After baby, my skincare went out the window and spots erupted like mad! I’m sure a lot of it was hormonal but I was determined to crack the blemish war for once! I’ve always been using various products over the years, get hooked on one and then the effects wear off so onto another. However, Dermatica came up on my radar after being a member of Caroline Hirons’ Skincare Freaks group. The members often feature results from Dermatica treatments, some amazing. So I thought I’d give it a go and explain how it all works!
What is Dermatica?
Dermatica is an online prescription service that offers tailored skincare created by real dermatologists. You send in a questionnaire and photos of your bare face to highlight any areas of concern. This can be anything from acne to dryness. The products prescribed vary person to person. You can get your first month for free (plus P&P at £2.80) and then its £19.99 every 28 days afterwards (as of 2021) It is recommended to do for more than one month in order to get significant results, like any skincare, time is key. This isn’t a treatment that would suit EVERY skincare enthusiast, I believe you should approach prescription based skincare with caution.
How to use Dermatica…
The product supplied is simply a concoction of treatments in one bottle. This could be retinol, acids, serums etc. No matter what you are prescribed, the treatment will always be in the little bottle supplied. The treatment lasts 28 days with regular use, however I tend to use it every other day or leave the odd gap in between. I find some days my skin will react more than others and I think time is the best healer.
You apply it at night time, ensure your skin is thoroughly cleansed (double is best) and left to naturally dry for at least 20 minutes. You can then apply your treatment with clean hands. There is no need for any other treatments or moisturisers when using this, however if you find it gets too tight/stingy or you need a bit of easing in, then use a moisturiser as a buffer.
Following Queen B of Skincare, Caroline Hirons advice from her skincare book (a must have if you are really interested in having a proper skincare routine and using the right products) she suggests avoiding Tretonin (retinol) on the nose, close to lips and eyes. I realised this after a week so my nose got worse before better once I stopped applying here.
My first impressions.
This treatment initially didn’t do much for me but I slowly built up my tolerance. I remember a few years ago I didn’t understand retinol at all, slathered it on and the next day my face was so dry, peely and horrible, I had a massive reaction and a breach of the barrier (look it up, a real thing!) So I knew to tread carefully. Little is more!
After a week I saw a noticeable difference in the texture of my skin and some of my old teenage scars had started to shift. I’ve had so many scars on my forehead that were just feeling like part of me since 15 when acne would ravage my forehead. Whilst they can’t get rid of permanent damage, it has helped improve the over all texture.
I have two noticeable fine lines on the top of my forehead that haven’t eased yet but I think they will need considerable time to make a difference.
Overall, with a strict cleansing routine, the right choice of serums in the morning and this treatment at night, I see a big difference already, it’s not a quick fix by any means. However, it’s helping me feel more comfortable in my own skin/without makeup.
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING.
You MUST apply SPF when using treatments like this. If you’re not good at applying SPF daily (summer and winter) then do not approach this treatment at all. SPF in makeup doesn’t count as it isn’t a strong enough layer/coverage. SPF is a must have when using strong treatments or your skin will react and cause damage as your skin layer will be more sensitive than usual. SPF 50 at a minimum. My favourite facial SPF is the Nivea Sun Lotion as it smells just like holidays! SPF is a must have for skincare anyway as it helps prevent premature ageing and skin cancers but a big heads up for anyone considering using this.
To sign up to Dermatica and claim your first month free… visit their website here!