How to Create a Medical-Grade Skincare Routine
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When it comes to achieving visibly radiant, resilient skin, not all skincare products are created equal. Over-the-counter products can support skin health, but medical-grade skincare delivers active ingredients in higher, clinically tested concentrations that penetrate deeper layers of the skin. The result: lasting transformation that’s backed by dermatologic science.
At Her Elevated Self, we believe radiant skin is both a science and a ritual. Medical-grade skincare is not about trends or excess—it’s about precision, consistency, and high-performing ingredients that deliver measurable results.
This guide breaks down how to create a science-backed, medical-grade AM/PM skincare routine using professional-quality products available on Dermstore.
Step 1: Cleanser
Cleansing is the foundation of every effective skincare routine. A good cleanser removes impurities, excess oil, and debris while maintaining the skin’s barrier integrity. Medical-grade cleansers are formulated to cleanse thoroughly without stripping essential moisture.
Recommended Products:
SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser ($39) – Non-irritating, creamy formula ideal for dry or sensitive skin.
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser ($48) – Refines texture and promotes cell turnover with gentle exfoliating acids.
Obagi CLENZIderm Foaming Cleanser ($49) – Contains salicylic acid to purify pores and balance oil.
Revision Skincare Papaya Enzyme Cleanser ($45)– Brightens complexion with natural fruit enzymes.
iS Clinical Cleansing Complex ($49) – A multitasking gel that cleanses, tones, and preps the skin for active ingredients.
EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser ($35) – Amino acid–based cleanser that lifts away impurities without drying.
PCA Skin Facial Wash ($42) – Gentle enough for daily use while maintaining the skin’s natural pH balance.
Elevated Tip: Massage cleanser for a full 60 seconds to maximize efficacy and support circulation.
Step 2: Toner
Toners restore pH balance, refine pores, and enhance the absorption of serums. Unlike old-fashioned astringents, medical-grade toners focus on hydration, barrier support, and gentle exfoliation.
Recommended Products:
SkinCeuticals Equalizing Toner ($38) – Features hydroxy acids and soothing botanicals for balanced skin.
PCA Skin Nutrient Toner ($46) – Packed with pumpkin wine extract to refine texture and tone.
iS Clinical Copper Firming Mist ($42) – Strengthens and protects the skin barrier with peptides and antioxidants.
Obagi Nu-Derm Toner ($49) – Restores the natural pH while improving the efficacy of active ingredients.
Epionce Balancing Toner ($30) – Rehydrates while reducing surface shine, perfect for combination skin.
Elevated Tip: Apply toner with your hands rather than cotton pads to avoid friction and enhance absorption.
Step 3: Face Serum
Serums are the heart of a medical-grade routine. Concentrated with clinically tested actives, they target hyperpigmentation, dullness, fine lines, and dehydration at a cellular level.
Recommended Products (AM):
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic ($185) – A gold-standard antioxidant that brightens and protects.
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF ($185) – Ideal for combination or oily skin types concerned with discoloration.
Revision Skincare C+ Correcting Complex 30% ($185) – Advanced vitamin C formula for visible radiance.
PCA Skin C&E Strength Max ($125) – Combines high-potency vitamin C and E for improved elasticity.
iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance+ ($165) – Combats inflammation while restoring clarity.
Recommended Products (PM):
6. SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum ($295) – Features growth factors and peptides for firm, smooth skin.
7. Senté Dermal Repair Cream ($164) – A lightweight, restorative serum-cream hybrid with patented heparan sulfate analog for barrier repair.
Elevated Tip: Apply serums in order of consistency—lighter, water-based formulas first, followed by richer textures.
Step 4: Eye Cream
The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of the face, making it more prone to dehydration, puffiness, and fine lines. Medical-grade eye creams deliver targeted results with peptides, antioxidants, and firming actives.
Recommended Products:
SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex ($125) – Visibly firms and brightens tired under-eyes.
SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Cream ($92) – Combines marine extracts and peptides to reduce dark circles.
Neocutis Lumière Firm Riche Eye Cream ($125) – Growth factor–powered cream for advanced anti-aging benefits.
iS Clinical Youth Eye Complex ($120) – Smooths wrinkles and hydrates deeply.
PCA Skin Ideal Complex Revitalizing Eye Gel ($105) – Dual-action formula for firming and brightening.
Obagi Elastiderm Eye Cream ($125) – Improves elasticity and reduces crepiness.
Revision Skincare DEJ Eye Cream ($120) – Addresses the total eye area, including the upper eyelid.
Elevated Tip: Use your ring finger and apply in gentle tapping motions to avoid tugging the skin.
Step 5: Spot Treatment
Targeted treatments are essential for addressing specific concerns like breakouts, hyperpigmentation, or uneven texture.
