It’s Not All About the Face: Body Anti-Aging

We often focus on our face when it comes to anti-aging, but we don’t want to forget about areas such as our neck, chest, hands, and body which are often neglected. This summer, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mona Foad will share how to prevent and reverse aging during a three-part series, “It’s Not All About the Face.” In case you missed it, be sure to check out Part One from the June issue about neck and chest and Part Two from the July issue about the hands.

Body Contouring For Anti-Aging

There is no doubt that as we age, our body also changes. Our metabolism slows down, and we may notice a decrease in the ability to make muscle. In turn, we may also notice an increase in fat deposition. Women may see this with more weight around their abdomen, back, and chest and may notice fat pockets that were just not there before. This affects how clothes fit and ultimately affects our confidence. Body contouring is therefore not just for younger people who want a more toned physique, but a way for us to reclaim our shape over time.

Treating the Fat

CoolSculpting is a great no-downtime way to target unwanted fat. CoolSculpting safely delivers precisely controlled cooling to gently and effectively target fat cells underneath the skin. The treated fat cells are crystallized (frozen), and then die through a natural process, leaving surrounding tissues unaffected. Over time, your body naturally processes the fat and eliminates these dead cells, leaving the treated areas more sculpted.

Kybella is another way to target small pockets of fat such as bra fat or a double chin. The active ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid. This is a naturally occurring molecule your gallbladder uses to help break down dietary fat. When injected into an area of fat, it safely destroys a percentage of fat cells.

Treating the Muscle

Maintaining and building muscle as we age is important because it helps with stability, balance, and core strength, as well as maintaining our shape. EmSculpt Neo is an advanced body sculpting treatment that combines radio frequency for fat loss with High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy to build muscle. HIFEM energy contracts and engages up to 90% of muscle fibers in the treated area, which is much higher than we can achieve during a voluntary workout. Clinical studies showed an average of 25% growth in muscle volume and a 30% reduction in fat, a 19% improvement in abdominal separation (diastasis recti), and a 14% reduction in visceral fat.

Laxity & Loose Skin for Body Anti-Aging

We have already talked about how aging causes loss of collagen and elastin in our skin, so it should come as no surprise that this happens to the skin on our body as well. You may notice it with crepe skin around your knees, arms, or thighs. If you are ready to take the jump into body treatments, make sure you are seeing a professional who is experienced in treating body skin and understands the differences in treating the skin in these areas.

Skincare

First and foremost, make sure to moisturize daily because our skin gets dry as we get older and we lose our ability to make hyaluronic acid. I always suggest using a cream rather than a lotion whenever possible. You may want to consider adding a moisturizer with glycolic or lactic acids to help chemically exfoliate dull and dry skin. Also consider adding a retinol to your body routine. If you want to take it a step further, SkinMedica’s Firm and Tone lotion is my favorite product for the body because it has antioxidants and helps support collagen and elastin growth to decrease the appearance of crepey skin.

Tightening

Skin care may not be enough, so consider tightening treatments to help build collagen and elastin on the arms, thighs, and abdomen.

Ultrasound tightening treatments, such as Sofwave or Ulthera, are safe no-downtime ways to tighten loose skin. Sofwave has also been FDA-approved to treat cellulite, which can develop as we age.

Radiofrequency microneedling is another popular minimally invasive way to safely treat loose or crepey skin.

If you are able to have a bit more downtime, Ellacor is a micro-coring treatment that can take out a percentage of skin to tighten and build collagen. Ellacor can create dramatic results without the downtime of surgery.

Bio-Stimulators

Bio-stimulators help your body build its own collagen and elastin. Sculptra, or PLLA, is an injection that works over time to develop collagen and elastin in the area that it has been injected. Combining Sculptra with a tightening treatment is a great way to reverse the signs of aging on the body.

Discoloration on the Body

For unwanted brown or red pigment on the body, lasers and lights are great options. Some of our most popular options are Intense Pulse Light (IPL) or Broadband Light (BBL), which have little to no downtime and reduce overall discoloration after a series of three treatments. A deeper resurfacing laser, such as the Fraxel Dual, has a bit more downtime (five to seven days) but offers more dramatic results and a boost in collagen to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and texture. Make sure your provider is well-trained in using lasers off the face. The skin on the body does not heal as fast as the face, and certain lasers are not appropriate for use on the body.

