As one of North America’s top cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgeons, Dr. Matthew Brace has researched and personally uses his top recommended products for optimal skin health. Although everyone’s skin is different, the following is a good place to start your skincare products:
Retinol
Many treatments, serums and ointments are able to effectively mitigate specific skin concerns, however none are as impactful as Retinol. Retinol is an extraordinary skincare product able to simultaneously reverse signs of aging, improve uneven skin tone and clear breakouts caused by acne. With over 40 years of established research, Retinol is clinically proven to deliver significant long-term skin benefits. The FDA-approved chemical compound of vitamin-A works to reach deep within the skin to rebuild collagen and boost cell turnover. By helping to reveal new skin faster, Retinol leaves smoother, clearer skin in its wake.
Unlike the majority of skin care products which promise immediate results, Retinol improves skin over time. During the first month of use, skin conditions may worsen especially for those prone to acne. However with continued use, skin will cycle through and gradually show improvements. Dr. Brace recommends incorporating Retinol into your routine a few days a week, until skin becomes accustomed to its powerful formulation. At Guelph Facial Plastics, we trust the effective Retinol products from the scientifically-backed skin care brand SkinMedica.
Moisturizer
Perhaps one of the most skipped yet most important steps to skincare: moisturizer. Dr. Brace recommends moisturizing morning and night as the last step in your skincare routine. Compared to other categories of skin care products, moisturizers have a wide variety of formulations, ensuring consumers of every age and skin type can find one suitable. Moisturizing earlier in life is especially important, as providing the skin with constant moisture can drastically decrease the risk of premature aging.
Those who moisturize regularly develop fine lines and wrinkles at a fraction of the rate of those with dry skin, according to a study published in the British Journal of Dermatology. Dr. Brace recommends thinking of moisturizing as you would drinking water; your body can’t go many days without water just as your skin can’t go many days without moisture to function and reproduce at peak performance.
Sunscreen
No matter the time of year or weather, neglecting to apply some form of sun protection can increase your risk of developing wrinkles, sun damage, or even skin cancer. Approximately 7,200 Canadians will be diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer by the end of 2017; however only 14.3 per cent of men and 29.9 per cent of women apply sun protection to their face and body regularly. Incorporating this SPF into your daily skincare products is a must. To skip an added step in your skincare routine, look for moisturizers that have a built in SPF of 30 or higher.
Before you spend any extensive time outside, such as a tropical vacation, ensure you speak to a skin care professional about your skin’s needs as some people require more protection and precaution than others. Just one burn can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. For more information on this topic read our past blog: Sun Aging.
For more specific information on Guelph Facial Plastics’ recommended products for you, book your consultation with Dr. Brace.