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Top Skincare Mistakes We See Every Winter 

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Winter can be tough on your skin. Cold temperatures, dry air, indoor heating, and holiday stress all take a toll, and many people unknowingly make skincare mistakes that worsen dryness, irritation, and premature aging. 

Here are the most common winter skincare mistakes, and what to do instead to keep your skin healthy, balanced, and glowing all season long. 

Over-Exfoliating 

When skin feels dry or dull, it’s tempting to exfoliate more, but this often makes the problem worse. 

Cold weather already weakens the skin barrier. Adding too much exfoliation (especially scrubs, acids, or retinoids) can lead to: 

  • Redness and irritation 
  • Increased sensitivity 
  • Flaking and stinging 
  • Breakouts caused by a compromised barrier 

What to do instead: Scale back exfoliation to once or twice a week and focus on hydration and barrier repair. Look for products with ceramides, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to restore balance. 

Skipping SPF in the Winter 

One of the biggest skincare myths is that sunscreen is only necessary in summer. In reality, UV exposure continues year-round, even on cloudy, cold days. 

What to do instead: 
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even in winter. Make it the final step of your morning skincare routine, and don’t forget areas like the neck, ears, and hands. 

Using the Same Products You Use in Summer 

Your skin needs change with the seasons. Lightweight gels and oil-free products that work in summer may not provide enough protection in colder months. 

Common signs your routine needs updating: 

  • Tightness after cleansing 
  • Makeup settling into fine lines 
  • Increased sensitivity or redness 

What to do instead: 
Switch to richer moisturizers, gentle cleansers, and nourishing serums. Winter is also an ideal time to introduce reparative treatments like barrier-repair creams or professional-grade hydrators. 

Ignoring the Neck, Chest, and Hands 

The face often gets all the attention, but the neck, chest, and hands are some of the first areas to show signs of aging. 

These areas are: 

  • Frequently exposed to the sun 
  • Often neglected in daily skincare 
  • Thinner and more prone to damage 

What to do instead: 
Extend your skincare routine beyond your face. Apply cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen to the neck, chest, and hands daily. Professional treatments can also help improve tone, texture, and sun damage in these areas. 

Forgetting to Protect Your Lips 

Your lips are one of the most vulnerable areas of skin, yet they’re often overlooked in winter skincare routines. The skin on the lips is thinner, has fewer oil glands, and is more prone to dryness, cracking, and irritation in cold, windy weather. 

Common winter lip mistakes include: 

  • Licking lips to relieve dryness (which actually makes it worse) 
  • Using flavored or fragranced balms that cause irritation 
  • Skipping SPF on the lips entirely 

What to do instead: 
Use a nourishing lip balm with ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid to restore moisture. During the day, choose a lip balm with broad-spectrum SPF to protect against UV damage, yes, even in winter. At night, apply a thicker, occlusive balm to help repair and lock in moisture while you sleep. 

Your Winter Skin Reset Starts Here 

Avoiding these common mistakes can make a noticeable difference in how your skin looks and feels all season long. If you’re unsure what your skin needs right now, a personalized consultation can help you start the year with healthier, more resilient skin. 

Schedule your appointment today and give your skin the care it deserves this winter. 

Your January Skin Check-In: When to See a Dermatologist

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A new year is the perfect time to check in on your health, and your skin deserves a spot at the top of that list. Between winter weather, holiday stress, and changes in routines, January is one of the most important months to assess how your skin is really doing. 

Whether you’re managing a chronic skin condition, noticing new changes, or simply want a professional reset, here’s how to know when it’s time to schedule a dermatology appointment. 

Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore 

Some skin changes are harmless, but others can signal something that deserves professional attention. Schedule a visit if you notice: 

  • New or changing moles, freckles, or spots 
  • A sore that won’t heal or keeps scabbing 
  • Persistent redness, itching, or irritation 
  • Sudden acne flare-ups, especially in adulthood 
  • Dry, cracked, or inflamed skin that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter products 
  • Changes in pigmentation, including dark patches or uneven tone 

Early evaluation helps catch concerns before they become more serious, and often leads to easier, more effective treatment. 

When to Book a Full Skin Exam 

A full-body skin exam is one of the most important preventive tools in dermatology. It’s recommended once a year, or more often if you have risk factors such as: 

  • A personal or family history of skin cancer 
  • Extensive sun exposure or tanning history 
  • Fair skin or a large number of moles 
  • A weakened immune system 

January is an ideal time to schedule your annual skin exam. It sets the tone for proactive care and ensures nothing is overlooked early in the year. 

Why January Is the Ideal Time to Book 

The start of the year offers several advantages when it comes to dermatology care: 

  • Better availability: Appointment schedules often fill quickly as the year progresses 
  • Fresh insurance benefits: Many deductibles reset in January 
  • Easier recovery time: Cooler weather is ideal for in-office treatments and procedures 

Whether you’re focused on prevention, treatment, or aesthetic care, starting early gives you more flexibility and better results. 

Your Skin Deserves Expert Care 

If you’ve been putting off an appointment or noticing changes you’re unsure about, now is the time to schedule your January skin check. 

