Dermatologist-Approved Makeup Picks for Your Best Skin

Ever wonder what kind of makeup skin-care experts reach for? In a sea of options, packed with promises to love, protect and care for our skin, it can be hard to know what is actually worth the buy. If you’re looking for formulas that really put your skin first, who better to ask than board-certified dermatologists? And these dermatologist-approved makeup launches are gold-star recommendations.

Featured Experts

What Do Dermatologists Look for in Makeup?

“As a dermatologist, I always look for makeup products that support skin health—especially for those with sensitive, acne-prone or reactive skin,” says national telehealth dermatologist Anna Chacon, MD. “I love products that combine performance with skin-loving formulas, making them great picks for anyone looking to enhance their routine while keeping their skin healthy.”

For a makeup formula to be skin-loving, it needs to offer hydration and moisture without being comedogenic or clogging your pores. These cosmetics may also include ingredients that benefit and protect skin, such as an SPF or an antioxidant.

New York dermatologist Julie Russak, MD explains that those with acne-prone skin should avoid specific ingredients to help keep their skin clear. “I advise patients to stay away from ingredients like mica, silicones and oils, as these may exasperate existing issues.”

And if you’re looking for a truly skin-centric makeup collection, there are derm-created options, like MD Minerals, created by Monroe, LA dermatologist Janine Hopkins, MD. “The collection is free of chemicals, dyes and preservatives,” she explains. “It lives up to the ‘clean makeup promise, delivering mineral makeup great for all skin types, especially those with skin sensitivities, allergies and those seeking a natural option that still looks beautiful.”

Makeup Launches Dermatologists Love

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“This multi-tasking product contains mineral SPF, niacinamide and squalane,” Dr. Chacon says. “It gives a great sheer coverage and hydration without clogging pores!”

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New York dermatologist Doris Day, MD recommends this recently re-formulated foundation for its lightweight coverage, reinforced with hydrating hyaluronic acid.

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This serum gets Dr. Chacon’s seal of approval for its serum-like texture and soothing ingredients. Designed with sensitive skin in mind, this concealer blends easily and won’t stick to dry patches.

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Dr. Chacon suggests this BB gel cream for its lightweight and breathable coverage. “It also has barrier-supporting ingredients, which is great for dry or irritated skin.”

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Dr. Day says this user-friendly palette is a great option, and it includes four finishes for a versatile, super-blendable experience. Transfer-resistant and offering up to 16 hours of wear, this multi-use palette is perfect for eyeshadow, bronzer, eyeliner, brow powder and more.

Urban Decay Naked Shaped Multi-Tasking Eyeshadow Palette

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“This cream highlighter/contour hybrid blends easily and is free from pore-clogging ingredients,” Dr. Chacon notes. As a blush, it offers a gorgeous light-reflecting shimmer and a hyaluronic acid and kukui oil delivers soothing moisture.