The formula uses chemical sunscreen filters, which allows for a seamless, non-chalky finish—a quality to look for if you have a deeper skin tone. However, if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or generally have sensitive skin, dermatologists say to avoid chemical sunscreens and opt for mineral filters instead.
Key ingredients: avobenzone 3.0%, octinoxate 7.5%, octisalate 5.0%, oxybenzone 5.0% peptides, squalane, trehalose | Who it’s for: those who want to streamline their routine | Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Nighttime: EltaMD PM Therapy Facial Moisturizer
Why we love it: Your skin restores itself while you sleep—and the EltaMD PM Therapy Facial Moisturizer, as recommended by Dr. Shamban, helps facilitate that repair process. This lightweight, silky lotion is formulated with antioxidant-rich linoleic and thioctic acids to stave off the day’s free radicals as well as niacinamide to reduce redness and balance oil production. As for those wrinkles? Hydrolyzed rice protein stimulates cell growth and improves elasticity.Since it’s non-comedogenic and contains anti-inflammatory ingredients, this moisturizer is a good option for people prone to breakouts.
Key ingredients: niacinamide, linoleic acid, hydrolyzed rice protein | Who it’s for: everyone | Fragrance-free: yes
Best Fragrance-Free: SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator
Why we love it: Dr. Shamban says that because the SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator is lightweight and fragrance-free, it works especially well for those with reactive, sensitive skin. In addition to wrinkle-reducing peptides, the formula employs five types of hyaluronic acid, including a time-released form to treat dry skin for up to eight hours—perfect for keeping your skin well-moisturized long-term.
In addition to the hyaluronic acid, the formula has an exclusive complex that pairs antioxidants with peptides for an extra skin-firming boost.
Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, trehalose, grape flower cell extract | Who it’s for: anyone with dry or reactive skin | Fragrance-free: yes
Best Lightweight Serum: Clarins Double Serum
Why we love it: Dr. Nazarian loves Clarins Double Serum—reformulated in August—which harnesses plant-based antioxidants, for its ability to minimize pores and reduce wrinkles,” she says. “It even uses one of my favorite antioxidants, turmeric, to neutralize free-radical damage, and prevent premature skin aging.” Plus, a little goes a long way. “Each drop is packed and potent, so a few drops daily is all you need,” she adds. If you prefer a more lightweight formula, opt for the 2023 Best of Beauty Award-winning Clarins Double Serum Light which delivers heavy-duty hydration with potent antioxidants.
