In the past few years, in-office procedures have become more accessible and less intimidating. Gone are the days when cosmetic procedures were whispered about in hushed tones. Today, we’re having open, honest conversations about what makes us feel good, inside and out. For many of us, that includes exploring the ever-evolving landscape of beauty treatments that can help us put our best face (and body) forward. Enter: tweakments.

This social media buzzword is broadly defined as quick, natural-looking procedures that have you in and out of the spa without any downtime. While it might seem like a new phenomenon, non-invasive beauty treatments have always offered a middle ground between embracing a natural look and making tweaks that help us feel like the best version of ourselves—especially during the summer, which we’re dubbing the season of self-care.

Featured image from our interview with Roti Brown by Michelle Nash.

If you’re looking for a pre-vacation glow-up or just want to feel your best this summer, look no further. However, with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you. We’ve consulted our resident dermatologist to bring you the latest on the most popular and effective non-invasive procedures for summer.

Breaking Down the Best Non-Invasive Procedures for Summer

Q: I’m curious about cosmetic procedures, but I don’t know which ones are safe and effective. How do I find the right non-invasive treatment for me?

Non-invasive treatments should complement your daily skincare routine to address skin concerns, supercharge results, and make you feel your best. In the summer, every moment is precious and most of us want to maximize our time outside. With non-invasive treatments, you don’t have to sacrifice your summer for your skincare goals.

To demystify non-invasive procedures for a summer glow-up, we consulted Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, who has plenty say on the subject.

“Summertime is a time for travel, outdoor BBQs, pool hangs, and beach waves. People don’t want to spend their summer hiding indoors, recovering. They want to be out and about and enjoying it. Also, there’s more ambient sunlight during summertime, and so the risks of developing hyperpigmentation after aggressive procedures increase,” says Dr. Geddes. “For that reason, we generally save our more intense procedures for the fall or winter and stick to noninvasive treatments in the summer. This is even more important for our patients with melanin-rich skin.”

Ahead, Dr. Geddes takes us through what to know about non-invasive treatments for summer and how to get the most out of your spa visits.

Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce

Dr. Geddes is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Westlake Dermatology, specializing in the practice of both cosmetic and medical dermatology. She views cosmetic dermatology as synergistic to a happy, healthy lifestyle and regularly counsels her patients in a balanced, natural approach to both cosmetic and medical dermatology. 

First of all, what are tweakments?

“Tweakments is a term used on social media to describe a procedure that creates a small, natural change in appearance,” says Dr. Geddes. “It’s akin to saying a tiny adjustment or a little bit of editing. It refers more to the degree of change being not drastic. And that’s often accomplished with noninvasive procedures.”

Non-invasive procedures have been around longer than the term “treatments,” but both refer to small treatments that deliver a “you, but better” look without interfering too much with your routine.

Who might be a good candidate for non-invasive procedures?

If you’re curious if non-invasive treatments might be right for you, good news: they probably are. Take it from Dr. Geddes. “Anyone who is healthy and has an interest in maintaining or improving how they look and feel is a good candidate for a noninvasive procedure or tweakment. It’s all for fun and feeling good!”

Like any other aesthetic decision, the best way to be sure you’re doing the right thing for your aesthetic goals is to ask an expert. Speak to your dermatologist or schedule a consultation before taking the plunge. This will help you be sure you’re suitable for the treatment you want—or help you pick the right one for your goals.

“It’s not for everyone, and that’s OK,” says Dr. Geddes. “The best way to figure it out is to go in for a consultation with an expert, like a board-certified dermatologist with cosmetics training.”

What should we know before getting non-invasive procedures?

When it comes to getting non-invasive procedures for summer, less downtime also means less prep before your appointment. However, for some treatments, there is a little pre- and post-procedure care to be mindful of.

“Most procedures, even noninvasive ones, require a period of strict sun avoidance while healing. Generally, the less intense the treatment, the less downtime/need for sun avoidance.”

You might have to edit your daily skincare routine for a few weeks before your treatment to minimize risks. But other than opting out of AHAs and retinol for a while (which you might be doing anyway to protect your skin in the summer), the beauty of non-invasive treatments is often their universality and how quick you’ll be back to your routine afterward.

Some pre-procedure steps Dr. Geddes recommends:

• Discontinue any potentially irritating topical agents (like retinoid creams) a few days before.
• Tell your provider if you have a history of cold sores.
• Don’t plan on trying any new treatment right before a big life event or trip.These procedures are still medical treatments with real risks and potential complications, even if they are noninvasive.

The Best Non-Invasive Procedures for Summer

From Botox to lasers, you might be seeking tweakments for smoother skin or even muscle tension. Dr. Geddes gave us the scoop on the most popular non-invasive treatments for summer, but she also says the best thing you can do this summer is enjoy it!

“Sometimes the best kind of glow-up comes from the inside. Spend quality time with friends and family. Laugh a lot. Make good memories. Eat fresh food. And get your body moving.”

Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce

Ahead, Dr. Geddes breaks down the best non-invasive procedures for summer. Read on to discover what options might be right for you.

Biostimulators

These are injectable products that are designed to improve skin quality and volume by stimulating collagen production. They are often delivered in a series of treatments to optimize effects.

• Pros: By gradually stimulating collagen production, they can provide natural-looking and long-lasting results, restore volume, and improve skin texture over time.
• Cons: Results from biostimulators take time to become visible, often requiring multiple sessions and several months before full effects are seen. Some individuals might experience temporary swelling or bruising.

Microneedling

This is a procedure that uses a device with numerous needles to penetrate the skin and stimulate wound healing. It’s quick and relatively painless and has very little downtime, making it a perfect summertime procedure.

I love the glow it gives, and it’s safe for all skin types. It should be avoided in people with active skin infections or moderate acne.

• Pros: Microneedling boosts collagen production, improves skin texture, and reduces the appearance of scars and fine lines. It is minimally invasive with relatively quick recovery times.
• Cons: Post-procedure redness and sensitivity are common, lasting a few days. Results can vary, and multiple sessions may be needed to achieve desired outcomes.

