Dermatologists are experts when it comes to skin health, so when it’s time to pick skincare products, their opinions really matter. In this blog, two of the dermatologists behind U.S. Dermatology Partners and DermSkincare’s curated skincare list discuss their go-to products and ideal skincare routine. Dr. Jennifer Sawaya and Dr. Jacqueline Watchmaker of the Center for Aesthetic and Laser Medicine of Scottsdale are frequently featured experts in dermatologic journals as well as in national media, and they put that expertise to work below, recommending some of the best skincare products.
Meet Dr. Jennifer Sawaya & Dr. Jacqueline Watchmaker
Dr. Sawaya and Dr. Watchmaker are both Board-Certified Dermatologists serving the Phoenix and Scottsdale communities at the Center for Aesthetic and Laser Medicine and Southwest Skin Specialists. They offer evidence-based dermatologic treatment with a passion for helping patients achieve their skin health and cosmetic goals.
Dr. Sawaya offers cosmetic dermatology services, but she has also achieved advanced fellowship-level training in cosmetic and laser dermatology services. She is dedicated to combining advanced clinical and scientific skill with an artistic approach to cosmetic care, delivering exceptional, patient-centered results.
Get to Know Dr. Sawaya
Dr. Watchmaker is dedicated to empowering patients to better understand their skin health needs, so they can achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful skin. She practices general and cosmetic dermatology and enjoys partnering with patients to manage both the health and beauty of their skin.
Get to Know Dr. Watchmaker
Dr. Jennifer Sawaya’s Top Skincare Picks
High-performance, dermatologist-developed products are key in Dr. Sawaya’s opinion. She encourages patients to utilize products with quality ingredients that are formulated to deliver results without stressing skin. Her top skincare picks include advanced skin serums, multitasking sunscreen, and deep-hydrating eye treatment.
Skinbetter Science Intensive AlphaRet Overnight Cream
“This is my go-to anti-aging product for patients who want visible results with less risk for skin irritation.”
Why Dr. Sawaya loves it:
- Combines lactic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid) and retinol to increase skin cell turnover.
- Improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines.
- Works like the strongest anti-aging products without the same level of skin irritation.
Ideal for:
- Early to advanced signs of aging.
- Dull or rough skin texture.
- Patients sensitive to traditional retinoids.
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Skinbetter Science Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum
“Antioxidants are a non-negotiable step in any skincare routine, and Alto Advanced is the gold standard.”
Why Dr. Sawaya loves it:
- Contains 19 powerful antioxidants, including Vitamins C & E and superoxide dismutase.
- Neutralizes free radicals from pollution and UV exposure.
- Brightens skin and reduces redness.
Ideal for:
- Anyone looking to protect skin from daily environmental stress.
- Sensitive, rosacea-prone, or inflamed skin.
- Patients dealing with uneven skin tone or dullness.
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EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46
“This is my favorite daily sunscreen for acne-prone or sensitive skin.”
Why Dr. Sawaya loves it:
- Formulated with zinc oxide and hyaluronic acid to protect and hydrate skin.
- Lightweight, oil-free formula doesn’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
- Niacinamide calms skin irritation while providing broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
Ideal for:
- Teens with acne or facial redness.
- Patients on retinoids and those who receive skin resurfacing or other treatments.
- Daily sun protection under makeup or alone.
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Skinbetter Science Sunbetter Tone Smart SPF 68 Sunscreen Compact
“This is sunscreen and color correction in one easy step.”
Why Dr. Sawaya loves it:
- Tinted mineral sunscreen adjusts to a wide range of skin tones.
- Broad-spectrum SPF 68 protection with a smooth, matte finish.
- Offers quick, easy reapplication throughout the day.
Ideal for:
- Those who want SPF coverage and skin tone correction.
- Travel, sports, or mid-day touchups.
- Redness-prone or uneven skin tone.
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Hydrinity Eye Renew Complex
“The skin around the eyes is delicate and often the first place we see signs of aging. This serum is gentle but ultra-effective at improving appearance.”
Why Dr. Sawaya loves it:
- Contains soothing and hydrating hyaluronic acid, peptides, and marine extracts.
- Targets a range of concerns around the eyes, including dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines.
- Cooling metal applicator de-puffs and soothes tired eyes.
Ideal for:
- Gentle and effective enough for all skin types.
- Addressing early signs of aging.
- People struggling with under-eye puffiness or dryness.
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Dr. Jacqueline Watchmaker’s Top Skincare Picks
When developing the ideal dermatologist skincare routine, Dr. Watchmaker encourages focusing on balancing and strengthening the natural protective barrier to support long-term skin health. This is especially important for those with sensitive or reactive skin. Her skincare go-to’s include products made to deliver balanced, beautiful skin.
