1) What is the difference between dry and dehydrated skin?
Dry vs dehydrated skin is a common subject of confusion for a lot of people. Dry skin is a skin type that lacks proper levels of oil. It often has an uneven tone, small pores, feels itchy, and has a flaky appearance. To soothe dry skin, include emollients, ceramides, mineral oils, and squalane. Products like SkinCeuticals Emollience or Functionalab Triple Lipid Restore can help fight dry skin.
Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, is a skin condition that lacks proper levels of hydration. It has a dull appearance and feels tight. One way to tell if you’re lacking water? Press upward on your cheek, and if fine lines appear, increase your hydration. Ingredients you should include in your skincare routine are hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and antioxidants. Try products like SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier or Functionalab Biolift HA Serum.
2) What skincare products should everyone use?
At Dermapure, we believe that everyone should incorporate three essential products into their daily routine. These are a Vitamin C serum (with no less than 10% L-ascorbic acid), a Retinol product, and a quality broad-spectrum sunscreen. We recommend Ellagic C+ Serum, Retinol 0.5% Serum and Sheer Physical SPF 50.
3) How often should I exfoliate?
The frequency of exfoliation depends on your skin type. For dry and sensitive skin, once every 10 days is sufficient. For normal to combination skin, exfoliate once a week, and oily skin should exfoliate 2-3 times a week. More aggressive exfoliation, such as glycolic acid chemical peels or microdermabrasion, should be performed every 4-6 weeks. For at home use, we recommend Triple Action Peel Exfoliating Pads 10%.
4) What areas of my body should I be applying skincare products?
Skincare products should be applied to your face, but don’t forget your neck, décolleté, and hands. These areas also show signs of aging and are important to treat and care for.
5) At what age should I begin using anti-aging products and procedures?
By the age of 30, your natural production of collagen and elastin begins to decrease by 1% each year. This is why it’s crucial to start using anti-aging products in your late twenties to aid in the prevention of early signs of aging. We recommend Intense Hydration Anti-Aging Cream and A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced.
6) What are my options to treat pigmentation?
At Dermapure, we offer various options to treat pigmentation. After a consultation, you’ll be guided on the best treatments or products for your skin. Treatment options include light therapy, microneedling, and medical-grade chemical peels. We also have medical-grade skincare with active ingredients that can reduce pigmentation like SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense and Functionalab Spot Corrector Serum.
7) Do I need a different cream for face and undereye?
Yes! The skin under your eyes is thinner and more sensitive than the rest of your face, requiring special support. Look for undereye creams that include antioxidants, vitamins, hyaluronic acid, and possibly a low-percentage retinol. We recommend SkinCeuticals A.G.E Advanced Eye.
8) If I have sensitive skin, can I still use a retinol product?
Sensitive skin can use retinol, but it may lead to flakiness and dryness. To counter this, incorporate hyaluronic acid and a proper moisturizer into your routine. Adjust the percentage of retinol and the frequency of application to suit your skin type. If it remains harsh, consult your skincare professional for alternative options. SkinCeuticals offer a milder Retinol 0.3 that can be used alongside our dry skin solutions.
9) How long does it take to notice a change in my skin from topical products?
Consistency and patience are key with skincare. Your cellular turnover takes a minimum of 28 days, so expect changes from new products after at least 4 weeks. Depending on the product, it may take longer to notice significant change. Feel free to consult your Medical Aesthetician for advice on what to expect.
10) Can I mix my serums into my moisturizer?
No, this is not recommended. Serums should be applied before moisturizer because their smaller molecular size allows deeper skin penetration. Moisturizers have larger molecules, which sit on the skin’s surface to lock in hydration.
11) What is the proper order to apply skincare?
Morning routine:
- Cleanser – removes impurities and preps the skin.
- Toner – balances the skin’s pH.
- Antioxidant serum – protects against environmental stressors (e.g., vitamin C).
- Hydrating serum – boosts moisture.
- Eye cream – targets the delicate under-eye area.
- Moisturizer – locks in hydration.
- Sunscreen – shields the skin from UV damage.
Night routine:
- Oil-based cleanser – removes makeup and sunscreen.
- Water-based cleanser – deeply cleanses the skin.
- Toner – restores balance and prepares the skin.
- Targeted serum – addresses specific concerns (e.g., hydration, pigmentation).
- Eye cream – for under-eye care.
- Retinol – promotes cell turnover and targets aging.
- Moisturizer – seals in moisture and supports overnight repair.
12) What is the biggest misconception regarding acne?
A common misconception is that “drying out” your skin will reduce acne. Over-exfoliating or diminishing oils can trigger your sebaceous glands to overproduce oil, worsening breakouts.
13) Are there procedures to help diminish the appearance of stretch marks?
At Dermapure, we recommend a RF microneedling series to reduce stretch marks. This collagen induction therapy involves radiofrequency and sterile needles that create controlled injury to stimulate cell healing, helping repair scarred tissue. A 5-6 treatment series spaced 6-8 weeks apart is suggested for optimal results.
14) How often should I be receiving a professional facial?
To treat skin conditions, get a professional facial every 4-6 weeks, depending on your age. If your skin is balanced, a facial once per season is sufficient. Review our Dermapure facial options on our Glowing Skin Guide.
15) Why shouldn’t I do extractions myself at home?
Avoid extracting blemishes at home. Doing it incorrectly can damage your skin, leading to scarring or hyperpigmentation.
16) Is it true that I should have different skincare routines throughout the year?
While your skin type is genetic, skin conditions can change with the seasons. For example, winter skincare may be too moisturizing for the summer heat and summer skincare has its own set of needs as well. Adjust your products to meet your skin’s seasonal needs.
17) Can my diet really affect my skin?
Yes, certain foods can cause hormonal changes that affect your skin, such as dairy and peanut products. If you notice skin issues, we suggest a consultation with one of our Medical Aestheticians.
18) Are there certain products to avoid while pregnant?
Yes, you should avoid certain ingredients while pregnant. Stay away from phthalates, sulfates, parabens, BHA’s, silicones, synthetic fragrances, and high doses of retinol, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide.
19) How can I make my pores smaller?
While you cannot change your pore size, keeping them tight and clean through treatment and proper skincare can make them appear smaller.
20) How can I tell my skin type?
A professional skin analysis is the best way to determine your skin type, but you can do a simple check at home. Tight and flaky skin usually indicates dry skin. Oily skin looks shiny and has larger pores. Combination skin is oily in the T-zone with dry areas elsewhere, while normal skin feels even and balanced.