Your skin hosts over 1000 diverse bacterial species forming a complex microbiome ecosystem protecting health. This skin flora bolsters immunity, wards inflammation, assists healing and collagen production. But imbalance sparks issues - breakouts, sensitivity, disrupted barrier function. Restore equilibrium with strategic skincare. Prebiotics nourish good bugs while probiotics introduce helpful strains. Follow signs like increased reactivity and impaired moisture barrier to tailor microbiome-friendly routines with gentle cleansing, retinol cell turnover help and ample hydration. As emerging research continues illuminating this frontier, tending skin’s trillions of tenants through science-backed pre- and probiotics may transform dermatology.

Under-eye gel patches promise a quick fix for pesky puffiness, shadows and wrinkling in the delicate eye area, but do they work? According to dermatologists, the science behind these patches suggests that certain benefits are mostly temporary while the jury is still out on meaningful long-term results. The key ingredients - from hydrators like hyaluronic acid to firming peptides to antioxidants like vitamin C - impart instant surface hydration and plumping. And thanks to the patches’ adhesive, occlusive barrier, those advantages absorb better compared to regular serums. Furthermore, the cooling effect can assist with short-term depuffing by constricting blood vessels and drainage.

Peptides are touted to be one of the most powerful anti-aging skincare ingredients. Made up of amino acids that help build proteins, peptides in serums and moisturizers penetrate skin’s surface and stimulate collagen and elastin production for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. Peptides also protect skin barrier function, calm inflammation and speed healing and repair for healthier, younger looking skin. With hundreds of peptides available, combinations of copper peptides, neurotransmitter peptides and collagen-stimulating peptides provide the most comprehensive range of research-backed benefits for brighter, firmer and plumper skin. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about incorporating peptide products into your routine. Learn how different peptides work to regenerate skin, who can benefit from topical peptides, and how to properly use serums containing peptides to rejuvenate aging skin for a youthful glow.

Discover if vitamin C serum's highly touted benefits for skin are supported by scientific evidence or just hype. Our team experts objectively examine the science behind topical vitamin C. Its effects on increasing collagen production, antioxidants, brightening skin, and anti-aging are analyzed in detail through published studies and papers. Get the facts on whether vitamin C penetrates skin sufficiently, if certain methods of use and formulations optimize results, and its ideal role alongside retinoids and SPF in your routine. This research-focused article aims to provide definitive evidence on what vitamin C can and cannot achieve for your complexion so you can make informed skincare decisions.

Do men also need a skincare routine? Yes - it can be something minimal and easy, but effective. This definitive guide helps men establish an effective skincare routine. It explains the key steps men need - cleansing, moisturizing, sun protection. Learn how to pick the right products for your skin type and concerns. Get suggestions for targeted treatments that address issues like acne, razor irritation, and signs of aging. Understand how to put together a complete daily regimen morning and evening. With tips tailored specifically for men's grooming and lifestyles, any man can benefit from this advice on cleansing routines, hydrating, anti-aging products, and SPF for achieving healthy, clear skin.

This article outlines the essential steps of a simple skincare routine that delivers real results, according to dermatologists. Learn the core regimen for cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection that experts recommend. Discover how to personalize your routine based on your skin type, whether dry, acne-prone, sensitive, oily, or mature. Get suggestions on beneficial but optional products like retinoids, vitamin C, and exfoliants. Understand what your skincare routine does on a cellular level to achieve your skin goals. The bottom line - you don't need 10 steps or constant new products to get healthy, glowing skin. With a back-to-basics routine tailored to your skin needs, you can maintain radiant skin for life with minimal fuss.

Botox injections can smooth facial wrinkles and signs of aging when injected properly into optimal areas. This article explores the top Botox injection sites like the forehead, frown lines between the eyebrows, crow's feet by the eyes, and neck bands to relax underlying muscles for a more youthful appearance. We also discuss advanced injection sites and techniques that are used off-label. Details are provided including how Botox blocks nerve signals to muscles, suggested dosing for each treatment area based on severity of wrinkles, what to expect during the procedure, and finding an experienced injector for natural-looking outcomes.

