New Cosmetic Technologies | As Featured in Dermasphere Podcast

Are you curious about the latest and greatest cosmetic technologies? Dr. Alexandra Bowles shares her picks for the best new technologies, how they work, and the amazing results they provide! For more information, listen to the full Dermasphere podcast interview.

What is your new favorite cosmetic technology that you think more people should know about?

Ellacor. Ellacor is a minimally invasive technique to improve fine lines and wrinkles, approved for around the mouth. The way it works is by micro coring. Think of it as tiny little punch biopsies that core out columns of skin. This stimulates the body’s natural response to injury, which builds collagen and improves fine lines and wrinkles and gives a lifted appearance. There is minimal downtime and most people are back to normal in around 2 weeks. But not everyone heals the same way, especially depending on your skin type.

It’s been a very popular procedure because we’re one of the only offices in the state offer it and have people coming from all over the country to try it. Recently, we’ve noticed it helps in other parts of medicine like foreign body granulomas from things like Sculptra or acne scarring. It can even help crepey skin on the neck, arms, tops of legs and knees.

What have your patients’ results been like after the procedure?

We have had great results when it comes to both scarring and tissue laxity. I haven’t had any patients with long term issues with scarring or anything else from the procedure. One of my first patients of this treatments says it’s been one of the most efficacious treatments she’s done, and she’s done every laser under the sun. Because it’s not heat based, it doesn’t cause discomfort later on that people tend to complain about. She said she felt totally comfortable after the treatment, versus other treatments which have made her very swollen and uncomfortable. People are loving to so much they’re coming back for 2nd and 3rd treatments.

Could this be used to help scarred areas from other skin issues?

I think this would be amazing to look further into and definitely could be possible. I think there is so much potential for how Ellacor can help, we just haven’t figured out all the ways yet.

Is there a variety of treatment styles for Ellacor?

You can do the treatment on the skin in any order you’d like. I’ve been testing different methods for what works best. Using it for stretch marks is a great example of different treatment styles because the movement pattern is different than on the face. We’ve done this on the the back of the arms and legs and have seen great improvements. One of the only issues patients have encountered is that if you are prone to hyperpigmentation, your skin may take 4-6 weeks to look completely healed instead of the standard two weeks. This can also depend on the intensity of the treatment. But good news is that studies are showing the increased intensity of the treatment doesn’t necessarily equate to a better result.

What is the device you use most in your practice?

What I use all day, everyday is the BroadBand Light, also known as a BBL Hero. We use this for acne and have had fantastic results. The patients love to low to no downtime and how they come home with their skin glowing. Their pores are decreased without having to do a full resurfacing or fractionally ablative device.

How does the BroadBand Light technology work?

It uses Hero passes, which stands for high energy rapid output. With the first pass, you’re laying down a lot of heat and energy. Depending on the patient, you choose various wave lengths. For example, for somebody with a of redness, I’ll chose the 560 wave length because we know this absorbs hemoglobin, so it targets redness. Then I’ll lay down a base pass of a 560 heat, basically prepping the skin for corrective passes. This is where I increase the energy and decrease the pulse width. I stamp higher energy to try to target things like vessels and angiomas, diffuse rosacea or even bruises.

After, I usually follow up with a pigment setting, which is a different wavelength. I use the 515 wavelength which absorbs melanin, so is good for targeting pigment, freckles, and antigenes. The last we pass we do what we call a photo finish. That’s with a 640 wavelength and is a little deeper, so you get a little bit more collagen production. With this whole treatment, you get improvement in redness, pigment, and fine lines.

With the acne protocol treatment, that is a different wavelength. It’s a 420 wavelength and is known to help kill the bacteria that causes acnes. It’s a great option for those who don’t want to go on Accutane® or have lots of inflammatory redness from acne.