Superficial chemical peels

These are when a very light acid is applied evenly to the skin to cause peeling of the top layers. It can be done to help lighten discoloration, temporarily minimize the appearance of pores, and improve skin texture.

The exact peel used for your skin must be chosen by a skin expert to avoid complications. Stop all retinoids or irritating topical agents for at least five days before any peel. You will need to minimize sun exposure while healing, but this is usually only for a couple of days.

• Pros: Superficial chemical peels gently exfoliate the skin, addressing minor skin imperfections and improving overall skin texture.
• Cons: The effects of superficial chemical peels are often temporary and may require regular treatments to maintain results. Some individuals may experience mild irritation, redness, or flaking post-procedure.

(Some) lasers

Lasers such as the pulsed-dye laser (to target redness) and low powered, low density resurfacing ones (like Clear and Brilliant for dark spots) have minimal downtime and can be done safely in the summertime. These must be performed by an expert to avoid complications.

• Pros: Laser treatments can effectively address a range of skin concerns, including pigmentation, wrinkles, and scars, with relatively quick recovery times. They offer precise and targeted treatment, leading to noticeable improvements.
• Cons: Laser procedures can be costly, and the intensity of the treatment might cause discomfort during and after the procedure. There is also a risk of temporary redness, swelling, and hyperpigmentation, especially in those with darker skin tones.

The post A Derm Swears By These Quick, No-Downtime Beauty Treatments appeared first on Camille Styles.

Say it with me: sun protection is sexy. With sunscreens for every skin type on the market—and a new class of self-tanners giving you a natural glow without having to bake in the sun—it’s easier than ever to stay protected. Face sunscreens can be tinted, reapplied over makeup, and are laden with the benefits of serums. Body sunscreens are no longer sticky and dull, but are often the final step in a bodycare routine for glowing skin. Perhaps it goes without saying, but sunscreen is one of my favorite parts of my beauty routine.

A Dermatologist Breaks Down the Biggest Sunscreen Myths

Q: I feel overwhelmed with everything I hear about sunscreen. I know I need to be wearing it every day and applying it often… but how often? And how do I make sure I’m picking the right one?

Social media has played a huge role in making sunscreen fun—and, dare I say, cool. But it can also make it seem complicated. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed given all the product options and application tips. Plenty of sunscreens are more style than SPF, and it can be hard to determine what’s actually worth the money.

To cut through the noise and keep you up to speed, we consulted our resident dermatologist, Dr. Geddes-Bruce. Of course, she has plenty say on the subject. “We are, unfortunately, entering an age of misinformation,” says Dr. Geddes. “There’s a ton of fear-mongering these days on the dangers of sunscreen. Fake-perts post false claims about the dangers of sunscreens, and the content spreads like wildfire.”

Despite all the misinformation online, sun protection is simple. “Sunscreen is one tool to help minimize exposing our skin to excess ultraviolet radiation, the number one cause of skin cancer,” says Dr. Geddes. It’s as simple as that.

Ahead, Dr. Geddes takes us through what to know about sunscreen in 2024. Prepare to discover the best dermatologist-approved sunscreens—and exactly how to use them.

Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce

Dr. Geddes is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Westlake Dermatology, specializing in the practice of both cosmetic and medical dermatology. She views cosmetic dermatology as synergistic to a happy, healthy lifestyle and regularly counsels her patients in a balanced, natural approach to both cosmetic and medical dermatology. 

Chemical vs. Physical Sunscreens

“Chemical and physical sunscreens both prevent ultraviolet radiation from damaging skin cell’s DNA. There isn’t one type that is better than the other—they both have their advantages and disadvantages,” says Dr. Geddes.

“The best sunscreen is the one that you will use and use properly.”

Ultimately, the difference between physical and chemical sunscreens lies in the ingredients they use to protect skin from the sun’s rays. Dive into each option below to determine which might be best for you.

Physical sunscreens

Physical sunscreens (aka mineral sunscreens) create a protective layer over your skin using ingredients like titanium dioxide, iron oxide, and zinc oxide.

These ingredients cause the dreaded white cast that has made many people go for chemical sunscreens instead. However, new formulas and tinted alternatives can make physical sunscreens easier to wear.

“Mineral sunscreens are great for some, but they tend to leave a white cast on the skin, which is undesirable for people with melanin-rich skin. So, there’s a whole portion of the population who tend to struggle with pigmentation issues and can benefit from sunscreen. But they don’t have great options if they believe mineral sunscreens are the only choice.”

If you’re opting for a physical sunscreen, consider our editor-approved picks.

Essential Mineral SPF 50+

$42 at Skin Clique

Lightsaver Tinted Activated Mineral Sunscreen SPF 33

$45 at Lightsaver

Kinship Self Reflect SPF 32 Probiotic Moisturizing Sunscreen

$46 at Credo

Chemical sunscreens

To keep skin protected, chemical sunscreens use a combination of organic filters like:

• Avobenzone
• Octocrylene
• 2-Ethylhexyl salicylate
• Ensulizole
• Meradimate
• Sulisobenzone

Since chemical sunscreens don’t create a physical screen against the sun like mineral sunscreens, be sure to wait 15 minutes after applying to go out into the sun. And just because a sunscreen is chemical doesn’t mean it’s bad for your skin.

“There is a lot of chemophobia on the internet. People distrust anything made with “chemicals,” and this goes for chemical sunscreens. In turn, inorganic sunscreens are touted as the only safe alternative, which is simply not true,” says Dr. Geddes. “There’s no need to demonize the cosmetically elegant options—organic sunscreens—especially for people with skin of color.”

When selecting a chemical sunscreen, read the ingredient label first. Ensure your product doesn’t contain the following:

• Oxybenzone
• Octinoxate
• Octisalate
• Octocrylene
• Homosalate
• Parabens

Bask Suncare Daily Invisible Gel SPF 40

$28 at Nordstrom

Cay SKin Isle Body Oil SPF 30 with Sea Moss and Squalane

$32 at Cay Skin

The Best Hybrid Sunscreens

If you want the benefits of a chemical sunscreen with the physical screen that mineral SPF uses, many new sunscreens are using hybrid formulas that combine zinc with protective chemicals.

