Pacific Crest Dermatology's
Top Recommended OTC Products
Curated skincare essentials that are available over-the-counter recommended by a board-certified dermatologist. Clicking on an image of a recommendation will take you to Amazon where you can choose to purchase. You can also purchase at any store of your choice.
Recommendations here do not include prescriptions or medical grade skincare. These are some of Pacific Crest Dermatology's favorites, but this list does not constitute medical advice. You should consult with your medical team before starting any treatments.
*If you are looking for medical advice, click here to book an appointment.
*If you are looking for medical grade skincare, click here for more information.
*OTC = Over-the-Counter
✨Top Acne-Fighting Picks! 🧴
These over-the-counter products are carefully selected to help clear breakouts and support healthy skin. Please note that these are not medical-grade skincare products or prescription products. If you are still struggling with your skin, you may need to schedule an appointment.
Neutrogena Stubborn Acne Ultra Thin Blemish Patches
Hydrocolloid Pimple Patch
Good for covering an active outbreak without active ingredients that could irritate the skin.
Mighty Patch Original
Hydrocolloid Pimple Patch
Good for covering an active outbreak without active ingredients that could irritate the skin.
Gentle Skincare 🌿
These gentle skincare options are ideal for individuals with sensitive skin, as they cleanse and moisturize without causing irritation or dryness. They're also great for those on isotretinoin, a prescription acne medication. The mild formulas help maintain the skin’s moisture balance making it a safe and effective choice.
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser
Recommended for facial cleansing. Contains glycerin. Foaming formulation (so it can be drying for dry or sensitive skin).
Bioderma Micellar Water
Excellent for removing make-up and sunscreen. Gentle product that doesn't require a rinse afterwards. Great for sensitive skin.
Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water
Excellent for removing make-up and sunscreen. Gentle product that doesn't require a rinse afterwards. Great for sensitive skin.
Cerave Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm
Balm for removing make-up with ceramides. Good alternative to micellar water for first step of double cleanse.
Microfiber Wristlets for Washing Your Face
Doesn't everyone hate when the water runs down your arms while washing your face. This is the perfect product for the best face washing experience.
Makeup Eraser Wash Cloths
No dirty hand towels for your beautiful face. This 7-day pack has a new face wash cloth to dry your face for each day of the week. Despite what their marketing says, you still need a cleanser for your face!
Cerave Moisturizing Cream
Thicker formulation for face and body that contains ceramides.
Avene Cicalfate+
Cicalfate is a restorative protective balm. It's great for post-procedure or for days when you need extra hydration. Contains C+ Restore, which contains postbiotics & copper-zinc sulfate complex.
Rosacea-Friendly Skincare Products🌿
Explore carefully selected skincare solutions designed to reduce redness, inflammation, and irritation—perfect for managing rosacea and achieving a calmer complexion. For those with rosacea, be sure to also check out our gentle skincare section for cleansers and moisturizers specifically formulated for sensitive skin.
10% Sulfur Mask
Sulfur is known for its ability to reduce inflammation, calm redness, and absorb excess oil, making it an excellent choice for rosacea-prone skin. This mask helps target flare-ups and can be used to soothe irritation while promoting a clearer complexion.
Prosacea
Topical gel that contains 1% sulfur that can help alleviate common rosacea symptoms such as redness, bumps, pimples, and irritation. Leave on treatment.
The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension
10% Azelaic Acid suspension that brightens skin, reduces redness, and calms inflammation caused by rosacea.
Skin 1004 Madagascar Centella Asiatica
Lightweight yet highly hydrating, this ampoule absorbs quickly and can be layered under your regular skincare routine for a calming, nourishing effect. Perfect for sensitive skin, it helps restore balance and supports skin recovery.
🧴Body Moisturizers
Hydration is key to calming irritation, and using gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, and hyaluronic acid can help restore your skin barrier. Keeping your skin moisturized and protected can make a world of difference!
For Itching Skin 🌿
Struggling with itching but want to avoid steroids? We’ve got you covered! On our recommended product list, you’ll find anti-itch solutions like Dermeleve and lotions containing pramoxine or menthol—all designed to soothe irritation and calm the skin without the use of steroids. These dermatologist-approved options are great for sensitive or chronically itchy skin and can be a helpful part of your comfort-focused skincare routine.
Cerave Itch Relief Moisturizing Lotion
Moisturizer with ceramides and 1% pramoxine to help soothe dry itchy skin. Feels great if put in the refrigerator for a cool application.
Sarna Calm+Cool
Anti-Itch Lotion
Moisturizer with pramoxine and menthol to soothe dry and itchy skin. Feels great if put in the refrigerator for a cool application.
Wound Healing and Scars 🩹
These healing ointments create a protective barrier that locks in moisture, promoting faster wound healing and preventing infection. They work well for dry, cracked skin, and are especially effective on sensitive areas like the lips, providing hydration and soothing relief. Whether you're healing from a minor cut or just need extra moisture, these ointments are versatile and gentle, perfect for everyday care. Hypochlorous acid spray is used in wound care as an antibacterial treatment. And, finding the right bandage is key!
SkinSmart Wound Therapy
Hypochlorous acid spray is a powerful yet gentle solution for promoting skin healing and reducing inflammation. It is also antibacterial so it works well for healing wounds (and for acne patients).
Cut2Fit Bandages
Customizable bandages that you trim to fit your wound. Best for linear wounds. Comes in two sizes.
Dry, Cracked Hands / Feet 👣
Dry, cracked skin on the hands and feet can be uncomfortable and even painful. To restore moisture and promote healing, it's essential to use rich, hydrating products that lock in moisture and protect the skin's barrier. Consider using thick, emollient creams or ointments like Aquaphor or petroleum jelly (recommendations above), which help to deeply hydrate and soothe. Pair these with exfoliation and regular moisturizing for the best results, ensuring your hands and feet stay soft, smooth, and healthy.
Warts and Corns 🩹
For at-home care, we suggest applying an over-the-counter wart treatment, such as salicylic acid, overnight to help break down the wart. To enhance the effectiveness, gently file down the wart using a clean nail file while it is macerated, allowing the medication to penetrate deeper into the wart. Consistent treatment and proper care will help speed up the healing process and improve the chances of successful wart removal.
For corns, wearing corn Band-Aids can help relieve discomfort from this pressure related growth.
Hair Care 💁🏻♀️
Achieve a healthier scalp and stronger hair with dermatologist-recommended essentials! From Nizoral Shampoo to help combat dandruff and promote scalp health to minoxidil for clinically proven hair regrowth, these top picks support your hair care journey (just remember to keep your minoxidil away from pets!). Shop trusted solutions for thicker, healthier hair!
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (Ketoconazole)
Good for itchy flaky scalp. Ketoconazole also helps with hair loss as it blocks one of the hormones at the hair follicle that contributes to hair loss. Can also use as a body wash for dark or light spots (tinea versicolor).
Minoxidil Topical Aerosol 5%
For men and women
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