10 Skin-Care Hacks I Refuse to Gatekeep as a Dermatology PA

Switch Your Razor If You’re Prone to Ingrown Hairs

If you struggle with ingrown hairs on the body, try switching to a single-blade razor. Washing folliculitis-prone areas with a benzoyl peroxide cleanser can also be helpful. The aforementioned Cetaphil Gentle Clear Complexion-Clearing BPO Acne Cleanser ($12) is one I recommend. Hibiclens can also be helpful for these areas, but one important caveat: do not use Hibiclens on the face.

Get the Anti-Aging Basics Right First

An anti-aging routine can get as complicated as you want it to, but I always recommend getting the basics down first: SPF and vitamin C in the morning and a retinoid at night. Before adding 10 different serums, make sure you’ve nailed those three powerhouse ingredients.

For sunscreen, aim for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. For vitamin C, I’m currently loving Remedy 15% Vitamin C Complex Brightening Serum ($28), and Vanicream Vitamin C Serum ($20) is a great option for sensitive skin. For retinoids, RoC has several options in both serum and moisturizer formulas. I also like Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Multi-Corrective Cream ($68).

Focus on Three Things for the Appearance of Pores

The best ingredients for improving the appearance of pores are salicylic acid, retinoids and SPF. Salicylic acid helps clear buildup inside pores, retinoids support collagen and better skin texture and SPF helps prevent collagen breakdown that can make pores look more noticeable.

For salicylic acid, I like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser ($19). Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% ($15) is an over-the-counter retinoid option. For sunscreen, look for any broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher that you’ll use consistently.

Protect Sensitive Areas Before Applying Your Retinoid

If you struggle with retinoid irritation, protect your most sensitive areas first. Before applying your retinoid, put a little Aquaphor Healing Ointment ($12) around the corners of your nose, lips and eyes to help prevent dryness and irritation. It’s a small step, but it can make using a retinoid much more manageable if those areas tend to become irritated.

Layer Your Lip Products Before Bed

One of the easiest ways to wake up with smoother lips is to layer your hydration. Apply a hydrating serum, like one with hyaluronic acid, to your lips first, then seal it in with an occlusive like Vaseline or Aquaphor. I like Vichy Minéral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum ($30) for the first step, followed by Vaseline Original Healing Jelly ($8). This helps lock in hydration overnight and creates a smooth base for lipstick in the morning.

Don’t Try to ‘Train’ Your Scalp to Produce Less Oil

Skipping washes won’t train your scalp to produce less oil. Instead, try incorporating a salicylic acid shampoo once or twice a week to help exfoliate the scalp, remove buildup and improve oil control over time. Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo ($9) is one I recommend for this.