Black Girl Sunscreen Make It Hybrid SPF 50

$16 at Target

CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen

$18 at Ulta

Dr. Loretta Urban Antioxidant Sunscreen SPF 40

$55 at REVOLVE

How to Properly Apply Sunscreen

“Apply the correct amount [of sunscreen] and reapply every 2-3 hours or any time after water exposure/excess sweating,” advises Dr. Geddes.

But how much is enough? Dr. Geddes notes that, “Generally, we don’t use enough sunscreen when we apply it to our skin. Studies have shown that the way we apply it gives us an SPF of about ¼ of what is on the label. So, picking a higher SPF can get you a higher level of protection.”

For your face, ears, and neck, you should use about one teaspoon or 5 ml of sunscreen. The three-finger rule is a good guide. Squeeze out enough sunscreen to cover the length of three fingers, then spread evenly.

“If you are worried about aging skin, pigmentation, or are at risk of developing skin cancer, an ideal sunscreen routine would be to apply your favorite one to your face and neck daily, after your morning skincare products, no matter the weather. If you are spending time outdoors make sure you reapply every 2-3 hours.”

The final word? Apply and then reapply (and then reapply again. “A double application of sunscreen is a good way to make sure you are getting enough initial coverage and upon re-application. But honestly, any re-application is better than nothing!”

The Skinny on SPF Makeup

These days, every product contains SPF-something. From tinted foundations to face mists and even SPF eyeshadow. These products are a good way to add SPF into your routine, but they shouldn’t be your only source of sunscreen.

“Newer products that combine makeup and sunscreen give some small degree of UV protection, but it’s unlikely that you will be applying the makeup in a thick enough layer to give the stated SPF on the bottle. Most people just don’t wear that heavy of makeup. So, it’s best to have a separate sunscreen underneath your makeup,” says Dr. Geddes.

Tower28 SunnyDays Tinted SPF Sunscreen Foundation

$32 at Credo

Supergoop! (Glow)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35

$35 at Supergoop!

Essential Tint SPF 50+

$39 at Skin Clique

Why You Shouldn’t Mix SPF With Other Products

“Mixing your sunscreen with your moisturizer isn’t a good idea,” says Dr. Geddes. SPF in products like moisturizers and makeup is formulated to give you protection. However, mixing the two can dilute your protection and render the formula inactive.

“There’s no way to guarantee you are mixing it evenly, and you will be interfering with the inherent properties of the formulation that allow it to form a protective film layer. Ideally you apply your moisturizer first, then your sunscreen on top.”

Instead, use products with SPF in them—though, as referenced above, don’t count on them to be your only protection.

IRIS&ROMEO Weekend Skin SPF 50 + Vitamin C + Glow

$50 at Credo

MINU Brightening Sunscreen Minerals Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Gel-Cream

$58 at Credo

Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel

$4.90 at Walmart

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50

$1.98 at Walmart

Sunscreen Innovations to Try in 2024

New innovations in SPF are emerging every day, and some of them are more promising than others. One new SPF trend: sun patches. These, like pimple patches, wrinkle patches, or eye patches, sit atop the skin and act as physical shields from the sun.

“Sun patches are an exciting new form of photoprotection. They can provide all-day, reliable coverage like UPF clothing and can be a great addition for someone who is spending a lot of time outdoors. The issue is that many of them are highly visible, the coverage is limited (so you’ll still need sunscreen), and they can be pricey, not to mention the single-use ones are wasteful.”

Sun Patch Under Eye UV Protection

$28 at Sun Patch

La Roche Posay My UV Patch

$30 at Skinstore

Sunscreen Myths to Ditch

“The most bizarre and potentially harmful trend I’ve seen on social media is the recipes for homemade sunscreen. You just can’t effectively mix your own sunscreen in a home kitchen and expect it to work. Stick with the tried-and-true tested stuff.”

Other myths say that sunscreen is bad for you—or worse, urge you not to wear it. Though sunscreen is the main (and the best) source of sun protection, it is not the only one. “If you really want to avoid sunscreen then throw on a large hat and sunglasses, and photoprotective clothing, and avoid peak sunshine hours (between 10 and 2 p.m.).”

The post Do You Believe These Sunscreen Myths? A Dermatologist Separates Fact From Fiction appeared first on Camille Styles.

Peptides are everywhere. In buzzy, whipped moisturizers, celeb-approved lip treatments, and in serums and skin milks. Skincare trends come often and fade fast, but sometimes, hero ingredients emerge and become top-shelf staples. For so long, they were ignored and mispronounced. Now, they’re in even the most streamlined skincare routines. Are we witnessing the birth of a skincare star with peptides for skin? This science-backed, dermatologist-approved ingredient is having a real moment. And this moment is poised to last.

If you’re wondering what using peptides for skincare looks like, you’re not the only one. I vaguely remember hearing about them in science class, but I can’t be trusted to recall anything beyond: “the mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell.” Now that peptides for skincare have taken over the labels of all my favorite brands, I figured it was time to dive into this newfound skincare hero with the help of a skincare expert.

Peptides for Skin: Everything To Know About This Anti-Aging Ingredient

Over the past year or so, I have noticed many brands introducing peptide-based products. I’ve seen them in every type of skincare product, but what do they do? (And what exactly are they?) Could you share insights into how to integrate peptides into our skincare routine and which products might be the best? – Kristen S.

I’m not the only one intrigued but overwhelmed by the sudden revelation that, apparently, we all need to be flooding our skin with peptides. Maybe we’ve all been served the same social media ads. Or perhaps they are poised to take over from holy-grail ingredients such as niacinamide and ceramides as beauty’s next big thing. To unravel the mysteries of the beauty universe, we’ve called upon board-certified dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD, to explain what’s up with peptides.

Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD

Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon specializing in the practice of both cosmetic and medical dermatology. She views cosmetic dermatology as synergistic to a happy, healthy lifestyle and regularly counsels her patients in a balanced, natural approach to both cosmetic and medical dermatology.

