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Skincare Stocking Stuffers for Everyone on Your List

November 21, 2025 by michaelboache Leave a Comment

The holiday season is officially here, and so is the search for the perfect stocking stuffers. Tiny gifts don’t have to feel like afterthoughts. With the right skincare, they can be some of the most loved items of the season. Whether you’re gifting family, friends, or treating yourself, these dermatologists backed, medical grade picks from BestDerm.com deliver glow, hydration, and real results long after the holidays are over.

XOMD Intoxicate Serum

For the skincare lover who wants visible results without irritation, AlphaRet is a standout. This award-winning formula combines retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids to improve skin tone, texture, and fine lines with less dryness than traditional retinol.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

A favorite antioxidant that protects against environmental damage and brightens the skin.

ISDIN K-Ox Eyes

Helps reduce puffiness and under-eye bags, lighten dark circles, and restore firmness and elasticity for a brighter, more rested eye area.

Alastin Ultra Nourishing Moisturizer

A rich, calming moisturizer powered by TriHex Technology® that deeply hydrates, supports skin barrier repair, and helps boost elastin and collagen production for smoother, healthier-looking skin.

EltaMD UV Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

A lightweight, hydrating facial sunscreen offering broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, water/sweat resistance up to 80 minutes.

Small Gifts, Big Results

Stocking stuffers are the small surprises that often bring the biggest smiles. With dermatologists approved products from BestDerm.com, you can give thoughtful, effective skincare gifts that elevate any skincare routine, no guesswork required.

Whether you’re filling stockings for loved ones or curating your own holiday wishlist, these picks deliver luxury, science, and results in every drop.

Don’t forget: the best gift of all is healthy skin. Schedule your visit with us before the holidays are here!

Effortless Gifting: How to Pick Skincare That Works for Everyone

October 28, 2025 by michaelboache

The holiday season is a time for giving, and what better way to show someone you care than with the gift of healthy, radiant skin? Skincare makes a thoughtful, personal present, but choosing the right products for someone else can be tricky. Our dermatology experts share a few tips to help you select dermatologist-approved gifts that make your loved ones glow with confidence.

Start with Skin Type, Even If You’re Guessing

If you don’t know your recipient’s exact routine, keep it simple and universal. Look for:

Hydrating cleansers and moisturizers that work for all skin types.

Barrier repair products with ceramides, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid.

Fragrance-free formulas, ideal for sensitive or allergy-prone skin.

When in doubt, opt for gentle, dermatologist-tested products labeled “for all skin types.”

Avoid Potent Actives Unless You Know Their Routine

Retinol, exfoliating acids, and vitamin C can deliver transformative results, but they can also cause irritation if used incorrectly. Unless you’re certain about someone’s skin tolerance, skip these ingredients and choose products that hydrate and soothe instead.

Gift by Theme

Curate a skincare story rather than individual products. Try:

Hydration: Cleanser, serum, and moisturizer for winter dryness.

Glow Essentials: Gentle exfoliant paired with a brightening serum.

Post-Treatment Care: Calming mask and SPF for those who love in-office treatments.

SPF: The Gift Everyone Needs Year-round

A broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) is universally beneficial. Choose one that’s lightweight, blends well, and includes antioxidants. Tinted mineral options make an elegant everyday staple.

The Gift of Healthy, Beautiful Skin

The best skincare gift goes beyond beauty, it’s about confidence, care, and long-lasting results. Whether you’re shopping for a friend, family member, or even yourself, our team can help you find the right products to make this season glow.

Do Ice Baths Really Benefit Your Skin?

October 28, 2025 by michaelboache

From ice plunges to facial icing, cold therapy is everywhere right now. Influencers and athletes alike swear that immersing in ice water can reduce inflammation, boost circulation, and even make skin glow. But do ice baths, for your face or your body, really deliver lasting benefits, or just a refreshing chill? Here’s what the science says.