Skinbetter Science Mystro Active Balance Serum
“This is a game changer for sensitive, red, or inflamed skin. It is also great pre and post procedure and has been shown to reduce the appearance of pores.”
Why Dr. Watchmaker loves it:
- Clinically proven to reduce visible redness and skin sensitivity.
- Uses plant adaptogens to help the skin adapt to stress and maintain balance.
- Great for those prone to rosacea, inflammation, or large pores.
Ideal for:
- Sensitive, reactive, or redness-prone skin.
- Patients transitioning into stronger actives (like retinoids).
- Rosacea-prone or peri-menopausal skin changes.
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Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream
“If I had to choose one anti-aging product to recommend for every patient, this would be it.”
Why Dr. Watchmaker loves it:
- Contains a retinoid and lactic acid complex for smoother skin and minimal irritation.
- Proven to reduce fine lines and smooth skin texture.
- Gentle enough for nightly use even for those with sensitive skin.
Ideal for:
- Aging, dull, or unevenly textured skin.
- Patients who struggle with using traditional retinoids.
- Nighttime anti-aging routines.
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SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore
“This moisturizer replenishes the skin barrier like no other.”
Why Dr. Watchmaker loves it:
- Contains ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids in an ideal 2:4:2 ratio.
- Restores barrier function and improves skin elasticity.
- Recovers skin from retinoid use, dryness, or environmental damage.
Ideal for:
- Dry or aging skin.
- Post-procedure skin recovery.
- Support for skin irritated by intense retinol use.
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RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner
“This is my favorite lash-enhancing serum. It really works! I tell my patients to use consistently for 6 weeks then maintain with just once or twice a week application.”
Why Dr. Watchmaker loves it:
- Promotes healthier, fuller-looking eyelashes.
- Conditions and strengthens to reduce breakage.
- Ophthalmologist-tested and safe for use around the eyes.
Ideal for:
- People with short or brittle lashes.
- Lash extension users trying to transition to natural lashes.
- Anyone who wants fuller lashes.
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ALASTIN HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36
“This gives your skin a beautiful glow while protecting it.”
Why Dr. Watchmaker loves it:
- Lightweight, tinted sunscreen that doubles as makeup.
- Loaded with antioxidants and hydrating peptides.
- Blends seamlessly for a natural, brilliant finish.
Ideal for:
- All skin types, especially dry or dull skin.
- Daily wear, even with UV exposure.
- People who prefer multitasking sunscreen with a cosmetic finish.
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Dr. Watchmaker’s Recommended Skincare Routine
Below, Dr. Watchmaker shares a streamlined, results-driven skincare routine that’s easily customizable and designed to cover essential skin needs morning and night.
Morning Routine:
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Cleanser – La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser calms and cleanses skin.
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Serum – choose a serum based on specific needs. Skinbetter Alto Advanced Serum for protection against environmental stressors such as UV rays and pollution, skinbetter Mystro Active Balance Serum for skin redness and tone correction.
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Moisturizer – your moisturizer will depend on your skin type. Dr. Watchmaker recommends La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermallergo for sensitive skin, Neutrogena HydroBoost for acne-prone skin, and skinbetter Science Trio Luxe or SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore for dry or mature skin.
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SPF – ALASTIN HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36 for sun protection with a cosmetic finish or La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF for photodamage correction.
Evening Routine:
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Cleanser – Same as morning routine by choosing a gentle, hydrating cleanser.
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Retinoid – skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream for beginners or those with sensitive skin. Prescription tretinoin for those with more resilient skin or advanced anti-aging needs.
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Moisturizer – SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore or other barrier-repair creams to deeply hydrate and soothe skin.
Why Choose Dermatologist-Recommended Skincare?
You might wonder why it’s important to invest in dermatologist-recommended skincare products when drugstore options are cheaper and more easily accessible. Below are some of the top reasons dermatologists encourage patients to utilize high-quality skincare products as part of their daily routine:
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Clinically-proven ingredients – dermatologist-approved or developed skincare products use ingredients that have been tested for both safety and effectiveness.
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Formulated for results – many over-the-counter skincare solutions have diluted or unstable ingredients. Medical-grade products use stabilized actives in concentrations that deliver the desired results.
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Less risk, more reward – dermatologists recommend products suited to individual skin type, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic response.
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Targeted to your needs – the best skincare for acne is different from what works for melasma, and everyone’s
skincare needs are unique. Dermatologists know how to pair the right actives with the right skin type.
Shop Dermatologist Favorites on DermSkincare
If you’re ready to boost your daily skincare routine, explore the options available from DermSkincare. All our products are chosen by dermatologists who trust their ingredients and formulations to deliver healthier skin. Looking to learn more about skincare or develop your daily routine? Come back to read our blog for more dermatologist recommendations.
