As a Plastic Surgeon, here are 13 top-quality beauty products from drugstores that I recommend to my patients.

      Welcome to Drugstore Heroes, a monthly series where we highlight the often-ignored but effective drugstore beauty products that industry professionals rely on. We are reaching out to trendsetters, including editors, content creators, and celebrities, to share their favorite budget-friendly yet powerful products. Get ready to explore the finest offerings in drugstore beauty.

      (Image credit: Original art by Kennedy Caldwell) As a beauty editor for over a decade (10 years to be precise), I believe that plastic surgeons offer some of the best and most precise beauty advice. Being both aesthetic specialists and medical doctors, they have a unique perspective in the beauty industry and can provide top-notch product recommendations. I’m referring to items that significantly enhance one’s appearance, such as a clinically proven anti-acne retinoid or a strong antioxidant serum known for brightening and evening skin tone. Whatever you need, they usually have it.

      Introducing Carey Campbell, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon and partner at StarkMD. A self-described "big believer" in medical-grade skincare, she frequently suggests high-quality brands like Alastin, PCA, Revision, ZO Skin Health, EltaMD, and SkinBetter Science to her patients. "However, if patients express that these options are beyond their budget, I always encourage them to opt for products that fulfill their skincare needs and are of good quality," she adds. At that point, she offers high-quality yet affordable alternatives—her drugstore heroes.

      (Image credit: Carey Campbell) "It's crucial to acknowledge that sometimes, affordable choices can be just as effective, while also recognizing when a medical-grade product justifies its higher price," she explains. Although hidden gems at drugstores can’t entirely replace luxury options, they can enhance them or create a balanced high-low routine. "With experience, research, and a bit of trial and error, you can discover which products suit your skin type and life stage," she continues. "Seeking dermatologist-formulated brands and looking for specific active ingredients you need, like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and retinol, is beneficial."

      (Image credit: Carey Campbell) "Specific" is key here. Campbell advises against incorporating multiple active ingredients into your skincare routine simultaneously, especially those that could irritate, like vitamin C and retinoids. "Introduce these products gradually. Don't mix something designed to boost cell turnover with another product that exfoliates right away. Your skin may become irritated, and you might blame the product instead of how you used it," she cautions. Below, Campbell shares her 13 drugstore heroes, covering everything from cleansers and retinoids to SPF, body oil, and more.

      Campbell's Favorite Drugstore Products:

      **Bioderma**

      Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

      "I always keep a small travel size in my bag and a larger one at home. It's perfect for removing eye makeup without drying out my skin before washing my face. The glycerin hydrates while cleansing, and the micelles work to surround dirt and oil. There are also reports suggesting it may enhance skin permeability for other products."

      "This glycerin-based formula is particularly beneficial for mature, drier skin, as it hydrates while it cleans."

      **Prequel**

      Lucent-C Vitamin C Serum

      "Containing 15 percent L-ascorbic acid, ferulic acid, and ergothioneine—this is comparable to SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic. With CE Ferulic now off patent, you will see more similar products. Vitamin C is vital for protection against oxidative stress and photoaging. All the Prequel products appear to be excellent."

      **La Roche-Posay**

      Toleriane Purifying Foaming Face Wash

      "This works well for normal to oily skin, providing a deep cleanse without stripping. It contains ceramides to protect the skin barrier, niacinamide to reduce inflammation, and glycerin to maintain hydration."

      **PanOxyl**

      Acne Foaming Wash With 10% Benzoyl Peroxide

      "For those prone to acne, this is a solid over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide cleanser that I've found effective."

      **Differin**

      Retinoid Adapalene Gel 0.1%

      "This is like Retin-A's younger sibling. Both are derived from vitamin A. It's designed for acne treatment but is now available over the counter. While it's a gentler retinoid, it's a great option for those who struggle with Retin-A and are just starting to use anti-aging retinoids. Retin-A remains the gold standard in anti-aging, but I use this for hormonal breakouts."

      **Maybelline**

      Lifter Gloss With Hyaluronic Acid

      "I discovered this lip gloss accidentally when I needed one quickly and grabbed it at Walgreens. I've repurchased it multiple times. It feels incredibly moisturizing, and I love the color Heat."

      **e.l.f. Cosmetics**