What are peptides?

Peptides are small chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks that make up proteins. If amino acids are the bricks, the peptides are the brick wall, and the whole building is a protein. Different combinations of amino acids create peptides with widely varying functions from cell signaling to microbiome defense and more.

Peptides can benefit your skin by increasing hydration, stimulating collagen, and elastin production, decreasing inflammation, and promoting wound healing.

The Benefits of Using Peptides for Skin

Peptides for skincare address the following:

• fine lines and wrinkles
• improved skin firmness and elasticity
• reduced redness
• improved hyperpigmentation
• can also help protect the skin from environmental damage

Almost everyone can benefit from using peptides, and most are easily tolerated. There are formulations to address a number of issues. The real question is: How effective is the product? Have there been scientific studies to back up the claims?

Note that products with peptides can be pricey. Before purchasing, ask: do the costs justify the degree of improvement?

Ingredients to Use With Peptides

Peptides pair really well with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, ingredients that work to promote skin hydration and moisturization. You can also find peptides in products containing antioxidants, acids, and retinols. However, it’s important that they are formulated correctly because harsher ingredients can interact and lead to peptide degradation.

The best peptides products with hyaluronic acid:

Wonder Valley Wonder Serum with Peptides and Hyaluronic Acid

$120 at Credo

Rhode Skin Peptide Glazing Fluid

$30 at Rhode

How to Choose Peptide Products for Your Skin

Ideally your product will contain a high concentration of peptides and be from a reputable brand that has clinical studies to back up its efficacy. It will be packaged in a way to preserve the integrity of the peptides, which can be super sensitive to environmental factors like higher temps and air.

The specific sequence of amino acids in the peptide is crucial to its function. With countless combinations possible, it’s exciting to think we may have only scratched the surface of what can be accomplished.

The Best Peptide Products, According to a Derm

Alastin Skincare

I absolutely love Alastin skincare products with their TriHex technology that contains peptides to promote the removal of old damaged collagen and elastin and facilitate the promotion of new. Their Nectar helps my patients heal quickly after procedures and achieve incredible results. And their eye cream is my personal favorite.

Alastin Restorative Eye Treatment with TriHex Technology

$114 at Alastin Skincare

Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar with TriHex Technology

$70 at Alastin Skincare

Revision Skincare

Revision skincare also has an incredible selection of peptide rich products, including Revox 7 that decreases expression lines (I’ve heard it be called “Botox in a bottle”) as well as the cult-favorite Nectifirm that has peptides that work to tighten saggy skin on your neck.

Revision Skincare Revox

$150 at Dermstore

Revision Skincare Nectifirm ADVANCED

$154 at Dermstore

The Ordinary

The Ordinary brand is an affordable skincare line that also has some peptide fan favorites, including their Copper Peptides serum (for firming) and Argireline solution (to target dynamic fine lines).

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

$32 at The Ordinary

The Ordinary Argireline Solution

$9.70 at The Ordinary

The post This Beauty Ingredient Has Been Called “Botox in a Bottle”—A Derm Explains the Hype appeared first on Camille Styles.

The minute I turned 30, I started to take my skincare to the next level. In all honesty, my 20s were the wild west of caked-on makeup and inconsistent skincare routines—but 30 changed it all. Even though I didn’t feel old,  it was a magic number that got my butt in gear. Aging gracefully became a priority, and it started with simple daily SPF on my face, neck, and hands. It’s now morphed into regular facials, red light masks and ice rolling, as well as having conversations with friends about whether or not I should take the leap into Botox or not. And one thing I’ve recently learned that may come with age is hooded eyes. 

What a Derm Wants You to Know About Hooded Eyes

Hooded eyes, or when the skin from your brow bone droops over the top part of your eye, can be an aesthetic concern for many, not to mention it can also impair vision and cause general discomfort. We’re all about nurturing a healthy relationship with aging here, however it’s normal if hooded eyes may be affecting your overall confidence.  Knowing how to treat them, if you choose to, can also be overwhelming to say the least. 

In our next installment of Ask A Derm, we check in with Dr. Geddes-Bruce to get her insight on everything we need to know about hooded eyes: what they are, who they might impact, and treatment options—both invasive and noninvasive. 

Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce

Dr. Geddes is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Westlake Dermatology, specializing in the practice of both cosmetic and medical dermatology. She views cosmetic dermatology as synergistic to a happy, healthy lifestyle and regularly counsels her patients in a balanced, natural approach to both cosmetic and medical dermatology. 

What are hooded eyes? 

Hooded eyes refers to a particular eye shape where the skin between the upper eyelid crease and lash line is not very visible. The skin from the brow bone drapes close to the lash line creating varying degrees of hooding. One famous example is Taylor Swift. 

What causes someone to have hooded eyes?

It’s a normal, anatomical variant seen in men and women and certain ethnicities. Hooded eyes can also be a function of aging. As we age, our skin loses elasticity, or the ability to recoil after being stretched. Eyelid skin is very delicate and particularly vulnerable to this development over time. The lower eyelid develops more wrinkles or bags, and the upper eyelid becomes more droopy, which leads to hooding. It also is influenced by our brow position, which also lowers over time. 

Are there ways to treat hooded eyes? 

There are a number of different treatments to decrease hooding to varying degrees, ranging from invasive to noninvasive options. Generally, the more invasive the procedure, like surgery, the more dramatic the results. 

What non-surgical hooded eyelid treatments do you recommend?

• Thread lifts. Thread lifts are a very temporary way to lift sagging skin. It works to varying degrees to help with a dropped brow. For this reason, you might see some improvement in eyelid hooding, but the results will depend on how much the brow position was contributing in the first place. One risk is a puckering or dimpling of the skin where the thread is inserted. 

• Noninvasive skin tightening treatments. Different energy devices like lasers have been used to treat hooded eyes. Some examples are Ultherapy to lift the brows, or Thermage or a CO2 laser to tighten the lax skin. These modalities work best in those whose hooding is minor and caused more by aging than genetics. The advantages are that they are minimally invasive and have minor to no downtime. The disadvantage is that their degree of success can be variable. 

