There’s nothing like getting an expert’s take. This is why at home, especially on days in between dermatologist’s/ specialist’s appointments, we want to find something that is almost like that professional treatment. I believe that’s the goal of any skincare routine anyway: to be able to look and feel like you’re getting nothing but the best care 24/7.

It takes some time to perfect that at-home routine. Our skin and cosmetic needs undergo various changes, and we can’t help but get curious about new trends. The only way about it is to try and test them. I offer below five beauty products that have proved to be good companions through extended days indoors.

Dr. Dennis Gross Universal Daily Peel

I’m a fan of a good ol’ chemical peel. The sting and sensitivity you experience are worth the glow and smoothness you get as the days go by. The Dr. Dennis Gross Universal Daily Peel gives you a safe at-home exfoliating peel. It’s a two-step routine neatly packed in pre-soaked towelettes. The first step is the Exfoliate & Smooth that delivers five AHA/BHAs. The second step is the Anti-Aging Neutralize after letting the Exfoliate & Smooth do its work for two minutes. You won’t notice any visible peeling, but overnight, I’ve noticed smoother skin and lighter dark spots. Available via Sephora PH

FOREO UFO Smart Mask Treatment

At-home LED facials are aplenty these days, but there’s nothing like Foreo’s UFO, in my opinion. The fits-in-your-palm device carries various LED settings (red, blue, violet) that you can play around with to your preference through the FOREO app.

What I appreciate the most is the pre-programmed routines, ideally matched with the different FOREO sheet masks. You’ll find how the UFO is a sophisticated device that alternates heating and cooling sensations with the light treatment for an at-home facial that’s top caliber. If you’ve run out of the FOREO sheet maks, this works too over any sheet maks you have on hand. Available via Lazada

White Republic Teeth Whitening Kit

You don’t realize how discolored your teeth were until you notice a visible whiteness after just a few uses of the White Republic Teeth Whitening Kit.

This is best used at night or if you have some time to kill in your morning routine. After brushing your teeth and mouthwash, flash your biggest smile and wipe your teeth dry with tissue paper. Apply the whitening solution pen, secure the mouthpiece over your chompers, and then plug it into your phone. In 16 minutes—a good amount of time to spend in TikTok blackhole—the device will automatically turn off. Ta-da!

It’s advised to use it for 10 days consecutively so that you can achieve the whitest smile. I also like this kit is the Desensitizing Gel Pen, just if your teeth feel a little funny after. White Republic also offers an Activated Charcoal Floss should you want to care for your smile just a bit more. Available online

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Exfoliating Body Treatment

Forget about those body scrubs with granules that can cause micro-tears in the skin. If you want to give your body the same intense care you give to your face, I suggest adding this to cart. After a shower and when your skin is dry, use Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Exfoliating Body Treatment towelette to exfoliate your entire body. There will be a little sting, especially if you’re a first-time user. But I noticed the morning after I first used this how much smoother my skin was as I applied my sunblock. I also noted how it helps improve the texture and tone of rough elbows and knees. Available via Sephora PH

SNAILWHITE Glow Body Brush

Dry brushing is something I first tried at The Farm at San Benito. I was skeptical when I first heard about it, but I couldn’t stop recommending it when the treatment was over. These days, where the lack of touch has done nothing for us inside and out, the tingles this dry brush brings makes you feel good. I like using this after a shower for a physical yet gentle exfoliation that also doubles as a massage. Available via Shopee