Vitamin C serums are one of the most effective tools for brightening skin, fading dark spots, and defending against environmental damage, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to see results. Dr. Alexandra Bowles, as featured in Allure, shares her top drugstore picks and explains exactly what to look for when shopping for an affordable vitamin C serum. From sensitive skin to acne-prone complexions, there’s an option that works for nearly every skin type.

What are your favorite drugstore vitamin C serums? 

When recommending drugstore vitamin C serums, I look for formulas that balance potency with skin tolerance and good formulation science. La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum is a standout. It uses a pure form of vitamin C at a meaningful concentration and is paired with soothing ingredients that help reduce irritation, which is especially helpful for aging or sensitive skin. CeraVe Vitamin C Serum is another great option because it combines vitamin C with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, so it not only brightens but also supports the skin’s moisture barrier. For patients who want a stronger brightening effect and are comfortable with a bit more intensity, The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres offers an effective, affordable way to address dullness and texture. Each of these is accessible, well-tolerated by many skin types, and delivers antioxidant support without the higher cost of prestige formulas.

What should you keep in mind when shopping for a drugstore vitamin C serum?

When you’re choosing a drugstore vitamin C serum, there are a few key things to consider to get the best results. First, consider the form of vitamin C: Pure L-ascorbic acid is powerful but can be unstable and irritating at higher doses, while derivatives like magnesium ascorbyl phosphate or ascorbyl glucoside tend to be gentler. Packaging matters too: vitamin C can degrade when exposed to light and air, so an opaque, airtight container is ideal. It’s also helpful when a serum includes supportive ingredients like hyaluronic acid or antioxidants like vitamin E to stabilize the formula and reduce potential irritation. Lastly, think about your skin type. Some formulas are better suited to dry or sensitive skin when combined with hydrating agents, whereas others may be more appropriate for oilier skin.

What is the difference between a drugstore vitamin C serum and a more expensive option?

The biggest differences between drugstore vitamin C serums and higher-end options typically come down to formulation sophistication and ingredient synergy. More expensive serums may use patented blends, more stable or advanced derivatives of vitamin C, and additional antioxidants or peptides that enhance long-term benefits for aging or firming. They may also incorporate delivery technologies that improve absorption with less irritation. Drugstore serums, on the other hand, tend to focus on well-studied, straightforward ingredients that still work but may not have those additional layers of technology or complementary actives. That said, many drugstore options are very effective, especially when used consistently, and offer great value for addressing concerns like dullness, uneven tone, and early signs of aging, particularly when paired with diligent sunscreen use.

Should acne-prone skin be using drugstore vitamin C serums?

Yes, acne-prone skin can absolutely benefit from vitamin C serums, including those available at drugstore price points, as long as the formula is appropriate for your skin. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps calm inflammation, support healing after breakouts, and fade post-inflammatory dark spots without clogging pores. For acne-prone skin, I recommend choosing serums that are non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and paired with soothing or barrier-supportive ingredients like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid. It’s also smart to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase use as tolerated to avoid irritation that can worsen breakouts. With consistent application, and always combined with sunscreen, a gentle vitamin C serum can be a valuable part of a clear-skin routine.

 

 

Salicylic acid is a skincare ingredient that can be great for those struggling with acne, without being too harsh for those with sensitive skin. Discover top product picks, other ingredients to look out for, and who should be using it with Dr. Alexandra Bowles, featured in Allure.

What are your favorite salicylic acid serums and why?

I like serums that balance effectiveness with skin-barrier support. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Serum is a great option, especially for patients with sensitive or acne-prone skin, because it combines salicylic acid with soothing ingredients like niacinamide. Skinmedica’s Acne Clarifying treatment is a classic because it’s well-studied, consistently formulated, and effective at unclogging pores without unnecessary fillers. It also incorporates niacinamide for extra calming. For those who prefer a gentler approach, The Inkey List Beta Hydroxy Acid Serum offers effective pore-clearing benefits at an accessible price point. The best serums are ones that exfoliate while maintaining hydration and minimizing irritation.

What other ingredients should you look out for in salicylic acid serums?

I always encourage patients to look for supportive ingredients that reduce irritation and strengthen the skin barrier. Niacinamide helps calm redness and regulate oil to production, making it a great pairing. Hyaluronic acid or glycerin helps counteract dryness and maintain hydration. Ceramides and panthenol support barrier repair, which is especially important if you’re using exfoliating acids regularly. Antioxidants like green tea extract can also help soothe inflammation and protect the skin.

