Name: Sophie A. Greenberg, M.D.
Practice setting and job title: Dermatology Resident at Columbia University (PGY-3)
Fitzpatrick skin type: II
Oily vs. Dry vs. Combination skin: Combination and acne prone
AM Regimen:
Cleanser: @cerave Hydrating Cleanser rinsed with lukewarm water. I use a fresh cotton washcloth each time I dry my face so that my clean skin doesn’t get contaminated with old dirt, oil and bacteria (buy packs from @bedbathandbeyond and throw in the washing machine).
Extras (antioxidants, medicines, etc.): @deciem The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12% (Vitamin C serum). Topical Vitamin C has been shown to improve the appearance of sun damaged skin both to the naked eye and on a cellular level. This one is stable (important since Vitamin C can easily degrade). It’s not irritating and at $13/bottle is great for those on a budget. When my skin is feeling dry, I will use @aveneusa mattifying fluid. I started using this after a trip to France; I love browsing beauty products and trying new things when traveling.
Sunscreen: @juicebeauty Stem Cellular CC Cream (zinc oxide based sunscreen, color: Natural Glow). It’s available in 5 shades, making it practical for those with a variety of skin tones. I remind all my patients (not just those with fair skin) to protect from the sun since those with darker skin types are prone to sun-induced melasma and hyperpigmentation. I also use @skinceuticals Physical Eye UV Defense, an eye cream with SPF.
Foundation / Concealer: I have been loyal to @armanibeauty Luminous Silk Foundation (color #2) for years. I apply a small amount of @narsissist radiant creamy concealer under my eyes (color: vanilla). I always enlist the help of those working at the beauty counter since they know the products and colors better than anyone. Before you commit to a product, don’t forget to step outside to make sure the color blends with your skin in under natural light.
PM Regimen:
Makeup remover: @cerave Hydrating Cleanser on a cotton round to remove my makeup.
Cleanser: @cerave Foaming Cleanser to cleanse the remaining dirt and oil. It’s gentle and is pH balanced to encourage a healthy skin barrier.
Toner: None
Serum: None
Extras (antioxidants, medicines, etc.): Tretinoin 0.1% cream for anti-acne and anti-aging properties. I depend on this to prevent acne flares with the added benefit of treating fine lines and dark spots. In the winter, I use it every other night because my skin tends to be more dry.
Moisturizer or Night Cream: @cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream or organic hibiscus oil from @amalthea.bio, which I also learned about in France. I love that the company is focused on sustainability, both in its ingredient selection and in using reusable packaging.
Eye cream: @vaselinebrand 100% Vaseline, which I also put on my lips right before going to sleep. I keep vaseline with me at all times, stored in old lipgloss jars or contact lens cases.
#1 Favorite Can’t-Live-Without Skincare Product: Sun protection! I love hats, sunglasses, and sun protective clothing i.e. my lightweight zip up from @solumbrabysunprecautions. I view sunscreen as the last layer in sun defense. For my body, I’m obsessed with @traderjoes zinc oxide sunscreen which rubs in very well.
Anything else you want me to add: I had adult acne which cleared after a course of accutane but I am still acne prone. I choose products labelled non-comedogenic (translation: shouldn’t clog pores) but it’s still trial and error because the non-comedogenic label is not precise. I encourage my patients, family, and friends to talk to their dermatologist about their skincare routine. We not only have expertise regarding the right ingredients for different skin types and those with particular skin conditions but can also prescribe medications or recommend procedures to treat problems as they arise.
Thank you Sophie for sharing your skincare secrets with us!
Viva Glow says
I like her idea about the towels. We should make that a thing. Her eyes are so pretty!
I like that part where she’s like
Toner: None
Serum: None
I don’t know why I laughed a bit when I read that.
Joyce says
Most dermatologists use a pretty simplified regimen! We use what works
Viva Glow says
You have a point there. lol
Some people do with just a few items while others need to rely on more products. The skin is so unpredictable! I’m so excited for your next featured MD, Joyce!
Joyce says
Thank you!
sarah says
This is great info. My derm tells me not to use toner and serums as well and to only use a moisturiser after cleanser as I have eczema on my face.
Joyce says
For anyone with eczema certain toners may be too drying, especially if they contain alcohol. In my practice moisturizing and restoring the skin barrier are key steps in treating eczema.