Cornell dermatologist: The No. 1 skincare product I ‘never waste money on'—and what I use instead

It can be difficult to decide which expensive skincare products are worth the money. As a result, it is important to know that there are alternatives.

Cornell dermatologist

With more than 10 years of experience, I've learned that abrasive scrubs are the only products I will ever waste money on.

Winter is a great time to incorporate exfoliation into your skincare routine. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and make the skin look more radiant. It reduces fine lines and discoloration, while boosting the production of collagen and other important proteins.

Physical exfoliants break down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, while chemical exfoliants remove them. Choose products that offer all of the benefits without the harsh ingredients.

What is the No. The No.

I tell my patients that products with large, irregularly-shaped or jagged grains -- such as formulas containing walnut shells or fruit pits – can cause microtears, redness, irritation, and sensitivity.

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You can also use it to help you with your

If you have sensitive skin or are prone to rosacea, you might want a physical scrub. I prefer products that have uniformly shaped and smooth granules. Look for a scrub that is based on a powder and contains clay or bamboo extract.

My best advice for sensitive skin

Skin sensitivity can cause redness, burning and stinging. Certain ingredients may also trigger reactions.

You may consider using chemical exfoliants if you have this problem. These formulas usually include alpha-hydroxy acid like glycolic, lactic, mandelic, or beta-hydroxy acid like salicylic acids.

Beta-hydroxy acid penetrates deep into pores and helps reduce acne. Both brighten and improve the overall texture and tone of your skin.

Salicylic acid can help clear clogged pores if you suffer from acne. Some people find that they cannot tolerate physical exfoliants on their face but can tolerate them on their body. It may be helpful to use different exfoliants.

It is important that you limit your exfoliation to only once or twice per week, regardless of which method you choose. Exfoliating your skin too frequently or too aggressively may cause it to look reddish or inflamed, and can also cause tightness or burning.

What I use instead

My favorite products include

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

The retail price of a's is $34.

First Aid Beauty facial radiance swabs

The retail price of the is $38.

Peeling Solution Ordinary AHA & BHA

The retail price of this product is $9.50.

It never hurts if you consult a dermatologist about which product is right for you.

Marisa Garshick

She is one of the most prominent board-certified dermatologists in New York City. She is also a Clinical Assistant professor of dermatology at

New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medicine

Marisa graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Emory University, and she also holds a medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine. Follow her on Instagram

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