Ep.16 Dermatologist-Approved Skincare: Retinol, Vitamin C and What Actually Works

Coming from a family of physicians, Mona Foad had always wanted to be a doctor, until she fell in love with art history in college.  While she loved her job at the Smithsonian, Mona realized she was missing the ability to really touch people.  Another degree and medical school brought her to the world of dermatology, where she gets to treat the whole patient with her medical skill and her love of beautiful aesthetics.In this episode Mona Foad, MD and I discuss:Her GRASS philosophyGrowth factors - Skin Medica is her favorite - these contain cell signaling proteinsRetinoids - Tretinoin works more quickly but may be more drying than Retinol - start slowlyAntioxidants - Vitamin C - make sure it is l-ascorbic acid 10-15% Sunscreen - See belowSpecialty Products - Hyaluronic acidMona says everyone should be wearing a UVA/UVB sunscreen.  UVA are the aging rays and UVB are the burning rays.  Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are preferred.Some of her favorites cosmetically elegant brands:Elta MDColorescience (They also make a powder sunscreen that is not greasy - loved by golfers)Skin MedicaAlastin (They make a tinted sunscreen with iron oxide - great for melasma)Dermatologic Procedures:Botox and FillersTightening Procedures - radio frequency, laser, ultrasound and threadingFollow Mona Dermatology at:www.monadermatology.comInstagram @monadermatologyFacebook at Mona DermatologyFollow Asking for a Friend on social media on Facebook and Instagram @askingforafriend_podPlease leave a review!  Reviews and sharing help us grow._________________________________________If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies.https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products.Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fqLike to connect? Email me at [email protected] Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.