Dr. James Barber - Cosmetic Surgery Blog

Just because you are considering cosmetic surgery, doesn't mean you should totally discount skin care. Applying the right type of skin care products to your skin may help condition and maintain a more youthful appearance. Who knows, maybe the use of skin care products can reduce the need for more drastic cosmetic procedures. Consult with Dr. Barber to see if there might be a product that will help you with your skin care needs.

Assess your needs
There are a large number of skin care products available, both over the counter and by prescription. Not all of the products treat the same condition, so it is important to first identify what sort of problems you have in order to select the right product.

Some things to consider:

• What type of skin do you have? Is it oily or dry? Are you fair skinned and burn easily, dark skinned and never burn? Or are you somewhere in between?
• What are you trying to resolve? Are you addressing wrinkles? Acne? Melasma (skin discoloration)? Rosacea (a specific type of reddening of the skin)? Bags under your eyes?
• What are you doing to your skin? Do you smoke? Over expose yourself to the sun?

Once you determine your specific skin requirements, you can begin to look for products that address those needs.


Product types

Vitamin C - Ascorbic acid, or Vitamin C, is an antioxidant that aids in the body's natural ability to produce collagen, an essential building block for tight and elastic skin. As we age, collagen levels decrease.

Alpha-hydroxy - Creams and lotions containing this ingredient may help erase fine lines and age spots. Products containing alpha-hydroxy may cause sensitivity to the sun, so should be used in conjunction with adequate sunblock when necessary.

Beta-hydroxy - Also known as salicylic acid, this product acts as an exfoliant, helping to slough off the outer layer of skin. Many products containing this ingredient are available only by prescription. This ingredient should also be used with sunscreen as it causes photosensitivity. People who are allergic to aspirin may also be allergic to beta-hydroxy.

Retinol - Retinol aids with re-hydrating your skin, improves mottling, and can eliminate fine lines and wrinkles.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid - Often touted as the "miracle in a jar" products containing this ingredient purportedly reduce fine wrinkles and give skin a healthier appearance. It is also credited with fighting free radicals and boosting levels of antioxidants such as Vitamin C.