Derm Diaries: "I'm A Dermatologist With Oily, Acne-Prone Skin—Here's Exactly What I Use"

Chelsea Burns

July 11, 2020 12:33 PM

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 woesand solutionsso you can steal secrets from their skincare routines.

Inside A Derm's Acne-Prone Skincare Routine

DiAnne Davis, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist based in Houston, got interested in dermatology after dealing with adult acne. "My number one skin issue was acne, which I started developing in my 20s," says Dr. Davis. "I had a combination of inflammatory and cystic acne where I would get deep, tender pimples under my skin." She sought the help of a dermatologist and got her pimple-prone skin under control with a combination of oral and topical antibiotics as well as a topical retinoid regimen.

Although Dr. Davis has since switched up her routine (she swapped antibiotics for spironolactone), she still deals with oily, sensitive skin as well as hyperpigmentation and hormonal breakouts. Here's exactly what she uses to keep it all under control.

She uses a salicylic acid cleanser.

"It helps to invigorate my skin in the morning."

She uses a peptide-rich serum to boost collagen.

"This contains tri-hex technology (a proprietary blend of peptides) that helps skin turnover and the production of new collagen and elastin. Plus, the dimethicone in this product smoothes over my skin like a primer."

She opts for a "smart" moisturizer.

"This moisturizer has IQ-adaptive technology that allows for it to adjust to what my skin needs in different environments. This is key for me in a city like Houston, TX where there is a lot of humidity."

Her sunscreen has skin benefits too.

"This SPF uses the same tri-hex technology I mentioned above, so I'm getting skincare benefits, plus it matches my skin tone well, and contains iron oxide that protects my skin from visible light."

Her nightly cleanser uses a mix of chemical exfoliators.

"This cleanser uses alpha and beta hydroxy acids to remove dead skin cells and gives my complexion a boost."

She uses a prescription strength retinoid.

"I use Tazorac and it helps to prevent any new acne lesions and controls oil production. It also keeps my skin tone even and helps build collagen and prevent fine lines and wrinkles."

Hydration is key for her eye creams.

"This eye cream is very hydrating, which is what you want to help with crepey, fine lines under the eyes."

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Chelsea Burns