Skincare Routine Basics and Scientific Evidence

Introduction

• Perfect skincare routine:
  1. Use a moisturizer
  2. Use sunscreen every day
  3. Use a retinoid every evening
  4. Optional: Use a cleanser
• Sunscreen-moisturizer combinations available

Why Have a Skincare Routine?

• Healthy Skin: Acts as a barrier against irritants and allergens, retains moisture.
• Pretty Skin: Aesthetic benefits.
• Maximizes skincare results with minimal effort.

Challenges

• Overabundance of skincare products (avocado masks, charcoal cleansers, snail slime, etc.)
• Insights provided by Dr. Osama Sayeth, a New York-trained dermatologist.

Core Skincare Products Explained

1. Moisturizer

• Function: Maintains the skin barrier, prevents moisture loss, inflammation, itchy skin, and infections.
• Mechanism: Replenishes the layer of fats and proteins between skin cells (keratinocytes).
• Risk Factors: Dry skin, particularly after hot showers.
• Recommended Brands: Eucerin, CeraVe, La Roche-Posay (Budget-friendly: under $30).
• Personal Recommendations:
  • Morning: Altruist Dermatologist Face Fluid SPF 50
  • Evening: CeraVe PM Moisturizer

2. Sunscreen

• Importance: Prevents photo-aging, DNA mutations, wrinkles, dark spots, and skin cancer.
• Evidence: Case report of a truck driver’s sun-damaged skin (NE Journal of Medicine).
• Mechanism: Provides a physical barrier protecting from UV radiation.
• Recommended Types:
  • Broad Spectrum: Protects against UVA and UVB rays.
  • High SPF: Generally advised not to go below SPF 30. SPF 50 recommended as more realistic protection.
• Challenges: Applying thick layers, reapplying due to sweating or smudging.
• Comfort: SPF 30 that feels comfortable better than high SPF that is uncomfortable.

3. Retinoids

• History: Initially used for acne; later found to have anti-aging benefits.
• Benefits:
  • Reduces wrinkles by promoting collagen and elastic fibers.
  • Reduces uneven pigmentation.
  • Promotes faster skin cell regeneration.
• Types:
  • Retinols: Weaker, available over the counter.
  • Retinoids: Stronger, generally prescribed by doctors (e.g., Tretinoin).
• Usage Tips: Start small, build up usage. Use moisturizer to avoid irritation.

4. Cleanser

• Function: Helps remove oils and debris that water alone can't.
• Usage: More necessary if using heavy cosmetics or having visible dirt/sweat.
• Recommended Type: Hydrating cleansers (e.g., CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser).

Personal Routine

• Morning:
  • Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
  • Sunscreen/Moisturizer: Altruist SPF 50 Face Fluid
• Evening:
  • Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
  • Retinoid Cream: Domatica-prescribed tretinoin
  • Moisturizer: CeraVe PM

Conclusion

• Simplified routine: Moisturizer, sunscreen, retinoid, optional cleanser.
• Consistency brings results.
• For more information: Interview with Dr. Osama Sayeth on vlog channel.

Hope these notes help in creating a solid and scientifically-backed skincare routine!