These are the Skincare Products NYC Dermatologists Actually Use

When it comes to expert skincare advice, NYC dermatologists are among the best in the field. With their firsthand experience treating a wide range of skin concerns—from acne to sun protection and anti-aging—these professionals rely on medical-grade skincare products, advanced treatments, and time-tested routines. In this guide, we reveal the top dermatologist-recommended skincare products used by experts in New York City, along with insider skincare tips you can follow at home.

Inside an NYC Dermatologist’s Daily Skincare Routine

NYC dermatologists follow a consistent and strategic daily skincare regimen, starting with a gentle morning cleanse and ending with deep nighttime treatment.

Morning Routine Must-Haves

• Sea Radiance Gentle Cleanser – A dermatologist-recommended cleanser known for being gentle, sulfate-free, and ideal for all skin types. It hydrates the skin without blocking the pores.
• EltaMD UV Sheer Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50+– Offers broad-spectrum UV protection and is praised by professionals for its high SPF and non-greasy formula.

This is the perfect blend of mild yet powerful

Midday Tip: Always reapply sunscreen, especially in urban environments where UVA exposure is constant—even on cloudy days.

Evening Routine Essentials

• Step 1: Micellar Water
• Step 2: Sea Radiance Gentle Cleanser (water-based)

This process removes makeup, oil, and debris, prepping skin for targeted nighttime treatments.

Best Cleansers & Makeup Removers Recommended by NYC Dermatologists

Top Dermatologist-Approved Cleansers

• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser – Loved for its pH-balanced, non-irritating formula, ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
• Vanicream Gentle Cleanser – Fragrance-free and dye-free, perfect for conditions like eczema or rosacea.

Makeup Remover Favorites

• Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water – Effortlessly lifts even waterproof makeup while soothing the skin.

🗨️ “A swipe of Bioderma removes my waterproof mascara without any irritation,” says Sarah Lee.

🌟 Top Serums & Treatments NYC Dermatologists Use

Vitamin C Serums

• SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic – Combats oxidative damage, improves skin texture, and visibly reduces fine lines.

Chemical Exfoliants

• The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution – Recommended for gentle yet effective exfoliation that reveals smoother, clearer skin.

It accelerates cell turnover for a radiant complexion.

☀️ Daily Essentials: Sunscreens & Moisturizers

Best Sunscreens for NYC Weather

• Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 – Lightweight and invisible, ideal as a makeup primer and sun protectant.

Hydrating Moisturizers Dermatologists Swear By

• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – Packed with hyaluronic acid, it's a favorite for oily, combo, and dehydrated skin types.

Hydration is essential for minimizing fine lines and preventing irritation, especially in NYC’s dry winter and polluted summer air.

Dermatologist-Backed Anti-Aging Products: Retinols & Acids

Retinol

• Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%) – OTC retinoid that treats both acne and early signs of aging.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

• Sunday Riley Good Genes (Lactic Acid) – Offers exfoliation with added hydration, perfect for evening tone and reducing pigmentation.

Hydration Heroes: Facial Oils & Serums

NYC Dermatologist-Recommended Facial Oils

• Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil – Lightweight, vitamin E-rich, and ideal for dry and sensitive skin.
• The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane – Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin, offering deep hydration without clogging pores.

Hydration Boosters

• Hyaluronic acid mists and serums – Excellent for mid-day hydration and urban skin refreshment.

Most Popular Skincare Brands Among NYC Dermatologists

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What products do NYC dermatologists recommend for acne or rosacea?

• For acne: Products with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or adapalene (e.g., Differin Gel).
• For rosacea: Azelaic acid and metronidazole are preferred due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

How do skincare recommendations change based on skin type?

• Oily skin: Lightweight gels, oil-free formulations
• Dry skin: Rich moisturizers with hyaluronic acid or ceramides
• Sensitive skin: Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products

What role do professional treatments play alongside skincare products?

Treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and laser resurfacing enhance product absorption and address deep skin concerns more effectively. Dermatologists often combine these with at-home routines for optimal results.

Which skincare brands are most trusted by NYC dermatologists?

• CeraVe
• La Roche-Posay
• SkinCeuticals
• Neutrogena
• The Ordinary

What are the most recommended skincare ingredients by NYC dermatologists?

• Retinoids (Retinol, Adapalene) – For cell turnover and anti-aging
• Vitamin C – Brightens and protects
• Hyaluronic Acid – Deep hydration
• Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide – Mineral UV protection

Do dermatologists really use the same skincare products they recommend?

