The appearance and health of our skin is often the first thing people notice about us. Here, local Advanced Aesthetician Stephanie Butler, an award-winning professional for over 18 years, gives some tips for how to care for the skin you’re in and optimize its health and appearance.
Q: If you had to pick, what is the one skincare tip that is a must-follow for everyone?
A: The best thing you can do for your skin to slow the aging process is to wear sunscreen every day! Even in the winter, when you may not feel the effects of the sun as prominently as you do in the summer, the UV rays still penetrate and contribute to premature aging, dark spots, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Q: Is there a certain age when people should start implementing anti-aging skincare techniques?
A: I prefer the term “age management” because our skin is always aging, and we want to support it as it does. Our skin starts to lose collagen and elastin more rapidly after the age of 30, which leads to sagging, sallow skin, and more wrinkles. That's when I would recommend people start adding in products that support collagen and elastin production.
Q: What products are important to support age management skincare?
A: Hydration for the skin is very important, since we get drier as we age, which leads to more wrinkling. For many, adding retinol can be very beneficial for cell turnover, as it improves collagen production and helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Also, vitamin C helps slow the aging process from free radical damage in our environment. I always recommend paying for professional-grade retinol and vitamin C, as you tend to get what you pay for.
Q: Beyond products, what are some age-management skincare tips?
A: Be sure to drink lots of water, get plenty of sleep, and take skin-supporting supplements. I recommend Omegas, probiotics, and antioxidants as a baseline. Supplement what you aren’t able to get from whole foods in your diet. Another amazing tool is LED light therapy. I recommend the Omnilux brand. It is important to buy a quality tool, or else you're paying for overpriced Christmas lights.
Q: Acne is a problem many individuals face, even into adulthood. Any tips for dealing with acne?
A: Find an aesthetician who specializes in treating acne. Acne is complex, and I don't recommend people try to treat it on their own. Many people come to me with severely disrupted skin barriers after trying several different products. An acne specialist will get you on a curated skin care regimen tailored for your type of acne.
Q: How does someone determine the best skincare routine for themselves?
A: This is very hard to do on your own. I recommend everyone have an aesthetician they trust who can analyze their skin, taking lifestyle and habits into consideration, and recommend a routine. Eighty percent of your skin health is what you do at home, and 20% consists of treatments you get with a professional. You waste more money trying (and failing) to find what works for you on your own, as opposed to working with a knowledgeable professional. As a licensed aesthetician, continuing education is critically important to me, and I’m constantly learning and attending courses about the latest evidence-based skincare research.
Q: What is one thing you'd never skip in your own skincare routine, other than sunscreen?
A: Double cleansing at night, first with an oil cleanser, second with a gentle foaming cleanser. It's a game-changer, trust me!
A: Finally, my favorite question: what makes you passionate about skincare?
A: I love building someone's confidence. When clients first start with me, they are often sad and feel helpless. Sometimes they've dealt with frustrating skin conditions their entire life and have tried everything, including prescriptions, and nothing has worked. I love being that safe space for them to heal and see their skin transform.
About Sephanie
Stephanie Butler is a licensed Advanced Aesthetician with over 18 years of experience. She has been recognized locally and internationally for her expertise, specifically for acne and aging skin treatments and results. She is the owner of Evergreen Esthetics and practices at Plumb + Pine.
"Acne is complex, and I don't recommend people try to treat it on their own."