Treating Scalp Psoriasis | As Featured in Byrdie

Do you struggle with a flakey, irritated scalp? If you’re looking to manage your scalp psoriasis, read about these suggestions from Dr. Mona Foad that may be able to help you! Looking for more tips? Read the full Byrdie article.

scalp psoriasis

Feel like you’ve tried everything and your psoriasis is not getting any better? Consider scheduling an appointment with your dermatologist for steroid injections into the patches and plaques of your psoriasis. These injections can help give you some temporary clearance for tougher, more resistant plaques. Sometimes stubborn patches can last for a month or longer, and can be an adjunct to any topical treatment. Your dermatologist will be able to find the best solution for you! Check with your insurance beforehand, as many injections should be covered.

Another approach to managing scalp psoriasis is trying UV light therapy. UV light combs can also be helpful in controlling symptoms. These hand held combs are phototherapy devices designed to allow the light to get past the hair and reach the affected parts of the scalp. The UV light is helpful in treating psoriasis because it reduces inflammation and itching. It also can slow down the growth of the skin cells.

Treat Your Scalp Psoriasis at Our Kenwood-Based Office

Our board-certified providers are experienced in treating both Hair & Scalp Problems as well as Psoriasis. These skin conditions can range from mild to severe and our team offers a variety of options to address the root causes and bring your skin back to a more balanced state. We offer psoriasis treatments that include topical creams, oral medications, and injectable biologics that target psoriasis at the cellular level.

Schedule an appointment today to take the first step toward healthy, beautiful skin!

Natural Retinol Alternatives | As Seen in Byrdie

Although retinols work wonders for some people, it can be too harsh for certain skin types. Dr. Alexandra Bowles recently shared her insights on natural retinol alternatives in Byrdie and today she’s diving deeper into her recommendations.

What are some natural retinol alternatives that you recommend for sensitive skin?

Resorcinol is a phenolic compound and while not a retinol product, it provides mild exfoliation while promoting skin renewal. This doesn’t give as strong an effect as retinol. You can still see improvement in overall skin texture and smoothness, and many consider it gentler than retinol.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and a gentler retinol alternative, helping to protect the skin from free radicals caused by environmental stressors that contribute to premature aging. Adding a Vitamin C to your routine can help prevent and repair oxidative damage from the environment.

Natural Retinol Alternatives at Mona Dermatology

RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum

RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum from Avène has been clinically shown to visibly minimize the appearance of wrinkles and uneven skin tone while brightening and restoring radiance. This product is an ideal choice for anyone with sensitivity to retinol or that prefers a plant-based alternative. This formula is lightweight, fast-absorbing, and provides 24-hour hydration without any irritation.

Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Provides 24 hours of continuous hydration
Helps strengthen the skin barrier while brightening the skin tone

Safe for all skin types. For best results, use RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum twice daily, in the morning and at night. Key ingredients include:

Bukchiol: Plant-derived alternative to retinol, helps correct visible signs of aging and helps define facial contour
Hyaluronic Acid: Helps support skin’s natural reserves, provides hydration, and plumps skin
Niacinamide: Vitamin B3, helps improve skin barrier function and brightens skin tone
Pre-Tocopheryl: Photostable Vitamin E provides powerful antioxidant protection against free radicals
Avene Thermal Spring Water: Clinically shown by 150 studies to soothe, soften, and calm the skin

High Frequency Wands for Skincare | As Featured in Town & Country

Recently, high frequency wands have gained popularity and Dr. Alexandra Bowles shares her opinion on the effectiveness of them and best practices when using. Read Town & Country’s article for more recommendations.

high frequency lasers

The theory of using electrical currents to help treat acne, tighten skin and build collagen has been around for years. When using these devices, a low electrical current is applied to the skin via a glass electrode. It’s filled with either argon gas, which targets acne and oil production, or neon gas which helps to improve blood flow and build collagen.

What should I consider when choosing a high frequency wand?

When deciding on a device, I would first decide what you are trying to address. Is it acne, skin tone, or just overall skin rejuvenation? Devices also can come with a myriad of attachments so look to see what attachments different brands have. A mushroom wand is good for treating broader areas such as cheeks, forehead and jawline. A tongue wand serves sensitive areas such as under eyes. For zapping individual break outs, a spot wand is great. The Y shape wand is for the curved contours of the neck and the rod wand is good for larger body areas such as legs. The comb wand stimulates hair and helps address scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff

Can you share some recommendations? What differs between wands?