The Trend: Cooling Your Way to Better Skin

Facial ice baths have exploded across reality tv, TikTok and Instagram. Enthusiasts claim they:

Shrink pores and tighten skin

Reduce puffiness and redness

Give a lifted, refreshed glow

Boost mood and recovery after workouts

Whole-body ice baths are promoted as improving everything from inflammation to metabolism — and yes, some say it even “tightens” body skin.

What Actually Happens When You Chill Your Skin

When skin is exposed to cold, blood vessels constrict, temporarily reducing swelling, redness, and puffiness. As skin rewarms, circulation rebounds, giving that healthy post-plunge flush.

So yes, cold therapy can make your skin look momentarily firmer and calmer, but it’s a temporary physiological response, not a structural skin change.
Cold plunges and ice baths don’t boost collagen or permanently tighten skin. However, the increased circulation may give a short-term radiance boost.

Cold exposure offers mild, short-lived effects and can feel invigorating, but it’s not a substitute for professional skin tightening or resurfacing treatments.

The Risks of Overdoing It

Whether it’s your face or body, overexposure to extreme cold can backfire:

Cold burns or frostbite, especially if ice touches skin directly

Broken capillaries or increased redness, particularly for those with rosacea

Excessive dryness or irritation, since cold constricts oil glands

Aggravated eczema or dermatitis, from temperature shock

For the face, use chilled tools (rollers, globes, or masks) rather than raw ice. For body plunges, keep exposure brief (1–3 minutes max) and avoid if you have circulation issues or skin conditions sensitive to temperature changes.

The Bottom Line

Facial icing and ice baths can give your skin a quick wake-up, but they’re not miracle cures. If you enjoy them as part of your wellness routine, keep it safe, gentle, and brief. For true tightening, brightening, and rejuvenation, clinical treatments are the real solution.

Back-to-School, Back to You: Quick Skin Fixes for Busy Routines

July 29, 2025 by michaelboache

Whether you’re a parent managing morning chaos, a teacher heading back into the classroom, or a student juggling classes and activities — your skin shouldn’t be another stressor on your list. The back-to-school season is a great time to refocus on self-care, starting with simple and effective ways to keep your skin clear, healthy, and glowing.

Here are a few quick fixes and dermatologist-approved tips to help your skin stay on track, even on your busiest days.

1. Streamline Your Skincare Routine

When time is tight, consistency matters more than complexity. Build a simplified morning and evening routine with these essentials:

Cleanser – Use a gentle cleanser to start and end your day fresh.

Moisturizer – Hydrate and protect with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer.

Sunscreen – Even if you’re indoors most of the day, daily SPF 30+ is a must.

Spot Treatment – Have a targeted product on hand for the occasional breakout.

Bonus tip: Multitasking products (like tinted moisturizers with SPF or serums that hydrate and brighten) can save you time without sacrificing results.

2. Try a Lunchtime Refresh with a HydraFacial

Pressed for time? HydraFacials are quick, no-downtime treatments that cleanse, exfoliate, and deeply hydrate your skin in about 30 minutes. It’s an ideal way to reset your skin without interrupting your schedule — perfect for teachers and professionals on their lunch break.

3. Breakout Control for Teens & Adults

Back-to-school stress and mask-wearing can contribute to acne flare-ups. Whether it’s hormonal breakouts or stubborn blackheads, our dermatology team can recommend customized solutions — from prescription topicals to in-office acne treatments like extractions, blue light therapy, or chemical peels.

4. Make Time for You

While you’re taking care of everyone else this season, don’t forget to take care of yourself. A simple skincare reset can make you feel refreshed, confident, and ready to take on fall with your best face forward.

Need Help Simplifying Your Skincare?
Book a visit with our team for personalized product recommendations or time-saving cosmetic treatments that fit your lifestyle. We’ll help you look and feel your best — no matter how busy life gets.

Sun-Damaged Skin? How to Repair and Rejuvenate After Summer

July 29, 2025 by michaelboache

After months of sunshine, sunscreen, and outdoor fun, your skin might be showing signs that it’s ready for a little TLC. Even with the best sun protection, it’s common to notice the after-effects of summer — like sunspots, dryness, dullness, and rough texture. The good news? Fall is the perfect time to reset and repair your skin.