Not sure where to start? Schedule a consultation with one of the providers at Mona Dermatology! During your visit, you’ll discuss your top concerns and what products and treatments are right for you.

LED Light Therapy | As Featured In Marie Claire

LED light therapy can be a trusted option for improving skin health and overall wellness. Here’s what Dr. Mona Foad has to add on LED light therapy and how it affects the skin. The full article can be found in Marie Claire!

The Benefits

LED light therapy uses specific wavelengths to address concerns such as breakouts, redness, and signs of aging. These also support collagen production and skin healing. Red light specifically can boost cellular energy by helping your cells produce more ATP, which plays a role in how skin repairs and regenerates. Red light also helps alleviate inflammation, facilitates muscle recovery, and supports a more restful sleep by promoting a healthier circadian rhythm. While at-home tools can be helpful for daily maintenance, in-office treatments are going to offer deeper, more targeted results. LED light therapies are low-risk, non-invasive, and well-tolerated even for sensitive skin, which makes them a great option for most people. With consistent use, it can contribute to overall balance and wellness, producing calmer and clearer skin.

Are There Negatives?

There are some important things to keep in mind, even though LED light therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated. One challenge is that not all devices are created equally; specific wavelengths and quality of light used vary in the industry. Sometimes this means that at-home devices may not be delivering the most effective light for skin health. For people who are photosensitive or taking medications that increase light sensitivity, it’s important to consult with a provider before treatments.

At-home vs In-office

At-home LED light therapy can be a helpful addition to a skincare routine, especially for maintenance. However, they are typically not as powerful as the devices used in a dermatologist’s office. The professional-grade treatments penetrate deeper into the skin, allowing for better results. These treatments are more effective for killing acne-causing bacteria, enhancing healing after procedures, and creating more substantial collagen production. The in-office devices allow for more targeted results in fewer sessions because they are calibrated to deliver more precise wavelengths and intensities. For those looking to ease into light therapy, at-home tools can be beneficial between office visits as a lower-intensity option. It is always important to check with your dermatologist to make sure it’s the right type of device for your skin’s needs.

When Will You See Results?

Seeing results with LED light therapy can vary from person to person. Things such as skin type, the concern you’re treating, and how consistently you use the device all play a factor. Typically, people tend to see subtle improvements, such as calmer complexion or more radiance, within a few weeks of regular use. For bigger changes in the skin, like improved texture, reduced fine lines, or clearer skin, it can take about 8 to 12 weeks of consistency. LED therapy works by stimulating the skin’s natural healing, so it is a more gradual process. Being consistent with your routine and pairing it with a good skincare regimen will give the best, longer-lasting benefits. Combining LED therapies with professional treatments, such as micro needling or peels, might give enhanced results sooner. All-in-all, patience is key, and the payoff is healthier, more resilient skin.

At-Home Products

There are many good options on the market for at-home LED devices. It all comes down to what fits with your skin goals and lifestyle. Here are three trustworthy options that all offer differentiating results:

CurrentBody: Their popular full-face mask, which delivers a good balance of red and near-infrared light. This mask is ideal for overall skin rejuvenation and healing.
OmniLux: These have a more clinical-grade experience because it has higher light intensity. This can result in faster or more noticeable results, especially when targeting specific concerns like acne or aging.
Shark Beauty: This is an appealing option for a multifunctional device because it combines light therapy with other skincare features. However, the light intensity may not be as strong as other brands.

Just remember, LED light therapy is only one piece of the puzzle, and it works best when it’s combined with good daily skincare habits, sun protection, and a healthy lifestyle. Always choose devices and treatments that are backed by research, and consult with a dermatologist to make sure LED therapy meets your skin’s unique needs.

The Best Body Oils | As Featured In Vogue

Body oils can be an amazing option for hydrating the skin while also delivering many anti-aging perks. Hear what Dr. Alexandra Bowles has to add on the perks of body oils and even a list of her recommendations! You can find the full article about the 18 best body oils on Vogue.