Stacked Skincare High Frequency Acne Device:
- This device can treat acne because it uses Argon gas, but can also help with dandruff. Because it lacks anti-aging benefits, the device comes with limited attachments.
Pure Daily Care NuDerma Professional Skin Therapy Wand:
- Unlike the StackedSkincare High Frequency Acne Device, this device has both Argon and neon gas so can have a broader range of benefits, but has limited attachments so may be more limiting in use.
Skin Gym Skin Gym High Frequency Wand:
- This has both argon and neon gases so has a broad range of benefits, including multiple attachments so you can treat both on and off face. You have to switch between the neon and argon wands to customize your treatments.
Pure Daily Care NuDerma Clinical Skin Therapy Wand:
- This has all the advantages of the Pure Daily Care NuDerma Professional Skin Therapy Wand but because the wands have neon and argon gases combined, you do not need to switch out between wands.

Do Scalp Massagers Actually Work? | As Featured in Byrdie

Dr. Alexandra Bowles weighs in on whether or not scalp massagers actually stimulate hair growth. Read more and discover if this would be a good addition to your routine in Byrdie’s article.

What are the benefits of LED scalp massagers?

LED scalp massagers are a great tool to add to your routine. The red LED light helps increase blood flow to your scalp, which can promote healthier hair follicles. Blue light, on the other hand, has antibacterial benefits, so it can help keep the scalp clean, especially if you’re dealing with excess oil or dandruff. The massage itself is really good for loosening up any product buildup, evenly spreading your natural oils, and even helping to relax any tension that could be affecting your scalp. It’s a nice way to treat your scalp with some extra care!

How do scalp massagers reduce dandruff?

Dandruff usually comes from a combination of things, like oil buildup, yeast overgrowth, or your skin’s natural shedding cycle being a little out of whack. A scalp massager can help by gently exfoliating your scalp, removing flakes and excess oils, and keeping things from getting too irritated. If you’re using a dandruff shampoo, like one with salicylic acid or zinc pyrithione, the massager can help those ingredients really get to work. But make sure to be gentle with a scalp massage. Over-scrubbing can make things worse if you already have a sensitive scalp.

What materials for scalp massagers should one use/avoid?

When choosing a scalp massager, I tend to recommend silicone bristles. They’re soft, flexible, and easy to clean, which is important for maintaining good hygiene. I’d avoid massagers with hard plastic bristles, though—they can be a bit harsh and might irritate your scalp. Glass massagers can look nice, but they can be slippery in the shower, so I don’t usually recommend them. Metal ones can be soothing if they’re smooth, but just make sure the edges aren’t too sharp. If you have sensitive skin, go for something soft and gentle—it’ll help you avoid any unwanted irritation.

What routine + product/ingredient pairings do you recommend?

This depends on the patient! For patients struggling with dandruff, I recommend washing with an antifungal shampoo and allowing it to sit on the scalp for a few minutes before rinsing. Using an LED scalp massager can help lift flakes, gently exfoliate, and refresh the scalp.

For those experiencing hair loss, I suggest washing gently two to three times a week, followed by the LED scalp massager. This helps improve blood flow while the red light therapy supports hair growth. If done gently, this routine can be performed daily. However, patients with brittle or thinning hair should avoid excessive manipulation, as it can lead to increased shedding.

What’s the Deal With “Hygiene Hauls” and Scented Products? | As Featured in Beauty Matter

Discover Dr. Alexandra Bowles’ insights on the growing trend of “hygiene hauls” and multi-step skincare routines with scented products in Beauty Matter.

What are your thoughts on the rise of hygiene routine videos with up to 6 different steps of scented body products?

First and foremost, I think it is wonderful that people are starting to prioritize their skin health and hygiene. However, as a dermatologist, I know that scented products can increase the risk of irritation. They even can cause contact dermatitis, eczema flare-ups, or irritate acne-prone skin. Scented products are not innately bad as long it’s not creating issues with your skin.

How high is the risk of contact dermatitis or another allergic reaction from these types of routines?