Here’s how you can reverse sun damage and get your glow back with the help of professional treatments and dermatologist-recommended skincare.

1. Treat Sunspots and Uneven Tone

Sun exposure can trigger hyperpigmentation and dark spots — often referred to as sunspots or age spots. In-office treatments like chemical peels or laser therapies (such as IPL or Fraxel) can effectively break up excess pigment and brighten your complexion. These treatments are typically more effective (and safer) post-summer when your skin is less likely to be exposed to intense sun.

2. Smooth Texture with Microneedling

Microneedling stimulates collagen production, which helps improve the texture and tone of your skin while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and sun damage. It’s a gentle yet powerful way to encourage skin regeneration after a long summer.

3. Hydrate and Repair with Medical-Grade Skincare

A high-quality skincare routine is key to supporting your skin between treatments. Look for products that contain:

Antioxidants (like Vitamin C) to protect and brighten

Retinol or Retinoids to encourage cell turnover

Hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and plump the skin

Gentle exfoliants (like lactic or glycolic acid) to smooth and renew

Not sure where to start? Our providers can help customize a skincare regimen tailored to your skin’s unique needs.

4. Don’t Forget Preventive Care

Repairing sun damage is important — but so is preventing future issues. Even as the weather cools down, continue using broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, especially if you’re receiving treatments that make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.

Ready to Press Reset on Your Skin?
Schedule a consultation with our team to discuss the best treatments and products to restore your post-summer skin. Fall is a great time to invest in your skin’s health — and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Melasma & Hyperpigmentation in the Summer: What You Can Do

June 6, 2025 by michaelboache

Summer sunshine may feel great, but for those struggling with melasma or hyperpigmentation, it can make skin concerns worse. These common pigmentation issues tend to darken with sun exposure, even when you’re careful. But don’t worry—there are smart ways to manage and treat discoloration, even during the sunniest season.

Understanding Melasma & Hyperpigmentation

Melasma often appears as brown or gray-brown patches, usually on the face (cheeks, forehead, upper lip).

Hyperpigmentation is any darkening of the skin, often from acne scars, inflammation, or sun exposure.

Both conditions are triggered or worsened by UV rays and visible light, making sun protection your #1 defense—especially in the summer.

Why Summer Can Make It Worse

Even with sunscreen, your skin is exposed to more sunlight during the warmer months. Heat, UV rays, and even visible light from the sun can all stimulate melanin production, which deepens discoloration. That’s why many patients see flare-ups or worsening pigmentation during the summer.

What You Can Do

☀️ Be Sun Smart (Every Day)

Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+, and reapply every 2 hours, especially when outdoors.

Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and seek shade when possible.

Consider adding a mineral-based tinted sunscreen to block visible light, which contributes to melasma.

🧴 Stick to a Pigment-Fighting Routine

Talk to your dermatologist before starting any new products, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Treatments You Can Still Do in Summer

Many patients think they have to wait until fall to treat pigmentation, but several safe and effective treatments are available year-round:

Chemical Peels (gentle or light peels) – Can brighten and even out skin tone with little downtime.

HydraFacial with Brightening Boosters – A summer-safe option to hydrate and treat dark spots.

Topical Prescription Creams – Customized regimens from your dermatologist can make a big impact.

Laser Treatments (in select cases) – Some low-risk lasers can be used cautiously on protected skin, depending on your skin type and lifestyle.

Consistency is Key

Melasma and hyperpigmentation can be stubborn, but with the right summer skincare strategy and professional guidance, you can minimize flare-ups and protect your progress.

Not sure what’s right for your skin this season? Book a consultation with us to customize a safe, summer-ready pigmentation treatment plan.

Men, It’s Time to Prioritize Your Skin: Essential Dermatology Tips for Men’s Health Month

June 6, 2025 by michaelboache

June is Men’s Health Month—a time to raise awareness about the unique health issues men face and encourage preventative care. While fitness, heart health, and nutrition often take the spotlight, skin health is just as important—and often overlooked.