• Neuromodulators. Botox and Dysport can be used to lift the brows and give a little improvement to hooded eyes. It needs to be placed correctly in the forehead and around the brows to do so. If done incorrectly, it can have the opposite effect and actually worsen hooding. The benefit of this treatment is that it is quick, relatively painless, and temporary. If you don’t like it, it will wear off in a few months. One of the biggest cons is that it is temporary; if you love it you have to keep doing it.  

How do you know if an invasive procedure is necessary?

Sometimes the degree of hooding is what needs to be changed to give a more awake appearance and reset the clock back to one’s original look. You don’t need to get rid of the hooding completely. This can be done surgically, but it’s important to find an experienced plastic surgeon who does natural work and understands the desire to preserve your classic eye shape. For everyone not interested in surgery, you can always consult your board-certified dermatologist to see what options are available to you. Hooded eyes can be changed with a surgical blepharoplasty and/or brow lift, depending on the cause of the hooding. 

What surgical treatments for hooded eyes do you recommend?

• Blepharoplasty. A blepharoplasty is a removal of the skin and sometimes fat of the upper eyelid. It provides a dramatic change to the eye shape, and not necessarily always a good one, because it can completely change your look. In some cases, it can have the opposite effect of aging you by making the area appear more sunken and hollow. 

• Brow lift. Hooded eyes can also be caused by a dropped brow. A forehead lift, also known as a brow lift, is a surgical procedure that repositions the soft tissues of the upper face and restores the eyebrows back to their original location. It is often done through incisions in the scalp, near the frontal hairline. The biggest risks are a loss of skin sensation and asymmetrical brows.

Are there any treatments to avoid?

A little filler near the temples and tail of the eyebrow can change the way light hits and reflects off the face, giving the illusion of lift, but won’t do much to alter hooded eyes in any meaningful way. It might be a nice way to address common areas of volume loss with aging, and this restoration helps overall facial balance, but it isn’t a go-to treatment for hooded eyes. 

The post What Are Hooded Eyes—And How Do You “Fix” Them? A Derm Breaks It Down appeared first on Camille Styles.

Remember the vampire facial? It went viral because of its main ingredient: your blood. Basically, it’s a microneedling facial with added platelet-rich plasma (PRP), using the cells in your blood to speed up your skin’s healing process. But there are less dramatic ways to elevate your skin treatments—while still using your skin’s own healing powers to your advantage.

In fact, many skin-favorite products and treatments are so effective for that reason exactly, by harnessing the natural elements in your skin. Think: adding collagen to your routine (whether topically or through supplements) to help boost your natural collagen. Or how ceramides help repair your skin barrier because they’re part of what your skin microbiome is made of. And now, beauty’s buzziest facial sprays use hypochlorous acid, which is produced by your white blood cells, for targeted wound healing. And if you’re looking for the latest way to give your skin a boost, look no further. Exosomes are the latest and greatest in skin repair. Let’s explore.

Featured image above: from our interview with Sanetra Longno by Michelle Nash

Everything You Need to Know About Exosomes

My facialist has started offering exosomes as an addition to treatments. I’ve been seeing people talk about this on social media, but how do I know if using exosomes is right for me? Should I look for them in topical products or treatments? Possibly both?

Exosomes are popping up on product labels and in the treatment room. But what exactly are they? And how can they affect your skin? To get to the bottom of this new beauty buzzword, I invited Dr. Geddes-Bruce to share her insights. “Exosomes are one of the ways stem cells communicate, so it’s akin to taking pure vitamin C rather than eating an entire orange to get some,” she explained.

“Exosomes have the potential to address several skin issues like calming redness, evening skin tone, correcting brown spots, softening fine lines and wrinkles, and promoting hair growth and wound healing.”

With their potential to stimulate overall improvements in your skin by boosting its healing process, it’s no wonder exosomes are everywhere. But don’t rush into anything without asking a derm. Especially when it comes to in-office treatments, which are promising but still being studied to prove their efficacy, Dr. Geddes says.

Ahead, Dr. Geddes takes us through the ins and outs of exosomes. Prepare to discover the best, derm-approved ways to use them—and what to look out for.

Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce

Dr. Geddes is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Westlake Dermatology, specializing in the practice of both cosmetic and medical dermatology. She views cosmetic dermatology as synergistic to a happy, healthy lifestyle and regularly counsels her patients in a balanced, natural approach to both cosmetic and medical dermatology. 

What are exosomes?

Think of exosomes as little bundles of information that signal the cells in your body to perform certain functions. While we traditionally think of them as coming from stem cells, exosomes are produced by all types of cells and promote different functions. For example, when you have an injury, your platelets rush to the area that needs help and send signals via exosomes to start repairing the damage.

What are exosomes used for in skincare?

Exosomes have been used and are being studied for use in topical skincare products to promote regeneration and repair. To do so, the exosomes have to be:

• safely derived (if coming from human tissue or verified blood bank sources)
• stable enough to survive in a bottle on your bathroom counter
• actually effective in their claims, without the potential to do any harm

Are exosomes FDA-approved?

Our FDA does an incredibly thorough job of regulating drugs and any claim of a product to treat disease falls under the purview of the FDA. There are currently no FDA-approved exosome products and any practice offering injectable exosomes to treat conditions with claims of improving disease should be approached with extreme caution.

It’s the Wild West out there with unregulated claims and cowboy practitioners, so always inquire about safety, efficacy, and tread with caution into this new field of regenerative medicine. Let the studies prove safety and efficacy before jumping on this bandwagon, despite the potential exciting effects. There is a particular brand of topical exosomes that I feel confident recommending to my patients called ( plated ).

Who can benefit from exosomes?

Anyone who sees the effects of aging or skin damage from pollution, sun damage, or generally not taking good care of yourself can likely see benefits from topical exosomes. 

How long do exosomes take to work on the skin?

Most topical skin products start working immediately, but it takes time to visualize the transformation. I would recommend giving a six-week trial for all of your skincare products, including topical exosomes, as long as they aren’t irritating your skin. 

