As the seasons change, so should your skincare routine. With spring in full swing, it’s the perfect time to reassess your skincare regimen and adjust to ensure your skin stays healthy and radiant. Dermatologists recommend incorporating specific treatments backed by science to help rejuvenate your skin after the harsh winter months. Here are some of the top skin treatments from the Dermatologists at Michigan Dermatology Institute to consider incorporating into your spring skincare routine.
Retinoids (Retinol)
Retinoids, including over-the-counter retinol and prescription-strength tretinoin, are vitamin A derivatives known for their powerful anti-aging properties. They work by increasing cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, retinoids can help improve skin texture and tone, making them an essential part of any anti-aging skincare routine.
When incorporating retinoids into your spring skincare routine, start slowly to avoid irritation. Begin by using them every other night and gradually increase frequency as your skin adjusts. It’s important to apply retinoids at night and always follow up with broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day, as they can increase sun sensitivity.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is perhaps the most important skincare product year-round, but it’s especially crucial as we transition into spring and spend more time outdoors. Exposure to harmful UV rays can lead to premature aging, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, rain or shine.
Opt for a sunscreen that offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays, and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Look for non-comedogenic formulas to avoid clogging pores, and consider incorporating a separate sunscreen for your face and body for optimal protection. At Michigan Dermatology Institute we offer various products including the Avene Mineral Fluid Sunscreen.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin known for its ability to retain moisture. As we age, our skin’s hyaluronic acid levels decrease, leading to dryness, fine lines, and dullness. Incorporating hyaluronic acid into your spring skincare routine can help hydrate and plump the skin, giving it a more youthful appearance.
Look for serums or moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid and apply them to clean, damp skin to lock in moisture. Hyaluronic acid is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, making it a versatile option for spring skincare. We also offer various products on our website such as the Avene RetrinAL Eyes made with hyaluronic acid.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting the skin from environmental damage, including pollution and UV radiation. Vitamin C, in particular, is a potent antioxidant known for its ability to brighten the skin, fade dark spots, and boost collagen production. Incorporating antioxidant-rich serums or moisturizers into your spring skincare routine can help protect against free radical damage and promote a more youthful complexion.
When choosing antioxidant products, opt for stabilized formulations that are packaged in opaque or air-tight containers to prevent degradation. Apply them in the morning before sunscreen to maximize their protective benefits.
Exfoliation and Gentle Cleansing
Exfoliation is essential for removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and promoting cell turnover. As we transition into spring, exfoliating regularly can help slough off dry, dull winter skin and reveal a smoother, more radiant complexion. However, it’s crucial to choose the right exfoliant for your skin type to avoid irritation. Chemical exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), are gentle yet effective options for most skin types. AHAs, like glycolic acid and lactic acid, work to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, while BHAs, such as salicylic acid, penetrate deep into the pores to remove excess oil and debris. Start with a low concentration and gradually increase frequency as tolerated.
Moreover, hydrating cleanser that effectively removes impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. You will want to cleanse first before you go into exfoliating. Cleansing first allows your exfoliant to work more effectively by penetrating more deeply and efficiently. Look for cleansers with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides to help maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. Avoid harsh, drying cleansers, especially if you have sensitive or dry skin, as they can exacerbate issues like redness and irritation.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, offers a multitude of benefits for the skin, making it an excellent addition to your spring skincare routine. This versatile ingredient helps improve skin texture, minimize pore appearance, and regulate oil production, making it ideal for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Additionally, niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in calming redness and soothing irritated skin. Look for serums or moisturizers containing niacinamide and incorporate them into your daily skincare routine for smoother, clearer skin this spring.
Advanced Skin Treatments From Dermatologists at MI Dermatology Institute
At Michigan Dermatology Institute, we offer cutting-edge treatments designed to address a wide range of skin concerns. One of our featured treatments is Morpheus8, a minimally invasive bipolar radiofrequency (RF) tissue treatment. Morpheus8 stands out for its ability to deliver deep fractional treatments, heating subdermal tissue up to 8mm. With dual handpieces and intelligent programmable technology, Morpheus8 offers versatility and precision, making it effective for smaller treatment areas as well as larger and deeper tissue treatments.
Another innovative treatment we offer is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. Harnessing the power of your body’s own blood cells, PRP rejuvenates the skin and promotes hair growth. PRP is rich in growth factors derived from concentrated platelets, which stimulate collagen production and tissue regeneration. This natural treatment has been used by athletes for years to aid in healing injuries, and now dermatologists are incorporating it to remodel scars, rejuvenate the skin, and combat hair loss. With PRP therapy at Michigan Dermatology Institute, you can harness the regenerative potential of your own body for remarkable results in anti-aging, scar reduction, wound healing, and hair restoration.
We also offer additional skincare treatments including SkinPen microneedling and Harmony XL PRO. SkinPen microneedling stimulates collagen production and improves skin texture, addressing concerns like aging signs, acne scars, and photodamage with minimal downtime. Meanwhile, the Harmony XL PRO utilizes various energy-based technologies for versatile solutions, from skin resurfacing and tone correction to hair removal and vascular lesion treatment. These innovative treatments provide safe, effective, and customizable options to help you achieve your skincare goals. Contact us today for a consultation and discover the transformative benefits of SkinPen microneedling and Harmony XL PRO.
Spring is the perfect time to reassess your skincare routine and incorporate treatments recommended by dermatologists to rejuvenate and protect your skin. By incorporating retinoids, sunscreen, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and exfoliation into your spring skincare routine, you can achieve a healthy, radiant complexion that’s ready to face the new season head-on.
Schedule an appointment at Michigan Dermatology Institute today to learn more about what skincare products or advanced treatments are right for you!