Body Oil vs Lotion

Choosing between body oil and lotion mainly comes down to your skin’s unique needs. Oils are best for locking in moisture and strengthening the skin’s barrier. This makes oils ideal for very dry or mature skin that needs some extra nourishment. Lotions on the other hand, are water-based formulas. This provides lighter hydration and a more comfortable feel when in humid weather and for those prone to breakouts. Layering the two is always a great option, too! Starting with a lotion when you want quick, light moisture and sealing it in with body oil to keep skin soft and supple all day.

Which Oils Are the Best

Lightweight, nutrient-rich oils like jojoba, argan, and sweet almond are great options for everyday hydration. These three oils closely mimic the skin’s natural lipids and absorb without feeling greasy. Oils such as sunflower seed or avocado oil can boost barrier repair because they are rich in essential fatty acids. To help protect and nourish aging skin, as well as offer antioxidant support, argan or rosehip oil is a great option.

Dr.Bowles’ Recommendations

Neutrogena Body Oil: This is a classic for a reason; the fast-absorbing oil locks in moisture and leaves skin feeling soft and smooth. Its lightweight formula is simple and perfect for sensitive or easily irritated skin; it won’t weigh you down. This is best for daily use and great for barrier support.
Bio-oil Skincare Body Oil: This oil is great for smoothing scars, stretch marks, and uneven tone with its blend of vitamins and plant extracts. It’s great for anyone looking to support skin regeneration and barrier repair. As well as, gentle enough for everyday use and delivers noticeable improvements over time.
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Oil Mist: This mist is convenient for hydrating skin on the go. It contains oat extract that soothes and calms irritated skin. It is great for sensitive skin since colloidal oatmeal is amazing for soothing redness and reinforcing the skin’s barrier.
MoroccanOil Dry Body Oil: The signature argan oil blend gives intense hydration and leaves a soft, luminous finish. It is not heavy and perfect for dry skin that needs nourishment. Argan oil is packed with vitamin E and fatty acids, which lock in moisture and support skin repair.
Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Body Firmeza Oil: This oil combines guaraná extract and cupuaçu butter that smooths and firms the skin. It encourages skin elasticity and softness while having a tropical scent. It can even improve skin texture and firmness due to the caffeine in guaraná.
Supergoop! Glow Oil SPF 50: This has a rare combo of hydration, glow, and broad-spectrum sun protection all in one. It protects against UV damage while adding a healthy radiance, so you don’t have to sacrifice one or the other.
Avène Skin Care Oil: This oil is formulated with soothing thermal spring water and gentle emollients. These contents help calm sensitive or irritated skin and are great options for anyone prone to redness or dryness. The thermal spring water contains minerals and antioxidants that are great for supporting the skin barrier and reducing inflammation.

Panoxyl: TikTok’s Viral Acne Banishing Spray | As Featured In Elite Daily

PanOxyl’s Acne Banishing Spray is going viral on TikTok right now as an amazing new product for dealing with body Acne. Listen to what insights Dr. Mona Foad has on this spray and if it is really worth the hype. Read the full article on Elite Daily!

The Main Ingredients

Benzoyl peroxide is one of the main active ingredients in PanOxyl’s Acne Banishing Spray. Benzoyl Peroxide is a well-studied anti-bacterial treatment for acne. It helps reduce acne-causing bacteria and can also help keep pores clear. Because it contains Benzoyl peroxide, this formula is specifically good to use for blemish control.

Spray vs. Topical

It has always been a challenge to treat hard-to-reach areas like the back. Over the last few years, there has been an increase in awareness of treating acne both on and off the face. A spray can be a very convenient option for someone dealing with breakouts on their back, shoulders, or chest. They can be especially helpful for individuals who are active and sweat frequently. There is not always someone at home to help apply a lotion or medication to the back, so sprays are a nice alternative.

Pros and Cons

One clear benefit is how easy it is to use, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Ease of use often leads to better consistency as well, which is really important when treating acne.
Sometimes, benzoyl peroxide can dry out the skin or even bleach clothing and towels.