Using multiple different scented body products can increase the risk of contact dermatitis or an allergic reaction. This is because you’re layering multiple ingredients that your skin might not tolerate well. Fragrances—whether synthetic or natural, like essential oils—are some of the most common triggers of irritation. Adding preservatives or colorants to the mix can make it more likely for irritation to occur. Thinner skin areas like your neck or underarms are more prone to a reaction. If you’re noticing any redness, itching, or discomfort, try reducing the number of products you use or swapping for fragrance-free options. I also recommend patch-testing new products on a small area of skin before applying them more widely. If irritation continues, a dermatologist can help identify which ingredient might be causing the problem.

Have you been seeing any increase in patients coming in with issues related to these extensive and highly fragrant body care routines?

Yes! I have definitely noticed an uptick in patients presenting with things like perioral dermatitis, eyelid eczema, and acne flares. There does seem to be a common denominator with some of these patients who have recently started an extensive skin routine or added in new products. It can be difficult to pinpoint the culprit due to multiple products being added to their routine at once. I recommend adding in new products one at a time. You can also do a test spot to make sure it is compatible with your skin type. I advise patients who struggle with eczema or sensitive skin to avoid scented products when possible.

How to Combat Eyelash Loss | As Featured in Real Simple

Concerned about the amount of eyelashes you lose everyday? Dr. Mona Foad shares her thoughts about common causes for eyelash loss, how you can combat it, and how to stimulate growth in Real Simple’s article. Today she is sharing even more insight on this topic!

lash serums

Is lash loss common? How much is “normal” per day or week?

It’s perfectly normal to lose a few lashes each day. Just like the hair on your scalp, your eyelashes follow a natural growth cycle, which includes shedding. On average, it’s typical to lose about 1-5 lashes per day, which adds up to approximately 7-35 lashes per week. This is part of the natural process that allows new lashes to grow in. If you notice that you’re losing more lashes than usual, it may be worth looking into further to rule out any other underlying causes.

What is a sign that you’re losing an excessive amount of lashes?

You’ll know if you’re losing an excessive amount of lashes if you start to notice them falling out in clumps, or if there are areas where your lashes seem noticeably thinner or even absent. Lashes that feel brittle, snap easily, or break off are another sign of potential excessive shedding. If you’re noticing these changes, it’s a good idea to talk to a dermatologist, as it could be a sign of an underlying condition that needs attention.

What are some of the most common causes of excessive eyelash loss? How can you combat them?

One reason is simply being too rough with your lashes, especially when removing makeup. If you rub your eyes or tug at your lashes when taking off mascara, it can damage them and cause them to fall out. I recommend using a gentle makeup remover, letting it dissolve the product before gently wiping it away. Another cause could be reactions to makeup or frequent use of eyelash extensions, especially if they’re applied with harsh adhesives. If you’re using extensions, it’s important to take breaks to give your natural lashes time to recover. Blepharaitis is a condition that occurs when the oil glands at the base of the lashes get clogged, causing chronic infection. Gentle cleansing and avoiding heavy products are therefore important. Lastly, things like hormonal changes, medications, or underlying health conditions such as thyroid disease can contribute to more lash loss.

Any tips on nourishing lashes and encouraging growth?

Using a lash serum with ingredients like biotin, peptides, or panthenol can make a big difference. Eating a diet full of vitamins like A, C, and E, as well as omega-3s, supports healthy lashes from the inside out. Topically, castor oil or vitamin E oil can help hydrate and protect your lashes. Just be careful not to overdo it and be gentle when applying so you don’t irritate your skin. Lastly, the best thing you can do for your lashes is treat them gently. Avoid rubbing your eyes or using eyelash curlers too roughly to keep them from breaking.

Do Firming Body Creams Actually Work? | As Featured in Allure

In her recent Allure feature, Dr. Mona Foad educates on the science behind firming body creams and what ingredients to keep an eye out for, depending on your skin type. Today she’s sharing even more tips on this topic to help you choose the best product for your skin!

firming body creams

What can ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid do to improve the appearance of skin laxity? How do these ingredients work to support collagen production and skin smoothness?

