Everything you need for a head-to-toe dermatological routine
When you think of the term ‘dermatological’, your first thought might be ‘science-backed skincare’. That’s right – but dermatology can also target areas from head-to-toe, including hair, skin and body! With lifestyle and trends (like clean beauty) being a key player in our routines, dermatological formulas aren’t a ‘one-size-its-all’ as everyone’s skin and hair health is unique to them.
So, whether you’re a newbie to dermatological skincare or consider yourself a pro, we sat down with Dr Natalie Haworth, skin and aesthetics specialist, to find out which formulas to add to your dermatological routine and why...
What is dermatological skincare and how does it work?
Dr Natalie reveals: “Dermatological skincare has been developed, tested and signed off by doctors who specialise in skin.” These typically target and support skin health and concerns like dryness, flakiness, redness and blemish-prone skin. However, it’s often forgotten that skincare goes beyond the face, as the skincare specialist confirms: “One huge misconception in skincare is that people only suffer or bother about skin problems on the face! We forget the rest of our body is covered in skin, our biggest organ needs caring for too.”
She goes on: “Even as a medical professional, I understand the profound impact that skin issues can have on confidence, which is why I advocate for the use of dermatological products.” The beauty of dermatological skincare is that it can support but not treat skin conditions. Dr Natalie suggests: “If you’re experiencing cystic acne, pustular/inflammatory rosacea or any skin that is infected, get to your local GP. They can prescribe your medicated skincare and refer you to a dermatologist if necessary!”
How do dermatological products work in body health?
We all want to look good for our age (and hold on to our youth!), the good news is we can help achieve that with clinically proven anti-ageing products on our face, but Dr Natalie reveals: “The hands can cheat us and reveal reality.” She continues: “They can show sun damage along with thin skin.” In her own experience, the medical professional admits: “Hand washing and drying has accelerated that process for me, often leaving my hands dry and sore.” She spills: “Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+ Hand Therapy has saved me. It intensely moisturises and helps sunspots with shea butter. The glycine in the products helps tighten the skin by increasing collagen production. What I love is how fast it absorbs, meaning it fits into my routine (as well as my handbag!).”
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RRP: £29.00Current price: £23.20
Not only do our hands reveal the process of ageing faster than most other areas on the body, but so can our necks. “A common genetic skin concern is Keratosis Pilaris or "chicken skin" as it's frequently known,” she explains. “This is because it causes bumps on the skin from the hair follicle becoming blocked by keratin which is a protein found in the skin. It can also teel dry and cause itchiness.”
Dr Natalie recommends: “The First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub with 10% AHA available at LOOKFANTASTIC has been a game changer for me.” Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive, the scrub delivers natural exfoliation to reveal a silky soft surface, the expert affirms: “It contains an alpha hydroxy acid which breaks down the dead skin cells covering the bumps. Being a doctor has really made me focus on ingredients and not just how a product smells and looks. These ingredients target the problem and so you can see real results.”
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RRP: £27.00Current price: £20.25
How do dermatological products work in scalp and hair health?
It’s essential to not forget our scalp when it comes to prioritising healthy hair growth. Dr Natalie tells us: “Dandruff is something my patients ask about a lot. It is caused by the shedding of dead skin cells, which can show as white or yellow flakes in the hair and on clothing.” Just like if we over-wash our face or hands, our scalp can become dry due to the stripping of natural oils that it needs to keep our skin happy. So, while dermatological formulas can help target concerns like dryness, we can also help it through adjusting our routines and cutting down on hair wash days!
Dr Natalie advises: “The whole Vichy Dercos Technique Anti-Dandruff range is perfect for treating dandruff. It targets both the dry skin and oiliness, helping to keep the flakes at bay using 1% salicylic acid and 1% selenium disulphide to exfoliate and moisturise.”
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RRP: £25.00Current price: £20.00
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Take note as Dr Natalie reveals her words of wisdom: “Taking care of our skin is not just about aesthetics; it's about enhancing our overall well-being and confidence.”
