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What (Skin-Care and Beauty Products) Dr. Pimple Popper Can’t Live Without

Photo: Theo and Juliet Photography

You may have noticed some posts from our friends at the Strategist on the Cut. They’ll be dropping in every now and again, sharing their expertise on the basics you don’t have time to research and the weird and wonderful things you don’t yet know you need.

If you’re like us, you’ve probably wondered what famous people add to their carts. Not the JAR brooch and Louis XV chair, but the hand sanitizer and the electric toothbrush. In a special beauty edition of this feature, we’ve asked Sandra Lee, M.D. — star of TLC’s Dr. Pimple Popper and author of Put Your Best Face Forward — which products she can’t live without.

I always have this on me. It’s inexpensive and does the job. A lot of hand lotions out there are supposed to be very moisturizing but contain fragrances which actually will dry out the skin. This one is completely fragrance-free.

We all know sun protection is extremely important and keeping our skin protected is a huge part of a good beauty and skin-care routine, so don’t forget how clothing can protect you, too. These visors are great for anytime you’re outside, poolside, etc. They might look a little crazy but OWN IT and be proud you’re protecting your skin and will look years younger than your counterparts.

SPF is the most important thing you can do for your skin and this powdered sunscreen makes it so easy to put on AND reapply throughout the day. It’s a sunscreen and a touch-up powder. [Editor’s note: Beauty writer Rio Viera-Newton has written about this before.]

Many people know that dermatologists treat the skin, but we also treat the nails and hair, and since I have longer hair, it’s really important to me not to damage it by using the right tools and products. Dyson has some pretty innovative new products that aim to use less extreme heat, which actually is much healthier for our hair.

This is my go-to foundation — I have drier skin and this stuff works well with my complexion without leaving my skin flaky at all. It’s more of a splurge, but investing in a good foundation will keep your skin looking and feeling healthy all day. It’s worth it.

When I’m working with patients I’m usually more of a lip balm girl, but I do love this lip gloss for when I want more shine. It feels very hydrating, isn’t sticky, and the color is natural but not too natural. I actually hate wearing lipstick because it makes my long hair stick to my lips when I turn my head, but a gloss always makes them look hydrated and refreshed. My best friend always has to remind me to apply lipstick because she says I look “dead to the world” without it.

This is the best-selling product from my line. Salicylic acid is an amazing exfoliating ingredient and it can really help to lighten up hyperpigmentation and dark spots on the skin. It’s great as a face wash but here’s what I personally love to do: I’ll apply it like a mini-mask and leave it on my skin for a few minutes while I do something else like wash my hair or shave my legs.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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What (Skin Care) Dr. Pimple Popper Can’t Live Without