Dermatologists recommend gentler formulas for mature skin over harsh scrubs

People reports that five dermatologists and an esthetician say mature skin benefits from gentler formulas instead of harsh physical scrubs and exfoliants. “I see a lot of mature skin routines built around harsh physical scrubs or overly stripping soaps,” says Dr. Dendy Engelman of Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue, who warns such abrasive products can “strip the [skin] barrier, increase irritation, and make fine lines and sensitivity more noticeable.” The experts note that aging skin tends to become drier and more sensitive while producing less elastin and collagen.

To address that, Dr. Mondana Ghias says “formulas that hydrate, strengthen the barrier, and protect against UV damage are especially important.” They also caution against certain ingredients and labels: Dr. Maxine Warren advises avoiding coconut oil on the face because it can feed yeast and is comedogenic, and Dr.

Kate Viola warns that “fragrance-free” and “unscented” are not the same, with unscented products sometimes using chemicals to mask odors. Recommended routine components include a gentle cleanser, barrier-strengthening moisturizer, vitamin C, retinol and daily sunscreen. Product examples mentioned by the experts are Ourself Daily Purifying Cleanser; Byoma Moisturizing Gel Cream; La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer; Eqqualberry Vitamin C Illuminating Serum; CeraVe Anti-Aging Retinol Serum; EltaMD UV Clear Broad‑Spectrum SPF 45; and Spooge Dew Me Mineral All‑Screen Tinted SPF.

Key Topics

Health, Mature Skin, Dendy Engelman, Mondana Ghias, La Roche-posay, Cerave