DermExcel™ | Aging.Dry.Pigmentation.Breakouts.Mild Pregnancy Treatment Plan

your dermal diagnosis™ results

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We're thrilled you're taking proactive steps to understand your skin better. Below, you'll find your most recent Dermal Diagnosis™ results. Use this data as a roadmap to achieving healthier skin.

Date	Dermal Diagnosis™	Profile and Treatment Plan

DERMAL DIAGNOSIS™ RESULT BREAKDOWN

Aging Score	Hydration Score	Pigmentation Score	Inflammation category

Date	Dermal Diagnosis™

DERMAL DIAGNOSIS™ RESULT BREAKDOWN

Aging Score
Hydration Score
Pigmentation Score
Inflammation category

's Dermal Diagnosis™ Profile

Aging . Dry . Pigmentation . Breakouts . Mild during pregnancy

Navigating the intricacies of your Aging, Dry, Pigmentation (ADP) skin type—especially when coupled with mild breakouts becomes even more nuanced during pregnancy. Hormonal fluctuations can amplify dehydration, pigmentation, and occasional blemishes, requiring a thoughtful and gentle skincare approach to maintain balance and support your skin's evolving needs. With the right routine and targeted, pregnancy-safe skincare, these concerns can be effectively managed and alleviated.

At the core of your skin's condition lies insufficient sebum production, leaving your skin vulnerable to dehydration, environmental irritants, and allergens. This lack of natural protection can become more pronounced during pregnancy, leading to increased transepidermal water loss and a heightened susceptibility to dryness, tightness, and a dull complexion. Addressing hydration and reinforcing the skin barrier are crucial steps in maintaining comfort and radiance throughout this journey.

Pigmentation concerns, such as dark spots and uneven tone, may become more noticeable due to pregnancy-induced hormonal changes. The overactivity of melanocytes (pigment cells) can contribute to melasma or intensified pigmentation.

Mild congestion in the form of blackheads, whiteheads, and occasional breakouts adds another layer of complexity. These inflammatory responses, though not severe, can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, complicating your skincare goals. Pregnancy-safe and anti-inflammatory ingredients play a vital role in soothing inflammation and preventing further pigmentation while ensuring the skin remains hydrated and balanced.

A consistent, well-structured skincare routine that prioritizes hydration, barrier reinforcement, and gentle pigmentation management is key to maintaining your skin’s health during pregnancy.

Embracing the changes that pregnancy brings means adapting your skincare to support your skin’s needs with gentle, effective care. With patience and the right approach, your skin can continue to thrive, reflecting the beauty of this transformative period. If you are unsure about introducing new products, consulting your healthcare provider or gynecologist is recommended.

benefits

barriers

goals

YOUR SKIN'S MAIN CHARACTERISTICS

Dehydration

Aging skin

Pigmentation

Acne Breakouts

Benefits of your ADPBM Pregnancy skin type

Reduced Oiliness

skincare awareness

less severe

Reduced Oiliness: You are less likely to experience the sheen and discomfort associated with oily skin types. This can contribute to a matte finish and potentially less clogged pores outside of breakout areas.
Comprehensive Skin Awareness: Managing the diverse needs of ADPBM skin often results in a heightened understanding and attentiveness to skin health, encouraging proactive and informed skincare choices.
Milder Breakout Profile: While mild breakouts may still occur, they’re often less severe and widespread than those found in oilier complexions. This can reduce the risk of persistent acne-related scarring and make blemishes more manageable.

