Top dermatologists reveal the products, remedies, and techniques they use to stay looking fabulous

Skin doctors have access to everything that’s out there—from expensive boutique products to the latest prescription potions and anti-aging treatments. With this vast array of tempting anti-aging skin care options, what do dermatologists choose? We asked an elite group of over-40 female dermatologists for their go-to items, best tips, and insider tricks for looking gorgeous. Here, exclusively, are their favorite anti-aging skin care tips.

Credit:prevention.com

Daily Essentials

Kinder cleansers “Over-40 skin tends to be drier,” says Doris J. Day, MD, 43, which is why she recommends a gentle cleanser that will remove dirt and makeup without stripping away natural oils. Day uses the Good Skin Soft Skin Creamy Cleanser—which she helped create—because it contains natural extracts, like aloe and chamomile, that help skin retain moisture for anti-aging. Many dermatologists love Dove Beauty Bar, which is less acidic (hence less drying) than most other soaps.

For a more thorough wash at night, Diane Berson, MD, 48, uses the battery-powered Clarisonic cleansing brush. “It feels like I’m really getting clean,” she says. Debra Jaliman, MD, 51, another Clarisonic fan, notes, “It’s less irritating than using a washcloth or harsh exfoliators, and it may remove more debris from pores than manual cleansing”—a perfect combo for over-40 faces.

Moisturizers with more For aging skin, silicone is “one of the best things ever added to cosmetics and creams,” says Heidi Waldorf, MD, 42. “Products go on silky, stay smooth, and seal in moisture”—an ideal anti-aging skin care tip for complexions that are parched or crepey. She dabs Olay Regenerist Daily Regenerating Serum under her eyes before applying makeup. “With its high concentration of silicone, it acts like a primer, filling in little creases.” Look for dimethicone orcyclopentasiloxaneon labels.

Most dermatologists consider antioxidants in moisturizers essential because they neutralize free radicals—molecules from the sun and pollution that damage (and age) skin; look for vitamins C and E, green and white tea, and/or idebenone, a powerful man-made antioxidant. Waldorf uses Prevage MD with 1% idebenone, and several docs consider Topix Replenix CF Cream a must for its high content of antioxidant green tea. More faves with both antioxidants and silicone include Kinerase Cream and Rodan + Fields Anti-Age PM Cream.