With all of the skincare products available nowadays, it can feel overwhelming to curate a regimen that is compatible with your skin type. Are you doing too much for your skin? Are you not doing enough? Although we offer complimentary full skin analysis consultations at The Spa, a good rule of thumb is to know your ABCs when it comes to skincare!

A

Vitamin A in its topical form, retinoids, promotes skin cell turnover which produces a myriad of benefits. Cellular turnover will improve the appearance of visible signs of aging, minimize blemishes and pore size, and correct pigmentation for a more youthful and even complexion. Retinol should be used nightly due to it causing skin sensitivity to sunlight. We recommend SkinCeuticals line of retinol or Epionce lytic treatments for those with sensitive skin.

B

Broadband Sunscreen. Skipping SPF can cancel your results and goals of any at-home and in-office skincare routines you are following, so this step is crucial. UV rays from the sun can cause signs of premature aging, brown spots, and can increase your risk of skin cancer. A good rule of thumb is to look for a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide, which protects against both UVB and UVA rays. Contrary to popular belief, it’s important to use SPF daily, not just when you’re soaking up some summer sun. Consider getting a sunscreen with an added tint, which will give your skin light coverage and a more even skin tone. Our team has been loving the Daily Tinted Sunscreen by Epionce or Physical Fusion UV by SkinCeuticals.

C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that provides advanced protection to your skin. It functions by neutralizing free radicals found in various environmental factors such as UV rays, pollutants, radiation, and other lifestyle factors. Daily use of vitamin C is clinically proven to reduce and prevent premature signs of aging and pigmentation that are caused by aging and sun exposure. Use your vitamin C in the morning to protect your skin as you go about your day! SkinCeuticals C.E. Ferulic or Phloretin CF are both great options. For those with oily/acne-prone skin, we recommend Silymarin CF, also by SkinCeuticals.

When you combine your ABCs with a moisturizer, you will have a proper skincare regimen! The Spa at MidAmerica Plastic Surgery offers all of these products in different formulas that cater to each skin type. Schedule a complimentary skincare consultation or stop in and say hi to our front office coordinators who can assist you in selecting and purchasing these products at our medical spa located in Glen Carbon, IL, conveniently located just 20 minutes outside of St. Louis, MO.

Written by Holly Hayes, Medical Spa Coordinator.