Barriers to your skin health

Dehydrated Skin

Aging skin

Pigmentation

Acne Breakouts

Dryness: Chronic dryness challenges the skin's ability to retain moisture, leading to discomfort and enhancing the visibility of aging signs.
Premature Aging: The combination of dryness and external stressors can accelerate the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity.
Hyperpigmentation: Issues such as uneven skin tone, dark spots, and melasma are prominent and require consistent management and treatment.
Sensitivity to Skincare Ingredients: Finding the right balance in treating aging, dryness, and pigmentation while avoiding ingredients that could trigger breakouts or irritate sensitive skin presents a significant challenge, requiring carefully selected formulations.
Breakouts: Despite being less oily, your skin type is still prone to breakouts, possibly due to dead skin cell accumulation and a compromised moisture barrier. Managing breakouts without further drying out the skin or causing irritation requires a delicate balance in your skincare routine.

your frustrations

Congested pores in the form of blackheads and in some cases also whiteheads.
Impaired and dehydrated skin barrier.
Premature skin aging.
Rough skin texture with congested pores and mild or occasional breakouts.
Uneven skin tone with dark spots or patches.

your goals

Bright; hydrated and healthy skin.
Prevention and correction of premature skin aging including lines and wrinkles.
Protected; smooth and healed skin barrier.
Radiant skin with an even skin tone.
Smooth skin texture with no breakouts and inflammation.

Aging . Dry . Pigmentation . Breakouts . Mild during pregnancy

treatment objectives

Inhibit hyperpigmentation

Inhibit the pathways in the hyperpigmentation process to stop the stimulation, production and transfer of melanin (pigment cells).

Deeply Hydrate and Nourish

Advance the skin's hydration capabilities by boosting its capacity to attract and retain moisture at a cellular level. Promote the enhancement of the skin's own hydrating agents, ensuring sustained moisture balance and preventing dryness.

Skin Barrier Restoration

Repair damaged skin barrier and restore barrier function. Boost the protective skin layer by increasing the production of elastin, collagen, ceramides, and lipids.

Prevent & Repair Premature Aging

Protect the skin from factors that accelerate aging, such as UV exposure and pollution, and correct existing signs of aging, like fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.

Reduce Inflammation

Alleviate inflammation and redness by restoring equilibrium to the skin's microbiome. Focus on creating a harmonious skin environment that supports healthy bacterial flora, essential for maintaining skin health and preventing breakouts.

DNA Protection and Repair

Safeguard and repair UV-induced DNA damage, utilizing a blend of UV defense, Retinol, Niacinamide, and antioxidants. This strategy prevents future damage and aids in the repair of existing cellular impairments.

include

Anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and pigmentation-disruptive ingredients.
Broad spectrum sunscreen with antioxidants - preventing premature aging and protecting DNA.
Effective barrier repair agents restore your skin's natural barrier and prevent premature aging.
Hypoallergenic and pigmentation-disruptive ingredients.
Skin-identical medical-grade ingredients that penetrate the skin to activate a biological response.

avoid

Damaging lifestyle habits, e.g., smoking, tanning beds, excessive sun, and sugar consumption.
Toners and foaming cleansers containing soap & sulfates.
Fragrance in skincare products.
Harsh anti-bacterial products that disrupt the skin's natural microbiome.
Irritating plant extracts and essential oils that will trigger adverse reactions.

Aging . Dry . Pigmentation . Breakouts . Mild during pregnancy

Active Ingredients your skin needs

Azelaic acid

Azelaic acid, a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid, is an effective ingredient in dermatological treatments, particularly for acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation, with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Physiological Effects

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Azelaic acid reduces inflammation, effectively treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne and rosacea.
Antimicrobial Action: It possesses antimicrobial properties that target acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes), helping to reduce acne outbreaks.
Keratolytic Effects: It helps unclog pores and reduce the formation of comedones (black and whiteheads) by normalizing the shedding of skin cells.
Depigmenting Agent: Azelaic acid effectively treats hyperpigmentation disorders, including melasma, as it inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production.