I recommend retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid as key ingredients for addressing superficial skin laxity. These ingredients all support skin structure. Retinol, a form of vitamin A, helps to stimulate collagen production and increases skin cell turnover, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and improve skin texture. This encourages smoother, firmer skin. Peptides, which are small chains of amino acids, help strengthen the skin’s barrier while promoting collagen and elastin production. Both of these proteins are essential for maintaining skin elasticity. Hyaluronic acid works by drawing moisture into the skin, providing a plumping effect and supporting hydration. This helps to maintain smoothness and elasticity. While it doesn’t directly stimulate collagen, it is essential for maintaining skin hydration and texture. Combined, these ingredients work together to improve skin health, leading to a firmer, more youthful appearance.

Can a topical product truly “tighten” skin?

It’s important to understand that topical products, while beneficial, cannot truly “tighten” the skin in a lasting way. The reason for this is that these products only penetrate the outer layers of the skin. The underlying causes of sagging—such as loss of bone, muscle, fat pads and the breakdown of collagen—happen deeper within the skin. As we age, factors like sun exposure, natural aging, and lifestyle habits degrade these structural proteins. Ingredients like retinol and peptides can boost collagen production at the skin’s surface, but they don’t have the ability to reach where it originates. To effectively address the deeper causes of sagging, treatments that target the dermis—such as ultrasound, radio frequency, laser or surgery—are often necessary.

How realistic should people’s expectations be when using firming body creams marketed as “firming” or “tightening”?

I advise patients to maintain realistic expectations when using body creams marketed as “firming” or “tightening.” These creams often contain ingredients like peptides, caffeine, or hyaluronic acid. These can temporarily improve skin texture, hydration, and provide a firmer appearance. However, the effects are generally subtle and should be seen as an addition to a broader skincare routine. For those with more significant skin laxity, these creams can be supportive, but they won’t replicate the lasting and deeper results that professional treatments can deliver.

Are there any specific ingredients or formulations you recommend for boosting skin firmness and elasticity over time?

For long-term improvement in skin firmness and elasticity, I recommend formulations containing certain ingredients. Retinol (for collagen production), vitamin C (for antioxidant protection and collagen synthesis), hyaluronic acid (for hydration), peptides (for strengthening the skin’s barrier), ceramides (for skin barrier repair), niacinamide (for even texture and tone), and antioxidants (to protect against environmental damage). Retinol is particularly effective at stimulating collagen production, which is crucial for improving skin elasticity and firmness. Vitamin C not only supports collagen synthesis but also provides antioxidant protection against environmental damage that can accelerate aging. Peptides reinforce the skin’s structure by aiding collagen repair, while hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps the skin, giving it a smoother, more youthful appearance. Ceramides help strengthen the skin’s barrier, and niacinamide contributes to a more even texture and tone. Together, these ingredients work synergistically to address skin laxity, supporting a firmer and more resilient complexion over time.

Do certain skin types or areas of the body respond better to these creams?

Areas with thinner skin may respond more noticeably to firming body creams because they are more likely to show the effects of collagen and elasticity support. People with thinner or more delicate skin types may also see the most pronounced improvements, as the ingredients can have a more visible impact. However, it’s essential to be realistic about the results. Most dermatologists agree that while these creams can offer support, their effects are limited, especially for those with more severe laxity. Individual outcomes depend on various factors, so additional treatments may be necessary for significant tightening.

Are there best practices for applying these creams to maximize their benefits?

To maximize the benefits of firming and tightening creams, I recommend applying them to clean, exfoliated skin. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate more deeply and work more effectively. Applying these creams as part of a nighttime routine is ideal, as the skin naturally repairs itself during sleep. Using gentle, upward strokes while applying the product can improve absorption and circulation, enhancing the results. Consistency is key, and pairing these creams with a comprehensive skincare routine—including daily sun protection—will help maintain skin elasticity and overall skin health over time.

For those looking for more noticeable skin tightening, what other in-office treatments could complement or enhance the effects of topical products?