Are there disadvantages of exosomes?

Exosomes are a novel product and therefore can be quite expensive. Before investing in this type of skincare, make sure to look for products with high-quality published data and rigorous safety standards. Make sure you understand that these products have the potential to influence the way cells work, and therefore their cell source is an important consideration in their safety. On the flip side, you also want to make sure you are using a product that is shelf-stable at room temperature so that you get what you paid for. 

The post Exosomes Are Dermatologists New Favorite Anti-Aging Treatment—Here’s Why appeared first on Camille Styles.

My algorithm thinks I need Botox. Scrolling through social media, I see ads, testimonials, and before/afters all to convince me to make an appointment at my nearest medspa. I’m at the age where many of my friends have injected a syringe or two of Botox into their fine lines, foreheads, and even their armpits (apparently it can stop sweating)! But even with all the hype, Botox is still misunderstood. Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Elizabeth Geddes Bruce, agrees. Beyond its aesthetic benefits, Botox is gaining more popularity as a wellness tool. Surprised? I was too! But as a painkiller, Botox for muscle tension could be the thing you’re looking for to ease your discomfort. Let’s investigate.

image above: from our interview with Alicia Yoon by Winnie Au

Everything You Need to Know About Botox For Muscle Tension

I’ve starting hearing about people using Botox for muscle tension. I’m Botox-curious, but how do I know if this treatment is for me? And is it something that derms recommend?

As a beauty editor, I know the buzz around Botox is real. But could it be too good to be true? Or worse, could Botox be dangerous? Botox for muscle tension might be the next big thing, but it’s imperative to understand what you’re getting into. So I invited Dr. Geddes-Bruce to share her insights.

First things first, she told me that what we think of as “Botox” isn’t always… Botox. “Botox is a trademarked name but is used colloquially to refer to all neuromodulators,” Dr. Geddes-Bruce explains. It’s a brand, albeit the most popular, not the name of the treatment. Whether you’re opting for Botox or another neuromodulator, the possibility of an injectable painkiller might be right for you. But as with all treatments, be sure to consult a derm.

Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce

Dr. Geddes is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Westlake Dermatology, specializing in the practice of both cosmetic and medical dermatology. She views cosmetic dermatology as synergistic to a happy, healthy lifestyle and regularly counsels her patients in a balanced, natural approach to both cosmetic and medical dermatology. 

Why are patients using Botox for muscle tension?

Neuromodulators like Botox prevent muscles from contracting too strongly, thus causing a relaxing effect. We’ve capitalized on this effect in medicine and use it to safely treat painful conditions ranging from migraines to teeth grinding or jaw clenching, and much more.

How do you know if you need Botox for muscle tension?

This is subjective and depends on how your pain and tension affect YOU and your quality of life. Different tools help us as clinicians assess this in the office. In general, you should consult the appropriate specialist for evaluation before using Botox for muscle tension. For example, see a neurologist for migraines.

Which muscles can benefit most from Botox?

Neuromodulators work by binding to receptors on the muscle and blocking the signal sent from the nerve to “move.” The muscles that benefit the most are those that are contracting so strongly that they create medical issues, or those that can create a softer expression when weakened.

One of our most popular treatments is treating the masseter muscles of the jaw. We can improve tension headaches and save your tooth enamel by relaxing those muscles. Not to mention, an added benefit is a more tapered jawline and facial slimming. Another, newer treatment is injecting the superior portion of the trapezius muscle to relax the shoulders, elongate the neck, and relax muscle tension of that region. This has been popular for our patients who spend a lot of their day sitting at a desk, working on a computer.

How long does Botox take to relax a muscle?

Depending on the specific brand of neuromodulator, you can start to see results a couple of days after the injections. However, full results usually take about two weeks to visualize. And full weakening of the muscle can take up to a month to fully appreciate.

The relaxing effect is twofold. First, we see an initial relaxing of the muscle when the neuromodulator fully kicks in around two weeks. Then, we see further relaxation when that muscle is no longer being used like it had been previously, which usually happens around one month after treatment. 

How often do you need to get new Botox injections?

Several factors determine how frequently you need to get new injections. Everyone metabolizes them a little differently. The most important is: how long does the effect last for you? On average, we see it last anywhere from 2.5-4 months. There are a few outliers that may go through it quicker or have it last closer to 6 months. And we’ve learned that the dosage used affects the duration—the more units, the stronger the initial effect, and the longer it will last.

Is Botox FDA-approved for tight muscles? Do Derms recommend it?

Yes! Botox is FDA-approved for the treatment for several conditions, including

• Cervical dystonia, in which the neck muscles are involuntarily contracted and cause the head to twist to one side)
• Overactive bladder leading to urine leakage
• Prevention of chronic migraines
• Blepharospasm and strabismus, aka involuntary blinking or crossing of the eyes).

All of these conditions stem from tight or overactive muscles. As dermatologists, we use many medications “off label” in the treatment of disease, as long as they have been proven safe for our patients. This includes neuromodulators for teeth grinding or jaw clenching, shoulder tension, excess sweating, and many different cosmetic benefits such as softening a gummy smile or frown line. 

Are there any risks to using Botox for muscle tension?

Thankfully, neuromodulators like Botox are pretty low risk because they are temporary. If Botox is placed incorrectly or diffuses into an unwanted muscle, then you can get undesirable effects like the dreaded eyelid drop or an asymmetric smile!

However, these things are rare with an experienced injector. Patients with baseline medical conditions involving muscle weakness (such as myasthenia gravis, for example) avoid neuromodulator injections, as well as anyone who has had a hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to neuromodulators, or pregnant women.

Are there any similar treatments to consider instead?

There are muscle-relaxing medications that are most often used temporarily after an acute injury, like a back strain. For chronically tight muscles, one can also consider gentle massage, physical therapy, targeted exercise, mindfulness, meditation, and acupuncture.

What else should we know before we go?