Is there a concentration in Over-The-Counter products that is standard? 

Most over-the-counter salicylic acid products are formulated between 0.5% and 2%, with 2% being the maximum allowed in OTC skincare in the U.S. For many people, 2% is effective and well-tolerated, but higher percentages don’t necessarily mean better results. Lower concentrations can work well for sensitive or dry skin types when used consistently. The vehicle of the product, whether it’s a serum, toner, or cleanser, often matters just as much as the percentage. Using the right formulation at the right frequency is more important than chasing higher numbers.

Who should use salicylic acid serums? 

Salicylic acid serums are especially beneficial for people with oily, acne-prone, or combination skin, as well as those struggling with blackheads, clogged pores, or breakouts along the T-zone. Because salicylic acid is oil-soluble, it penetrates deep into pores, making it ideal for congestion-related acne. Some patients with sensitive skin can also use it, but they should start slowly and choose formulations with soothing ingredients. It may not be the best choice for very dry, eczema-prone, or compromised skin barriers unless guided by a dermatologist. As with any active ingredient, personalization and moderation are key to seeing results without irritation.

 

Crepey skin can benefit from targeted care that addresses texture, firmness, hydration, and pigmentation. From retinol treatments to gentle barrier-repair options, discover Dr. Alexandra Bowles’ top picks that help improve skin resilience and appearance across different needs and budgets, featured in Allure’s article.

Best With Retinol: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream 

This is one of my favorite options for patients who want visible improvement in crepey skin texture and firmness. Murad’s retinol is thoughtfully formulated with time-release technology, which helps stimulate collagen and improve skin elasticity while minimizing irritation. When used consistently on areas like the arms, knees, or chest, it can noticeably smooth thin, crinkled skin over time. I also appreciate that it’s paired with hydrating ingredients to support the skin barrier, which is especially important when treating body skin with retinoids.

Best for Sun Spots: SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense 

Crepey skin often goes hand in hand with sun damage, and addressing pigmentation is key to overall skin quality. This formula combines tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and antioxidants to help fade discoloration while supporting skin tone uniformity. Over time, reducing visible sun spots can make the skin appear thicker, healthier, and more resilient. I like this option because it treats pigmentation without aggressive exfoliation, making it suitable for long-term use on sun-exposed areas like the arms and chest.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Avène XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Balm

For patients with crepey skin who also have sensitivity, eczema, or frequent irritation, barrier repair is essential. This balm focuses on restoring lipids and calming inflammation rather than aggressively resurfacing the skin. When the skin barrier is healthy, crepiness often becomes less noticeable because the skin can retain moisture more effectively. This is a great option for anyone who cannot tolerate retinoids or acids but still wants improvement in texture and comfort.

Best for Redness: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Cream

Redness and crepey texture often coexist, especially in mature or reactive skin. This formula helps calm visible redness while deeply hydrating and strengthening the skin barrier. I recommend it because it supports long-term skin health rather than offering a short-term cosmetic fix. With consistent use, skin looks smoother, more supple, and less fragile, all of which help improve the appearance of crepiness.

Best for Dry Skin: Eucerin UreaRepair PLUS 10% Urea Lotion

Severe dryness can exaggerate crepey skin, making lines and thinning more apparent. Urea is an excellent ingredient because it both hydrates and gently softens rough, dehydrated skin. This formula improves moisture retention while subtly improving texture, which can make skin appear smoother and more resilient. I would recommend this for patients who need intensive hydration but want something that still actively improves skin quality.

Best Luxury: SkinMedica Firm & Tone Body Cream

For those looking for a luxury option, this is a beautifully formulated cream that focuses on skin regeneration and barrier support. It uses retinol and caffeine as well as nourishing ingredients to help improve firmness, hydration, and overall skin resilience. While luxury products are not necessary to see results, this one stands out for its elegant texture and ability to make skin feel visibly smoother and more conditioned with consistent use. It’s particularly nice for mature skin that needs both comfort and long-term support.

Best Drugstore: CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream 

This is an excellent, accessible option that I would recommend for treating crepey skin on a budget. It contains peptides, ceramides, and niacinamide, all of which support collagen production and barrier repair. When used regularly on areas like the arms or legs, it can help improve skin texture and hydration without irritation. It’s a great example of how effective skincare doesn’t need to be expensive to deliver meaningful results.