To achieve more noticeable skin tightening, consider in-office treatments like radio frequency (RF) therapy, microneedling, ultrasound treatments (like Sofwave or Ultherapy) or laser resurfacing. These treatments target the deeper layers of the skin and stimulate collagen production. They can have skin-tightening effects that go beyond what topical products can achieve alone. RF therapy and Ultrasound use heat or sound waves to stimulate collagen remodeling, while microneedling creates micro-injuries that promote the skin’s natural repair process. Laser resurfacing and chemical peels improve skin texture by removing damaged outer layers and encouraging collagen renewal. These options work well when combined with a consistent skincare routine, delivering both immediate and lasting improvements in skin firmness.

What lifestyle habits can help support the skin’s elasticity alongside using these creams? Are there any benefits to hydration, nutrition, or exercise in keeping skin looking firm and resilient?

Lifestyle habits play a key role in supporting skin elasticity and can enhance the benefits of firming creams. Staying hydrated, eating a diet rich in antioxidants and collagen-supporting nutrients, and engaging in regular exercise can help maintain firmness. Proper hydration supports skin plumpness and a diet that includes antioxidants helps protect against free radical damage, which can accelerate skin aging. Protecting your skin from sun exposure is also crucial, as UV rays break down collagen and lead to premature sagging. In-office treatments such as laser therapy, microneedling, or radio frequency treatments can further boost collagen regeneration in the skin’s deeper layers. Together, these lifestyle habits and treatments support a holistic approach to skin health, promoting a firm and resilient complexion over time.

What are some products that you recommend for body firming and overall hydration?

I recommend SkinMedica Firm & Tone Lotion for Body for those seeking to improve skin firmness and texture. The lotion contains peptides to stimulate collagen production and caffeine, which provides a temporary tightening effect by boosting circulation. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is easy to apply and leaves the skin feeling smooth without any greasy residue. While you’ll notice some immediate smoothing and tightening, consistent use is essential for more significant, long-term improvements in skin tone and firmness. For optimal results, apply the firming body cream after exfoliating to help the active ingredients penetrate more effectively.

The Lilac Soothing Body Lotion from Nativa SPA is also a great product I recommend for body firming. It’s formulated with quinoa oil and bioretinol, which support skin renewal and can provide a smoother, firmer appearance over time. The texture is creamy but light, absorbing quickly into the skin. This lotion a good choice for those looking to improve skin texture and tone without harsh ingredients. Plus, the subtle floral scent adds a nice touch for a calming, self-care experience.

I also recommend the TransFORM Body Treatment with TriHex Technology®. This product helps reduce the appearance of crepey skin anywhere on the body, including arms, hands, and knees. It hydrates the skin from the inside out with key botanicals that support the production of hyaluronic acid and glycosaminoglycans. The TriHex Technology® supports the production of new, healthy elastin and collagen.

CeraVe Vs. Cetaphil | As Featured in Cosmopolitan

Dr. Mona Foad recently shared her thoughts in Cosmopolitan about two popular skincare brands: CeraVe and Cetaphil. She recommends her favorite products and explores which are best for a variety of skin types and their specific needs.

cerave vs cetaphil

How are CeraVe and Cetaphil similar? How do they differ?

For good reason, CeraVe and Cetaphil are both highly recommended by dermatologists for individuals with sensitive skin. Both brands are formulated without fragrances and are designed to minimize irritation. These characteristics make them ideal for those with reactive skin. The primary difference between the two is their ingredients and specific benefits. CeraVe contains ceramides, which are essential for restoring and maintaining the skin’s natural barrier. It also has hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture to the skin. This makes CeraVe particularly effective for individuals with dry or compromised skin, as well as conditions like eczema or rosacea. In contrast, Cetaphil uses simpler ingredients such as glycerin and panthenol to hydrate the skin gently without overwhelming it. This makes Cetaphil a better option for sensitive or reactive skin who require a non-irritating product to avoid inflammation.

When comparing the two brands, is one better for dry skin? What about oily skin?

