From Exponent Founder Liz’s Vanity: My Winter Skincare Routine

I'm an industry veteran who's spent the last 20 years selling beauty products, personally testing more products than I dare to count, and professionally researching product efficacy with third-party testing. And like any good beauty junkie, my skincare needs and product preferences change with the seasons.

I've gone deep—and not only has my research led me on a three-year R&D journey to invent and create Exponent Beauty's activated serums that keep anti-aging ingredients at peak potency, they have also opened my eyes to which overall products I use and recommend. 

Here’s what’s saving (and elevating) my skin this winter. 

CLEANSER

AMOREPACIFIC Treatment Enzyme Peel Exfoliator

“I use this powdered enzyme cleanser (powdered is critical, as enzymes degrade once exposed to air and light) every evening with my Foreo Mini Luna 3.”

SERUM

AM: Exponent Brightening Boost Vitamin C

“It’s honestly the best morning pick-me-up for skin. The 10% pure L-Ascorbic Acid will brighten dullness and sunspots. ”

PM: Exponent Time Rewind Retinol

“This 0.25% Retinol serum (equivalent to a starting Rx) is clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles without irritation. I use it every night as the first layer on clean skin.”

MOISTURIZER

AM: Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance

“This is a very basic, lovely, medium-weight moisturizer that will trap in all the active goodness of your serum layer. I use this in the winter as a daytime moisturizer over my serum and under my SPF.”

PM: Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic Marine Oil-Free Moisture Cushion

“I love this moisturizer for a slightly heavier moisturizing feel. I use it in the winter at night as my last layer.”

SPF

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 - Tinted

“SPF is year-round. This one has been recommended to me by more dermatologists than I can count! I’ve worn it every single day for almost a decade. It glides on top of other products seamlessly, and the tint is universal.”

EXFOLIANT

Aveda Botanical Kinetics™ Radiant Skin Refiner

“I use this physical exfoliator once per week—or more often if my winter skin is getting flaky.”

TREATMENT

Tatcha Luminous Deep Hydration Lifting Mask

“This is so good for when you're just trying to battle ‘blah’ winter skin that’s dull, tired, and dehydrated.”

If you want to see more of my personal skincare product recommendations, check my ShopMy shelf.