Dryness, flaking, itchiness, and excess oil are common scalp concerns that can affect both hair health and comfort. Scalp serums work by delivering targeted ingredients directly to the scalp. They can restore balance, soothe irritation, and support healthier hair growth over time. Find out which is best for your scalp with Dr. Alexandra Bowles, featured in Parade.

 

 

What are common scalp issues and how can serums help?

Many people deal with dryness, flaking, itchiness, excess oil, and inflammation, and these issues can significantly affect how healthy the hair looks and feels. Scalp serums are helpful because they deliver targeted ingredients directly to the scalp, which is where most problems start. A hydrating serum can restore the skin barrier and calm dryness, while clarifying formulas reduce buildup and excess oil. There are also serums designed to soothe inflammation or support the hair growth cycle. I encourage patients to think of scalp serums the same way they think about skincare for the face. Consistent, targeted care helps create the healthiest foundation for hair to grow.

How do you apply a scalp serum?

When applying, it’s important to place the product directly on the scalp rather than on the hair itself. Most serums come with a dropper that allows you to part the hair in sections and apply the product right at the root. After that, gently massaging with your fingertips for 30 to 60 seconds helps increase absorption and stimulates circulation. Some formulas work best on a damp scalp after washing, while others are designed for use on a dry scalp. As with most treatments, consistency is what delivers the best long-term results.

What are some of the best scalp serums out there? 

There are several effective scalp serums that I often recommend, and the right choice depends on a person’s specific concern. Nutrafol Women’s Hair Serum is a lightweight option that helps support stronger, healthier-looking hair. Divi Scalp Serum is a popular formula that combines amino acids, caffeine, and rosemary oil to nourish the scalp and improve the look of thinning hair. HAIRtamin Scalp Serum is another reliable option for people who want to soothe dryness while supporting thicker hair growth. For those dealing with dryness or flaking, Pacifica Scalp Love Rosemary Mint Serum offers gentle soothing ingredients that calm irritation. Odele Rejuvenating Scalp Serum, made with rosemary and vitamin E, is a simple and fragrance-free option that helps maintain a balanced, healthy scalp environment. Each of these works well when used consistently and chosen based on the individual’s main scalp concern.

What do people need to know about their scalps?

People are often surprised to learn that the scalp is skin and needs consistent care just like the rest of the body. A healthy scalp sets the stage for healthy hair growth, and issues such as flaking, inflammation, or excess oil can interfere with the hair growth cycle over time. The scalp also has its own microbiome, which means that harsh products or over-cleansing can disrupt its natural balance and lead to irritation or discomfort. Paying attention to changes like increased shedding, dryness, or itchiness can offer early clues that the scalp needs a different approach. Treating the scalp thoughtfully can make a noticeable difference in the overall health and appearance of the hair.

What do scalp serums treat?

Scalp serums can help with many different concerns, including dryness, itching, flaking, excess oil, and product buildup. Some formulas focus on hydrating and soothing the scalp, while others gently exfoliate dead skin cells or support a healthier hair growth cycle. There are also serums created specifically to improve the appearance of thinning hair. They nourish the follicles and promote a balanced environment for growth. While no single serum can fix every issue, choosing one that targets your main concern and using it consistently can help. 

 

Collagen masks are a popular go-to for instantly refreshing tired, dry, or stressed skin. While they don’t replace your skin’s natural collagen, they work by deeply hydrating and temporarily plumping the skin, leaving it smoother, more comfortable, and visibly revitalized. Learn more about how to utilize them best and some of Dr. Alexandra Bowles’ recommendations, featured in Parade.

What is the benefit of a collagen mask?

Collagen masks can offer immediate, visible skin benefits, particularly in terms of hydration, plumpness, and overall skin comfort. While topical collagen does not penetrate deeply enough to replace the body’s natural collagen, these masks help improve the appearance of fine lines by drawing moisture into the skin and supporting the skin barrier. Many patients notice their skin looks smoother, more supple, and refreshed after use, especially if their skin is dry or stressed. Collagen masks can also enhance short-term firmness by reducing dehydration-related creasing. They are especially helpful before events or travel, when the skin may be more prone to dryness. 

How does a collagen mask work?

Collagen masks primarily work by acting as a humectant-rich occlusive layer on the skin. The collagen molecules sit on the surface, helping to bind water and prevent moisture loss while the mask is in place. This creates a temporary plumping effect, which can soften the look of fine lines and improve skin texture. Many collagen masks are also formulated with additional hydrating or soothing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or peptides, which further support the skin barrier. The mask itself helps drive these ingredients into the skin more effectively by limiting evaporation. The result is skin that appears more hydrated, smoother, and healthier immediately after use.

