'I'm A Dermatologist With Acne-Prone, Aging Skin And Here's What I Use'
Dermatologists prescribe products to their patients all day long, but have you ever wondered which ones they personally use? Welcome to Derm Diaries, a series where dermatologists share their skin woes—and solutions—so you can steal secrets from their skincare routines.
Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the owner of Vibrant Dermatology and Skin Bar MD in Boston, Massachusetts, fell in love with dermatology during her first year in medical school. "I loved many aspects of medicine, including histology, infectious disease, internal medicine, pediatrics, and surgery," she explains. "As a dermatologist, I am able to engage in all of these practices and more." Plus, helping others can just be pretty darn rewarding.
That said, being a derm doesn't mean that Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip doesn't have skin-related issues of her own. (Don't we all?) "I would describe my skin type as combination and acne-prone," says Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip. "I have struggled with acne since age 10, so that has always been my primary skin concern. I turned 40 this year, therefore anti-aging is also a top priority for me."
Her current skincare routine naturally addresses both her adult acne and anti-aging. Looking for some inspo of your own? Keep reading for every single thing that Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip uses in her skincare routine. Your complexion will thank you.
She starts each morning with a gentle cleanse.
"Since I use strong acne medicine, I start each day and end each evening with a gentle cleanser. I love this Vanicream product specifically, it’s extremely gentle and hypoallergenic. It also foams nicely and leaves my skin feeling very clean."
She uses benzoyl peroxide to tackle acne.
"Next, I use my Skin Bar MD In The Clear gel. It’s formulated with a 5 percent solubilized benzoyl peroxide that helps fight painful acne cysts. Since it’s solubilized, it doesn’t irritate the skin like many other benzoyl peroxide products."
Hyaluronic acid is an absolute must.
"I’ve tried many different hyaluronic acid serums, which are meant to increase the amount of moisture in your face. Right now, my favorite is Eltraderm HA. I apply a small amount of this to my entire face."
She uses alllll the creams.
"I use my Skin Bar MD Tall Drink of Water moisturizer in the day along with Skin Bar MD Spf 50. What I love about the sunscreen is that it is a physical blocker with zinc and titanium, but it doesn’t make my skin look white or ashy."
When it comes to the eyes, Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip is all about keeping moisture around fine lines, too. "I love Hydropeptide's eye cream. Its cooling rollerball massages with anti-inflammatory caffeine to increase blood circulation and instantly de-puff for a smoother, brighter under eye. It’s also packed with plumping and hydrating ingredients."
It's a yes to antioxidant serum.
"I love this product and can’t live without it. I apply it nightly because our skin naturally goes through a repair process while we sleep. The anti-oxidants and peptides in this serum help maximize my skin’s natural healing process."
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