This article walks you through everything you need to know to prepare for your first laser tattoo removal session. From scheduling your initial consultation to numbing and aftercare, we provide expert-backed tips to set yourself up for success in starting the tattoo removal process. You’ll learn how to pick the right clinic, avoid sun exposure beforehand, care for your skin pre and post-treatment, plus what to expect during the laser session. With realistic expectations and diligent preparation using this guide’s advice, you can kickstart your journey to erase unwanted ink and achieve optimal fading right from your first tattoo removal treatment. As a bonus, we also delve into the science of the lasers used in tattoo removals.

Dark spots, often a result of sun damage, aging, or acne scars, can be a concern for many. With the plethora of skin brightening creams available in the market, choosing the right one can be daunting. In this article, we'll uncover the powerhouse ingredients that make these creams potent and the science that backs their efficacy. We explore multiple common ingredients, including natural extracts like licorice root and niacinamide to powerful actives like hydroquinone. Moreover, with insights from dermatologists and skincare experts, we aim to provide a comprehensive guide that not only helps you understand the mechanism of these creams but also assists you in making an informed choice. Say goodbye to dark spots and embrace a brighter, more even-toned complexion with the right skin brightening cream.

Microneedling is growing in popularity as a way to combat different types of acne scarring thanks to its ability to physically rebuild collagen under indentations. In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know about using tiny needles to smooth and soften scars (e.g. acne scars). Learn how microneedling (regular and radiofrequency RF) works to remodel scarred skin, which acne scar types it improves best, what to expect during the procedure, and how long it takes to see results. Get realistic insights on the number of sessions required for moderate improvement, associated side effects and downtime, and average costs per treatment.

There has been major hype regarding collagen supplements and their ‘supposed’ benefits for skin, hair, nails, and joints. In this article, we review the evidence and summarize clinical studies to answer whether collagen supplements can truly improve skin elasticity, smooth wrinkles, thicken hair, strengthen nails, and support bone and joint health. You'll learn if collagen is absorbed and utilized by the body and if it can meaningfully increase collagen levels within skin and connective tissues. We seek out the existing evidence and cut through the noise of marketing to provide you with the truth on this topic.

Botox is increasingly popular among millennials and Gen Z for preventative wrinkle treatment. But is getting Botox in your 20s or 30s actually effective? This comprehensive guide reviews the pros and cons of starting preventative Botox at a younger age, how early Botox aims prevents wrinkles, the optimal starting age, conservative dosing, ideal injection sites like the forehead and around the eyes, and what to expect from treatments. The article helps those considering preventative Botox determine if starting treatments in their 20s or 30s could help maintain a smooth, youthful appearance over the long term under a board certified injector’s care.

Jade rollers and gua sha tools have become hugely popular for purported contouring and anti-aging effects. But is there any truth to claims they lift, sculpt, and rejuvenate the face? This article reviews what dermatologists say about evidence on the benefits of these trendy facial massage tools. It summarizes whether jade rollers or gua sha can contour facial muscles, lift sagging skin, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, or provide other dramatic anti-aging effects. Read to learn what these tools can and cannot do for your skin.

We wrote this piece because it is a frequent topic during our patient visits. While most moles are harmless, some may need removal due to medical or cosmetic reasons. Learn about the various removal methods, from surgical excision to shave biopsy, and what to expect during the various procedures. Understand the recovery process, including potential swelling, bruising, and scarring, and how proper aftercare can minimize these effects. We emphasize the importance of prompt evaluation of new or changing moles and what to look for in atypical moles, as they could potentially be cancerous. With detailed answers to frequently asked questions, this guide is your one-stop resource for all things related to mole removal. Dive in to become informed on this commonly requested topic.

Navigating skincare during pregnancy can be tricky with changing skin and concerns about ingredient safety. Our guide tackles all things pregnancy skin using evidence-based recommendations from dermatologists and residents trained/training at the Harvard Medical School Dermatology Program. Learn which ingredients to embrace and avoid, how to treat common issues like acne and dryness, the importance of sunscreen, and tips for maintaining that pregnancy glow from bump to baby!

In this comprehensive guide, our BDA team share their top 10 research-backed tips for caring for your skin to help reduce visible signs of aging like wrinkles and dark spots. Discover how retinoids, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and SPF can rejuvenate skin, what lifestyle habits like diet and sun protection matter, and what your daily anti-aging skincare routine should include. Get realistic insights on managing different skin types and addressing topics from dryness to diet as part of an integrated approach to maintaining your skin’s glow and minimizing premature aging.