Schedule your appointment today and start the year with confidence in your skin. 

5 Holiday Habits That Trigger Acne, And What Actually Helps 

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The holidays are meant to be joyful, but for your skin, they can quietly bring a few challenges, especially when it comes to breakouts. From late nights to indulgent treats and travel stress, small seasonal shifts can add up to clogged pores and inflammation. 

The good news? You don’t have to give up the season to protect your skin. Here are five common holiday habits that can trigger acne, and what actually helps keep breakouts. 

1. Stress Overload 

Between packed schedules, travel plans, and end-of-year deadlines, stress levels tend to spike during the holidays. When stress hormones increase, your skin produces more oil, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. 

What Helps: 

  • Prioritize short moments of stress relief, deep breathing, walking, or stretching 
  • Stick to a simple, consistent skincare routine 
  • If stress breakouts are recurring, professional treatments or prescription topicals may help regulate oil and inflammation 

2. Sugar-Heavy Indulgences 

Holiday desserts and sugary drinks are everywhere. High sugar intake can increase inflammation and trigger insulin spikes, both of which are linked to acne flare-ups. 

What Helps: 

  • Balance sweets with protein and fiber to reduce blood sugar spikes 
  • Stay hydrated to support skin barrier function 
  • Maintain gentle exfoliation to keep pores clear (avoid over-scrubbing) 

3. Late Nights & Lack of Sleep 

Late nights and disrupted sleep schedules can throw off your body’s natural repair processes. When skin doesn’t have time to recover, inflammation and breakouts are more likely. 

What Helps: 

  • Aim for consistent sleep, even during busy weeks 
  • Cleanse thoroughly at night, no matter how tired you are 
  • Use nighttime products that support skin repair, such as retinoids or barrier-strengthening moisturizers 

4. Travel & Environmental Changes 

Travel exposes your skin to dry airplane air, different climates, and unfamiliar water, all of which can disrupt your skin barrier and trigger breakouts. 

What Helps: 

  • Bring your regular skincare products instead of switching brands 
  • Focus on hydration with lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers 
  • Avoid over-cleansing, which can worsen dryness and oil imbalance 

5. Heavy Makeup & Long Wear 

Holiday events often mean more makeup, and longer wear time. When makeup sits on the skin for hours, especially combined with sweat or oil, pores can become congested. 

What Helps: 

  • Choose non-comedogenic makeup formulas 
  • Remove makeup as soon as you’re home 
  • Double-cleanse if needed to fully remove residue without stripping the skin 

When to Seek Professional Help 

If breakouts persist despite good habits, professional guidance can make a significant difference. Medical-grade skincare, prescription treatments, and in-office procedures can help calm inflammation, clear pores, and prevent future flares. 

Holiday acne doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong; it usually reflects small lifestyle shifts that add up. With mindful habits and the right skincare support, you can enjoy the season while keeping your skin clear, balanced, and healthy.

Top Dermatology Treatments of 2025 

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Throughout 2025, the dermatology industry has seen continued momentum around treatments that deliver natural, regenerative, and personalized results. Interest has grown in technologies and therapies designed to stimulate collagen, support overall skin health, and address long-term aging goals with minimal downtime. 

Below are some of the top dermatology trends of 2025 and why they’ve been shaping conversations across the industry. 

Non-Surgical Skin Tightening Technologies 

Non-invasive skin tightening treatments continued to be a major focus in 2025. Technologies that use energy-based modalities to stimulate collagen deep within the skin have remained popular for addressing mild to moderate laxity of the face, neck, and décolleté. These treatments are designed to gradually improve firmness and contour without surgical intervention. 

RF Microneedling for Skin Quality & Texture 

Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling remained a top choice for improving texture, acne scarring, fine lines, and skin laxity. By combining controlled injury with heat energy, it stimulates collagen at multiple depths. 

Hair Growth Treatments for Men & Women 

Hair restoration became a major focus in 2025, with more patients seeking early intervention. From PRP to advanced topical and oral therapies, dermatology-led solutions gained trust for addressing thinning hair. 

Neuromodulators as Preventative Aesthetic Treatments 

While neuromodulators such as Dysport and Botox have been used in aesthetic medicine for decades, their role continued to evolve in 2025. Rather than being viewed solely as a corrective treatment for existing lines, neuromodulators are increasingly discussed as a preventative option—used earlier and more strategically to help soften muscle movement and delay the formation of deeper dynamic wrinkles. 

The Takeaway 

The biggest trend of 2025 wasn’t one specific treatment; it was a shift toward regenerative, preventative, and personalized care. Patients want solutions that work with their biology, deliver natural results, and support skin and hair health long-term. 

High Altitude, High Impact: Ways Flying Affects Your Skin 

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As holiday travel surges, many of us are preparing for flights, family gatherings, and festive fun, but few think about how the skin fares at 30,000 feet. With nearly 31 million passengers expected to travel this holiday season, the risk for “travel-skin stress” is very real.  

Here’s what you need to know before, during and after your flight to keep your glow grounded and your skin barrier intact. 

Why Air Travel Drains Your Skin 

Flying isn’t just tiring for you; your skin feels it too. 

