But long before #skinfluencers and #sponcon, there were dermatologists—you know, the medical doctors who devoted themselves to years of rigorous training and clinical practice so they could provide the absolute best dermatologic treatment. While getting a derm-recommended skincare regimen once required an office visit, snagging their suggestions and benefiting from their expertise is now much more achievable—thanks in part to a boom of dermatologist-founded beauty brands. And it makes sense, right? “Dermatologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat skin diseases and conditions,” says Ron Robinson, a cosmetic chemist and founder of BeautyStat. “Their experience working directly with patients helps them understand what people are looking for and makes them very credible in launching their own brands.” It’s what happens when all that clinical training in med school meets all that one-on-one time spent talking to patients about their real, day-to-day skin struggles: They understand exactly what the consumer wants, and they know how to deliver it. Ready to add a derm’s touch to your own routine? All the brands below are backed by trusted dermatologists—from iconic industry veterans to up-and-coming trailblazers—who champion innovation and efficacy. Editor’s pick: Sure, you could try Atolla a la carte—but to get the full experience (and benefits) of the brand’s truly game-changing customization model, go for the The Ritual trio ($69; atolla.com), which includes Atolla’s cleanser, serum, and moisturizer. After filling out a digital skin assessment, you’ll receive custom blends to use twice daily. Before Atolla whips up your next batch, you’ll provide personal feedback and submit a skin test (no need to study—you’ll just press a few testing strips to your face!), which are both used to adapt and improve your custom formula. Editor’s pick: If you’re seeking tighter pores, firmer skin, and all-over radiance overnight, look no further than the cult favorite that started it all. You’ll be in good company, too: Rosie Huntington-Whitely, Constance Wu, and Naomi Campbell have all gone on the record as fans of the Alpha Beta Universal Peel ($17; sephora.com)—and the instant glow it delivers. Editor’s pick: Many of Instagram’s most trusted skinfluencers and content creators (hi, Charlotte Palermino) swear by the Tightening Eye Gel ($60; dermstore.com)—and multiple sources agree it’s not just good, but the best eye product on the market(!). Packed with antioxidants, peptides, algae, and powerful molecules like Chromabright and Lipochroman, the eye gel reduces puffiness and dark circles, tightens eye contour, fades uneven pigment, and guards against free radical damage. Editor’s pick: Dr. Sam’s silky-smooth, award-winning Flawless Brightly Serum ($59; drsambunting.com) evens out skin tone, calms bumps and clear pores—and it’s ideal for daytime use. It features four key ingredients: Azelaic acid tackles pigmentation, redness and blemishes. Niacinimide boosts the skin barrier, unclogs pores and helps the skin get along better with retinol (if that’s your thing!). Ascorbyl glucoside is a gentle, brightening antioxidant, while bakuchiol reduces blemishes and signs of aging. Editor’s pick: Dr. Wang Herbal Skincare Herbal Rescue Balm ($30; amazon.com) is a favorite based on the sheer fun factor alone: It applies purple, then turns clear when rubbed in (making it ideal for kids). But the real magic is in its ability to soothe even the roughest, toughest and most irritated skin using a balanced blend of natural oils, vitamins, ceramides and anti-inflammatory herbs—with zero irritation, of course. Editor’s pick: For stronger, smoother skin anywhere on your body—whether it’s your neck, arms, décolleté, or booty—reach for EverEden’s Lifting and Firming Lotion ($42; amazon.com). Packed with 10 superfoods that deliver powerful anti-aging effects, this multi-tasking body treatment lifts, firms and tightens. Editor’s pick: We love a multitasker! Murad’s AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser ($42; sephora.com) combines two steps—purifying and exfoliating—into one creamy cleanser. The dynamic duo of chemical and physical exfoliants helps polish dull, dry skin—revealing a fresher look and clearing the way for any skin treatments that follow. Editor’s pick: Pairing SPF and Vitamin C is always a good move: Together, they’re more effective at preventing and reversing the signs of sun damage. His Vitamin C Ester Photo-Brightening Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 ($22; amazon.com) packs powerful antioxidant benefits (smoothing, brightening and minimizing discoloration) with full protection from environmental aggressors and harmful UVA and UVB rays. Editor’s pick: Short on time, but set on smoother skin? Hailed as a “10-minute skin transformation,” 11% Triple-Acide Mineral Mask ($47; sephora.com) uses a potent blend of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids (read: you can use it sparingly!) to exfoliate and deep clean at both the surface and pore level.