Dr. Mona’s Tips

Dr. Mona recommends letting the product dry completely before getting dressed. Also, following up with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer can help prevent dryness. She also recommends that patients use it at night. It also might be helpful to launder whites together to avoid the bleaching effect.

These sprays are more specifically designed for the body. Typically, it’s only suggested to use sprays on the chest, back, and shoulders. Dr. Mona would not recommend applying them to the face unless the label specifically says it’s safe to do so. It is also important to avoid the eye area and any broken or irritated skin. Sprays like this one typically have more alcohol content and can be a bit more drying than other topical lotions.

It is also best to keep a gentle and minimal skin care routine when using benzoyl peroxide. A mild cleanser followed by a non-comedogenic moisturizer and daily SPF is best! Avoiding strong actives like AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids unless your skin is already used to them or you are working with a dermatologist. Having too many active ingredients at once can lead to irritation or dryness.

So does it actually work?

Yes! This type of product can definitely help with body acne. Remember, consistency is key!

The Benefits Of Rice Water Shampoo | As Featured In Glamour

Rice water shampoo has become quite popular recently, and for good reason. Rice water shampoo is made from the water left over from soaking or boiling rice, and has many benefits for hair health. Hear what insights Dr. Alexandra Bowles has to add and what tips she has on using rice water shampoo. The full list of product recommendations can be seen on Glamour!

The Benefits Of Rice Water Shampoo

Rice water shampoo is beneficial because it is great for strengthening and nourishing the hair. It is packed with nutrients like amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that do so. The starch from the rice water is also found to improve hair elasticity, reduce breakage, and promote a shinier, healthier appearance. Rice water also contains inositol, which helps repair damaged hair and reduce friction, making detangling much easier. This shampoo would be recommended for someone looking to add extra hydration or strength to their hair.

The Benefits Of Rice Water Shampoo | As Featured In Glamour

Overuse

Even though rice water shampoo has great benefits, it is important not to overuse it. Since it has a high starch content, too much rice water can make hair feel stiff or weighed down. For most people, it is best to use 1 to 2 times a week, depending on hair type and condition. For example, with more dry or damaged hair, it might be best to start with a lower frequency and adjust as needed. It’s all about balance. Rice water is a great addition, but should not replace regular hair care products.

Side Effects

Rice water is generally safe for most people and hair types. However, just like with any product, it’s important to pay attention to how your hair responds. For sensitive scalps, it may cause mild irritation or dryness, especially if it’s overused. A patch test first is always a great place to start to make sure there aren’t any adverse reactions to the product. Cutting back frequency or balancing with a hydrating conditioner are great ways to adjust the routine to your hair’s needs.

Rice Water Shampoo Recommendation

Dr. Bowles would recommend As I Am Rice Water Shampoo as a great option! This product uses forbidden black rice, a staple in Chinese and Asian medicine. It helps to promote hair growth and protect the hair and scalp. Also, to help with hair strength, it incorporates saw palmetto. This affordable option is a great addition to a hair care routine!

It’s Not All About the Face: How to Rejuvenate Your Hands

We often focus on our face when it comes to anti-aging, but we don’t want to forget about areas such as our neck, chest, and hands, which can show similar signs of aging as our face, but are often neglected. This summer, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mona Foad will share how to prevent and reverse aging during a three-part series, “It’s Not All About The Face.” In Part One, published in the June issue, we focused on how to rejuvenate and protect the neck and chest. In this issue we will look at the hands. Be sure to read Part Three in the August issue, where we will cover body rejuvenation!

How to Rejuvenate Your Hands

Even if we take great care of ourselves, we often forget about our hands, which, if neglected, are a tell-tale marker of aging. Our hands are an area of skin that commonly shows signs of sun damage, including brown spots and precancerous changes, as well as signs of collagen loss, with crepe texture and volume loss. The good news is that there are many products and treatments available to rejuvenate the hands, and often, treating the hands is more affordable than treating other larger areas of the body.

