'trend' simply means patients are more open about verbalizing this choice," she says. "I can’t count the number of patients who have told me they felt pressured into getting injectables in the past, even when they weren’t particularly concerned about their fine lines and wrinkles," Boucher says. "Let me be clear: Just because I am an injector, doesn’t mean I don’t fully support a patient’s decision to not get Botox, whatever their reason may be. Fortunately, topical skincare is better than ever, and I do agree that patients are leaning heavily on their at-home regimens to carry them through."

In other words, neurotoxin isn't any less popular, "rather, patients are more educated that they have an array of options when it comes to anti-aging and optimizing their skin health," she says. "It’s not 'new' to abstain from injectables, but it is becoming socially acceptable to talk openly about the decision either way, which is always a good thing in my book."

Are Botox Alternatives Actually Effective?

Mina Amin, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist. She says despite the buzz, the "notox" trend only goes so far. "Unfortunately, no topical product can replicate the results of Botox, but with a consistent and well-formulated skincare routine, you can effectively delay signs of aging." In other words, topical skincare and noninvasive treatments can improve the skin and hinder signs of aging, but they won't give actual Botox-level results.

Take it from Rednam, who says, "You can soften fine lines and smooth skin, but you can’t achieve the same level of results as Botox." That said, "if your expectations are set that you are improving issues (like fine lines and skin quality), these can be good alternative solutions."

Boucher agrees that it all comes down to expectations, but that there's no true alternative to neurotoxins like Botox. "The term 'Botox alternative' or 'liquid Botox' makes me cringe every time I see it come across my social media feed. These claims are not only wildly misleading but are used as clickbait to persuade someone into purchasing a product that is surely set up to fail." She goes so far as to say that even a great product will fall short for someone who expects it to do what Botox can do. "I would urge patients to think of these products as another tool in their skincare routine to improve their skin health. Expecting a topical serum to treat wrinkles entirely is simply unfair to both the patient and the product. I would also recommend patients commit to what I refer to as 'the big three'—a daily SPF with zinc, a stable antioxidant, and a retinoid." To put it simply, "Start with the basics and go from there," she says.

At-Home Botox Alternatives

While the term "Botox alternative" is problematic, there are some skincare ingredients you can incorporate into your routine to improve the quality and smoothness of your skin—albeit not as quickly and dramatically as actual Botox.

1. Peptides

Peptides are a good option for improving skin quality. "Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as building blocks for proteins in the skin, thus they can aid in making the skin look more youthful," Amin says. "They can help with collagen production for improved texture and tone."

Add high-grade hyaluronic to the mix, and peptides can be even more effective. "The most popular serum in my clinic aimed at targeting lines and wrinkles is Skinbetter Science Interfuse Lines ($145). It’s designed to 'spot treat' areas of concern, and it’s been a game changer for patients who opt out of injectables altogether, get neurotoxin less frequently, or use it to protect their investment (i.e., make their results last longer). The clinical studies on this product are quite impressive, but it is absolutely not a replacement for neurotoxin. I wish!"

2. Exosomes

Exosomes are one of the buzziest ingredients in the world of skincare right now. They're vesicles secreted by cells that contain growth factors, RNA, mRNA, and other cell signalers. Over time, they've been shown to improve signs of aging (among other things). "Exosomes have been found to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as they boost collagen and elasticity," Amin says.

3. Retinoids

Don't forget about retinoids. These derivatives of vitamin A are pretty much the gold standard in anti-aging skincare. "Using a nightly retinoid will absolutely help stimulate collagen, improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and texture, along with other anti-aging benefits," Boucher says. "My personal favorite retinoid is Skinbetter AlphaRet Overnight Cream ($140) due to its tolerability and ease of nightly use right off the bat."

Bonus: Red Light Devices

Those space-age-looking red light masks you see all over social media? They work. In fact, with regular use, they're an effective anti-aging tool. Amin says red light activates fibroblasts (cells that produce collagen). "The red light stimulates collagen production, helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles."

In-Office Botox Alternatives

Noninvasive treatments are also an option. "It’s an exciting time to be in aesthetics, and I believe 2025 will bring even more noninvasive options and technologies to the table that will compete for consumer attention," Boucher says. "The key is finding an ethical provider you trust to educate you as these new technologies become available, and you’ll be in good hands."

1. Microdermabrasion

Amin recommends booking a microdermabrasion appointment with a trusted skin expert. "Microdermabrasion is a physical exfoliator. It is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure where a device in-office is used to carefully exfoliate the outer layer of the skin. By gentle exfoliation, the procedure stimulates cell turnover and collagen production," she says.

2. Radiofrequency

Radiofrequency treatments use heat to stimulate collagen production, which firms, tightens, and plumps the skin. "My favorite in radiofrequency is Virtue RF by Cartessa (insulated radiofrequency treatment that is comfortable with almost no downtime but has good results for improving skin texture and fine lines and is safe for all skin colors and types)," Rednam says.

