We’re all ears when it comes to hearing every last detail regarding what kind of treatments, cutting-edge devices and age-defying skin care dermatologists think really work. So, we had to ask: What moisturizers do these skin-health experts—the ones who have access to everything—personally stockpile?
The One That Is Efficient + Effective
Fort Lauderdale, FL dermatologist Dr. Matthew Elias keeps it simple with CeraVe moisturizers, tagging them as “efficient and effective.”
The One for the Body
Louisville, KY dermatologist Tami Buss Cassis, MD also counts herself as part of team CeraVe, and adds a body must-try, derm-tested option to the list: “In the winter, creams and oils all-day long are the only way you’ll keep your skin in line! This winter, I’ve started using Glytone Exfoliating Body Lotion ($48) and I absolutely love it.”
The One for Layering
Campbell, CA dermatologist Amelia K. Hausauer, MD notes she has “several favorites” when it comes to moisturizers but, in general, recommends creams over lotions because they have a lower water content—aka thicker consistency and more effective moisturization. “What is sitting on my shelf at the currently: Alastin Ultra Nourishing Moisturizer ($88). I personally am dry and need to be basted in moisture, so I like layering. Glycerin and dimethicone contribute to its rich consistency while lineoleic acid, phospholipids, and triglycerides provide emollient and barrier support effects. It also contains oat and silver mushroom.”
The One for Acne-Prone Skin
Davie, FL dermatologist Marianna Blyumin-Karasik, MD calls the lightweight Avène moisturizers “excellent” for acne-prone and sensitive skin types—even going as far to say she loves it. “It has an ingredient complex that calms the skin and irritation within a few seconds. It’s very soothing for dry and irritated skin.”
The One That Staves Off Aging
Another Avène in the mix, Phoenix, AZ dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal says the Hyaluron Activ B3 Renewal Firming Cream ($40) is what he personally uses. “It has two forms of hyaluronic acid along with niacinamide. The reason why I like this moisturizing cream is because it helps the body get rid of senescent cells which are dead cells that stay behind and contribute to the aging process.”
The One That Is Deeply Hydrating
Another must for Dr. Hausauer: Drunk Elephant LaLa Retro Cream With Ceramides ($64). “This is a dermatologist favorite for luxe, deeply hydrating products,” she says. “I love the whipped texture and the clever pump design that is less likely to be contaminated than a traditional tub.”
The One That Is Multitasking
The rich La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 ($17) is a multi-purpose face, body and hand lotion that helps relieve and protect dry skin irritations. It’s also one pick that Dallas dermatologist Elizabeth Houshmand, MD says is “always in her bag.”
