Ever wonder what dermatologists actually put on their own faces, when they're home alone and no one is watching? We did too. That's why we asked several top experts in the medical and skin-care fields to reveal what products they apply daily — and what ingredients really move the needle when it comes to the health and glow of their own complexions.
Some of their answers were predictable (as if a dermatologist wouldeverleave the house without SPF) and others were more surprising. (Did we hear that someone washes their face with a modest bar? Yep.) And while there are certain powerhouse ingredients few pros would forgo (like the brightening antioxidantvitamin C), their approaches vary from quick and easy to layered and savvy.
For example: New York City dermatologist Ellen Marmur's nightly ritual includes ahigh-tech device. She turns to her ownMMSpherebefore bed to help her unwind. The LED tool emits different colors of light to help lessen inflammation, decrease bacteria, and even bring on relaxing vibes. How's that for commitment?
But no matter your maintenance level, there's one thing we can all take away from these complexion confessions: Your skin-care routine should vary from morning to night. When you wake up, focus on protecting your skin from the pollution, sun, and various light waves that will inevitably be coming your way. In the evening, switch gears and apply regenerating ingredients, or what dermatologist Mona Gohara calls the "worker bees." She says, "At night is when your skin naturally regenerates itself. That's when you put [on] the actives, not the protectors." So consider incorporating aretinoid formulathat prompts cell turnover and aids in smoothing the surface. And if you have time to throw on asheet maskwhile binge-watchingSchitt’s Creekbefore bed, well, that's just a bonus.
Ellen Marmur, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Skin type:"Supersensitive and prone to adult-onset acne rosacea."
P.M. routine:"My super skin secret is sleep. [Before bed,] I always useNeutrogena Gentle Oil-Free Makeup Removeror Beautycounter Instant Eye Makeup Remover, then remove the residue with a damp cloth. I love using myMMSkincare MMSphere 2.0home LED therapy to relax and boost dopamine, aka the sleep hormone."
Once in a while:"When it's very cold, I apply what I call a 'rescue cream' —Aquaphor Healing Ointmentor an Aveeno body lotion — to my face and neck. And if I notice milia or blackheads, I exfoliate [in the office] with a Jessner's Peel, then hydrate withMMSkincare MMRevive Face Mask."