3. Lasers

Boucher's favorite in-office treatment involves a CO2 laser—the Alma Hybrid Laser. "The minimal downtime with this treatment is a major selling point for many patients, and the ability to do a single resurfacing treatment yearly is super appealing. That said, a device is only as effective as the provider using it. In the wrong hands, even the best device can yield poor results. It’s crucial for patients to do their research before committing to any laser treatment. You need to ensure your skin is properly prepped with the proper at-home regimen, the treatment is done correctly, and aftercare and follow-up(s) are in place for optimal results."

Dryness, redness, and irritation are the most widespread winter skin woes, but anyone who struggles with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea knows that they can worsen in the winter. Why, you ask? It's simple. The air is dry, and every single one of the aforementioned skin issues is either caused or aggravated by dry air. That explains why they can pop up in any season, especially when traveling and hopping from dry airplane cabins to air-conditioned hotel rooms and back again.

Experts recommend maintaining a 40–60% humidity level for hydrated skin and healthy sinuses. In the winter, however, you'll often encounter air far drier than that. Oh, and here's a not-so-fun fact: The humidity level in airplane cabins can drop as low as 5%. Yep, that's only a fraction of what's considered healthy. So what's the fix?

The answer is to use a humidifier. That's according to Shereene Idriss, MD—board-certified dermatologist, founder of Idriss Dermatology in NYC, and founder of the science-backed skincare line Dr. Idriss. "When the air moisture levels drop, your skin's ability to retain hydration is compromised, leading to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Essentially, moisture from your skin evaporates more rapidly into the dry air," she says. "As a result, your skin becomes dehydrated, and this lack of hydration weakens the lipid barrier, making the skin more permeable to irritants, allergens, and other environmental stressors. The outcome is dry, flaky, and sensitive skin, which becomes prone to inflammation, redness, and discomfort. It's a vicious cycle: Without proper moisture retention, your skin struggles to protect itself, leaving you more vulnerable to irritation."

That's why she collaborated with the popular humidifier brand Canopy to create a small but mighty hydration device that you can stash in your bag or carry-on. Ahead, learn why it's her best-kept winter and travel skincare secret.

The Canopy x Dr. Idriss Portable Humidifier

Canopy makes modern, mist-free, and mold-free humidifiers. I already penned a 7000-word love letter to the brand's Bedside Humidifier ($150), which is the large-room version, because it quite literally improved my skin's hydration overnight. While the brand has always had a Portable Humidifier ($100), this collaboration with Dr. Idriss is exciting for multiple reasons.

First, it's the first time the brand has collaborated with a high-level skin expert like Idriss. Second, since the humidifier doubles as a diffuser, it features all-new aromatherapy blends created by Idriss herself. (More on that in a minute.)

Its portable size and battery-powered function make it perfect for taking to the office or packing in your carry-on. Since it's quiet and mist-free, it won't bother other airplane passengers. Idriss says it's her best-kept secret for kicking dry, irritated skin to the curb.

"A humidifier can be incredibly helpful for managing skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, especially when dry air exacerbates symptoms," Idriss says. Here's how:

• Eczema: "Dry environments increase TEWL, leading to dehydration and more frequent flare-ups, but a humidifier can help keep the skin moisturized, preventing further irritation.
• Psoriasis: "Dry air can cause cracks and scaling, making the condition more painful and inflamed, so adding moisture to the air can soothe the skin and reduce discomfort.
• Rosacea: "Rosacea-prone skin is highly sensitive to dryness, which can trigger flare-ups, but maintaining optimal humidity levels can help reduce redness and irritation."

Without a humidifier to add moisture to the air, Idriss says your skin and your skincare products are at a disadvantage. "You're essentially starting from a negative, not a baseline," Idriss says. "As I always say, hydration is about layering—tailoring it to both your skin type and your environment. By using a humidifier, you're taking control of your environment and adding moisture back into the air, which creates the perfect conditions for your skincare to truly perform. This way, you can get better results with fewer products."

That goes for travel skincare too. "In-flight humidity can drop as low as 5%, while hotel rooms often suffer from suboptimal humidity levels due to air-conditioning, dehumidifiers, and sealed windows," Idriss says. "Traveling with a portable humidifier like our Dr. Idriss x Canopy humidifier can help you balance your environment anytime and anywhere! Not only is it TSA-friendly, but it's also super easy to clean."

The Canopy x Dr. Idriss Aromatherapy Blends

The humidifier doubles as a diffuser, which is why Dr. Idriss created three aromatherapy blends in collaboration with the brand. Simply add a few drops of your favorite one to the aromatherapy puck and turn on the humidifier. You'll be met with a subtle scent. "While fragrance gets a bad rap in skincare, this kit strikes the right balance—calming, curated aromas that uplift your senses without ever touching your skin," Idriss says.