Hand Sun Damage & Skin Texture

Products

Skin care is an easy and affordable way to prevent damage and treat some of the effects of the sun. Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on your hands, especially when driving. Ultraviolet A rays can get through window glass and go deeper into the skin to cause more damage and aging. To further protect your hands from the sun’s damage, consider adding an antioxidant serum, and if brown spots are a concern, a skin brightener can be helpful. You may even want to consider purchasing a pair of driving gloves, which can be both stylish and functional for sun protection.

Treatments

If you are already seeing the signs of sun damage on your hands, you may want to opt for a chemical peel, a laser treatment, or a light treatment. An IPL (Intense Pulse Light) or BBL (Broadband Light) is a great no-downtime way to treat brown spots and help even out skin tone on the hands. Deeper damage may require a resurfacing laser, which has the added benefit of building collagen and treating sun damage and has been proven to actually decrease the risk of skin cancer formation. A word of caution with resurfacing lasers if you are considering this as an option: make sure your provider is an expert in laser resurfacing, because not all lasers are appropriate for treating the delicate skin on the back of your hands.

Hollowing & Visible Hand Veins

Collagen and elastin, which are important building blocks in our skin, decrease with age and sun exposure. The skin on the back of our hands is thinner than in other body parts, so we see the loss of collagen and elastin more readily in this area. You might notice crepey skin that is not as elastic, as well as hollowing and more visible veins.

Products

Consider applying products such as growth factors and peptides to the backs of your hands to slow down aging and build collagen. Retinoids, such as OTC retinols or prescription retinoic acids, can help prevent collagen loss and have the added benefit of stimulating cellular turnover. If adding in a retinol, start with a couple of days a week and slowly increase frequency to avoid irritation.

Treatments

Fillers are a great, no-downtime way to treat the volume loss and soften the appearance of visible veins and tendons. It is not painful and can instantly create a more youthful appearance. Resurfacing lasers are an effective way to address crepey skin and help rebuild lost collagen, but as mentioned above, make sure you are seeing someone who is a laser expert. My personal favorite resurfacing laser for the
hands is the Fraxel Dual.

Quick Fixes to Hand Dryness and Skin Texture

As we get older, we lose our ability to make hyaluronic acid, and our skin becomes drier. Hand washing further aggravates this on the backs of our hands, leading to more pronounced dry skin. Consider using a barrier hand cream to protect your hands during frequent handwashing, and add a hyaluronic acid to help to boost your skins hydration in one easy step. Consider mixing your hand cream with a hyaluronic acid serum for one easy step.

Not sure where to start? Schedule a consultation with one of the providers at Mona Dermatology!

What are Polyhydroxy Acids (PHA)? | As Seen in Byrdie

If you’re looking for a gentle way to exfoliate, hydrate, and strengthen your skin, polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) might be what your skincare routine is missing! Learn all about them with Dr. Alexandra Bowles in Byrdie’s recent article.

What is PHA?

Polyhydroxy acids, or PHAs, are often described as the “entry-level” chemical exfoliant, and for good reason. Their larger molecular size means they sit closer to the surface of the skin. This allows them to gently loosen dead skin cells without penetrating too deeply or causing irritation. What’s exciting about PHAs is that they’re not just exfoliators. They also act as antioxidants and hydrators, making them a triple win for anyone looking to brighten and smooth their skin without the sting. If you’ve struggled with AHAs or BHAs in the past, PHAs might be the ideal way to experience the benefits of chemical exfoliation more comfortably.

What are some benefits of PHA?

One of the more underrated benefits of PHAs is their ability to support the skin’s natural barrier. While some acids can leave skin feeling stripped or overly tight, PHAs help maintain hydration levels and actually promote a stronger, healthier skin barrier over time. They also work well alongside calming ingredients, which makes them a fantastic option for those managing redness, rosacea, or even eczema. And because they exfoliate without increasing sun sensitivity as much as AHAs, PHAs can be more forgiving for year-round use, though sunscreen is still a must!

What’s the difference between AHA, BHA, and PHA?