For dry skin, CeraVe is often the better choice due to its inclusion of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. These are both critical in helping to replenish moisture and strengthen the skin’s barrier. These ingredients work together to restore hydration, making CeraVe an excellent option for individuals with dry, flaky, or sensitive skin. For oily or acne-prone skin, Cetaphil may be a more suitable option. Its non-comedogenic formulations provide lightweight hydration without clogging pores or increasing oil production. Cetaphil’s gentle, non-greasy formula helps maintain moisture balance without aggravating oily or acne-prone skin, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a simple and effective moisturizer.

What types of products does CeraVe excel at making? (i.e. products for sensitive skin, serums, sunscreen, etc)

CeraVe is known for products that restore and maintain the skin’s barrier function, such as moisturizers, cleansers, and sunscreens. The CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and Lotion deliver intensive hydration and restore the skin’s natural moisture balance with their ceramide and hyaluronic acid content.CeraVe also offers a range of gentle cleansers, such as the Hydrating Cleanser for dry skin and the Foaming Cleanser for oily skin, which cleanse without stripping the skin’s natural moisture. If you like a gentle cleanser but do not want to compromise on the foaming aspect, Cerave’s Cream to Foam is an excellent choice. Additionally, CeraVe’s serums, such as the Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum and Resurfacing Retinol Serum, actively improve skin texture and tone, while their sunscreens deliver broad-spectrum protection and hydration, making them ideal for daily use.

What are your top three favorite products from CeraVe?

CeraVe Cream to Foam cleanser is my favorite cleanser because it gently cleanses the skin without drying it out and without leaving an oily residue. I often recommend this for acne prone patients with more sensitive skin and anyone who wants an affordable gentle foaming cleanser.

CeraVe body cream is my go to body moisturizer because the ceramides help to restore moisture to the skin without a fragrance. It’s not too heavy to apply and doesn’t feel greasy after application.

CeraVe PM lotion is a nice lightweight facial moisturizer for most skin types. It’s fragrance free, which is good for sensitive skin, lightweight enough for oily skin, and yet is still moisturizing enough with the ceramides for most other skin types.

Why should someone choose CeraVe products over Cetaphil and vice versa?

The choice between CeraVe and Cetaphil depends on an individual’s skin type and specific needs. CeraVe is ideal for individuals with dry, sensitive, or compromised skin. Its formulations with ceramides and hyaluronic acid provide targeted hydration and support for the skin barrier. If you suffer from conditions like eczema or very dry skin, CeraVe may be the better option. Cetaphil is well-suited for those with extremely sensitive skin, including individuals with oily or acne-prone skin. Cetaphil’s lightweight formulas hydrate without irritating or clogging pores. This makes it a good choice for those looking for a simple, effective skincare routine. Ultimately, both brands offer high-quality products, but the decision should be based on your skin type and concerns.

Moisturizers to Pair with Tretinoin | As Featured in Allure

Adding tretinoin into your skincare routine can be transformative, but can also cause dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. That’s why finding the right moisturizer to pair with it is essential for protecting your skin. Read more about this as Dr. Alexandra Bowles adds some of her favorite recommendations in Allure’s article.

What are your moisturizer recommendations for someone using tretinoin and why?

SkinMedica Dermal Repair Cream:

This is my personal favorite! The dermal repair cream has antioxidants like vitamin C and E antioxidants and sodium hyaluronate which provides hydration. I love the thick elegant texture and how it feels on my skin and that it really feels like it is sealing in my skincare. I also love the subtle scent it has, but always warn patients if you are sensitive to scents you may want to try it first before purchasing!

Avene Cleanance Hydra:

This is a wonderfully rich cream moisturizer that both nourishes the skin and reduces redness which can be an issue after using tretinoin. It has a thick texture and floral scent that makes it feel luxurious and calming at the same time! I have many patients that tell me it is a staple in their routine and keeps them hydrated all day!

CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM:

This product is affordable and works well! It is packed with ceramides, niacinamides, and hyaluronic acid to help nourish the skin and keep it hydrated, especially after using products such as tretinoin. I recommend CeraVe daily for my acne patients who struggle with dryness after using products to treat their acne. It is also great for sensitive skin! Patients consistently report back that it is one of their favorite products.