Yes, board-certified dermatologists often use the same high-quality skincare products they recommend to patients. They tend to choose clinically tested, dermatologist-formulated, and non-comedogenic options that target specific concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and dryness.

What are the must-have skincare ingredients dermatologists use daily?

Dermatologists often use products with retinoids (like retinol or tretinoin), vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and broad-spectrum sunscreen. These ingredients are backed by clinical research and offer benefits like anti-aging, brightening, and hydration.

What sunscreen do NYC dermatologists typically prefer?

Most NYC dermatologists recommend and personally use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, ideally mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These provide reliable UVA/UVB protection, especially in a city where urban sun exposure is constant.

Do dermatologists use drugstore products or only luxury brands?

Many dermatologists use a mix. Some drugstore brands like CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, and Neutrogena are dermatologist-recommended because they offer effective formulations at accessible prices. It’s more about ingredientsand efficacy than price tag.

How often do dermatologists change their skincare routines?

They usually adapt routines seasonally or based on changing skin concerns, like dryness in winter or increased oiliness in summer. However, consistency with core products like cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF is key for maintaining skin health.

Can I use the same products a dermatologist does?

Yes! Many dermatologist-approved skincare products are available over the counter. However, it’s best to tailor your routine to your own skin type and concerns. A consultation with a licensed dermatologist can help you build a regimen similar to theirs—without the guesswork.

What cleanser do dermatologists typically use?

Most dermatologists prefer a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that won’t strip the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Popular picks include options with ceramides, glycerin, or salicylic acid (for acne-prone skin). NYC dermatologists often choose fragrance-free formulas to minimize irritation from pollution and environmental stress.

Do dermatologists use facial oils or just moisturizers?

Yes, depending on their skin type, many dermatologists layer hydrating serums, moisturizers, and occasionally facial oils—especially in dry, winter months. Look for oils high in linoleic acid, such as rosehip oil or squalane, for non-comedogenic hydration.

Are there any products dermatologists avoid completely?

Dermatologists tend to avoid products with alcohol, synthetic fragrances, harsh scrubs, and unregulated “natural” ingredients that can trigger irritation. Many also caution against over-exfoliation, especially with physical scrubs or high-strength acids used too frequently.

How do NYC dermatologists deal with pollution and city stress on the skin?

They often use antioxidant serums, like vitamin C or ferulic acid, to protect against free radical damage. Double cleansing, hydration layering, and barrier-repair moisturizers are also common to combat the effects of air pollution, blue light, and urban grime.

What nighttime skincare products do dermatologists swear by?

A typical nighttime routine includes a retinoid (like tretinoin), hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid, a ceramide-rich moisturizer, and sometimes azelaic acid or niacinamide to calm inflammation. NYC dermatologists often emphasize skin repair overnight using products with peptides or growth factors.

Can I mix and match dermatologist-recommended products, or should I stick to one brand?

It’s perfectly fine to mix and match! Most dermatologists do. The focus should be on ingredient compatibility and avoiding overlapping actives (like too much exfoliating acid or multiple retinoids). A well-balanced routine might include products from CeraVe, SkinCeuticals, and EltaMD—all in one regimen.

Do dermatologists take supplements for skin health too?

Yes, many incorporate dermatologist-recommended supplements like omega-3s, collagen peptides, vitamin D, or zinc—especially for concerns like acne, inflammation, or aging. However, they usually pair supplements with topical treatments, not as a replacement.

Final Thoughts: Trust the Experts for Healthier, Radiant Skin

When it comes to achieving glowing, healthy skin, trusting board-certified dermatologists and using dermatologist-recommended skincare products can make all the difference. By incorporating expert-approved cleansers, sunscreens, serums, and moisturizers into your daily skincare routine, you're aligning yourself with the same standards followed by top skin specialists in New York City and beyond.

These professionals prioritize high-quality, science-backed ingredients that target your unique skin concerns—whether it’s acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or sensitive skin. The foundation of any effective regimen is consistency, knowing your skin type, and choosing products tailored to your needs.

Remember, the road to better skin doesn’t require guesswork. Trust the experts, follow a dermatologist-approved routine, and let your skin reflect the care it truly deserves.

Ready for your own Amazing Skin?

You can find all of the products that Dr. Jaliman uses herself and also sells on her website by visiting her products page here. If you are interested in receiving a consultation to learn what skin care routine would be right for your specific skin, give Dr. jaliman's office a call to set up a consultation at