Derms Over 50 Share the Best Products for Mature Skin and Hair

Ever wish you could peek inside the medicine cabinet of someone who really has their skin care routine dialed in? Same.

That’s why we tapped dermatologists—literal doctors who’ve spent their careers mastering the science of healthy skin—for their all-time favorite products. Here, three professionals over 50 share what they use to keep their skin hydrated and their hair strong and shiny. We’re taking notes!

Shop the dermatologists’s top picks

Dr. Angela Brimhall

Dermatologist Angela Brimhall, MD, who just celebrated her 50th birthday, is the owner of Sage Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Clinic in Draper, Utah. She’s known as The Holistic Derm on TikTok, where she shares her skin care knowledge to over 36,000 followers.

Her a.m. skin care routine

You might think all dermatologists only use super spendy cleansers and creams, but that’s not what Dr. Brimhall is about. She tends to go for products that are simple, budget-friendly, and effective—especially for the essentials, like cleanser and moisturizer.

She starts her day with Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser, followed by an exfoliating azelaic acid serum, then Cetaphil’s Moisturizing Cream. This trio provides a protective barrier for her skin throughout the day, “which is essential, especially as my skin changes with age,” she says.She tops that off with Colorscience’s Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50.

Dr. Brimhall has noticed less fine lines and wrinkles, fewer brown spots, and less redness from rosacea with this routine. (Azealic acid in particular can be helpful for rosacea, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.) “My skin feels more balanced and resilient,” she says. “I am often mistaken for being in my thirties—I credit my consistent routines!”

Her p.m. skin care routine

Dr. Brimhall follows the same routine at night, with a few additions. She uses a tazarotene 0.1% cream, a prescription retinoid that helps fight wrinkles and improve skin texture, after the azelaic acid and before moisturizing. Then, she swipes on Latisse Eyelash Serum, which you can also get with a prescription.

Dr. Brimhall often gets sebaceous hyperplasia, or overactive oil production that results in tiny yellow bumps on her skin, usually on her forehead and cheeks. With this routine, her skin is smoother, brighter, and more even-toned. “These products are straightforward, yet powerful,” she says, and they help her maintain hydration overnight too.

Her hair care routine

If Dr. Brimhall’s long, thick curls are any indication, she knows a thing or two about how to keep your hair healthy. She washes hers two to three times a week, using the Kevin Murphy Hydrate-Me.Wash shampoo and Hydrate-Me.Rinse conditioner. Occasionally, she swaps in a ketoconazole shampoo, which treats dandruff.

She also deep conditions once a week with Brazilian Blowout’s Deep Conditioning Masque.

To style, she works Brazilian Blowout’s Daily Smoothing Serum into her hair, followed by Goldie Locks’ Anti-Frizz Smoothing Cream and Goldie Locks’ Signature Serum, before air-drying. These products help define her curls, while “adding shine and moisture,” which is key in the dry climate she lives in.

“I avoid all heat treatments and only highlight once a year.” Dr. Brimhall says. “I’ve decided to embrace my natural gray when the time comes, celebrating my distinguished look instead of covering it up.”

Dr. Erika Klemperer

Erika Klemperer, MD, is the founder of Re Studios, a regenerative dermatology clinic that focuses on treatments like microneedling, laser, and red light therapy. With 30 years of clinical experience under her belt, she knows what products and ingredients really make a difference in your skin’s appearance as you age.