Notes: bergamot and honeysuckle

Notes: white florals and anise

Notes: coconut and ylang-ylang

3 More Expert-Approved Dry-Skin Tips

Tip #1: Baste Your Face

"If your skin is extremely dry and inflamed, applying a zinc oxide–based diaper rash cream can help repair your skin barrier overnight," Idriss says. "My go-to butt paste is the Triple Paste Zinc Oxide Medicated Diaper Rash Ointment ($17)."

Tip #2: Baste Your Lips

Idriss says this is a trick to transform chronically dry, cracked lips. She recommends using a light chemical exfoliant followed by a thick occlusive layer for soft, hydrated lips.

Tip #3: Use a DIY Hand Mask

Idriss says you can buy a hand mask or make your own using your favorite hydrating hand cream (she loves the O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream. $16) and a pair of nitrile gloves—just like the ones she uses in her practice. "Avoid cotton gloves, as they tend to absorb the product rather than lock it in," she says. "This simple hack works wonders for deeply moisturizing and repairing dry hands."

Over the past few months alone, it's safe to say I've seen my fair share of skincare ingredients rise and fall in popularity. As a beauty editor and someone who frequents major social media platforms like it's my job (TikTok, for example, provides nonstop inspiration for all things skincare), I have a knack for recognizing these trending ingredients before the products that contain them sell out at Sephora, Ulta, and beyond. In fact, it's almost second nature for me to jot down an ingredient in my iPhone's Notes app in case I want to write a deep-dive story on it later.

Below, I'm zeroing in on one of the biggest skincare essentials occupying my For You page lately: squalane. While the use of squalane in skincare is nothing new, it certainly seems to have piqued the interest of many who are on the hunt for fast-working products that can promote healthy, youthful-looking skin. Keep scrolling to see everything I found out about squalane and which products infused with the ingredient are actually worth your time and money.

What Is Squalane?

So, what is squalane, and why is it experiencing a renaissance across the skincare space as a superstar ingredient? We tapped two skincare experts to break it down. "Squalane is a plant-derived, lightweight oil that mimics the skin's natural sebum, making it an ideal hydrator and barrier protector. It locks in moisture, prevents water loss, and enhances overall skin hydration," explains Courtney Allen, FNP-C, founder of cosmetic dermatology clinic Canvas Skin. "Squalane also boasts antioxidant properties, reducing inflammation and shielding the skin from environmental damage caused by free radicals." It's also noncomedogenic, making it ideal for use on all skin types (including sensitive and acne-prone skin).

To fully reap the benefits of using squalane-infused skincare in your well-rounded skincare routine, experts tell us that consistency and smart application is key. "As a moisturizing oil, it’s best used to lock in hydration after applying water-based serums or a lightweight moisturizer," adds Indie Lee, skin expert and founder of her namesake skincare brand. Lee highlights the multitasking product as one of her favorites, sharing that she likes to use it on her face but that's it's also a go-to for softening elbows, cuticles, and rough patches. She also uses it as a beauty hack by mixing a drop of it into concealer when a formula feels too thick and to sooth the skin after getting waxed.

Allen also tells us that the popular skincare ingredient reinforces the skin's natural lipid barrier by promoting a healthier, smoother complexion while also preventing dryness and irritation. The best part about squalane? It's extremely versatile and easy to add into your skincare routine since it can be found in many moisturizers, serums, and facial oils. "Whether used as a standalone product or as part of a formulation in other skincare products, squalane delivers long-lasting hydration without feeling greasy—a must-have for a healthy, balanced complexion," adds Lee. So if you've been wondering if squalane skincare is worth the investment, take this as your sign to finally stock up.

How Should Squalane Be Used?

Using squalane skincare starts with understanding which products will best serve your goals. For the best results, Allen recommends applying squalane products following cleansing and toning to seal in hydration. "It can be used morning or night, either alone or layered under sunscreen during the day and heavier moisturizers in the evening," she says. Its lightweight texture and formula makes it a great choice for oily and acne-prone skin types, while its soothing and hydrating properties are ideal for use with dry, sensitive, and mature skin types.

The Best Squalane Skincare Products, Listed

• Indie Lee Squalane Facial Oil
• Matter of Fact Barrier + Antioxidant Treatment
• Biossance Squalane + Firm and Lift Hydrating Dual Serum
• Joanna Vargas Rescue Vitamin C + Squalane Serum
• The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane
• Canvas Skin Kalo Cream
• The Outset Nourishing Squalane Daily Moisturizer
• S.Nature Aqua Squalane Moisturizing Cream
• Éminence Organic Skin Care Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque
• Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Face Mask

The Best Squalane Skincare Products

1. Oils

2. Serums

3. Moisturizers

4. Masks