Best skin care ingredients revealed in thorough, national review

• Retinoids and mineral sunscreen among the most effective for multiple skin complaints
• Full list of recommended ingredients for each skin concern included below
• Nearly 80 dermatologists from 43 institutions participated in a robust national ingredient review

CHICAGO --- From drugstore aisles to TikTok trends, consumers are bombarded with skin care products. But how do you know what really works, especially now with summer in full swing?

A Northwestern Medicine study offers clarity, identifying the ingredients that dermatologists agree are most effective for seven common skin complaints.

Senior study author Dr. Murad Alam, vice chair and professor of dermatology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, is available for interviews to explain the findings. Contact Ben Schamisso at ben.schamisso@northwestern.edu to schedule an interview.

One of the most recommended ingredients was mineral sunscreen for protecting against wrinkles, redness and dry skin. Retinoids, a vitamin A derivative, also were highly recommended for improving wrinkles, acne, dark spots, large pores and oily skin. A full list of dermatologist-recommended ingredients for each skin concern is included below and in the published study.

Published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, the study used a rigorous process called a Delphi consensus in which dozens of top dermatologists rated skin care ingredients on a 1-9 scale. After two rounds of scoring and expert discussion, only ingredients with strong agreement made the final recommended list.

“This is the first time experts have come together nationally to cut through the overwhelming number of skin care options,” said Alam, who also is a Northwestern Medicine dermatologist and surgeon. “We wanted to help both doctors and everyday users understand which ingredients are backed by the most expert support.”

Alam added that when it comes to skin care, more isn’t always better.

“Using too many products can irritate your skin and make things worse,” he said. “It’s about knowing which ingredients are most effective for your specific concerns and are best for your routine.”

The study addresses a major gap for consumers trying to navigate skin care products, which typically don’t undergo the same rigorous review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as medications for medical conditions, Alam said.