“Squalane is derived from squalene — the latter ingredient gets hydrogenated, meaning squalene was converted from an unsaturated to a saturated oil by the addition of hydrogens. Squalane is much more stable and therefore the better choice for use in skin care.”

"Brazil nuts feature omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support the skin barrier by boosting its lipid levels," Dr. Turner says. This helps the skin better retain water and provides enhanced protection against environmental aggressors. Additionally, this helps promote skin elasticity. While walnuts do have higher concentrations of fatty acids, Brazil nuts are notable for their high levels of selenium.

BEST FOR COMBINATION SKIN

TRNR Skin Prebiotic Lipid Nourishing Moisturizer

A dark horse in our winter moisturizer testing, this product turned out to be a star. It’s chock-full of the best moisture-boosting ingredients (squalane, ceramides, to name a few) but is also safe for acne-prone skin. One of our testers remarked, “My skin is unpredictable and, at first, I was nervous because it’s heavier than other moisturizers I typically use,” she said. “But after trying it, I actually think this was exactly what my skin needed. It was so hydrating and left my face and hands supple without feeling greasy. During the two weeks I used the product, I had the best skin of my life—no breakouts and my skin was totally calm and less inflamed.”

“Over the years, toners have evolved by incorporating additional hydrating and active ingredients,” says Ryan Turner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City  and the co-founder of TRNR Skin. “Unlike the past—when astringent toners were the norm for balancing the pH levels of oily or dry skin—currently toners offer a more diversified range of options.” 

Featured: TRNR Skin Prebiotic Lipid Nourishing Moisturizer

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This lightweight moisturizer features an airy, yet indulgent texture to deliver comforting, breathable hydration and moisture, which comes courtesy of humectants glycerin, sodium hyaluronate and sodium PCA plus emollients like ceramides, jojoba oil and squalane, Dr. Turner says. "It also features a blend of prebiotics, inulin and yacon root, which promote a healthier and more balanced microbiome. When your skin’s microbiome is optimized, your skin functions better, with fewer blemishes, balanced oil production and reduced redness and inflammation," he adds.

While it’s easy and obvious to celebrate a fully natural recipe, keep in mind that not all natural formulas are inherently good for your skin. Some natural ingredients, like baking soda and tea tree oil, might disagree with lots of sensitive skinned individuals. “What’s most important is to consider the manufacturer of the products—are they reputable? Do they perform extensive testing? What are the ingredients used and from where are they sourced?” says Turner.

“Concentrations of 5% niacinamide have been shown to [improve] skin appearance with little risk of sensitivity, though it’s always best to start with a lower concentration first to see how it works for you and your skin,” says Turner. Concentrations of 5% niacinamide or higher may cause irritation, so it’s important to remember that “more” does not always equal ‘better,” according to Turner.

While he states that there aren’t any cons to using argan oil in your hair, he does advise being cautious if you have allergies—Dr. Turner specifically warns those with nut allergies to avoid the products. As previously stated, you may need to play around with the amount of product you use, as Dr. Ciraldo notes that many of her patients developed acne near their hairline after using too much of the ingredient.

Dealing with dark spots, discoloration, redness or melasma? Tranexamic acid serum is going to be your MVP. According to Dr. Turner, this ingredient can reduce the skin’s melanin production by stabilizing blood vessels and, when taken orally, treat melasma.

“Tranexamic acid, just like other things that are acidic, can be a bit irritating,” he notes, which is why he recommends layering moisturizer over the serum. Dr. Turner also advises that you ease into using the serum into your routine the same way you would retinol. (Speaking of retinol, make sure to use the two ingredients separately while your skin is acclimating.—Dr. Turner recommends tranexamic acid in the morning and retinol at night.)

“Certain materials result in friction, causing your skin to drag on the fabric, which can lead to wrinkles as well as tangled hair,” New York City dermatologist Ryan Turner, MD, FAAD, explains. “Silk is one of the most popular choices for those looking for smooth, skin-loving fabrics for their pillowcases, as it facilitates glide, preventing snags that could occur while turning and tossing in bed, contributing to skin irritation, wrinkles, and hair breakage.”