Navigating the vast array of skincare products can be a daunting task, with each one promising to be the key to flawless skin. However, a recent study surveyed 62 top cosmetic dermatologists across 43 institutions. Out of 318 possible ingredients, only 23 earned approval from these experts for treating seven common skin concerns. The standout winner? Retinoids, the vitamin A derivatives long recommended by dermatologists for their multifaceted benefits like treating fine lines, acne, dark spots, large pores, and oily skin. Nearly every expert also emphasized the non-negotiable importance of daily sunscreen, both mineral and chemical, for preventing aging and redness. Conspicuously absent were many trendy ingredients promoted on social media, as dermatologists prioritized proven efficacy over marketing hype. This underscores the gap between what influencers tout and what science has validated. (StudyFinds)