What is the difference between a collagen mask and other types of masks?

Collagen masks are best thought of as hydration-focused treatments, whereas other masks may target exfoliation, oil control, or acne. Clay or charcoal masks, for example, are designed to absorb excess oil and impurities, which can be helpful for acne-prone skin but drying for others. Exfoliating masks focus on resurfacing the skin, which may improve texture over time but can cause irritation if overused. Collagen masks, on the other hand, are typically gentle and well-tolerated, making them suitable for sensitive or dehydrated skin types. They are ideal when the goal is comfort, plumping, and glow rather than deep treatment. In practice, collagen masks complement other masks rather than replace them.

What are some collagen mask products you recommend?

• SK-II Facial Treatment Mask: This is a higher-end option that delivers intense hydration and visible radiance. It’s well-suited for dull or tired skin and works nicely before special occasions.
• Dr. Jart+ Dermask Intra Jet Firming Solution: This mask combines collagen with peptides to help temporarily firm and smooth the skin. It’s a good option for patients concerned with early signs of aging.
• Peter Thomas Roth FirmX Collagen Hydra-Gel Face & Eye Patches: These gel-based patches are effective for targeting fine lines and dehydration, particularly around the eyes and smile lines.
• Mediheal Collagen Impact Essential Mask: This is a more affordable option that provides reliable hydration and plumping. It’s easy to incorporate into a regular skincare routine.
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrogel Mask: While not collagen-only, this mask pairs collagen-supportive hydration with hyaluronic acid, making it an accessible drugstore option for dry skin.
• Augustinus Bader The Face Mask: This is a luxury option that supports barrier repair and hydration, along with collagen-plumping benefits. It’s best suited for very dry or compromised skin.

 

Red light therapy has become a popular, science-backed addition to both skincare and wellness routines. By using low-level wavelengths of light, this gentle treatment helps support healthier skin, reduce inflammation, and promote overall cellular function. Learn about the benefits, how to use it, and whether at-home devices are worth considering with Dr. Alexandra Bowles‘, featured in Harper’s Bazaar.

What are some of the benefits of red light therapy on the body?

Red light therapy can be a wonderful addition to a skincare or wellness routine because it gently encourages your cells to function at their best. The light works at a low wavelength to help calm inflammation, support collagen production, and improve overall skin radiance. Many patients notice that their skin looks smoother and more even. Some also experience faster healing after irritation or breakouts. Beyond the skin, red light therapy can be soothing for sore muscles and stiff joints because it helps boost circulation in targeted areas. What I love about this treatment is that it’s non-invasive, comfortable, and safe for most people. It’s not meant to replace other treatments, but it can be a great tool for healthier skin and overall wellness.

How should it be used?

Red light therapy works best when it’s done consistently and in short, steady sessions. Most patients do well using their device several times a week, usually between 2 and 5 sessions, depending on the device and their goals. Each treatment typically lasts around 10–20 minutes. At-home devices may take a little longer since they’re gentler than in-office equipment. What’s most important is pacing yourself and allowing the benefits to build gradually over several weeks. You should always follow your device’s instructions closely and make small adjustments based on how your skin feels. If your skin starts to feel warm, irritated, or overly sensitive, it’s a good idea to shorten sessions.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Red light therapy is generally very safe, which is one reason so many patients enjoy using it. Most people don’t experience any side effects at all, and when they do occur, they’re usually mild.   Patients with very sensitive or reactive skin should start slowly, just to make sure their skin tolerates the treatment well. It’s also important to protect your eyes, especially if you’re using a stronger professional device or a mask that sits close to the face. While it’s a low-risk treatment, a quick conversation with a dermatologist can help ensure it fits well within your routine.

Are there any at-home devices you recommend?

There are several at-home red light devices I recommend because they use safe wavelengths and are backed by good technology. Brands such as Omnilux, CurrentBody, and LightStim offer FDA-cleared options that deliver a controlled dose of red light without overheating or irritating the skin. These devices are lightweight and easy to use. They’re designed so that people can incorporate them into their schedules without much effort. The results are more gradual compared to in-office treatments, but with consistent use, many patients notice brighter, calmer, more refreshed-looking skin. I especially appreciate that these devices take a gentle approach while still offering meaningful benefits.