THE SKINNY

One of the most common questions I get from patients, friends, family members is, “what anti-aging products should I be using on my face??” There are so many skin care products on the market in today’s world that it can be overwhelming to pick products at random to try. When starting a new skin care routine or re-evaluating your current routine, a good solid foundation for anti-aging should include these three things: sunscreen, moisturizer, and a retinoid. Everything else – specialty serums, topical antioxidants, growth factors – is just icing on the cake. If you can keep up daily sun protection, moisturize daily, and use some form of retinoid at night, you will have a great foundation for glowing youthful skin.

Daily sunscreen on the face is a must. I particularly love a tinted facial sunscreen that can act as my sun protection, a light foundation, and moisturizer all-in-one. Ideally, you’re looking for an SPF of 30 or higher. My go-to for busy days is Revision Intellishade (matte finish for me since I have acne-prone skin). Elta MD UV Clear is a favorite for days when I know I will be outdoors and need a dedicated sunscreen that I can easily reapply.

Moisturizers vary greatly in texture and heaviness. Some with sensitive or dry skin may prefer a thicker more hydrating moisturizer such as Avene XeraCalm or Epionce Renewal Facial Cream. For more acne prone skin, I absolutely love CeraVe PM. In fact, I use this every night myself. Some moisturizers like CeraVe PM or Neutrogena Hydroboost have hyaluronic acid or niacinamide which are bonus anti-aging ingredients.

Some moisturizers have hyaluronic acid or niacinamide in them which are helpful added anti-aging ingredients.

Retinoids are derived from vitamin A and help over time improve the appearance of fine lines and sun spots. Retinols and adapalene are over-the-counter retinoids available without prescription. Tretinoin and tazarotene are prescription retinoids and tend to be stronger in effect but also can be more drying. It’s important to start slowly with retinoids if you have never tried them before to not irritate your skin. I recommend starting every third night for a few weeks then slowly working your way up to nightly as tolerated. You can certainly moisturize on top. OTC retinoids I like include ROC Retinol, Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair, and LaRoche Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel.

If you think you might be ready for prescription strength retinoids, give us a call here at Franklin Dermatology Group and set up a consultation. We are always happy to help answer your skin health questions.