What Dermatologists Actually Keep on Their Shelves

We asked a handful of dermatologists to describe their own bathroom shelves. We expected exotic serums and miracle creams. We got something much closer to a list of staples.

Nearly everyone mentioned the same few things:

• A gentle cleanser that does not leave the skin tight.
• A moisturiser that suits their skin type and that they actually enjoy using.
• Sunscreen, applied every morning, regardless of the weather.
• One active ingredient at most, introduced slowly.

The common thread was restraint. Several said that the most useful thing they do for their own skin is nothing at all: no scrubbing, no layering, no chasing the latest launch. A boring routine, kept up, will do more than an exciting one that you abandon.

This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have a skin concern, talk to your doctor.