Dr. Pimple Popper’s Simple Skincare Routine for Healthier Skin
It really is possible to get glowing, healthy skin in just a few steps — here's how.
Published:
3 minute read
With so many skincare philosophies out there — from 10-step regimens to minimalist routines — it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But what does a world-renowned dermatologist actually recommend? According to Dr. Sandra Lee (aka Dr. Pimple Popper), the secret to healthier skin isn’t complicated.
Her advice? Stick to a simple 3-step routine that works with your skin — not against it. Here’s a breakdown of the dermatologist-developed philosophy behind the SLMD Skincare system, designed to deliver consistent results without the guesswork.
Step 1: Cleanse
Cleansing is the essential first step — it removes buildup and preps skin to absorb treatments. Without it, serums and moisturizers can’t penetrate effectively.
Why it matters:
-
Clears away excess oil (
sebum), dead skin, and pollutants
-
Helps prevent acne breakouts by unclogging pores
- Promotes a healthy glow and skin clarity
Dr. Lee’s go-to cleansing ingredient is salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates inside pores to reduce congestion and dullness. It’s gentle enough for daily use and ideal for acne-prone or oily skin types.
Try: SLMD Salicylic Acid Cleanser
STEP 2: Treat
Once your skin is clean, it’s ready for targeted ingredients that address your individual concerns — from acne and dark spots to dehydration or signs of
aging.
Dr. Lee often recommends:
-
Retinol: encourages skin renewal and addresses acne and fine lines
-
Vitamin C: helps brighten skin and defend against free radical damage
-
Benzoyl peroxide: kills acne-causing bacteria and curbs oil production
-
Hyaluronic acid: supports hydration and strengthens the skin barrier
“You don’t need 20 products,” notes Dr. Lee, “just the right ingredients that work for your skin type and concerns.”
This step is all about customizing your skincare — choose what fits your needs.
Try: SLMD Retinol Resurfacing Serum, Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Lotion, Vitamin C Serum, Hyaluronic Acid Serum
STEP 3: Moisturize & Protect
No matter your skin type, hydration is essential. Moisturizing supports a healthy barrier, improves comfort, and helps active ingredients do their job more effectively.
Dr. Lee emphasizes that everyone — including oily and acne-prone skin types — needs both hydration and moisture to keep your skin barrier healthy. Powerful treatments like benzoyl peroxide or retinol can be drying, making this step even more important.
Dr. Lee also emphasizes daily sun protection as part of this step — even on cloudy days or indoors.
Look for formulas that:
- Are non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
- Provide hydration and lock in moisture
- Include SPF to help prevent premature aging and sun damage
Try: SLMD Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15
Dr. Pimple Popper's Simple Skincare Essentials
Why less is more
According to Dr. Lee, one of the biggest skincare mistakes people make is trying to do too much at once.
“Your skin needs consistency, not complexity,” she says. “When you overcomplicate your routine, it’s harder to tell what’s actually working — or what’s causing irritation.”
That’s why she created SLMD Skincare around a simple, effective formula: Cleanse. Treat. Moisturize. Twice daily, using trusted ingredients backed by science.
Dr. Pimple Popper’s skincare essentials
Looking to build or streamline your skincare routine? These are Dr. Lee’s go-to product categories:
- Cleanser: gently exfoliates to keep pores clear and remove daily buildup
- Treatment serum: targets specific concerns like acne, discoloration, or fine lines
-
Antioxidant serum: helps brighten and defend against environmental stressors
- Moisturizer with SPF: hydrates while providing essential sun protection
Skincare routine FAQs with Dr. Pimple Popper
Q: What’s the best skincare routine according to a dermatologist?
A: Dr. Pimple Popper recommends a simple 3-step routine: cleanse, treat, and moisturize. It’s designed to address most skin concerns with proven ingredients — no need for 10+ products to get real results.
Q: Do I really need to use all three steps every day?
A: Yes — consistency is key. Cleansing preps your skin, treatment targets your specific concerns, and moisturizing protects your barrier. Dr. Lee says skipping steps can lead to imbalanced skin.
Q: Can I use the same skincare routine year-round?
A: You can stick to the same structure, but Dr. Lee recommends adjusting ingredients seasonally — for example, using lighter moisturizers in spring and summer, or boosting hydration in cooler, drier months.
Dr. Lee's Last Word
Skincare doesn’t have to be overwhelming — just start with three solid steps. When you keep it simple and stay consistent, your skin will thank you.