At our dermatology practice, we see firsthand how common it is for men to delay skin check-ups or skip skincare altogether. This June, we’re encouraging all men to take charge of their skin with these simple yet impactful steps:

1. Schedule a Skin Check

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, particularly after age 50. In fact, men are more likely than women to develop melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. Annual full-body skin exams with a dermatologist can catch early warning signs—when they’re most treatable.

Pro tip: If you spend a lot of time outdoors or have a history of sunburns, consider more frequent visits.

2. Don’t Skip Sunscreen

Men are less likely to wear sunscreen daily, but sun protection is essential year-round. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it to your face, neck, ears, and any exposed skin—even on cloudy days.

Bonus: Many moisturizers now come with SPF built in—making sun protection a no-brainer.

3. Keep It Simple (But Consistent)

You don’t need a dozen products to take care of your skin. A basic regimen of:

Gentle cleanser

Moisturizer

Daily sunscreen

…is a great place to start. For concerns like razor bumps, acne, or signs of aging, a dermatologist can recommend targeted treatments.

4. Pay Attention to Changes

Notice a new spot that’s changing in shape, size, or color? Or a mole that looks different from the rest? These could be early signs of skin cancer. Don’t wait to have it looked at—early detection saves lives.

Healthy Skin Is Part of a Healthy Life
This Men’s Health Month, take a step toward better overall wellness by putting your skin on the priority list. Whether it’s booking a skin check, upgrading your skincare routine, or getting advice on common skin concerns, we’re here to help.

Need to schedule your annual skin exam? Contact our office today to book an appointment.

Watch Your Shadow: A Simple Trick to Stay Sun-Safe

May 19, 2025 by michaelboache

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month—a time to remind ourselves that small habits can make a big impact when it comes to preventing skin cancer. While sunscreen, hats, and regular skin checks are essential, here’s a surprisingly easy and memorable way to gauge your sun exposure risk: just look at your shadow.

The Shadow Rule: A Natural UV Guide

Here’s how it works:
If your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s rays are strongest and most dangerous.

This typically happens between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun is highest in the sky and UV radiation is most intense. When your shadow is longer than your body, UV levels are lower and sun exposure is less intense.

It’s a simple rule of thumb that works for all ages—and you don’t need a weather app or UV index reading to use it.

Why It Matters

Most people don’t realize that UV exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, including deadly melanoma. Even on cloudy days or cool spring mornings, harmful rays can penetrate the skin and lead to long-term damage.

Using the shadow rule gives you an easy visual reminder to:

Reapply sunscreen if you’re outdoors during peak hours

Seek shade under a tree, umbrella, or canopy

Wear protective clothing, like wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses

Limit direct sun exposure when possible, especially for young children or those with fair skin

Teach It, Share It, Live It

The shadow rule is a great way to help kids learn sun safety in a fun and visual way. If you’re heading outdoors with family or friends, make a game out of checking your shadows and reminding each other to stay protected.

This simple habit can be a daily reminder to respect the sun—without living in fear of it.

Final Thoughts: Prevention Starts with Awareness

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., but it’s also one of the most preventable. By adopting smart habits—like using your shadow as a UV indicator—you’re taking an important step in protecting your skin for life.

If it’s been a while since your last skin check, May is the perfect month to schedule one. Early detection saves lives.

Need help or have questions about sun protection? Our dermatology team is here for you. Call us or book online to schedule your skin check today.

Uncommon but Essential: Skin Cancer Prevention Tips You Haven’t Heard Before

May 19, 2025 by michaelboache

When it comes to skin cancer prevention, you’ve likely heard the basics: wear sunscreen daily, avoid tanning beds, and seek shade during peak sun hours. While those are crucial habits, there are lesser-known strategies that can further reduce your risk—and we’re here to share them.

