Here are a few tips that benefit almost everyone: retinols, sunscreen, and resurfacing.
Retinol
Retinol (and prescription strength retinoids) offers a twist on vitamin A. Most of our patients use it every day. When it is applied directly to the skin, cell growth is optimized. Ultimately, retinol can improve skin tone and texture, reduce fine lines, and boost the skin’s overall appearance.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen blocks ultraviolet light and it should be a part of your daily skin regimen. A portion of my day is dedicated to skin cancer surgery and reconstruction. As much as I enjoy performing these complex procedures, I’d like, for my patients’ sake, to be performing fewer of them. And if patients are more diligent about applying sunscreen, I will be.
Sunscreen does not only protect against skin cancer, it also has an added aesthetic benefit. Use it and you’ll notice few finer lines and wrinkles. Look for sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher and a label that includes the term “broad-spectrum.” We like Elta MD and LaRoche Posay which we carry here.
Resurfacing
Last but not least: skin resurfacing. Resurfacing helps to both build collagen in the dermis and to exfoliate the epidermis. At Frederick Dermatology Associates Center for Aesthetic Medicine , we are fortunate to have the luxury of all the latest technological innovations. Our fractional resurfacing lasers, of which we have several, can be adjusted to accommodate your availability for downtime. Many of our patients pop in periodically for low-downtime laser options that serve to refresh and rejuvenate the skin, lending it an overall healthy and beautiful appearance.