American Society of Plastic Surgeons
For Medical Professionals
 

Skincare advice from a plastic surgeon


Acne, lines, wrinkles, discoloration? No worries!

Walk into any store or spa and you are immediately faced with a plethora of facial skincare products to address any concern you may have ever had about your skin. It is understandable to be overwhelmed by all of these lotions, oils and serums and to leave with more questions. What is the best option for my skin? Do I need this to maintain good skin health? Is there any science behind any of these ingredients? Will I see results?

The skin is the largest organ in the human body and is constantly damaged by the effects of sun and smoke. This results in skin that is dull and dry with sun spots or other discoloration. Additionally, aging and the repetitive movements on the face from the underlying muscles can result in lines and wrinkles. How then can we address these changes or, better yet, prevent them? The answer is easy. Two products are an essential part of a healthy skincare regimen: sunscreen and vitamin A (retinol) derivatives.

Broad-spectrum sunscreen can dramatically improve the appearance and health of skin. It is designed to protect your skin from ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, which can cause direct and indirect cell and DNA damage. This results in degradation of collagen, an increase in pigment and a decrease in cell turnover. Ultimately, this results in signs of facial photoaging, lines, pigment changes and an overall unhealthy appearance to your skin. Daily use of sunscreen can diminish these signs. Additionally, its use can prevent skin cancers. Sunscreen should be used daily and reapplied throughout the day, rain or shine!

Vitamin A (retinol) and its derivatives, are powerful anti-aging ingredients. Retinoids, retinoic acid (Retin-A), tretinoins, retinaldehydes and retinyl esters are all in the vitamin A family. They help increase collagen content in the skin to decrease fine lines and increase cell turnover. Additionally, they can be used to treat acne by decreasing cell debris that can block pores. Retinols can, however, result in skin irritation, peeling or flakiness and sun sensitivity so it is important to use these products with sunscreen and under the care of your plastic surgeon.

While sunscreen and vitamin A products are the biggest bang for your buck, there are many additional acids and antioxidants on the market which may improve your skin health. It is important to consult with your plastic surgeon to find the right regimen for you. Together, your skincare concerns can effectively be addressed.


The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Logo

Surgeons In Your Area

Craig Lehrman Headshot

Craig Lehrman

U.S. Board Certified
Suite 2140, 915 Olentangy River Rd
Columbus, OH 43212
United States

16142938655

Tyler Angelos Headshot

Tyler Angelos

U.S. Board Certified
5005 Arlington Centre Blvd.
Columbus, OH 43220
United States

1614246-6900

Albert Chao Headshot

Albert Chao

U.S. Board Certified
Suite 2100, 915 Olentangy River Road
Columbus, OH 43212
United States

16142933748

John Wakelin Headshot

John Wakelin

U.S. Board Certified
5005 Arlington Centre Blvd.
Columbus, OH 43220
United States

1614246-6900

Mark Wells Headshot

Mark Wells

U.S. Board Certified
Suite 600, 285 East State Street
Columbus, OH 43215
United States

1614566-9496

Ergun Kocak Headshot

Ergun Kocak

U.S. Board Certified
Suite A, 1080 Beecher Crossing N
Gahanna, OH 43230
United States

16146864083

Stephen Poteet Headshot

Stephen Poteet

U.S. Board Certified
112 Morey Dr
Marsyville, OH 43040
United States

19372093100

Robert Houser Headshot

Robert Houser

U.S. Board Certified
41 Commerce Park Drive
Westerville, OH 43082
United States

1614890-5565

Logo

Patient Care Center