1. Don’t Skip Sunscreen on Cloudy Days

Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds. Even on overcast days, your skin is exposed to harmful radiation. Make sunscreen a year-round habit, not just a summertime one.

2. Protect Your Eyes and Lips

Skin cancer can appear on your eyelids and lips—two areas people often forget. Use broad-spectrum lip balms with SPF and wear UV-protective sunglasses to shield the delicate skin around your eyes.

3. Upgrade Your Laundry Routine

Believe it or not, some laundry detergents and fabric additives can enhance your clothing’s UV protection. Look for laundry products with UV-absorbing compounds that help turn regular clothes into a stronger sun barrier. While helpful, it’s not a replacement for sunscreen, hats, or UPF-rated clothing. It should be part of a layered sun protection strategy.

4. Check Your Car Windows

While windshields block most UVB rays, side and rear windows often do not. Over time, frequent driving can lead to more sun exposure on your left side. Consider adding UV-protective film to your car windows.

5. Eat Your Sunscreen? (Sort of!)

Certain foods rich in antioxidants—like tomatoes, carrots, leafy greens, and green tea—may help your skin defend itself against UV damage. While they don’t replace SPF, a diet high in skin-friendly nutrients can add another layer of protection.

6. Use Tech to Your Advantage

There are apps and wearable devices that track UV levels and remind you to reapply sunscreen. These tools can help you stay consistent with your sun protection throughout the day.

7. Don’t Forget Your Scalp

Your part line and scalp are highly vulnerable to sun damage. If you have thinning hair or a shaved head, apply sunscreen or wear a wide-brimmed hat. Spray-on sunscreens are a great option for this area.

8. Get Regular Skin Checks

One of the most effective ways to catch skin cancer early—or even prevent it—is with routine full-body skin exams. See your dermatologist annually, or more frequently if you have a history of skin cancer or significant sun exposure.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States—but it’s also one of the most preventable. By going beyond the basics and incorporating these unique prevention strategies into your daily routine, you’re taking powerful steps to protect your skin for life.

Need a skin check? Book an appointment with our dermatology team today. Early detection saves lives.

More Than Sunscreen: Smart Habits for Full-Body Sun Protection

May 2, 2025 by michaelboache

When we think of sun protection, sunscreen is often the first thing that comes to mind—and for good reason. But while sunscreen is an essential part of preventing skin cancer, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. For truly comprehensive protection, especially during Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it’s time to think beyond the bottle.

Here are simple but powerful habits you can adopt to safeguard your skin from head to toe:

1. Top It Off with a Hat

Your scalp is one of the most sun-exposed—and often forgotten—areas of the body. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat not only shades your face but also protects your scalp, ears, and neck. Choose tightly woven fabrics or hats with built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) for the best defense.

2. Shield Your Eyes with Sunglasses

The delicate skin around your eyes is highly vulnerable to UV damage. Sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection can help prevent sun-related eye conditions like cataracts and protect the surrounding skin from premature aging and skin cancer.

3. Cover Up with UPF Clothing

Clothing is one of the easiest ways to block UV rays—especially when it’s specifically designed for sun protection. Look for garments labeled with UPF, which indicates how much UV radiation the fabric blocks. A UPF of 50, for example, blocks about 98% of the sun’s rays.

Bonus tip: Long sleeves, high collars, and full-length pants provide more coverage and are ideal for extended time outdoors.

4. Make Shade a Habit

Whenever possible, stay in the shade—especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest. Whether it’s under a tree, umbrella, or canopy, shade is a simple yet effective way to reduce your UV exposure.

5. Plan Ahead for Extra Protection

Keep protective gear handy so you’re never caught off guard. A hat in your car, sunglasses in your bag, and a lightweight long-sleeve shirt can go a long way in ensuring consistent protection.

Protect Your Skin Year-Round

Sunscreen is essential—but pairing it with smart, sun-safe habits gives you the best defense against skin cancer and premature aging. This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, commit to full-body protection that starts with sunscreen and goes well beyond it.

Because your skin deserves protection from scalp to soles—every day.