AHAs, like glycolic and lactic acid, exfoliate the skin’s surface and are great for dullness and uneven tone, but can be irritating. BHAs, such as salicylic acid, penetrate deeper into pores, making them ideal for oily or acne-prone skin. PHAs are larger in molecular size, so they stay on the surface and work more gently. This makes them perfect for sensitive skin or those new to acids. PHAs also have added moisturizing and antioxidant benefits, which AHAs and BHAs don’t typically offer. Overall, PHAs are more forgiving. They hydrate as they exfoliate and pair well with calming or hydrating ingredients, making them an easy choice for layered routines.

Are there any side effects?

The beauty of PHAs is that they’re designed to minimize irritation. While other acids might cause redness or tingling, PHAs are usually well-tolerated, even by those with rosacea or eczema. That said, every skin type is unique, so I always recommend introducing them slowly and watching for any signs of sensitivity. Even though PHAs are gentle, more isn’t always better. Using them too frequently, especially alongside other exfoliants, can lead to a compromised skin barrier. If your skin starts to feel tight or begins to peel, take a break and focus on hydration and barrier repair.

One lesser-known point: even gentle acids like PHAs can interact with other actives. Using them right before or after retinoids or vitamin C may increase your chances of irritation. If you’re combining powerful ingredients, it’s best to alternate nights or seek advice from your dermatologist.

Is it right for my skin?

PHAs are one of the most skin-friendly exfoliants out there, especially for those with sensitive or compromised skin. Their gentle nature makes them a great choice for people dealing with conditions like rosacea, eczema, or post-procedure recovery. Still, I always advise patch testing first and avoiding use on areas with broken or inflamed skin. If you’re acne-prone, PHAs may not clear clogged pores as effectively as BHAs. But, they can still help improve skin texture and tone without the risk of irritation. The key is to start slow and monitor how your skin feels over time.

How do I use this in my routine?

One of the best things about PHAs is how simple they are to incorporate into your routine. I often recommend starting with a leave-on product, like a serum or hydrating toner, used two to three times a week. Because PHAs are so gentle, many people can gradually increase usage based on how their skin responds. They also layer beautifully with most skincare ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and even some retinoids. If you’re using a physical exfoliant or other active ingredients, though, try to space them out to avoid over-exfoliating.

It’s Not All About the Face: Neck and Chest Anti-Aging

We often focus on our face when it comes to anti-aging, but we should not forget about areas such as our neck, chest and hands. These areas show similar signs of aging as our face, but are often neglected. This summer, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mona Foad will share how to prevent and reverse aging during a three-part series, “It’s Not All About The Face.” See the full article in Cincinnati Magazine!

Part I: How to Achieve Neck and Chest Anti-Aging

The skin on the neck and chest is uniquely different from the skin on our face. The neck has thinner skin, which can often be more prone to laxity or sagging. In addition, the neck and chest often receive similar amounts of daily sun exposure as the face, but can be neglected when it comes to SPF application. The natural aging process also brings reduced collagen production, loss of hydration, slower cellular turnover, and more. The good news is that there are many tools available to help slow down or reverse the aging process without surgery.

Lifestyle

Sleep: Aim for adequate sleep as your skin cells repair overnight. If you are a side sleeper, you may develop chest wrinkles. Try sleeping on your back, using an anti-wrinkle chest pillow, or applying silicone patches at night.

Hydration: Our skin loses hyaluronic acid and becomes drier as we age. Boost your natural hydration by drinking plenty of water and limiting alcohol consumption.

Nutrition: Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to skin health. You can also support your skin’s building blocks like collagen and elastin by eating good-quality protein sources. Fish, chicken, eggs, and bone broth are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and amino acids and are great choices.

Skin Care

Protection: Everyone should apply SPF to their neck and chest daily. This is one of the most affordable and effective ways to protect against damage from the sun. Sun exposure can contribute to both skin cancer and premature aging.

Discoloration: Our neck and chest get the same sun damage as our face, and you may start seeing these effects with more uneven skin tone and discoloration. Other than sunscreen, consider incorporating products that prevent brown spots from forming, such as SkinMedica Even & Correct System. Ask your dermatologist about prescription-strength products such as Hydroquinone that you can use in short cycles.

