britt's picks // dermatologist

A good dermatologist is crucial to any person's well being and overall skin health. I truly believe this. They aren't just there to treat annoying acne, but also check for cancerous moles and treat any problematic skin issues. So many people forget to protect their skin from the sun (I was one of them for longer than I'd like to admit), and although you may not notice the damage right away, this can cause some serious issues in the long term. I've been going to Wexler Dermatology in Manhattan for the last several months, and cannot recommend this practice enough. Whatever your skin concern may be, from rosacea to wrinkles to acne to filler, they've got you covered. I began a treatment with Dr. Eugene Wexler called Aerolase, which is a neo-laser treatment that helps with many issues including hyerpigmentation, tightening & rejuvenation, acne & scarring, collagen production, and redness/rosacea! The completely non-invasive treatment involves high-powered, short-pulse lasers, which are guided over your face and neck as they work their magic. I'll typically follow the short laser treatment with a few seconds of LED light therapy, which is great for fighting signs of aging as well. Aerolase generally needs 3-4 treatments every 3-4 weeks to be effective, and now that I've completed my 4th session, I can definitely tell a difference. My aesthetician also remarked how my skin is looking much brighter and more even overall. Success!

During my first appointment, Dr. Patricia Wexler suggested I start using the three products above (SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Treatment, SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator & Elta MD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46) immediately, and after several months of consistent use, I'm totally sold. I'd heard about the C E Ferulic before- it has a serious cult following- and this stuff is no joke. It's a lighteight serum containing l-ascorbic acid, alpha tocopherol and ferulic acid that works to prevent signs of aging. Basically, it's the vitamin C serum of your dreams that also helps fight the environmental effects of free radicals. Any signs of photodamage or hyperpigmentation been bugging you? This stuff helps lighten and brighten as well! The HA5 Hydrator contains an impressive five forms of hyaluronic acid, our body's natural hydrator that diminishes over time, and helps keep our skin super smooth and fully hydrated. It's also oil-free, fragrance-free, and noncomedogenic, so you don't have to worry about it clogging your pores. Elta MD is known for being one of the best sunscreens out there and comes highly recommended by dermatologists alike. Their UV Clear SPF 46 uses zinc oxide to protect from the sun, and also calms sensitive skin types prone to breakouts, rosacea, or discoloration. High purity niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid promote overall healthy-looking skin. Speaking of, I need to stock up on another bottle of these, stat! Dr. Wexler also makes her own line of products, and I've been reaching for the overnight acne repair lotion whenever a pesky blemish arises. If you live in NYC, or even if you don't, and are looking for a reliable, intelligent, and helpful dermatologist, I highly recommend you seek out Wexler Dermatology

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fave products // avène mineral ultra-light sunscreen

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By now everyone knows the importance of wearing sunscreen. It helps protect your skin from the sun's damaging UV rays, which cause sunburns and can lead to wrinkles, and can even help prevent skin cancer down the line. Knowing that, you'd think everyone would be wearing it 24/7, however, that's not always the case. I'll admit that I could be more disciplined in this regard, but I'm trying to improve for the sake of my skin, both now and in the future! Eau Thermale Avène is a popular French pharmacy brand that I've come to rely on and enjoy thanks to its expert dermatological care for sensitive skin. Many sunscreens out there are made with harsh chemicals that my skin simply cannot handle, so I prefer to use those that are purely mineral-based (made from zinc oxide & titanium dioxide). Avène Mineral Ultra-Light Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ (Face) is a 100% mineral facial sunscreen with broad spectrum SPF 50 and UVA/UVB filters, is water resistant for up to 80 minutes, goes on sheer without any white residue, and is totally free of fragrance, parabens, and other harsh irritants. As an added bonus, a photostable form of vitamin E provides powerful and effective antioxidant protection! Talk about the full package! I love how it feels, or rather how it doesn't feel, on my skin. It's so lightweight that you'd hardly even know it's there, which makes it great for layering over your other skincare products and under any makeup you may be using. I think it's safe to say this baby has earned a deserved and welcome spot in my daily skincare regimen.