‘Absolutely non-negotiable’: The affordable products a dermatologist swears by

Who better to ask about beauty routines than a dermatologist? Melbourne-based Dr Cara McDonald says her morning routine starts with “a gentle exfoliation, then a vitamin C serum, a lightweight moisturiser and sunscreen”. At night, she adds retinol, peptide serum, face oil and rich moisturiser. Here are some of her favourite products.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic ($258) McDonald describes this as “my forever antioxidant serum – I consistently notice my skin looks healthier, brighter and more resilient”. What’s it for? Protection from environmental hazards, antioxidant defence, brightening skin and boosting collagen production.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 ($43) “Sunscreen is absolutely non-negotiable for me. Ultra-long UVA rays contribute significantly to pigmentation and photo-ageing and this sunscreen offers broad protection.” What’s it for? UV protection and helping to prevent pigmentation and lessen the signs of ageing.

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream ($306) “I genuinely enjoy using it. It gives that deeply nourished, healthy-skin feeling without feeling heavy or greasy.” What’s it for? Hydration, barrier support and overnight skin repair.

Skinbetter Science Trio Luxe Moisture Treatment ($345) “One of my favourite moisturisers, it’s rich and makes my skin feel instantly comfortable.” What’s it for? Barrier repair, hydration and supporting skin resilience.

Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream ($240) ”This is probably my favourite retinol product. Combining a retinoid with alpha hydroxy acids gives excellent skin renewal without irritation.” What’s it for? Combating fine lines and stimulating collagen production.

SkinCeuticals P-TIOX ($216) “My favourite peptide serum at the moment, it gives skin a smooth, healthy finish.” What’s it for? Hydration, fine lines and collagen support.

SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst ($188) “This gentle serum gives subtle exfoliation without tipping my skin into irritation.” What’s it for? Skin texture, dullness and improving product penetration.

Dermalogica Phyto Nature E² Exosome Treatment ($266) “I’ve been trialling this recently and like the combination of mild exfoliation with regenerative ingredients.” What’s it for? Gentle resurfacing and skin rejuvenation.

Go-To Face Hero ($45) “I always have this. It’s one of the easiest ways to calm down irritated skin.” What’s it for? Barrier support, dryness and reducing irritation.

Rejuran Healer Turnover Ampoule ($120) “A really soothing product for irritated skin – mine always feels calmer when I use it.” What’s it for? Hydration, calming inflammation and supporting skin recovery.

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum ($76) “This is great for dehydrated skin. Panthenol and hyaluronic acid are incredibly useful when the skin is dry, irritated, over-treated or dehydrated.” What’s it for? Hydration and barrier support.

Alastin Skincare Skin Nectar ($300) “A cult favourite among dermatologists, I used this after CO2 laser resurfacing.” What’s it for? Supporting recovery after invasive treatments.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar A.Z. Gel-Cream ($66) “My favourite product for mild adult acne or hormonal breakouts, it combines azelaic acid, salicylic acid and niacinamide.” What’s it for? Breakouts, redness, congestion and inflammation.

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