Dermatologist's Favorite Skincare Ingredients! Vitamin C, Glycerin, Benzoyl Peroxide, & More

[@AutumnElaine]

Dr Ellis, could you do a video on multipurpose products for a simple skincare routine? Think anti-aging & Hyperpigmentation, Acne & Rosacea. Personally, I would find it both interesting AND helpful. 🥰

[@Rubye269]

Don’t know if you did anything different in your last videos (makeup wise) but you look stunning. Maybe you could do a tutorial on this look or share what you have on your lips and cheeks because it looks stunning. 😍 My favorite ingredients are azelaic acid and tretinoin :)

[@TheM7373]

Love the excellent content of this channel but also love watching this beautiful woman educate me on all things skin care 😍 who else thinks she looks even prettier lately?

[@SuperRandomness29]

I'd love to see a video about what goes into advising for a skincare brand. How did you initially get into it? What sort of feedback do you provide? Do they actually make changes to products based off of your feedback or do you just sign off on the final product?

[@physicianskitchen]

I agree it would be interesting to know but that is probably confidential business info she is probably not really allowed to discuss

[@DrSamEllis]

Some things are confidential, but I can definitely make a post. I’ll probably put it on TikTok or IG💙

[@SB_41]

I think this has been the best content you have ever provided. FANTASTIC!!!!!!!! Thank you.

[@CindyLaFerle]

I just started a prescription for azelaic acid for rosacea -- where has this been all my life? So glad Dr. Ellis mentioned this in her list!

[@emmamcconnell-ts3ov]

Minimalist has an AMAZING vitamin c. In my opinion, a very close dupe to skin ceutticals… maybe even more elegant

[@eileenfh7834]

I’d also like to know your lip color. Very pretty not too bright or muted…just perfect!

[@bobbiek984]

You didn’t mention Timeless vitamin C,E and ferulic acid ….. very affordable and effective.

[@sailorgrlie]

Have you tried the Maelove?! It's amazing! I prefer it to Timeless because that one broke me out.

[@bobbiek984]

@@sailorgrliehi 😊 yes I have and like them both, although prefer timeless

[@rhondascott1341]

That was my question as well. Hope she answers.

[@suemazrn]

Love Timeless as well

[@yingcheng1589]

Glad to know!

[@emmamcconnell-ts3ov]

Dieux instant angel has both glycerin and urea. It is SO good. One of the absolute best on the market

[@pavot5834]

I feel like this video is preparing us for the products of her new skincare brand launching soon... and I'm so excited.

[@stephanieguillen6414]

I second the makeup/hair tutorial. You look amazing Dr. Ellis!!!

[@juliabinford6500]

I use tretanoin now, but I used adapalene for years for acne ( though it was probably rosacea) I think it had an anti-aging benefit along with years of vitamin C use. I’d definitely use adapalene over retinol on the face, if I couldn’t get or tolerate tretanoin.

[@RPBSpeaks]

I started using adapalene/Differin gel once I noticed how nice my hand looked! I would put a dot on the back of my hand and apply it to our son’s face for acne treatment. My hand looked 10 years younger than the other in two weeks 🎉🎉🎉 so I moved up from retinol to Differin gel. My skin handles it well and no dryness or redness. So please ❤

[@luna0292]

I am from Rome, Italy and we love and go to natural sulfur springs for the many benefits to the skin.

[@lui1673]

Yes, totally agreed with sulfur. Ive overlooked this ingredient for so long. Tried a sulfur facial soap a while back. It does wonders especially for my acne and extreme oiliness. Plus, it is quite inexpensive ingredient.

[@sharotej]

Great array of products at different price points! My favorite ingredient is salicylic acid.

[@drc4168]

I was afraid of Benzoyl Peroxide for 14 years! I stubbornly faffed around with ever else, for my back acne (40, f) - ive had it since 2009!! In the end, I tried Acnecide (5% B.P.) gel on the recommendation of my GP. My back acne (and hideous stubborn red/brown marks) have nearly gone after 4 months of nightly use. I follow up with La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5.

