The $4.99 lip balm and the most underrated drugstore products: Leading dermatologist’s must-haves
Updated
We live in a time when beauty, skincare, and haircare products are recommended left, right, and centre.
It’s important to find affordable products that work, from the experts who know what they’re talking about.
We spoke to leading Australian dermatologist and founder of Doctor Shammi, Dr Shammi Theesan about her favourite hydration, SPF, skin products.
Make smart shopping choices with expert-led advice. ODE Dermatology
NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.
The most underrated product
Avène Thermal Spring Water Spray
Dermatologist approved drugstore products Amazon
This is one of the most underrated products in skincare. It helps calm and soothe irritated or sensitive skin, particularly after in-clinic treatments or during the warmer months when skin can feel inflamed. I also love it as a refreshing mist throughout the day because it allows you to cool and hydrate the skin. A personal tip: I like to apply it before my hyaluronic acid serum, as hyaluronic acid performs best when applied to slightly damp skin.
Drugstore beauty pick
Goat Moisturising Lip Balm SPF 50+
Dermatologist approved drugstore products Chemist Warehouse
It’s a simple but highly effective product that keeps the lips hydrated, smooth and visibly plump while providing broad-spectrum sun protection. Many people are diligent about applying SPF to their face but completely overlook their lips, which are particularly vulnerable to UV damage. This product makes sun protection effortless.
The swear by SPF
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Fluid SPF 50+
Dermatologist approved drugstore products Amazon
Zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation, helping to prevent sun damage and reduce photoageing. I particularly like zinc-based sunscreens because they are anti-inflammatory, making them an excellent option for people with conditions such as rosacea and melasma, where minimising inflammation is important. It provides effective daily protection while remaining suitable for sensitive skin types.
Winter skin hydration
Avène Hyaluron Activ B3 Multi-Intensive Night Cream
Dermatologist approved drugstore products Amazon
During winter, the skin often requires additional support to maintain hydration and barrier function. This rich night cream delivers intense hydration, leaving the skin feeling plump, nourished and refreshed by morning. It also contains Retinol, making it an excellent option for those concerned about signs of ageing and loss of skin vitality.
Affordable anti-ageing
Dr. LeWinn’s Marine Collagen Peptide Inner Beauty Liquid Shot 10 Pack
Dermatologist approved drugstore products Oz Hair and Beauty
Healthy ageing isn’t just about what you apply topically; it’s also about supporting the skin from within. This formula contains 10,000mg of clinically trialled marine collagen peptides in a convenient daily shot. While collagen supplements aren’t a replacement for a comprehensive skincare routine, they can be a valuable addition to an overall healthy ageing strategy.
Everyday cleanser
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Dermatologist approved drugstore products Amazon
It’s a longstanding dermatologist favourite for good reason. It effectively cleanses the skin without disrupting the skin barrier or stripping away essential moisture. Its gentle formulation makes it suitable for virtually all skin types, including sensitive, dry and eczema-prone skin, making it an excellent everyday cleanser.
For hair growth and scalp care
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 2%
Dermatologist approved drugstore products Amazon
A healthy scalp is fundamental to healthy hair growth. Persistent dandruff and scalp inflammation can contribute to increased hair shedding over time, so addressing these concerns early is important.
Nizoral contains ketoconazole, an antifungal ingredient that effectively targets dandruff while helping reduce scalp inflammation. There is also evidence that ketoconazole may have beneficial effects in early male and female pattern hair loss by reducing the activity of DHT at the level of the scalp follicles.
This makes it one of my go-to recommendations for clients experiencing a flaky, irritated scalp or early signs of hair thinning.
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