I'm a dermatologist who enjoys a high-low beauty regimen—here are 12 "elegant" drugstore products that I consistently recommend.

      (Image credit: Original art by Audrey Hedlund)

      Welcome to Drugstore Heroes, a monthly feature where we highlight the often-neglected and underappreciated beauty products available at drugstores, which industry professionals rely on. From editors to creators and even celebrities, we’re asking influencers to share their top picks for budget-friendly yet effective items. Prepare to discover the finest in drugstore beauty.

      (Image credit: Original art by Audrey Hedlund)Everyone knows that dermatologists are the experts when it comes to skin. They dedicate years to studying, researching, and engaging with patients directly. However, their expertise extends beyond just skin—they possess extensive knowledge about cosmetics overall. They can distinguish which products and ingredients are truly worth the investment in terms of time, effort, and money, and they can also identify those that should be avoided, as they may lead to irritation, allergic reactions, or other negative outcomes. For instance, regarding scalp and hair health, it’s easy to overlook that dermatologists are also the leading medical authorities in this field, as the scalp is part of the skin. This is why patients seek their help for a variety of concerns, ranging from minor issues like dryness and irritation to more serious problems like hair loss. Therefore, when a dermatologist recommends a product, I take their advice seriously—especially when it comes from Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology. I’ve followed her on Instagram for years and highly recommend checking it out if you enjoy in-depth expert insights. I anticipated she would have some excellent advice and product suggestions to share, but I was not ready for all 12 of her favorite drugstore beauty products. It’s safe to say I now have a fresh shopping list. The article continues below.

      (Image credit: Caroline Robinson; original art by Audrey Hedlund)How frequently do you use and suggest drugstore hair products? I frequently opt for drugstore hair products and recommend them to my patients. If a formula is both effective and evidence-based, and is gentle on the scalp and hair, I don't care whether it's from a luxury brand or a drugstore. It’s crucial to me that a brand prioritizes science and researches its formulas rather than just following trends. There are definitely drugstore staples that I consistently rely on for scalp health, gentle cleansing, and basic conditioning. For instance, I appreciate the Royal Oils line by Head & Shoulders due to its evidence-backed, gentle formulations. I'm also comfortable combining drugstore products with higher-end treatments when it aligns with a patient's routine.

      What would you say to someone who believes that only expensive products work effectively? The price of a product does not guarantee results for skin or hair. Often, you are paying for packaging, advertising, and the sensory experience, rather than better ingredients or results. While there are stunning, innovative high-priced formulas, excellent, well-crafted options also exist at drugstores. If a higher-priced item resonates with you, there’s nothing wrong with investing in it; the sensory experience matters too. However, ensure that your skin and hair's basic needs are met first. I prioritize the efficacy of the formula in real-world use over the price tag. I consistently receive feedback from my patients and refine my recommendations based on that.

      (Image credit: Caroline Robinson)Do you have any tips for finding effective drugstore products? With so many choices at drugstores, it can be quite daunting. My straightforward advice is to enter with a plan and shop based on your specific skin or hair concerns, rather than aesthetics. It’s beneficial to conduct some preliminary research on ingredients, consumer reviews, and expert insights, and compile a list of products worth trying. Essentially, focus on your skin and hair conditions instead of following trends. Start with small quantities and allow a few months to assess whether they are effective, unless they cause irritation. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between a product triggering a breakout and a normal purging reaction, which is common with retinols, for instance. If your skin doesn’t improve after trying several drugstore and over-the-counter products, it’s certainly worth the investment to consult a board-certified dermatologist, as they have a profound understanding of skin and can help you navigate your specific needs. Here are a few drugstore rules I follow: For scalp issues (such as flakes, dandruff, or itching): I suggest looking for ingredients like salicylic acid, zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide. For dry or damaged hair: seek out conditioning agents like ceramides, amino acids, or light proteins. For clogged pores: I prefer AHAs and BHAs, particularly in cleanser form to avoid over-drying the skin. I also like to combine benzoyl peroxide in the morning and retinoids in the evening for addressing breakouts.

      Robinson's Top Drugstore Products

      Olay

      Super Serum Body Wash for Rough and Bumpy Skin

      "This acts like a liquid