It’s not necessary to fully weaken or paralyze a muscle to see the cosmetic and medical benefits of Botox. We can tailor the dosage to your desired effect, and the results can be as subtle or strong as you please! Also, know that there are five different FDA-approved neuromodulators for use in the United States: Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeaveu, and Daxxify. Each one has subtle differences in effect (and price) and you can discuss which one is best to fit your needs with your doctor. 

If you can, it’s best to avoid any blood thinners before receiving injections to minimize any risks of bruising. Things like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and even alcohol can thin the blood. After the injections, you can expect some mild swelling that will mostly dissipate in about 20 minutes, so it truly is a “lunchtime procedure.”

The post People Are Getting Botox for a Very Surprising Reason—a Derm Explains appeared first on Camille Styles.

Here’s a scary statistic: our skin stops producing collagen at 25. Meanwhile, your elastin—one of the other key proteins in your skin responsible for its tightness and ability to bounce back—gets weaker and weaker until it degrades at age 74. All of this to say: gravity is the great equalizer. And while more and more of us are trying to cultivate a healthy relationship with aging, celebrating our laugh lines and all that, products and treatments can still help us feel our best. Ultherapy is a buzzy treatment that promises visibly lifted, tightened skin without surgery or downtime. But is it too good to be true? I tapped Dr. Geddes Bruce to find out.

Featured image from our interview with Janessa Leoné by Teal Thomsen.

Everything You Need to Know About Ultherapy

I’ve been looking into non-surgical treatments to address loose skin but I don’t know where to start. There seem to be a lot of treatments making claims but I’m not sure what, or whom, to trust. I have heard some buzz around Ultherapy but how do I know if it’s for me? And is it something that derms recommend?

As we lose collagen and our elastin gets weaker, it’s common to have concerns like fine lines and loose skin. Skin tightening is a common goal for many women, even if it’s proactive and preventative. To speak on this buzzy new treatment, we’ve invited Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD to share her insights.

In our second installment of our newest series, Ask a Derm, Dr. Geddes-Bruce is addressing your questions about Ultherapy to help you decide if it’s the right treatment for you.

Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce

Dr. Geddes is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Westlake Dermatology, specializing in the practice of both cosmetic and medical dermatology. She views cosmetic dermatology as synergistic to a happy, healthy lifestyle and regularly counsels her patients in a balanced, natural approach to both cosmetic and medical dermatology. 

How Ultherapy Works

Ultherapy is an FDA-cleared skin tightening treatment that increases collagen and elastic fibers. It’s most commonly used to lift the brows and tighten the jawline and neck region. It can also address wrinkles on the décolletage region, the mouth, and even the knees. It is an in-office, non-invasive treatment with no downtime.

Similar to how we use ultrasound to check on a baby’s development during pregnancy, Ultherapy uses ultrasound to visualize the different parts of the skin and deeper tissues. It can then target the specific tissue layer to heat up and contract. The selective injury stimulates new collagen and elastic fibers and leads to tighter skin with visible lifting and wrinkle improvement.

What are the benefits of Ultherapy?

More collagen and more elastin! These are the fibers that keep your skin looking smooth, feeling tight, and bouncing back after movement. They decrease with time and exposure to ultraviolet light, pollution, and stress, not to mention the general effects of gravity. We do what we can to maximize their production and longevity with healthy diets, rest, photoprotection, and good skin care—as well as dermatologic procedures like Ultherapy.

Who is Ultherapy for?

Ultherapy is best for healthy individuals who want natural-appearing lifting and wrinkle smoothing. It’s also for those who want to invest in skin maintenance and avoid later going under the knife. Individuals with severe loose skin may be disappointed. It doesn’t provide results like a surgical facelift. Instead, think subtle but meaningful results.

What should you know before you go?

You’ll have a topical numbing cream applied to the treatment areas for about an hour before. We also offer our patients a dilute form of laughing gas to take the edge off of any discomfort. The length of Ultherapy depends on how many areas you are treating and can range from 15 minutes to an hour and a half. When you leave, the treated areas will look slightly pink and swollen, and by that evening you look back to normal.

Are there any risks?

I can’t stress enough how important it is that the person performing your treatment is qualified—both for your results and your safety. There are risks to every treatment and those risks go up if the person performing your treatment isn’t highly skilled or experienced. With Ultherapy in particular, it is crucial to know facial anatomy and how to read ultrasound to make sure the energy is delivered where we want it to go and avoided in areas we don’t.

Are there any similar treatments to consider instead?

There are other non-invasive tissue tightening treatments on the market, although none I would argue with the long-standing track record, clinical data, and publications on effectiveness. Ultherapy has been around for well over a decade and still wins NewBeauty awards! But, as always, I’d encourage readers to go for a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist (one with expertise in cosmetics) to see what treatment is best for them and their needs.

The post An Under-the-Radar Treatment Promises Tighter Skin and Zero Downtime—We Tapped a Derm for Insights appeared first on Camille Styles.

One day you’re carefree—the next, you’re obsessively checking your hairbrush and drain every morning. How much hair shedding is normal? How much is concerning? It feels impossible to know. There may be countless tricks and trade secrets to prevent hair loss—from hair oiling to avoiding ponytails—but what about treatments for addressing hair loss when it starts? The world of hair loss treatments for women is wide, but thankfully, we have an expert to help us make sense of it all.

Whether your hair is thinning or falling out in certain spots, noticing a change in your hair can be panic-inducing. Sure, when your hair gets dry in the summer from too many beach trips, you can do a few hair masks to revive your locks. Even when it gets thin from over-coloring, you can take a break from the salon, pop a biotin supplement, and soon your locks will be back to normal. But hair thinning and loss feels like a minefield.

Featured image from our interview with Babba Rivera by Belathée Photography.

Ask a Derm: Hair Loss Treatments for Women

Over the years, I’ve noticed my hair shedding and a loss of thickness. I’ve seen tons of hair growth supplements and treatments across social media—but I’m at a loss for where to start. Could you share insights and advice into these treatments, as well as your thoughts on which may be the best?

— Amy K.

