After I shared my own skincare journey last year, I interviewed Kendall, Karen and Fernanda about their own journeys and skincare routines. Despite our varying skin types, there were many similarities. There were also many insightful comments from readers. I learned about new products and skin care methods, some of which I followed up on right away. So last month I went to my annual dermatologist appointment with a list of questions in hand. I have been seeing the same dermatologist since he sorted my dry skin issues a few years ago. I was very curious to hear his responses. 

First things first. I had my millions of moles checked out like I do every year. They are in good shape, but I do need to be extra conscious of the sun and it’s harmful effects. Apparently, I have negligible sun damage, so thank you Mum for being persistently disciplined about making me apply sunblock from a very young age. You did my skin a greater service than you could possibly imagine.

Next, the countless spider veins on my legs were expertly examined. They are not hazardous to my health, although a little unsightly when compared to the unblemished skin tone that is so highly sought after in the beauty world. I could have them removed by cosmetic surgery, but I’m at peace with baring my spider veins when wearing skirts, dresses and long shorts. It is what it is and I’m grateful that a medical procedure is not at all compulsory.

My facial skin care routine was next on the list. Impruv cleansers and moisturizers were previously recommended by the same dermatologist and I have been satisfied with their products. Unfortunately, they have been discontinued. So upon further recommendation I switched to using “Cera Ve” products for dry skin, which I can purchase at a drug store. So far, so good.

I then asked about incorporating a vitamin C serum and retinol cream into my skincare routine because both products came up so favourably in the skincare discussion series. My dermatologist was all for adding the vitamin C serum and suggested a few alternatives. I ended up purchasing a serum from the skincare clinic across the hall from his office because it is prescription strength and highly recommended. It was expensive, but does last up to 4 months. I use it each morning and have definitely noticed an improved dewy texture on my skin. 

My dermatologist was less thrilled about adding the retinol cream. He was positive about its anti-aging effects, but he thought it would dry out my skin type. He suggested that I experiment by applying the cream every three days, so I also came home with a tester tube of retinol cream. I applied as recommended, but things did not go well. My skin itched, burned and peeled after three uses. It also looked and felt extremely dry, taking a week to recover to it’s normal texture. Retinol cream and my skin are not a match made in heaven so I will not be using it again. 

For now, I’m cleansing and moisturizing, applying vitamin C serum and sunblock daily. I exfoliate once a week with a facial scrub and apply a prescriptive cream to my extra dry skin areas as needed. Although I ordered an electronic cleansing brush, I decided against it because it felt too rough against my skin. I’m also back in the habit of drinking hot green tea a few times a day along with teapots full of caffeinated earl grey. 

That’s my updated skincare routine until I visit my dermatologist for another annual in February next year. Have you updated your skincare routine since our skincare series last year? If so, what changes have you made, or are you thinking of making? Are you happy with your current skin care routine?