We hear skincare advice from a multitude of sources, and it can be difficult to know what and whom to believe.
When it comes to matters of skincare, it’s safe to say you can trust your dermatologist over your favorite beauty blogger or well meaning family member.
Below, find our answers to four questions we have been asked by patients about skincare products, treatments, and habits.
Question 1
What is the difference between the medical-grade skincare products that I can find at a dermatologist’s office and the kinds of skincare products I can find at a drugstore?
The skincare products that you find at your dermatologist’s office are more potent than their drugstore alternatives.
Medical-grade products contain a higher concentration of higher quality active ingredients.
Mass market skincare products tend to be composed largely of filler ingredients that deliver no benefits. These fillers may comprise up to 99% of the product, but you wouldn’t be able to tell that by reading the label.
Higher quality products also are made in a better “vehicle” that allows the ingredients to be absorbed optimally by the skin.
This is apparent in the final formulation: medical-grade skincare products tend to feel better on the skin and have greater stability, such that the product is still as effective 3 months after opening it as the day you bought it.
The difference becomes clear to our patients, who have shown incredible results by switching to a dermatologist-recommended skincare routine.
A little goes a long way: because of the higher quality formulations, you will find your medical-grade skincare products will last you longer. You’ll also save money by finding and sticking to what works — rather than just picking up every new skincare product that promises miracles in their latest advertising campaign!
Question 2
Will I still look like myself after getting anti-aging procedures like Botox and fillers?
It’s unfortunate that those who have overdone it on anti-aging treatments (Real Housewives, we’re looking at you!) have ended up being the poster children for these popular procedures.
The truth is, when treatments like Botox and dermal fillers are done right — they look completely natural!
The doctors at our office have a cosmetic style that puts an emphasis on a very natural, fresh, and relaxed result.
Our goal is to turn back the clock a few years on your skin, not transform you into a different person.
To ensure the best results, you want a doctor who has been doing these procedures for years — not someone who learned at a weekend course or is still learning on the job.
As with most things, the more experience you have doing something, the better you are at it. You want someone who does this for a living, not someone who does it on the side.
Question 3
I keep hearing about avoiding this or that food for a better complexion — to what extent does our diet impact our skin’s health? Is it mostly what we eat or what we put on our skin that matters?
The foods you eat and the products you use both have an impact on your skin’s health.
You can nourish your skin from the inside by eating foods that are rich in healthy fats (such as almonds and fish) and antioxidants (such as blueberries and green tea), while avoiding skin irritants such as sugar and low-fat dairy. Also be sure to stay well hydrated by aiming for at least 8 glasses of water per day.
In terms of taking care of your skin from the outside, we can’t emphasize the importance of sunscreen enough! Also make sure to look for these things when you get a sunscreen, as some sunscreens are much better than others.
Pair a daily sunscreen habit with a high quality skincare routine and a regular skincare treatment schedule.
Make an appointment with us by calling (337) 235-6886 and we can help you plan your optimal skincare product routine and treatment schedule!
Question 4
I know my daily beauty routine should definitely include a cleanser and sunscreen, but how often should I be using exfoliants, toners, antioxidants, and other skincare products?
Cleanser and sunscreen are a must for everyone, every day!
No matter the weather, the season, or your age — be sure to wear SPF 30+ sunscreen on all skin that will be exposed to the sun.
This is the best move anyone can make to prevent skin cancer and signs of aging.
If you’re looking to take a more active role in slowing down the aging process, we recommend adding a medical-grade antioxidant to your morning routine and a prescription-strength retinoid to your evening routine. You can also come in and get a free consultation to find out if there are any of our cosmetic procedures that might be good for restoring your skin, or just to find out more about your skin type and what is best for you specifically.
Besides these key products that we recommend to almost everyone, other products are more goal oriented, such as bleach creams for freckles or eye cream for dark circles.
In terms of exfoliation, we recommend consulting with a professional who will determine the best product formulation and usage frequency based on your skin type.
Call (337) 235-6886 to make your next appointment with us!
Have a Question You’d Like to #AskADerm?
We hope this blog post has shed light on some of your skincare questions and concerns.
Do you have a question you’ve been itching to #AskADerm? Let us know in the comments or on social media!