[@beatrizpr8076]

Holy grail video! Thank you very much. Just as an idea I would love a video like this but with products more available in Europe ❤

[@emilywood6830]

Great video! I appreciate the length of it and the recommendations. A little bit surprised panthenol didn't make it onto the list! Maybe next you can do a video on secondary ingredient recommendations. Not must haves, but barrier supportive

[@SHFMIA]

The best RetinAL is the Avene RetinAL

[@Crystal-eq9mj]

Benzoyl peroxide for body odor! I have always had smelly armpits 🤷🏻‍♀️ They just stink almost right after the shower. Now I wash my pits with Panoxyl 10% benzoyl peroxide face cleanser in the shower and let it sit for a minute and I am waaay less smelly!

[@DrSamEllis]

Yesss! I have a KZbin video dedicated to addressing body odor and I definitely recommend this 🙌🏼

[@Baycydney]

Yes, BUT! I was so glad to hear Dr Sam caution that it can bleach out colored fabrics. I bought some for the Huz, and he used it in the shower, and it bleached out (ruined) the very expensive (Brooklinen) towel and washcloth he used. So, thank you Dr Sam for warning people about this. And thank you also for the stunning amount of useful info in this video! (I’m really upset that I didn’t know about your practice until after I moved from the Haight to WA state!) 😢

[@physicianskitchen]

I just want to say some of your advice might not be as usual by dermatologists, at least not in my country, but it has always worked very well for me. Thank you 🙏

[@lindseycassini1560]

I love the Aveeno Calm and Restore Serum ❤

[@luvhums6294]

I agree--your make up is on point! Please share what you are wearing--loved the skin care video too!

[@Rsklausner]

I agree. I especially want to know what you have on your lips!

[@kenjui]

Really hope Prequel comes up with a well-formulated azelaic acid product! 😊

[@sandragrumet7691]

Fantastic video - thank you so much. My all-time fave is LRP’s Cicaplast line, the balm is my night cream, but the lip and hand creams are always on my nightstand and in my purse. Also love No7’s Protect and Perfect Serum.

[@CathyVaughn-ph3lr]

Vitamin C is so confusing to me, right now I am using Timeless 20% and have Geek and Gorgeous (15% I believe) for my back up when I am finished with the Timeless. I keep both in the fridge and only take them out to use and then put them right back. The Skinceuticals is absolutely not a price point I can live with.

[@rhondascott1341]

What are your thoughts on Timeless Vitamin C?

[@catnip4587]

Good point. It is the formula not a specific ingredient

[@lisa9916]

I’ve been using Avene Retrinal for years and I love it! Thx for a great vid!😊

[@stjabnful]

Dr Ellis I’m so enjoying your helpful tutorials. I’m still new, can you do a video on babies and young children - like bathing products and creams and sunscreen? Thank you! 🎉❤

[@DrSamEllis]

I do have a video on this!

[@Claudia-cr2pm]

I love Maelove Glow Maker. It really has made a difference in this middle aged mom's skin.

[@DrSamEllis]

So happy it’s working and you enjoy it 🙌🏼

[@kimcolluro9816]

This has been SO helpful!! I have one question - can you use copper peptides with azelaic acid 15%?

[@DrSamEllis]

Yes, shouldn’t be a problem!

[@shanajones6573]

LOVED this video, so informative. Thank you!!

[@eileenfh7834]

Thanks so much for this great info. I’m going to try several products you recommended!

[@pattyhart59]

Can you do a video for women in their 50’s & up. Thank you

[@farrisscollins1890]

I am rather fond of Naturiums Vitamin C formulation. I have had incredible results in conjunction with other products. I am making a concerted effort to use sunscreen.