Recommended Products:
SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense ($115) – Combines salicylic and glycolic acids to target both acne and aging.
PCA Skin Pigment Gel HQ-Free ($96) – Brightens dark spots with kojic and azelaic acids.
Obagi CLENZIderm Therapeutic Lotion ($95) – Benzoyl peroxide–based treatment for active breakouts.
Murad Rapid Relief Acne Spot Treatment ($27) – Fast-acting salicylic acid treatment that reduces redness.
Jan Marini Luminate Face Lotion ($99) – Targets uneven tone and fine lines simultaneously.
iS Clinical Active Serum ($148) – Refines texture and reduces blemishes with botanical actives.
Elevated Tip: Apply only to affected areas to prevent irritation and maintain barrier balance.
Step 6: Moisturizer
Hydration is critical in a medical-grade routine. Professional moisturizers don’t just hydrate—they reinforce the skin barrier, promote elasticity, and deliver long-lasting repair.
Recommended Products (AM):
SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 ($155) – Restores essential ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids.
EltaMD AM Restore Moisturizer ($48) – Oil-free, lightweight formula ideal for daily wear.
Neocutis Bio Cream Firm Moisturizer ($188) – Combines growth factors and peptides for firm, hydrated skin.
Recommended Products (PM):
5. SkinMedica Dermal Repair Cream ($134) – Deep hydration with antioxidants and restorative botanicals.
6. iS Clinical Reparative Moisture Emulsion ($100) – Lightweight yet nourishing, supports collagen production.
7. Revision Skincare DEJ Face Cream ($165) – Combines peptides and prebiotics to smooth texture.
Elevated Tip: Apply moisturizer while skin is slightly damp to lock in hydration effectively.
Step 7: Retinol (PM Only)
Retinoids are the cornerstone of any medical-grade skincare regimen. Backed by decades of research, they increase cell turnover, boost collagen production, and even out pigmentation.
Recommended Products:
SkinMedica Retinol Complex 0.5 or 1.0 ($96) – Time-released to reduce irritation while maximizing benefits.
Obagi Retinol 1.0 ($85) – Cream-based formula with jojoba and shea butter for comfort.
PCA SKIN Intensive Age Refining Treatment 0.5 Pure Retinol ($120) – Combines retinol with niacinamide for acne-prone skin.
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Cream ($90) – Improves tone and reduces fine lines.
Neocutis Nouvelle+ Retinol Correction Cream ($158) – Delivers results without harshness.
Revision Skincare Retinol Complete 1.0 – Incorporates antioxidants and vitamin E for barrier protection.
Senté Intensive Dermal Repair Cream – Retinoid-alternative formula for sensitive or reactive skin types.
Elevated Tip: Begin with a low-strength retinol two nights per week, increasing frequency as tolerance builds.
Step 8: Face Oil
A facial oil adds a luxurious final layer to lock in moisture and promote luminosity. Choose oils that complement your skin type and provide barrier-repairing benefits.
Recommended Products:
iS Clinical Hydra-Intensive Cooling Masque ($99) – Can double as an overnight hydrating treatment.
SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel ($95) – Technically a serum, but performs beautifully as an oil-alternative hydrator.
SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator ($184) – Plumps and smooths skin while locking in moisture.
PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum ($128) – Deep hydration that lasts through the night.
EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex ($63) – Balances oil production while strengthening the skin barrier.
Epionce Renewal Facial Oil ($85) – A lightweight, botanical-based oil for lasting softness.
Elevated Tip: Warm two to three drops between your palms and press gently into the skin as your final step.
Step 9: Sunscreen (AM Only)
Sunscreen is the single most important step in any skincare routine. Medical-grade sunscreens combine advanced UV filters, antioxidants, and skin-calming ingredients to defend against photoaging and damage.
Recommended Products:
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 ($45) – Dermatologist-recommended, lightweight, and ideal for sensitive skin.
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 ($45) – Mineral sunscreen with a universal tint for natural radiance.
SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair SPF 34 ($70) – Combines sun protection with rejuvenating antioxidants.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 60 ($26) – Elegant texture that layers beautifully under makeup.
Elevated Tip: Reapply every two hours when exposed to sunlight to preserve the integrity of your morning routine.
Conclusion
Building a medical-grade skincare routine is an investment in long-term skin health. These products aren’t just luxurious—they’re clinically validated, dermatologist-tested, and designed to deliver results at a biological level.
At Her Elevated Self, we believe that skincare is both self-care and self-respect. A medical-grade routine prioritizes proven ingredients—like vitamin C, peptides, retinoids, and SPF—to protect, repair, and elevate your skin’s natural radiance.
True luxury lies in intention: taking time morning and night to care for yourself with purpose and science. The result is not just healthier skin, but a deeper confidence that reflects from within.