Loose Skin: SkinMedica’s Neck Correct Cream is formulated specifically for the neck and chest. It is also clinically proven to lift, firm, and smooth the skin. Also, consider adding a growth factor such as TNS Advanced+ Serum, which helps the skin to “act young.” It is one of the only products on the market proven to address sagging skin.

Keep It Simple: If you do not want to invest in a product specifically formulated for neck and chest rejuvenation, consider applying the products you are using on your face to your neck and décolleté. Common facial skincare products such as antioxidants, retinoids, and hyaluronic acid are also great choices.

Treatments

Ban the Bands: If you are noticing banding on your neck area, one of the simplest ways to reduce this is with Botox. It recently received FDA approval for this area! Did you know that the main muscle in your neck, the platysma, can pull down your face? By relaxing the muscles in this area, the jawline appears more lifted and horizontal lines (“necklace lines”) and vertical neck bands are softened.

Laxity & Sagging: If your neck is not as tight as it used to be, consider treatments to build your skin’s collagen and elastin.

A biostimulator such as Sculptra, is an injection that builds your skin’s collagen and elastin.
Ultrasound and radiofrequency treatments build collagen and tighten skin anywhere on the body. They also have the added benefit of little to no downtime!
EmFace is a muscle stimulation device with radiofrequency that tightens and lifts the skin under the chin.
Ellacor Micro-coring creates the most dramatic improvement for laxity, but has more significant downtime. By removing small cores of the skin, the remaining healthy skin comes together to heal the injury, tightening skin in the process.

Discoloration: Lasers and lights are great options for targeting stubborn brown and red pigment on the neck and chest. Intense Pulse Light (IPL) or Broadband Light (BBL) have little to no downtime and reduce overall discoloration after a series of three treatments. A deeper resurfacing laser, such as the Fraxel Dual, has a bit more downtime (5-7 days). However, offers more dramatic results and a boost in collagen to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and texture.

Summer Skincare | How to Keep Your Skin Healthy All Season

Everyone loves the summer weather, but it’s good to keep in mind how the sunshine can affect our skin. Longer days and warmer temperatures can do wonders for your mood, they can also bring skincare challenges—from excess oil and breakouts to sun damage and dehydration.

To help you enjoy everything summer has to offer without compromising your skin’s health, prioritize a simple, effective, and dermatologist-recommended skincare routine designed specifically for the sunny season.

Step 1: Cleanser

Summer heat means more sweat, oil, and frequent SPF reapplication; all of which can lead to clogged pores and irritation if not properly removed. To help prevent breakouts and maintain a healthy, clear complexion, it’s important to find a cleanser that works for your skin.

Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, a cleanser used twice daily will keep your complexion clear without over-stripping or drying it out. And if you’re not sure what’s best for your skin, take our cleanser quiz!

Recommended Product for Sensitive Skin: Avène Cleanance Hydra Cleanser

Recommended Product for Acne-prone Skin: SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

Step 2: Pigment Corrector

Summer isn’t just about UV rays, your skin is also exposed to pollution and other skin stressers. This is where pigment correctors, serums, and antioxidants come in; offering a range of powerful benefits. They can brighten dull skin, protect against sun-induced damage, and improve overall skin tone and elasticity. Some ingredients to look for include vitamin C, which is excellent for brightening the complexion and reducing pigmentation; niacinamide, known for balancing oil production and strengthening the skin barrier; and ferulic acid, which enhances the stability and effectiveness of other antioxidants.

Apply your product in the morning after cleansing, and follow with moisturizer and SPF.

Recommended Product: Lumivive System

Step 3: Retinol

Retinol is a skincare powerhouse—it helps fade dark spots, reduce fine lines, and improve skin texture. However, retinol does increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. To use retinol safely during the summer, start with a low concentration (around 0.25–0.5%) if you’re new to it. Make sure to apply sunscreen every morning and when first starting, only use two or three times a week, then gradually increase as tolerated. In addition, be sure you are only applying retinol at night! Retinol is light-sensitive, meaning sunlight can break it down and reduce its effectiveness.

If you notice redness or flaking, reduce the amount or combine with moisturizer to reduce irritation.

