Antioxidants aren't just good to incorporate into your diet ... they're an excellent choice to use topically, too. "They help protect your skin from the damaging free radicals caused by everything from sun exposure to pollution, making an antioxidant serum a worthwhile investment," explains Dr. Jessie Cheung, MD, director of Jessie Cheung Dermatology in Willowbrook, Ill. One to try: Juice Beauty Antioxidant Serum, $48.
When it feels like no amount of moisturizer is enough, focus on adding hydration via every step of your skincare routine. Start by seeking out these options:
1. Creamy cleanser: Make sure your face wash isn't further drying out your skin by using a creamy formula. Ideally, it should be soap-free, since excess amounts of detergents can be harsh and stripping to the skin, notes Carqueville. Her pick: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, $7.99. Cleansing oils are also a good choice.
2. Moisturizer with SPF: Getting moisture any way you can is smart, so go ahead and use a moisturizer with SPF, but take heed: "If your complexion is dry, you'll still want to layer a straight moisturizer on top, advises Carqueville. Try the new La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer UV Broad-Spectrum SPF 30, $19.99.
3. Moisturizer: "Not all moisturizers are created equal," says Jeung. "If you're super dry, look for ones that contain both humectants, like glycerin, that draw moisture to the skin, and occlusive ingredients like dimtethicone, that seal in that moisture." SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2, $125, fits the bill, and has the added benefit of skin-strengthening ceramides.
1. Creamy cleanser: Make sure your face wash isn't further drying out your skin by using a creamy formula. Ideally, it should be soap-free, since excess amounts of detergents can be harsh and stripping to the skin, notes Carqueville. Her pick: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, $7.99. Cleansing oils are also a good choice.
2. Moisturizer with SPF: Getting moisture any way you can is smart, so go ahead and use a moisturizer with SPF, but take heed: "If your complexion is dry, you'll still want to layer a straight moisturizer on top, advises Carqueville. Try the new La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer UV Broad-Spectrum SPF 30, $19.99.
3. Moisturizer: "Not all moisturizers are created equal," says Jeung. "If you're super dry, look for ones that contain both humectants, like glycerin, that draw moisture to the skin, and occlusive ingredients like dimtethicone, that seal in that moisture." SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2, $125, fits the bill, and has the added benefit of skin-strengthening ceramides.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Hyaluronic acid is one of the best moisturizing ingredients out there; able to hold 1000 times its weight in water, it instantly makes skin look and feel more moisturized. In a serum like SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator, $178, it will deeply hydrate without feeling heavy, says Cheung.
If your goal is to banish breakouts, the right combination of products and zit-zapping ingredients is essential. This trio will do the trick:
1. Salicylic-acid cleanser: The gentle exfoliating ingredient dissolves oil, de-gunking your pores and helping to eliminate blackheads and whiteheads, making it a great option to use daily via a cleanser. Try Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, $6.99.
2. Non-comedogenic sunscreen: No, sunscreen will NOT make you breakout ... as long as it's labeled oil-free and non-comedogenic, notes Carqueville, who recommends EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, $32.
3. Treatment: To target pesky pimples, Carqueville suggests using a treatment that contains benzoyl-peroxide. "The combination of benzoyl peroxide in the spot treatment and the salicylic acid in your cleanser is a double whammy to knock out breakouts," she says. One option: Dermalogica Special Clearing Booster, $46.
1. Salicylic-acid cleanser: The gentle exfoliating ingredient dissolves oil, de-gunking your pores and helping to eliminate blackheads and whiteheads, making it a great option to use daily via a cleanser. Try Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, $6.99.
2. Non-comedogenic sunscreen: No, sunscreen will NOT make you breakout ... as long as it's labeled oil-free and non-comedogenic, notes Carqueville, who recommends EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, $32.
3. Treatment: To target pesky pimples, Carqueville suggests using a treatment that contains benzoyl-peroxide. "The combination of benzoyl peroxide in the spot treatment and the salicylic acid in your cleanser is a double whammy to knock out breakouts," she says. One option: Dermalogica Special Clearing Booster, $46.
Peel pads: "Typically these contain both alpha and beta hydroxy acids, which break down superficial oil, keep pores clear and help with excess pigmentation or scarring," explains Jeung. Not to mention that they're super easy to use -- just swipe and go. Depending on the concentration of the acids, some can even be used daily. The Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, $16 for five treatments, is a classic.