2024 will be the year my skin glows and I can feel the positive changes. As a dermatologist with a wide range of responsibilities, including a dermatology practice and obstetrics, finding time for a skincare routine can be challenging. Despite the wealth of tools and knowledge I have, I often fall short of my best self. This year, my resolution is to make small, impactful commitments to prioritize my skin health.
Below are my skin goals for 2024. I’m excited for the journey ahead. Wish me luck!
Retinol Cycle.
Retinol is one of the few active ingredients with data to support its anti-aging promise. Since I’m in my 40s, I’m no stranger to the benefits of retinol, and in 2024, I plan to really focus on incorporating it into my skincare routine. I want to implement a retinol cycle strategy that I use exclusively at night. I alternate between different strengths to optimize cell turnover.
By switching brands and adjusting strengths at the end of each use, I aim to protect my skin from environmental damage and prevent visible signs of aging. I would try a known intensity, such as 1%, starting gradually and gradually increasing the frequency over a period of several months. It was a conscious and deliberate approach to improving my skincare habits for the coming year.
Maintain a regular laser regimen.
In the world of skincare technology, I am fortunate to have access to state-of-the-art lasers through my practice, ODE Dermatology. As a dedicated dermatologist, I am passionate about providing laser regimens and personalized rituals to my clients every day. However, I must admit that I have not consistently applied this expertise to my own skincare routine, and as life progresses, I often struggle to find time for consistent care.
But 2024 marked a change for me—I emphasized self-care, as I advise every client. I recognized the visible signs of aging (goodbye collagen loss) and major concerns like melasma on my cheeks, and created a 12-month plan for myself. Using a combination of non-ablative lasers like the Moxi 1927 and collagen-inducing and hyaluronic acid-stimulating regimens like Ultraformer and Exion, I was determined to restore my skin’s radiance. It’s time to treat yourself as you would like to be treated by others.
Laser treatments are not truly comprehensive if not combined with home care. Skin care tailored to your specific concerns and skin type plays a vital role in maximizing the effectiveness of in-clinic treatments. This approach ensures that the skin not only heals after laser treatment, but also receives the nutrients and optimization it needs for a healthy and radiant barrier. It’s the synergy of professional care and personalized home care that will keep your skin looking its best.
Skin care, but hair.
I specialize in hair care, whether it’s promoting hair growth, preventing hair loss, or treating complex autoimmune diseases. One aspect that many of my clients often overlook is the importance of scalp skin and its impact on overall hair health. In 2024, my main focus will be optimizing the scalp microbiome to ensure the best possible growth, health, and quality of hair.
I like to think of the skin surrounding the hair follicles as the soil in which plants thrive. Their quality has a profound impact on prosperity, and this is a message I want to spread far and wide. My skincare routine is constantly evolving to prioritize scalp health, carefully considering which products I include (or exclude) in my daily and weekly regimen. My favourite products for the next year will be marigold, rosemary and burdock root. Together with essential fatty acids and phytosterols, they nourish the scalp and promote optimal hair growth. It’s time to raise our awareness of the holistic connection between a healthy scalp and strong, luscious hair.
Dr. Shammi Theesan is a respected dermatologist in Fitzroy, Melbourne, and the visionary founder of ODE Dermatology. With a commitment to transformative results, Dr. Theesan seamlessly combines science with traditional health measures. Her approach embodies a harmonious combination of cutting-edge dermatological practices and time-tested holistic wellness, offering a unique and effective approach to skin health.
