Additional Coverage:
- A doctor in her 40s uses 3 science-backed products to prevent wrinkles. She combines Korean and Western techniques. (businessinsider.com)
Local Skincare Expert Shares Her Top Three Anti-Aging Secrets
For those of us striving for that elusive “glass skin” glow, Dr. Christine Hall, a physician and pharmacist turned skincare specialist, offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western approaches.
Growing up between the UK and South Korea, Dr. Hall, 44, has cultivated a skincare philosophy that marries the potent active ingredients favored in the West with the skin barrier-strengthening rituals of Korean beauty.
While her daily routine can involve a luxurious 13 steps, Dr. Hall emphasizes that three ingredients are non-negotiable for their proven anti-aging benefits:
1. Vitamin C: Your Morning Antioxidant Boost
Every morning, Dr. Hall applies a vitamin C serum.
This powerful antioxidant helps protect skin cells from oxidative stress, a process linked to aging. Research suggests that topical vitamin C can also stimulate collagen production, reduce the appearance of dark spots, and offer protection against sun damage.
Given her past experience with acne, Dr. Hall opts for SkinCeutical’s Silymarin CF Serum, a brand she has an ongoing contract with.
2. Sunscreen: The Ultimate Daily Shield
Without fail, Dr. Hall prioritizes sunscreen, using an SPF 50+ cream tailored for oily skin.
Regular application of broad-spectrum sunscreen (protecting against both UVA and UVB rays) is crucial to prevent premature skin aging, which manifests as wrinkles, liver spots, and decreased elasticity. The Skin Cancer Foundation underscores the importance of this daily defense against damaging UV rays.
3. Retinol: The Nighttime Rejuvenator
Originally celebrated for its acne-fighting properties, retinol has become a go-to for a wide range of skin concerns, including dark spots, enlarged pores, and fine lines. Dr.
Hall began incorporating retinol into her routine at age 35. This ingredient works by accelerating skin cell turnover and boosting collagen production, leading to smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
Dr. Hall uses tretinoin, a prescription-strength retinol in the UK, but notes that many effective over-the-counter versions are available. To counteract retinol’s potential for dryness and irritation, she pairs it with a hydrating Korean moisturizer at night, favoring Centellian 24’s Madeca Cream, which contains ceramides.
“It’s a balance of both that really worked,” Dr. Hall said, highlighting the mutual benefits of combining Korean and Western skincare wisdom for optimal results.