Recommended Product: SkinMedica Retinol Complex

Recommended Product for Sensitive Skin: RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum

Step 4: Moisturizer

High humidity can make heavy creams feel greasy on your skin. To avoid this, choose a lightweight moisturizer that provides effective hydration without clogging pores. Look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid for deep hydration.

Apply morning and night.

Recommended Product: SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturizer

Step 5: Sunscreen

If you do one thing for your skin this summer, let it be sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to protect against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. And remember, sunscreen isn’t just for beach days—apply it every morning, even if you’re indoors or it’s cloudy.

To get the most out of your sunscreen, reapply it every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming (try Colorscience’s Brush-On Shield SPF 50 for easy, on-the-go re-application!). Don’t forget often-missed areas like your neck, ears, chest, and hands. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, choose mineral sunscreens that contain ingredients that are gentler on the skin.

If you’re not sure what to choose, check out our sunscreen quiz to find the right pick for you!

Bonus tips for a radiant summer glow:

Stay hydrated from the inside out by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Exfoliate gently once or twice a week using a mild exfoliant to help keep your pores clear. Don’t forget to wear protective accessories like UPF clothing, hats, sunglasses, and other clothing to add an extra layer of sun protection.

Summer skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be consistent. By cleansing, hydrating, protecting with SPF, you can enjoy that warm-weather glow all season long, without compromising your skin’s health.

If you’re not sure what to pick for your skincare routine, schedule a visit with one of our providers and they’ll help you customize and create a plan perfect for you!

What is Kojic Acid? | As Featured In Byrdie

There are some lesser-known skincare secrets out there, and when it comes to brightening and evening complexion, kojic acid is one of them. Hear what information Dr. Alexandra Bowles gives on kojic acid, and what tips she would recommend when using it! You can read the full article in Byrdie.

What Is It?

Kojic Acid is a naturally derived ingredient that gently brightens skin by targeting excess pigment. It is great for fading dark spots, acne marks, and sun damage over time. It works by blocking the enzyme responsible for melanin production. Since it comes from natural sources like mushrooms or fermented rice, it is generally more tolerated, even by sensitive skin. Also, it has antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits. These can calm inflammation while supporting a more radiant and even complexion. It can be used with vitamin C or niacinamide to achieve a more balanced approach to brightening.

How It Works

Kojic acid inhibits tyrosinase, which drives melanin production, so it’s especially helpful for fading discoloration without harsh exfoliation. It works gradually, which makes it a great option for long-term use. Kojic Acid also has mild antibacterial effects that can be good for acne-prone skin. It is great at keeping skin calm, hydrated, and healthy when paired with soothing, barrier-supporting ingredients.

Benefits of Kojic Acid

Kojic acid gives a smoother and more even look over time because, besides brightening, it helps improve skin clarity and texture. It can be especially helpful for those who deal with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after acne or eczema. It also plays well with gentle exfoliants to boost radiance without irritating the skin. Kojic acid can be a great alternative for anyone wanting to avoid harsher treatments to lighten and brighten. As well, it is usually well-tolerated, so it’s a great starting point for someone new to treating discoloration.

Tips on Using Kojic Acid:

It is important to watch how your skin reacts! While most people tolerate it well, sensitive or eczema-prone skin may be irritated depending on higher strengths or frequent use.
Start using it slowly and pairing it with a soothing moisturizer to protect your skin barrier can help with sensitivity.
Don’t forget to wear sunscreen when using kojic acid, since it increases sun sensitivity.
Apply it after cleansing, but before heavier creams or oils for the best absorption and results!
Consistency matters more than strength: start with a lower strength and be patient for results.
To keep irritation away, you should avoid layering kojic acid with other exfoliations immediately.

Alternatives

If Kojic acid isn’t for you, there are some other similar options out there. Nicinamide is a great alternative, it soothes inflammation while brightening and smoothing skin. Azelaic acid is another option; it helps fade pigmentation and fights bacteria, which is great for acne-prone skin. Licorice root extract is a natural way to brighten and calm the skin and works well with sensitive skin. It is important to choose what will work best with your skin, depending on its unique needs, and see how it responds!