Clear the counter (and your calendar) for peel and laser season. “It brings a new meaning to Dry January,” says Lauren Plyler, a Nurse Practitioner at Levy Dermatology. “This is an ideal time for resurfacing laser treatments, as cooler weather and reduced sun exposure make it easier to protect healing skin and achieve optimal results.” She recommends a Halo laser to take off layers, while also stimulating collagen. “Personally, I have booked a TRL laser treatment for my eyes, but your practitioner can customize anything for you,” Lauren continues. Sandy Santi, a nurse injector at PSG Skincare & Laser Center has been practicing for over 38 years. “You really need to decide downtime - how long are you willing to hide out?” she smiles. “Even our most intense laser treatments can be adjusted to a lighter setting.”
Kate Umstead, esthetician at The Well by Pavo and co-founder of MK Skin Co., recommends microneedling in the winter months. “It’s time to kick up that collagen production with SkinPen,” she advises. “Hydrafacials help combat dryness from cold air and indoor heating by deeply hydrating, gently exfoliating and infusing the skin with antioxidants,” Kate adds.
Lisa Street, Nurse Practitioner and owner of Glo Medical Aesthetics, is mindful of the indoor elements as well. “We go from cold air to indoor heating which can disrupt the skin barrier. VI Peel is ideal this time of year, helping remove dry, pigmented, damaged layers and reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. Lasers like Moxi and IPL are especially effective, but healing your skin from any treatment is second to none.” Lisa guides.
Levy Dermatology
“A consistent hydration-focused routine is essential. Incorporating rich emollients helps strengthen the skin barrier and prevent dryness or flaking. For the delicate eye area, I recommend Neocutis Lumiere Firm Riche. Skinbetter Trio is my current favorite moisturizer. An excellent over-the-counter option is Laroche Posey’s Lipikar AP for the whole body. Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week can also improve absorption of moisturizers and maintain a healthy glow. Your at home skincare routine makes your treatments in the office more impactful. Don’t forget daily sunscreen—UV exposure is still significant in winter.” - Lauren Plyler
PSG Skincare
“I don’t have a magic wand, but if I did, I would take credit for the unspoken beauty secret of every Memphis woman- our heavy humidity acting as a natural fountain of youth. Suddenly, that dewy glow requires a tactical pivot in your skincare routine to combat the chill. Hydrating Cleanser by ZO is a moisturizing wash for winter. I like recommending Obagi Rebalance, a post peel and procedure cream that is soothing and helps healing. Hyaluronic Acid Serum by PCA locks in water when applied on a damp face- it’s a must! - Sandy Santi
MK Skincare/ The Well at Pavo
“When it comes to winter skin, dullness and dryness usually come to one’s mind first. Using a quality vitamin C serum like MK Vitamin C+ is a non-negotiable, if you are longing for bright healthy youthful skin in cold months. Hydrating with a good moisturizer like Daily Hydration is key as well. We remind our clients that It is just as important to remember to exfoliate the skin as moisturize it. Doing so allows your moisturizer to immediately penetrate the skin. Layers of old, dead skin do not allow for proper penetration of your serums and moisturizer. “
- Kate Umstead
Glo Medical Aesthetics
“Winter also gives you a chance to correct lingering sun damage and prepare your skin for Spring. With the right combination of professional treatments and consistent at-home care, you can maintain a radiant, healthy glow all season long. A favorite product to enhance treatments is ZO Exfoliating Polish to slough off any dry, dead skin. The EXO|E 11 day Kit activates the skin’s ability to self-repair post any treatment. Pavise Dynamic Age Defense acts as a multitasking shield with UV protection that provides year-round protection with an elegant, hydrating finish.”
- Lisa Street