As a dermatologist with a passion for a high-low beauty regimen, here are 12 "elegant" drugstore products that I frequently recommend.

      (Image credit: Original art by Audrey Hedlund)

      Welcome to Drugstore Heroes, a monthly feature that highlights the frequently ignored and underrated beauty products found in drugstores that industry professionals trust. We’re gathering insights from editors, content creators, and celebrities to uncover their favorite affordable yet effective beauty products. Prepare to discover the finest drugstore beauty offerings out there.

      (Image credit: Original art by Audrey Hedlund) It's well-known that dermatologists are skin specialists, having dedicated years to education, research, and direct patient care. Their knowledge extends further, as they possess a scientific and practical grasp of cosmetics overall. They can identify which products and ingredients are truly valuable and which ones may cause irritation, allergic reactions, or other negative side effects instead. For instance, many forget that dermatologists also specialize in scalp and hair health since the scalp is essentially skin. Patients can seek their expertise for various problems ranging from minor dryness and irritation to more serious concerns like hair loss. Therefore, when a dermatologist gives me a product recommendation, I prioritize it, especially if it comes from Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology. I've been following her on Instagram for years, and I highly recommend checking out her account for in-depth expert information. I was eager to learn about her favorite drugstore beauty products, although I wasn't expecting a list of 12. I now have a refreshed shopping list.

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      (Image credit: Caroline Robinson; original art by Audrey Hedlund) How frequently do you utilize and suggest drugstore hair care products? I often choose drugstore hair products and frequently recommend them to my patients. If a formula is aesthetically pleasing, based on evidence, and is compatible with the scalp and hair, I don’t mind whether it comes from a high-end department store or a drugstore. It’s crucial for me that a brand prioritizes scientific backing and thoroughly studies its formulas rather than simply following trends. I have several go-to drugstore staples that I consistently rely on for scalp health, gentle cleansing, and basic conditioning. For example, I really like the Royal Oils line from Head & Shoulders due to its evidence-based and gentle formulations. I also have no issue combining drugstore products with higher-end treatments when they align with a patient's needs.

      What would you say to someone who believes only expensive products yield results? The price of a product does not ensure effective outcomes for skin or hair. Often, you’re paying for the packaging, marketing, and overall experience rather than superior ingredients or scientific support. While there are indeed beautiful and innovative higher-priced formulations, there are also remarkable and well-crafted options available at drugstores. There’s nothing wrong with spending more on a product if it truly resonates with you; the sensory experience is also important. However, it’s essential to first address your skin and hair’s basic requirements. I focus much more on the effectiveness of the final formula in practical use rather than its price. I constantly receive feedback from patients and refine my recommendations based on that.

      (Image credit: Caroline Robinson) Any suggestions for locating effective products at the drugstore? With so many choices available, shopping at drugstores can be quite overwhelming. My basic advice is to enter with a plan, shopping according to your specific skin or hair concerns rather than simply aesthetics. It’s wise to conduct some research beforehand by looking at ingredients, consumer reviews, and expert evaluations to create a list of products worth trying. In essence, shop based on the condition of your skin and hair instead of just visual appeal. Make initial purchases in small sizes and allow products a couple of months to assess effectiveness, unless they cause irritation. It can be difficult to distinguish between a product triggering a breakout versus a normal purging phase, which is often associated with retinols. Ultimately, if your skin isn’t improving after trying several drugstore and over-the-counter products, it’s highly beneficial to consult a board-certified dermatologist to guide you further. Dermatologists have a profound understanding of skin and can teach you how to better comprehend your own.

      Here are a few drugstore guidelines I adhere to: For scalp issues (flakes, dandruff, and itchiness): I suggest looking for ingredients such as salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide. For dry or damaged hair: Seek conditioning agents like ceramides, amino acids, or light proteins. For clogged pores: I prefer AHAs and BHAs, ideally in a cleanser form to avoid over-drying the skin. I also like to pair benzoyl peroxide in the morning with retinoids in the evening for acne.

      Robinson's All-Time Favorite Drugstore Products

      Olay Super Serum Body Wash for Rough and Bumpy Skin "Consider this a liquid body serum for keratosis pilaris and uneven patches. The Olay Super Serum Body Wash contains niacinamide, AHA/BHA, vitamin C, vitamin E, and collagen peptide all in