Clearly, I didn’t write this as a hypothetical—many of you have written in to get a dermatologist-backed opinion on hair loss treatments for women. We heard from you, and today, we’ve invited Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce, MD to share her answers. In our first installment of our newest series, Ask a Derm, Dr. Geddes-Bruce is addressing your concerns on hair loss and sharing insights to help you prevent and treat thinning hair.

Dr. Elizabeth Geddes-Bruce

Dr. Geddes is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Westlake Dermatology, specializing in the practice of both cosmetic and medical dermatology. She views cosmetic dermatology as synergistic to a happy, healthy lifestyle and regularly counsels her patients in a balanced, natural approach to both cosmetic and medical dermatology. 

Everything You Need to Know About Hair Loss in Women

As a board-certified dermatologist, I know that losing up to 100 hairs a day is within the range of normal. However, I tell my patients that if they are concerned, I am concerned. Only you know your hair baseline, and what is a significant change for YOU. It is not helpful to be told that everything is fine because you still have hair. You need to act when you notice a considerable increase in shedding that persists beyond a few washes, or when you notice visible hair thinning/decreased density, or patches without hair.

We have a number of medical interventions that can stop and reverse hair loss when caught early, and in the most common forms of hair loss, the hair regrows even if nothing is done!

Is there a difference between hair loss and hair thinning?

Not really. Most people use the terms interchangeably, but in reality, hair loss refers to an increase in the hair falling out (with or without visible change) and hair thinning refers to a decrease in the density of the hair (i.e., it takes twisting a ponytail holder around three times instead of two to secure your hair or your hair part appears wider).

The size of your hair shafts is pretty set and related to genetics/color/ethnicity. Sometimes we see a change in this when people regrow hair after chemotherapy or when their hair loses pigment/goes grey.

What are the leading causes of female hair loss?

There are many different forms of alopecia (the medical term for hair loss). Some of them are autoimmune conditions themselves, and some are associated with autoimmune conditions that can affect the rest of the body. Other times hair loss can indicate a nutritional deficiency or calorie deficit. These are the times that hair loss can mean something serious and is work getting checked out.

The most common cause of hair loss is, thankfully, a temporary condition called telogen effluvium. I is when the hairs in the resting phase of growth start to fall abruptly and you can quickly lose up to 30% of the hair on your head. The most common trigger is a stressful event, and it’s also the cause of post-partum hair loss. Despite how scary it can be, it’s reassuring that the hairs will grow back with time.

What do doctors recommend for treating female hair loss?

There are several different treatments available for female hair loss, depending on the specific diagnosis/what is causing the hair loss. We may prescribe medications that increase blood flow to the scalp or block specific hormones. We may recommend specific supplements or perform anti-inflammatory injections.

Sometimes we recommend a treatment called PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections. Not all dermatologists offer this treatment, and it is unfortunately not covered by insurance, but it can help stimulate hair regrowth. I love performing this treatment on the right candidate, as the results can be very rewarding.

Is there a “best” hair loss treatment for women?

It’s hard to say what the *best* treatment is for hair loss because it all depends on the cause. However, almost universally, all women can benefit from topical minoxidil, which is a solution or foam found over the counter. It can take a few months of consistent use to see the results, and a small percentage of people actually see a temporary increase in shedding when starting, but overall, it’s a win for most women.

Almost universally, all women can benefit from topical minoxidil.

Other potential treatments include:

• Hair fibers can provide nice camouflage for exposed scalp and are easy to apply.
• Hair toppers and extensions have come a long way and are way less traumatic and very natural appearing.
• Now, we have exciting new medications that can treat severe, extensive hair loss so even if you’ve seen a board-certified dermatologist in the past for your hair loss, it might be worth a re-visit to explore these new options.
• There are also a few new laser treatments available where specific growth factors are applied to the scalp after a laser, and this can stimulate growth as well.

And last, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections are about as safe and natural as can be. We draw your blood in-office and spin it quickly so it separates the growth and healing factors from the red blood cells. We then inject this part of your blood back into your scalp like fertilizing a lawn. It’s a series of injections, usually three or four done once a month, and then every six months for maintenance.

What supplements or vitamins would you recommend to treat hair loss?

There are a few vitamin blends/supplements that can help reduce hair loss. Sometimes they contain stress adaptogens like ashwaganda, anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric, and ingredients like saw palmetto, in addition to vitamins and micronutrients like vitamin D, zinc, and selenium. Contrary to popular belief, biotin in large amounts won’t help with hair loss and instead can make certain lab tests (like thyroid tests) show incorrect values.

There is also some evidence for a few essential oils in helping hair loss—things like rosemary oil and tea tree or pumpkin seed oil when used topically. For a long time, patients have used castor oil for thickening/lengthening hair and there is at least one animal study to support that. Other things often included in topical hair loss products are menthol and caffeine to increase blood flow and stimulate growth.

The Best Products for Hair Loss

Traders Joe’s Tea Tree Tingle Shampoo and Conditioner

Trust Trader Joe’s to have it all. This shampoo and conditioner duo makes your hair stronger and thicker with every wash. Tea tree and botanicals invigorate your scalp and strands to detox your scalp and keep it healthy.

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hers 5% Minoxidil Foam

This topical treatment delivers 5% strength Minoxidil straight to your roots to stimulate hair growth and address thinning hair without clogging your scalp. The foam formula is quick to dry and easy to apply.

hers 5% Minoxidil Foam

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ISDIN Lambdapil Hair Density Capsules Daily Hair Supplement for Thinning Hair

There are many hair growth supplements on the market but Dr. Geddes recommends this one for thinning hair. It contains powerful ingredients like saw palmetto extract, vitamin B3, biotin, and more

ISDIN Lambdapil Hair Density Capsules Daily Hair Supplement for Thinning Hair

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Nutrafol capsules

Backed by science, data, and rave reviews, Nutrafol uses natural ingredients to deliver proven hair growth. It contains vitamins A, C, D, and E, as well as collagen, zinc, keratin, hyaluronic acid, and other hair-loving ingredients for stronger, thicker hair.

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The post Half of all Women Experience Hair Loss—A Derm on the Best Treatments for Stronger, Thicker Hair appeared first on Camille Styles.