[@Iamdunne3]

Thank you Doctor! So helpful

[@williamhernandez3561]

Great vid, really intrigued by the experiment super saturated 🧐😊🌸

[@robind.5370]

Thank you for recommending the Maelove vit C. I will give it a try. I was very loyal to Skinceuticals even with the price increase until the last bottle I received was already yellowing. I contacted them and sent a picture and they said it was in the acceptable range for their product. I asked if I could return it and they were good about that. I have used it so often that I knew at that color it would not last me a full three months before oxidizing and when it starts to get a darker yellow it starts to irritate my skin. I switched to the Paula’s choice cause I could pick it up at Sephora but I’m not sure it’s doing much. I will try the Maelove next.

[@CherylE6119]

Great video! I really like the Aquaphor spray.

[@rhondam8877]

Dr. Sam you really are beautiful! I just found you and am binge watching your videos- such great info. I am 66 yrs old with 46 of those years lived in Florida and loving (too much) the Florida sun. I am about to start the Medic8 (because you recommended!) My question is, and there may already be a video, but a video on what to layer after the retinal treatment. All of these you mentioned in this video are certainly beneficial, but of course, wouldn't add them all. Can you give a specific regimen of serums/moisterizers/oils that would complement a Medic8 retinal and how often that needs to be done for maximum benefit? Thank you for all these amazing videos, even for us mature women still trying to look a little healthier! Thank you so much!!

[@martahaces]

Great video Dr. Sam! My skin agrees with you in everything, specially regarding BPO because it has improved my hormonal acne a lot. Also love paraffin and mineral oil which as petrolatum are not very popular, but the three of them work wonders. I have rediscovered urea recently and find La Roche Posay Lipikar Urea 5+ super light and nourishing (also has glycerin and shea butter). Not sure that one is available in the US though 😅

[@danettedarbonne1804]

Thank you so much for this informative video! I learned a lot about skincare ingredients, and I'm excited to try some of your recommendations. My new go-to for skincare knowledge is your channel! Do you have any recommendations regarding plastic surgery, specifically face lifts?

[@glorialazcano5862]

Thank you I always learn so much from you 🌺😊

[@christinemack2153]

Amazing info., thankyou!!

[@maryjoobrienmoulding6298]

Excellant information!

[@mlcarv]

At the price Skinceuticals charges for their Vit C serum, I would expect an air-less package that would extent the life of the serum. Boo to them.

[@lorettas4443]

so helpful, thanks

[@tinsky0509]

Thanks for the informative video! Would like to ask your advise. Which is stronger, retinaldehyde or adapalene? I have been using adapalene for 6 months and planning to switch to either retinal or tretinoin. I have acne prone and have signs of photo aging. Thanks a lot in advance Doc Sam!

[@DrSamEllis]

Adapalene is more potent!

[@elysaxT]

Hi, can you please explain about pentavitin? The benefits of it 😊

[@shawnahare4299]

I like having more information about these products. Details do matter.

[@jackiem.259]

Loved this video

[@donnadesisto6225]

Wow, Dr. Sam...may I mention that your eyebrows look AH-mazing in this video while delivering this great info. What did you use here? Thank you for all you do.

[@CoolGirl701]

Thank you for your informative videos! Also your makeup is gorgeous! You should do more makeup videos as well 😊❤

[@deborah972]

Hi sam ellis ,i really loved this video ❤❤ xx

[@mariedolan1205]

Creepy skin on arms approaching....help...what should I b using?

[@kristenclinich6759]

I've heard bakuchiol is a good alternative to retinoids being effective and not as irritating on the skin. What are your thoughts on using bakuchiol products?

[@williamhernandez3561]

Also, Just for convo’s sake, i dont love the smell of butane that the aquaphor spray emits, although i loved the texture and treatment, that really turned me off, and Im not sensitive to much and will use most things that work and/or yield results..but wont repurchase.

