The program a monthly series where we give you a peek into the most sought-after beauty program by experts and tastemakers in the industry. Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at everything that can’t live without the products that make their world go round.
There’s no arguing about it: Dendy Engelman, MD, FAAD, is a certified legend in the dermatology space. I first met him at the Shafer Clinic on Fifth Avenue, the prestigious practice he shares with David Shafer, MD, FACS. Their clinic is 33 stories high and has sweeping views of Manhattan’s skyscrapers—that’s impressive and all, but I was most impressed by Engelman’s flawless skin. Her client list includes actress Sofía Vergara, supermodel Elle Macpherson, and the multi-hyphenate Kristin Chenoweth, so I figured she’d have some hot skin care secrets to spill. Luckily, he was kind enough to bless me with his expert tips and product documentation to share with the world.
Engelman became interested in skin care at an early age and fell in love with dermatology while in med school. “It combines science and art,” she tells me. “It’s one of the few fields in medicine where I can help people not only feel better medically but also feel more confident about their appearance.” That combination of health and beauty took me completely,” he said.
In his practice, Engelman provides all of his clients with the highest level of attention, working with them to create a customized program of techniques, treatments, and medical-grade skin care to enhance their unique beauty.
If you can’t book an appointment with him, don’t worry—he’s given me the exact prescription to get the best skin of your life this year. “I would recommend a treatment that brings both immediate lightening and long-term benefits, such as Everesse Monopolar RF,” he explains. “It uses controlled heat to stimulate collagen remodeling deep within the skin. It’s great for improving skin texture, firming, and giving a plump, youthful appearance.”
Equally important, she recommends combining any treatment with a personal skin care program for long-lasting results. “The goal is glowing, healthy skin that lasts, not just a quick fix,” he says. Consistent practice trumps quick fixes every time.
That begs the question: What brands have earned a spot on Engelman’s daily list? She swears by medical-grade skincare and the pricey-but-essential Lyma Laser, but she also told me about her favorite under-$20 gems from Ulta, like Thayers toner and Byoma lip balm. Keep scrolling to shop all the favorites she can’t live without.
“The LYMA Laser is one of the most advanced home skin resurfacing devices I’ve seen on the market. What sets it apart is that it’s not your typical LED or over-the-counter laser—this is a low-level laser therapy (LLLT) device that uses 808nm near-infrared laser technology, a wavelength that penetrates the cells, reducing skin production to penetrate deeper. inflammation.”
The Thayers
Milky Hydrating Face Toner
“This affordable hydrating milky toner is a great option for dry or sensitive skin because it combines frozen mushrooms and hyaluronic acid, two powerful hydrators that help calm redness while restoring moisture for a soft, glowing complexion. It also works effectively to remove residual makeup and impurities, leaving skin clean, refreshed, and naturally hydrated.”
Epionce
Lytic Gel Cleanser
“I love that it gently rejuvenates the skin without the irritation that can come with harsh exfoliants. The formula uses a blend of salicylic acid and soothing botanicals to unclog pores and smooth the skin’s barrier at the same time; a great balance of efficacy and tolerance.”
NOW Solutions
Hyaluronic Acid Firming Serum
“What makes NOW Solutions Hyaluronic Serum stand out to me is its ability to deliver lightweight yet powerful hydration that instantly repairs skin. With hyaluronic acid as the hero ingredient, it replenishes moisture levels and improves overall comfort. It’s simple, effective, and a simple foundation to keep skin healthy and hydrated.”
Elm Bioscience
A3O™ Elemental Serum
“This serum not only helps protect against environmental damage, but also strengthens the skin’s barrier and improves hydration. A3O™ Complex, which includes acetyl zingerone, bakuchiol, and a lipid component to target oxidative stress and inflammation without irritation.”
Medik8
Crystal Retinal Serum
“Medik8 was able to stabilize retinaldehyde in a way that is not only effective but gentle. It slowly releases the active, allowing the skin to adapt. Therefore, even patients with sensitive or active skin types can gradually build tolerance, which is often a major obstacle when starting retinoids. They have different strengths, from 1 to 24, which is very good from the point of view of the patient and rheumatologic skin goals.”
BYOMA
Liptide pH Color Changing Cup Oil
“I love BYOMA’s Liptide pH Lip Oil because it delivers instant hydration while supporting a delicate lip barrier with nourishing peptides and oils. The pH-adjusting tint is universally flattering, giving lips a healthy glow that looks completely natural. It feels weightless and glossy, not sticky, so it’s perfect for everyday.”
Elizabeth Arden
Retinol + HPR Ceramide Capsules Rapid Skin Reneup Serum
“The clever thing about this formulation is the air delivery system, which is used only once. It keeps the active ingredients, including ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol, stable and effective, which is often a challenge in skin care.”
“I love Medicube’s Zero Pore Pads because they make pore care easy and effective. The exfoliating formula helps sweep away excess oil and dead skin cells, leaving skin looking smooth and refined. They’re gentle enough for daily use, so you get consistent results without irritation.”
Photo Skincare
Vol.u.lift GLP-1 4D Skin Rebound Complex
“This breakthrough formula deeply hydrates while helping to restore volume and improve density, thanks to its complex technology and XOSM.”
ISDIN Isdinceutics
Mineral Facial Powder Brush
“ISDIN Isdinceutics Mineral Brush makes daily sun protection effortless. The ultrafine mineral powder provides broad SPF protection while helping to mattify and set makeup throughout the day. It’s portable, easy to reapply, and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types.”
Don’t
Solaria Mineral SPF 50+
“This SPF works as a three-in-one product, providing the benefits of a serum, a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen of SPF 50+, and a makeup primer, thanks to its antioxidant-rich formula and soft universal beige tint.”
Clé de Peau Beauté
Concealer SPF 27
“A truly outstanding cosmetic product. The texture blends seamlessly without settling into fine lines, making it perfect not only for concealing imperfections but also for brightening and smoothing the under-eye area.”
“This is a life saver every day when I need to look awake. It’s a one-of-a-kind eye application that comes in easy-to-reach pockets. The drops work by stimulating the Müller muscles of the eyelid, which causes it to contract and lift the upper eyelid, making the eyelids appear wider and more open. It’s a daily blessing but when the TV counts all the big events!
