Dr. Sarah Chen
Dermatology Research Lead
Clinical research background in dermatology with a focus on ingredient efficacy and skin barrier function. Translates peer-reviewed studies into actionable skincare advice. Believes in evidence over trends.
Areas of expertise
Articles by Dr. Sarah Chen (14)
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Adult acne routine 2026: evidence-based step-by-step plan
Adult acne routine for 2026: a dermatology-backed AM and PM plan for hormonal breakouts, with actives by skin type, evidence and product picks.
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Azelaic acid 10% vs 20%: which one do you need
Azelaic acid 10% vs 20%: which strength suits acne, rosacea and dark spots, how the OTC and prescription tiers differ, and how to use each safely.
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Salicylic acid vs glycolic acid: BHA or AHA in 2026
Salicylic acid (BHA) or glycolic acid (AHA)? A dermato-cosmetic breakdown of how each exfoliant works, which skin type it suits, and how to use them safely.
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Ceramides 1, 2 and 3: which ratio repairs your barrier
Ceramides 1, 2 and 3 do different jobs in your skin barrier, and the 3:1:1 ratio with cholesterol and fatty acids is the one with real evidence. Honest guide.
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Retinol vs retinal: which one works better in 2026
Retinol vs retinal explained: retinal is one step closer to retinoic acid and works faster, while retinol is gentler and cheaper. Evidence-based comparison.
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Cicatrices d'acné : estompez les taches post-inflammatoires
The best products for acne scars and post-inflammatory marks: which actives fade them, what only a dermatologist can fix, and how long it really takes.
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Peptides in skincare: are they worth the hype?
What peptides actually do in skincare, the evidence behind Matrixyl and copper peptides, why most serums underdose them, and how to spot one worth buying.
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Best Eye Creams: Do You Even Need One? What Dermatologists Say
A dermatology-graded guide to eye creams: whether you need one, which ingredients actually work for dark circles, puffiness and fine lines, and the best picks.
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Bakuchiol vs Retinol: Is the Natural Alternative as Effective?
Bakuchiol vs retinol, compared on real evidence. Efficacy, side effects, sun sensitivity, pregnancy and which one fits your skin, with peer-reviewed sources.
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Rosacea skincare routine: what to use and what to avoid
A dermato-cosmetic guide to building a rosacea skincare routine. The ingredients to avoid, the actives that actually calm flushing, and how to layer them.
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Slugging with Vaseline: what dermatologists actually think
A dermato-cosmetic review of slugging with petroleum jelly. What occlusion does to your barrier, who should try it, and how to do it without breakouts.
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Niacinamide and vitamin C together: the myth is debunked
Can you mix niacinamide and vitamin C? Modern dermatology says yes. The 1960s lab study behind the myth, peer-reviewed evidence, and how to layer both.
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Pregnancy-Safe Skincare: The Complete 2026 Ingredient Guide
Which skincare ingredients to avoid during pregnancy, which are safe to keep, and the evidence from ACOG, NHS, and SCCS behind each decision.
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Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin: Dermatologist Picks Ranked
Dermatologist-ranked best moisturizers for dry skin, scored by formulation. Ceramide creams, drugstore vs luxury picks, and what ingredients actually work.
Dr. Sarah Chen is part of the SkinScore editorial team. All scores and analyses are reviewed by at least two team members before publication. Our methodology is fully transparent and based on EU CosIng data, SCCS opinions, and peer-reviewed dermatological research.
See our methodology →