My Science-Backed Skincare Philosophy

Many common skincare habits, like over-exfoliation or using too many active ingredients at once, can damage your skin's protective barrier. This leads to inflammation, breakouts, and dullness, which is why my approach always starts with protecting and repairing the skin.

If you feel your moisturizer isn't working, it's often because of how you're using it. Applying it on dry skin, over-exfoliating, or choosing products without barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides can prevent your skin from holding onto moisture effectively.

Using the right amount of product is crucial for getting results without causing irritation. Here is a simple visual guide on how much you actually need for actives like retinoids, serums, moisturizers, and of course, sunscreen.

Cleansing is the first and most essential step of any routine, but over-cleansing can strip the skin's natural oils and damage its barrier. I recommend washing your face no more than two to three times a day to maintain a healthy balance.

The skin barrier is the missing link for many people struggling with persistent issues. A weak barrier can lead to dryness, acne, and irritation because even the best treatment products cannot work effectively on compromised skin.

What your skin truly needs for health is often quite simple. Gentle cleansing, a barrier-repair moisturizer, daily sunscreen, adequate nutrition with healthy fats, and proper sleep are the foundational pillars for overnight repair and long-term skin strength.

In this quick "This or That" session, I make choices based on what I know works from a scientific standpoint, not based on trends. Sometimes, simply choosing the right type of product, like a lip balm over a lip oil, can make a significant difference.

Knowing where to save and where to splurge in your skincare routine can make a huge difference to your budget and your results. I generally advise splurging on products with active ingredients like serums and sunscreen, while you can often save on simpler items like toners.

Glowing skin truly starts from within. I often recommend key skin supplements like Omega fatty acids to repair the skin barrier, collagen peptides for elasticity, and Vitamins C and E to fight oxidative stress and brighten the skin.