Believe it or not, even though dermatologists have an array of skin-care products at their disposal, they still frequent the drugstore like the rest of us. “There are numerous outstanding over-the-counter choices at the drugstore, all with reasonable prices,” remarks Dr. Mona Gohara, a board-certified dermatologist in Danbury, Connecticut. And for those with dry skin, take notice – there is a particularly vast selection of moisturizing beauty products available at the drugstore. Dr. Gohara, who characterizes her skin as “dry throughout,” relies on many of these in her daily routine. “When you have dry skin, you should ensure that each product in your regimen offers some form of moisturization,” she states.
Her seven drugstore skin-care picks for dry skin
Cleanser
Dr. Gohara uses the Dove Beauty Bar ($1.79) both in the morning and at night – an original classic that has been around since 1957. “It’s a soap-free option that won’t deplete the skin and actually imparts moisture as it gently cleans,” she says. Additionally, it can serve dual purposes as a body wash as well.
Hyaluronic acid serum
“The L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Hyaluronic Acid Serum [$30.99] is reasonably priced [and] cosmetically refined and contains two different-sized hyaluronic acid molecules,” says Dr. Gohara. The larger one rests on the surface of the skin, providing an immediate plumping effect, while the other penetrates deeper to provide continuous hydration benefits and leave the skin feeling pleasant and hydrated, she elaborates. Tip: Since hyaluronic acid operates by attracting and retaining water, you can optimize its benefits by applying it immediately after cleansing, while your skin is still damp.
A.M. moisturizer
Dr. Gohara refers to the combination of shea butter, glycerin, and niacinamide in La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ Intense Repair Moisturizing Cream ($23.99) as a “triple advantage when it comes to hydration.” What’s more: this nourishing formula works equally effectively on both the face and the body. And it’s ideal for those dealing with eczema as well. The fragrance-free moisturizing cream holds the seal of approval from the National Eczema Association.
Related: The Anti-Aging Drugstore Skin-Care Routine a Derm in Her 40s Suggests
Sunscreen
As a general guideline, Dr. Gohara suggests mineral sunscreens for those with dry skin; dryness and sensitive skin often go together, and mineral formulations are much less likely to cause irritation than their chemical equivalents. (That being said, mineral formulas are a good option for all skin types, including acne-prone skin.) She is fond of the range of mineral choices from Babo Botanicals, including the fragrance-free Babo Botanicals Daily Sheer Non-Nano Zinc SPF 40 ($17). The lotion contains moisturizing jojoba and avocado oils but still feels lightweight and non-greasy, and offers broad-spectrum protection to shield the skin from sun damage caused by both UVA and UVB rays. (As a friendly reminder, don’t forget that you need to be using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day; you might want to choose SPF 50 or higher on days you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors.)
P.M. moisturizer
No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Night Cream ($26.99) gains Dr. Gohara’s approval for being both hydrating (owing to the addition of shea butter and hyaluronic acid) and anti-aging (thanks to peptides and vitamin C, a potent antioxidant). Your skin enters a reparative and regenerative state overnight, making this the perfect time to give it an extra boost with these types of active ingredients, she says.
Retinoid
Retinoids are the benchmark for stimulating collagen production, according to the derm. (Translation: Reducing fine lines and wrinkles.) Retinoids are also exfoliating, stimulating the turnover of dead skin cells to fade dark spots and enhance the overall skin tone; they can also assist in clearing breakouts. She likes Vichy LiftActiv Retinol HA Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate Serum ($45) because it pairs retinol with hydrating hyaluronic acid to help minimize the possibility of bothersome side effects such as dryness and peeling. Nevertheless, you should avoid using this around the eye and opt for a dedicated eye cream instead.
All-purpose hydrator
“Vaseline Original 100% Pure Petroleum Jelly [$5.49] is the ultimate skin barrier restoration cream, locking in moisture and keeping the skin plump. It’s excellent if your skin is dry and/or shows signs of aging, like mine,” says Dr. Gohara. (And/or when you feel that a moisturizing lotion isn’t sufficient.) She applies a generous amount of the healing ointment (about the size of a piece of edamame) all over her face every night, and she adds that it’s another effective way to prevent retinol-induced dryness. Not to mention, you can also apply it on chapped lips instead of lip balm, on cracked hands, on rough elbows… you get the idea. Just avoid it if you have acne-prone skin, as the thick formula might be too obstructive and increase the likelihood of breakouts; look for a non-comedogenic moisturizer instead.