[@djogrolyo]

Wanted to love the Super Saturated… and tho I love Snail Mucin, and love the Gleanser… I couldn’t stand it. It was way too sticky

[@helenorgarycrevonis2022]

Could you please do a video on home micro needling? Should it only be done in a professional office or at home? Thank you

[@carsonelizabeth9294]

Hi Dr. Ellis! I love your videos and have learned so much from them. I have a question about Summer Friday's CC Me Serum. I am curious about trying copper peptides. However, I am pretty attached to my retinol at night and my vitamin c in the morning, and both do not mix with copper peptides. I'd rather use retinol every night than alternate to every other night because of the results I see from it. I watched Dr. Idriss's video about layering skin care, (love her too!) and she said some vitamin c serums that aren't ascorbic acid can be used with retinol at night, which would fit it into my routine. One that she recommended was Summer Friday's CC Me Serum, and not only was I interested in her recommendation, but I saw that you had endorsed it on their website! I'm' already interested in this serum-would I be able to also look into the copper peptides?

[@carola3046]

This was so helpful. It pulled a lot of hanging ends together for me. I do have a question (and I am sure others do, too)...but what is your advice of denatured alcohol in foundations? I do try to avoid products that contain this ingredient. Thank you.

[@midlifemom5829]

Is highest level of Medik8 retinal close to tret low concentration? How about Timeless Vit C?

[@Rubye269]

Yes :)

[@pattyhart59]

Can you do a video on cellulite, any products that help

[@getmorecontent.]

Thank you Doctor for your gracious knowledge and you're so cute.😊

[@AnnesknForetrukne]

Hi Dr Sam. Thank you for some great content! Do you know if it is okay to use benzoyl peroxide and a self tanning product in the same routine? :-)

[@guylainedesmarais3248]

Great video! I’m wondering, how would you layer the azelaic acid with the rest of the skincare? Before or after Retinaldehyde, niacinamide, etc?

[@DrSamEllis]

I’d base it off of the textures! Thinnest to thickest

[@oliviafleites9118]

I love Niacinamide!

[@entertainment-place]

My daughter is 14 she have whiteheads and oily skin tell me about her skin care

[@mary-louwager5229]

Have you tried Timeless Vit C? I Would like your opinion on this product.

[@DrSamEllis]

I discuss it in my vitamin c KZbin video 😀

[@reneelopez9562]

What I use for wrinkles and brighter skin? Thank's

[@dawnfrye4343]

Thoughts on snail mucin?

[@weltenbummlerin632]

Poor snails 😢

[@crrrjones]

Any opinions about apple cider vineger on the face/skins?

[@kimseverson2033]

Great video! Where does the Experiment Super Saturated serum fit in your skin care routine? After Vit C…etc…

[@DrSamEllis]

Yes you’d use it as a hydrating serum! After c, before moisturizer

[@kimseverson2033]

@@DrSamEllis thank you!

[@nandinisehar]

Girl what’s up with your skin lately you look amazong

[@rtklarsfeld]

Dr Sam. What are your thoughts about Timeless CE Ferulic Serum?

[@Ohkeh640]

I get acne between breasts I’m using tret on face neck and chest Hoping the tret will get rid off the acne there. Day time I’ll apply sudocrem over then or Mario badescu drying lotion etc

[@thomashadley7907]

Hi Dr.Sam Ellis I wanted to ask you a question. Is it okay if you just wash your face in the morning to take Vitamin C serum and SPF off. And leave all these products on your face at night and especially Vitamin C serum for better effects on the skin ? Thank you !

[@alannaelayne4245]

I currently use the PurSource Urea on my foot when it gets this thick skin on it and it’s works wonders over night!! I’m currently using Maelove retinaldehyde, what strength of the Medik8 should I start? Thank you for all of your videos as they’re so very informative.

[@DrSamEllis]

Aw thank you! I’d start with Retinal 6! But still ease into it 💛

[@alannaelayne4245]

@@DrSamEllis Thank you so much!! ❤️

[@c.a.t.6165]

Thank you for this video!! Question: I just finished SkinCeuticals retinol 0.3 and want to switch to the Naturium retinaldehyde. Would you recommend starting at the 0.05% or 0.10%?