  • Low humidity: Cabin air often drops below 20% humidity, leading to dehydration of the skin’s outer layer and weakening of the moisture barrier. 
  • Increased UV exposure: At altitude, UVA rays penetrate and can affect skin even when the weather seems benign. 
  • Pressure + recycled air: The combination of lower pressure, recycled air, and often cold cabin conditions means skin is more vulnerable to damage, tightness and visible fatigue. 

This means even if you’ve been diligent with your routine on the ground, the airplane environment can undo some of that prep if you’re not careful. 

Pre-Flight Skin Prep: Start with Strength 

To give your skin the best chance of arriving looking refreshed, not drained, here’s your pre-flight strategy: 

  • 24 hours ahead: Avoid introducing new or strong actives (like high-strength retinols or aggressive acids) right before flying; the skin’s barrier is already going to be compromised. 
  • Moisture-lock: Use a rich emollient moisturizer the evening before you fly and incorporate a hydrating serum (think hyaluronic acid or glycerin-based) to boost water retention. 
  • Sunscreen before you fly: Yes, apply a broad-spectrum SPF in the morning (even if your destination is cloudy) because window seats can expose you to more UVA than you’d expect. 
  • Minimize stressors: Get a decent night’s sleep, stay well hydrated from within, and skip alcohol or extra caffeine in the evening before travel, since these dehydrate you further and impact skin resilience. 

Post-Flight Recovery: Landing with Your Skin in Mind 

You made it! But your skin needs a reset: 

  • Gentle cleanse: Choose a non-foaming, barrier-friendly cleanser as soon as you can. Skip harsh scrubs or physical exfoliants in the next 24 hours. 
  • Repair & replenish: Use a barrier-repair cream (rich in ceramides, fatty acids, cholesterol) and a hydrating mask or overnight treatment. 
  • Consider in-office care: If your skin feels very tight, red, or you have a big event after traveling, a quick in-office treatment (like a hydration facial or gentle laser) can help your glow catch up. 
  • Return to your routine slowly: After 24-48 hours at home, you can resume your regular skincare routine.  

Why It Matters for You & Your Routine 

With the massive number of holiday travelers, and the compressed timelines of Thanksgiving week, your skin is competing with the same stressors your body, mind and schedule are facing. By integrating pre-flight and post-flight steps into your skincare plan, you’re proactively protecting one of your most visible assets: your skin. 

Safe travels, and here’s to arriving at the holiday table with your best self! 

Perfect Timing: How to Know When You’re Ready for Neuromodulators 

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A common question is “when should I start Dysport or Botox, am I too young, or did I wait too long?” 

The truth is there’s no magic number. The right time to start neuromodulators depends on your unique skin, muscle movement, genetics, and lifestyle. Let’s separate facts from social media myths and help you understand how timing affects your results. 

What Are Neuromodulators? 

Neuromodulators like Dysport, Botox, Xeomin, and Daxxify are injectable treatments that relax targeted facial muscles to reduce wrinkles caused by repeated expressions, such as frowning, squinting, or raising your eyebrows. 

By softening those muscle contractions, neuromodulators smooth dynamic lines (the ones you see when you move) and can even help prevent them from becoming permanent static wrinkles. 

Why There’s No “Perfect Age” 

Every face and every wrinkle pattern is different. Some people naturally have stronger muscle movement, thinner skin, or more expressive habits, which means fine lines can appear earlier. 

Here’s what dermatologists generally agree on: 

  • Under 25: Focus on prevention through daily sunscreen, consistent skincare, and hydration.  
  • Mid-to-Late 20s: If you notice faint lines that stay after you stop making an expression (for example, forehead lines that linger), small “micro-doses” may help prevent deepening. 
  • Early 30s: A popular time to begin regular treatments, often as preventative or prejuvenation. 
  • 40s + : Treatments shift from prevention to correction, targeting more established wrinkles while maintaining natural expression. 

The “Preventative” Approach 

Preventative neuromodulator treatments aim to train facial muscles to contract less intensely, slowing the formation of permanent lines. It’s not about looking frozen; it’s about preserving smooth, natural movement. 

The benefits: 

  • Softer expression lines over time 
  • Lower doses needed for maintenance 
  • More natural aging process 

When performed by an experienced provider, the goal is to still look like you, just more refreshed and rested. 

Factors That Influence When to Start 

Before starting, consider these five factors: 

  • Muscle Movement — Strong frown or forehead lines may justify starting earlier. 
  • Genetics — If your parents developed deeper lines early, you might, too. 
  • Sun & Lifestyle — UV exposure, stress, and dehydration accelerate wrinkle formation. 
  • Skin Quality — Thinner, drier skin tends to show creases sooner. 
  • Personal Goals — Some patients prefer early prevention; others wait until lines appear. 

There isn’t one “correct age” to start; there’s just your right time. The ideal moment is when fine lines begin to linger at rest or when you’re ready to take a proactive step toward graceful, confident aging. 

When approached with expertise, neuromodulators are not about changing how you look; they’re about helping you look as good as you feel. 

Skincare Stocking Stuffers for Everyone on Your List 

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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 

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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?  

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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 

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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.