09
Oct
Are You Committing These Skin Care Faux Pas?
Skincare routines get complex. What are the right skin care elements for you to incorporate, and when are you just irritating your skin with unnecessary or unhelpful products? The right skin care routine can leave you looking youthful and dewy, but many people commit frustrating skin care faux pas without realizing it.
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, FASDS, Dr. Aria Vazirnia MD, MAS, FAAD, Kristin Rupert PA-C, Mary Hanna MSN, NP-BC, Sherri Anderson PA-C, Riley McCarthy RN, Lani Keene LE, and the Apex Dermatology team provide skin care advice and support to new and existing patients from our state-of-the-art location in Westlake Village, California.
At Apex Dermatology, we know the ropes when it comes to effective skincare. Here are some of the skincare routine mistakes we see most commonly, as well as essential tips on skincare that really work.
Faux Pas 1: Confusing oily and under-moisturized skin
Many skin care products and approaches depend on what type of skin you have and how much oil it naturally produces. But, did you know that under-moisturized skin may start over-producing oils?
If you’re using products and procedures designed for oily skin, but your skin actually isn’t getting enough hydration, setting off oil overproduction, you may not be seeing the results you want. Moisturizing enough could help to soothe your skin, reducing oiliness over the long term.
Accurately diagnosing your skin type gives you more useful information to work with. The team at Apex Dermatology can help you understand more about the right approach for your unique skin type.
Faux Pas 2: Over- or under-exfoliating
Your skin comes in many layers. And, it’s the outer layers of your skin where visible damage accumulates. Exfoliating to remove the outermost layer of your skin, revealing fresh skin underneath, is a basic part of skin care.
But, exfoliating isn’t necessarily simple or free from potential problems. Common exfoliation errors include:
- Harming your face with rough scrubs used too often with overly harsh beads
- Putting yourself at risk for acne breakouts and clogged pores by skipping exfoliation
- Missing out on wonderful non-scrubby exfoliators that don’t contain beads
In order to keep your skin looking fresh and radiant, exfoliate gently and regularly. We recommend starting with exfoliating 2-3 times per week, using chemical exfoliator ingredients like AHAs and BHAs. At Apex Dermatology, we also offer in-office treatments like chemical peels, Dermaplaning and Hydrafacial for more intensive exfoliation.
Faux Pas 3: Skipping sunscreen in your skincare
Whether you can see the sun on any given day, sunscreen is always a must when it comes to skin care. Not handling sunscreen correctly is one of the most common skin issues we see at Apex Dermatology. Here are the facts about skin care and sunscreen.
Sunscreen protects your exposed skin from harmful solar radiation that can cause skin cancer, visible skin damage, and accelerated aging in appearance. Wearing sunscreen any time you leave the house helps to keep your skin healthy and youthful-looking.
Choose sunscreens with mineral ingredients, rather than relying on chemical sunscreens with active ingredients like oxybenzone that may actually be harmful to your skin. And, always take time to apply your sunscreen!
Add top of the line antioxidants from our SkinCeuticals and ISDIN lines as well as nutraceuticals such as Heliocare Advanced or SunISDIN to boost environmental protecttion.
Faux Pas 4: Using conflicting active ingredients
So many different active ingredients offer a variety of skincare benefits. What’s right for you? Are any of your active ingredients canceling each other out?
Your provider at Apex Dermatology works with you to determine which active ingredients give your skin the most of what it needs and makes sure that you aren’t getting into skincare conflicts between products and therapies. Additionally, we curate our lines and your recommendations to get you the actual delivery of the actives to the skin based on the science of the very best technologies.
For expert skin care support, schedule your appointment online or over the phone today.
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Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Zoë Smith, MD
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Alexandra Woodruff
Lani Keene
Sherri Anderson
Riley McCarthy
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, California. With years of experience, she excels in skincare and aesthetics, offering treatments like body contouring and laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Harp is adept at managing complex skin conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis and performs surgical procedures, including Mohs micrographic surgery. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine, she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She is affiliated with esteemed organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology, ensuring her practice remains at the forefront of dermatological care. Dr. Tateoka’s philosophy centers on creating customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, fostering positive self-confidence, and promoting overall well-being. Her commitment to innovation, personalized care, and lifelong learning makes her a trusted provider for those seeking transformative health and aesthetic solutions.
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Dr. Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD, is a highly respected board-certified dermatologist with a focus on medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. A Harvard-trained expert, he excels in minimally invasive procedures such as laser treatments, injectables, and body contouring. Dr. Aria completed his medical degree and dermatology residency at UC San Diego School of Medicine, where he also earned a master’s in clinical research. He is an active member of the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, reflecting his dedication to advancing dermatological care and patient well-being.
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Dr. Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a respected double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon based in Westlake Village, CA. With extensive training from Brown University and Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Tang specializes in the surgical treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Her expertise in Mohs surgery and complex wound reconstruction is backed by her role as former Director of Cutaneous Surgery and Oncology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. A fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, Dr. Tang is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care with excellent outcomes.
Zoë Smith, MD
Dr. Zoë Smith, MD, is a compassionate and skilled dermatologist serving the Westlake Village, CA community at Apex Dermatology. She earned her medical degree from Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit and completed her dermatology residency at UCLA. Dr. Zoë has authored numerous articles on hair loss, skin cancer, and autoimmune conditions, showcasing her expertise. Her research includes work at the NIH and an externship at Harvard Medical School. A leader in her field, she is recognized for her warm approach to patient care and her commitment to volunteering with children who have skin conditions.
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Mary Hanna, NP-BC, is a highly skilled Nurse Practitioner based in Westlake Village, CA, at Apex Dermatology. With a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, affiliated with Harvard, Mary is nationally Board-Certified by the ANCC. Her expertise in dermatology was honed during a prestigious clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center. Mary excels in laser resurfacing, body contouring, and injectables and is dedicated to educating her patients. Her compassionate approach ensures patients feel empowered in their healthcare, enhancing their overall well-being. Mary is a trusted provider, committed to delivering exceptional care.
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C, is a compassionate Certified Physician Assistant at Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, CA. Her journey into dermatology began in high school, inspired by her own experiences with hormonal acne. Since 2016, Alexandra has been dedicated to understanding the connection between metabolic health and skin conditions. She holds a master’s degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. As a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society, Alexandra is committed to providing exceptional patient care.
Lani Keene
Lani Keene, a licensed aesthetician in Westlake Village, CA, has been enhancing skin health since 1998. With over 25 years of experience in both medical and holistic skincare, she offers personalized treatments that deliver outstanding results. At Apex Dermatology, Lani is renowned for her gentle touch and warm demeanor, making her a top choice for those dealing with sunspots, acne, and fine lines. Her dedication to individualized care and extensive expertise make her a trusted professional in aesthetics, helping clients achieve their best looks and feel confident.
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C, is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years of clinical practice. She earned her Master of Science from George Washington University and is board-certified by the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants. Sherri is a respected member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society. Her extensive expertise spans dermatology, plastic surgery, and emergency medicine. Known for her warm manner and aesthetic talents, Sherri is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each patient feels valued and receives natural results from cosmetic procedures.
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN, is a dedicated dermatologist with a unique blend of expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Arizona. Riley is committed to making each patient feel safe and confident in their skin, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Her approach combines her extensive knowledge and compassionate care, making her a trusted professional in the field. Riley is passionate about community health and enhancing patient well-being.