[@DrSamEllis]

I’d start at the 0.05!

[@weltenbummlerin632]

Wait, WAIT: my tretinoin cream is completely white. Does this mean that it is not working?

[@meera7280]

How to tackle sebum oxidation when niacinamide and salicylic acid are already incorporated in skincare? Are there other ingredients that work better specifically for minimizing sebum plugs? (Not acne/inflammation)

[@melissaa1540]

Hi! Can you explain why the more natural products are not your favorite? Just curious if there’s a specific reason. Thank you 🙂

[@DrSamEllis]

Mostly because there have been scientific developments that have led to the formulation of products that are even more effective! Plus “natural” in advertising is such an ambiguous term and I find it can exploit people’s fears about the cosmetic industry.

[@KarinaFaro]

Thx for sharing! Why is it so difficult to find drugstore products with urea in them in the USA? I find them easily in Brazil and in France, but not here in the US 😢

[@Claudia-cr2pm]

Amazon has an array of urea containing creams

[@tiffanynguyen40]

Hi. Can I alternate between Tretinoin and Retinal during the week? Like using Tretinoin for two days a week and three days Retinal. Thank you.

[@tiffanynguyen40]

Also, can you do a review on Brandefy Vitamin C? Thank you.

[@djogrolyo]

You forgot Prequel Gleanser, Prequel Skin Utility Ointment, Prequel Moisturizing Milk. (I’ll brag up your products if you don’t want to! lol)

[@c24jordan]

Can i use benzoyl peroxide everyday?

[@karenortiz8792]

Dr. Sam, good morning!! I have a concern for the past like 3 days I have been using the Dermabeam Pro light mask and I notice that when I finish using the mask my cheeks are a little red. Is this something I should be concerned about????

[@loriweinrib4866]

Is the over priced medical grade skincare anymore effective than these products? I never believed they were!

[@lozafam]

Where does azelaic acid fit into your routine? The prescription one you mentioned?

[@DrSamEllis]

I have routine videos here on YT that demonstrate how I incorporate it!

[@ect221]

Would you use azaelic acid and retinal together?

[@DrSamEllis]

Totally!

[@kimrrosen]

I really wish there was a facial spray that was hypochlorous acid + SPF + rose water/aloe/cucumber or something. Habit skin had these SPF misters but I think they've gone out of business?

[@dianaelias2752]

I also find Benzoyl peroxide extremely efficacious for acne...but isn't a peroxide just a free radical donor? Isn't it harmful long-term for the skin itself?

[@bachxuanquang2837]

No harm in the long run.

[@dianaelias2752]

@@bachxuanquang2837 how do you know please?

[@davidle3567]

@@dianaelias2752we have tons of studies that show it isn’t harmful to the skin with long term use. Because it’s anti-inflammatory, it’s actually the opposite :)

[@mariamorenavicente]

OMG your hair

[@CaseyFord112]

Hi Dr. Ellis! I watched your pregnancy safe skin care video right before this one and I am trying to decide if urea 40% cream is something that I could use during my pregnancy for cracked heels. My OB just follows the advice of “there is not enough research to tell me I can use it safely.” My heels are so cracked and painful. Would you recommend it being safe enough to use during pregnancy? I am in my third trimester. If not, what other pregnancy-safe heel cream, would you recommend?

[@DrSamEllis]

I used the 40% during my pregnancy!

[@CaseyFord112]

@@DrSamEllis Thank you! I love your channel! Such helpful advice!

[@micheleatkin4685]

You sound like you’re on fast forward.

[@weltenbummlerin632]

Yes, she is talking real fast.

[@svetlana.chetverikova]

Dear Doctor! Lately I’ve heard that perioral dermatitis can be linked to a herpes virus. Can you please tell smth about it🙏🏻 And one more question-is it true, that you can have rosacea in your eyes?

[@user-sh7eb7ji6e]

The video is toooo long. Can you talk less next time