Do you often find yourself looking at the reflection in the mirror, wondering if you’re following the best steps for your skin? Dr. Mona Foad, featured in multiple Parade articles, sits down to answer some of those everyday skincare questions that often occur among many individuals.

What skincare product expiration dates should you follow?

For skincare products, expiration dates matter because active ingredients can lose potency over time. Ingredients such as vitamin C, retinoids, and certain antioxidants are particularly prone to degradation when exposed to light and air. While a product may not necessarily become harmful immediately after it expires, it may not deliver the results you expect. When in doubt, changes in color, texture, smell, or performance are good indicators that it may be time to replace a product.

What beauty product expiration dates should you follow?

Not all beauty products carry the same level of risk when used past their expiration date, but there are certain products where I strongly recommend following expiration dates. Sunscreens are at the top of that list because the active ingredients can become less effective over time. This can lead to you receiving a lower level of UV protection than stated on the label. Adding on, products used around the eyes, such as mascara and liquid eyeliner, should also be replaced regularly. This is because they can harbor harmful bacteria, increasing the risk of irritation or infection. Read more on expiration dates in Parade’s article featuring Dr. Foad. 

Is Nivea actually a good wrinkle reducer?

Nivea can be a very effective moisturizer, but I would not consider it a true wrinkle treatment. People often feel their skin looks smoother after using this product because of its hydration benefits. That being said, if you are in need of a good hydration product, Nivea is well perceived. Well-hydrated skin tends to look plumper, which can temporarily soften the appearance of fine lines. Continue reading about Nivea in Parade. 

Do you have a better suggestion to target wrinkles and fine lines?

If someone is looking to address wrinkles more directly, I typically recommend ingredients that have been shown to support collagen production and skin renewal. These include retinoids, peptides, growth factors, or antioxidants. For example, SkinMedica offers their TNS Advanced+ Serum to improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, skin tone, and texture. As one the offices best selling products, this is very effective as an anti-aging product. 

When is the best time to do my nighttime skincare routine?

Ideally, I recommend completing your nighttime skincare routine about 20 to 30 minutes before getting into bed. This gives products enough time to absorb into the skin, allowing film-forming ingredients to settle before coming into contact with a pillowcase. That said, exact timing is usually less important than consistency. If your products are routinely ending up on your pillow, it may be a sign that you’re applying too much product or layering multiple heavy formulas at once. In most cases, a moderate amount applied to clean skin and a few minutes to absorb, is sufficient. The goal is to allow the skin to benefit from the products without transferring a significant amount onto your bedding.

How early before sun exposure should I apply sunscreen?

As featured in Parade, most sunscreens, I recommend applying them about 15 minutes before sun exposure. This allows the product to form an even protective film across the skin, ensuring the intended level of protection before stepping outdoors. Equally important, however, is applying enough sunscreen. Many people apply sunscreen at the right time but not in the right amount. I typically recommend using a nickel-sized amount for the face, remembering to cover commonly missed areas such as the ears, neck, and chest. If you are spending extended time outdoors, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours. In addition, after swimming or excessive sweating, you should apply it more frequently. The best sunscreen to benefit your everyday skincare, is one that is applied consistently, generously, and reapplied when needed.