What does a dermatologist's morning skincare routine look like?

All skin care routine slightly different. Some people product maximalists and use different serums, oils and creams to prepare for the day, while others a little more minimalist. If you've ever wondered what a certified dermatologist's skincare routine looks like, you have the opportunity to find out. Ahead, we spoke with a Vichy Consulting Dermatologist Dr. Erin Gilbert to find out what she morning skin care ritual entails (hint: the key to simplicity!).

“I like things to be simple and scientific,” says Dr. Gilbert. “There are so many overpriced and useless products on the market. I think there's a lot to be said for simple, scientific skin care, a healthy lifestyle, and plenty of sleep when it comes to looking your best!"

Here it is step by step morning skin care routine.

STEP #1: Cleansing and Exfoliating

The first step to any good skin care routine is to cleanse the skin of dirt, oil, and other impurities from the surface of the skin. “I like to use a simple, non-drying cleanser on my Clairsonic brush,” says Dr. Gilbert.

STEP #2: Eye Cream

When it comes to eye cream, Dr. Gilbert takes it very seriously. “After drying, I apply SkinCeuticals AGE Dark Circle Eye Complex “Great eye cream,” she says. Another one of her favorites: Mineral Vichy 89 eyes, who are "I have sensitive eyes and Vichy's new Mineral 89 Eyes is great as it's non-irritating, lightweight, moisturizes all day and doesn't migrate into the eyes." The eye gel also contains caffeine, which reduces puffiness and visibly revitalizes the skin around the eyes. 

STEP #3: Antioxidants

“Next, I apply an antioxidant—either Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C or SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic". Antioxidants help protect the skin and visibly repair damage, while also protecting against pollution and other environmental aggressors. 

STEP #4: Serums or moisturizer

Dr. Gilbert's next step to lock in moisture and repair the skin is with a serum or moisturizer. One of her favorites for light and long-lasting hydration is Vichy Mineral 89.

STEP #5: Sunscreen

And finally, a dermatologist's morning skincare routine isn't complete without sunscreen. “Then I use SPF of course – either EltaMD UV Clear a day without makeup or La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultralight Mineral Foundation SPF 50 in my "makeup days" because I use it as a base."