Dermatologists Say This Skin Care Habit Is the One to Drop—and the Drugstore Alternatives to Try

Experts say the most effective skin care routine is not the one with the most steps, the trendiest labels, or the biggest social media buzz. According to double board-certified dermatologist and surgeon Whitney Hovenic, it is the routine simple enough to follow consistently every day.

One common problem Dr. Hovenic sees in her practice is patients using routines that are too complicated to maintain. Her approach is a basic regimen built around cleansing, moisturizing, and SPF—enough to support skin health and help form lasting habits.

She shared the three-step morning and evening routines she recommends, using affordable drugstore favorites from brands such as CeraVe, Neutrogena, and La Roche-Posay. The products begin at $9.

Dr. Whitney Hovenic is a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic dermatologic surgeon at Skin Cancer and Dermatology Institute in the Greater Reno-Tahoe area.

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For the Morning

Use a Gentle Cleanser

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

Begin the day with a mild cleanser that removes overnight oil without irritating the skin. Dr. Hovenic recommends choosing a fragrance-free and sulfate-free formula to prepare skin for the rest of the routine. Her pick here is CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, a non-foaming cleanser with ceramides that support the skin’s natural barrier. For readers who want something simple, she says it cleans effectively without stripping or causing irritation, and it is budget-friendly.

Add a Lightweight Moisturizer

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream

Next, she recommends a lightweight moisturizer that is oil-free and includes hyaluronic acid to help retain moisture without feeling heavy. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream, she says, is a strong option because it is light, deeply hydrating, and layers smoothly under sunscreen or makeup. It suits anyone looking for a dependable daily moisturizer without extra steps or costly formulas.

Top With SPF

Spooge Dew Me Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30

Dermatologists consistently stress that daily sun protection is essential to help guard against harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can lead to sunburn, dark spots, visible aging, and skin cancer. For the final step in the morning, Dr. Hovenic favors mineral sunscreens that blend easily and do not clog pores.

Her top recommendation is Spooge Dew Me Mineral All Screen. She says the mineral formula contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, blends smoothly, gives skin a subtle glow and light coverage, and is suitable for acne-prone skin. In her view, it makes daily sunscreen use easier while remaining affordable.

For the Evening

Gently Remove Makeup

Garnier Micellar Water

To start the evening routine, make sure dirt, oil, SPF, and makeup are fully removed before bed. Dr. Hovenic recommends micellar water for a thorough cleanse without rough scrubbing. Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water, she says, is gentle, fast, and removes makeup and SPF in one step, making it a practical option for busy nights.

Follow With a Hydrating Cleanser

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser

A moisture-rich cleanser can help support the skin barrier overnight. Ingredients such as glycerin and ceramides are especially helpful for lasting hydration. Dr. Hovenic often suggests La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser at night because it has a creamy texture, feels soothing, and helps keep skin balanced after a long day. She says it is also a good choice for people with combination skin or acne.

Finish With a Barrier-Repairing Moisturizer

CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion

End the evening routine with a nourishing moisturizer that helps replenish skin overnight and support resilience through changing seasons. Dr. Hovenic describes this lightweight CeraVe lotion as affordable and effective. She says CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion hydrates, helps strengthen the skin barrier, and includes niacinamide to calm redness.