Role in Managing Dermatological Conditions

Acne: Azelaic acid inhibits the proliferation of acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface, thereby reducing bacterial growth and inflammation. Its antibacterial activity is primarily against Propionibacterium acnes, a key bacterium involved in the development of acne. Furthermore, azelaic acid helps unclog pores and reduce skin cell buildup, effectively treating mild to moderate acne.
Rosacea: Azelaic acid's anti-inflammatory action helps to reduce redness and swelling associated with rosacea. In addition, azelaic acid's ability to reduce keratinization (the process by which skin cells become more fibrous and less flexible) contributes to its effectiveness in this condition.
Pigmentation: Azelaic acid effectively treats melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme in melanin production. This helps to reduce the formation of excess pigment and can lead to a more even skin tone.

References

Fitton, A., & Goa, K. L. (1991). Azelaic Acid. Drugs.
Gollnick, H., & Schramm, M. (1998). Topical drug treatment in acne. Dermatology.
Passeron, T., et al. (2019). Melasma treatment: A novel approach using a topical agent that contains an anti-estrogen and a low-dose retinoid. G Ital Dermatol Venereol.
Wolf, J. E., Kerrouche, N., & Arsonnaud, S. (2006). Efficacy and safety of once-daily metronidazole 1% gel compared with twice-daily azelaic acid 15% gel in the treatment of rosacea. Cutis, 77(4 Suppl), 3-11.
Hollinger, J. C., Angra, K., & Halder, R. M. (2018). Are natural ingredients effective in the management of hyperpigmentation? A systematic review. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 11(2), 28.

Alpha Arbutin

Alpha Arbutin is a derivative of hydroquinone and a biosynthetic active ingredient. Its primary action is inhibiting tyrosinase, a key enzyme involved in the synthesis of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Alpha Arbutin effectively reduces melanin production in the skin by inhibiting tyrosin activity. This gradually lightens hyperpigmented areas, such as age spots, melasma, and scars, resulting in a more even skin tone.

One of the significant advantages of Alpha Arbutin over other skin-lightening agents is its safety profile. Unlike hydroquinone, which has been associated with potential side effects and is restricted in many countries, Alpha Arbutin is considered safe and less irritating to the skin, even at higher concentrations. This makes it a suitable ingredient for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

In addition to its skin-lightening properties, Alpha Arbutin has also shown antioxidant effects, helping to protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental factors like UV radiation and pollution.

Physiological Effects

Melanin Inhibition: Alpha Arbutin works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production in the skin. This action reduces the formation of melanin, leading to a lightening of skin pigmentation.
Even Skin Tone: Regular use of alpha arbutin can lead to a more even skin tone overall, reducing the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation.
Reduced Skin Discoloration: It effectively reduces the appearance of dark spots and areas of hyperpigmentation, such as those caused by acne, sun damage, or hormonal changes.
Safer Alternative to Hydroquinone: While structurally similar to hydroquinone, alpha arbutin is a safer option with a lower risk of side effects.

Role in Managing Dermatological Conditions

Hyperpigmentation: Alpha arbutin treats melasma, sun spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne.
Skin Brightening: Provide a more radiant and uniform skin tone.
Anti-Aging: Reduce the appearance of age-related spots and uneven skin tone.

Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid, a renowned beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is a cornerstone in dermatology and skincare due to its exceptional keratolytic and comedolytic properties. It uniquely penetrates oil-laden hair follicle pores, making it particularly effective in treating acne-prone and oily skin types.

Salicylic acid works by dissolving skin debris that clogs pores and causes acne, namely sebum and dead skin cells. It's a mild anti-bacterial- and a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, which helps to reduce the redness and swelling associated with breakouts.

What sets salicylic acid apart in dermatological treatments is its ability to exfoliate the skin not just on the surface but within the pores themselves. This is due to its oil-soluble nature, which allows it to penetrate deep into the pores and dissolve the keratin plugs that lead to blackheads and whiteheads.

Furthermore, salicylic acid also can adjust the pH of the skin, creating an environment less favorable for the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Salicylic acid's efficacy in treating various skin conditions, particularly acne, has been extensively documented in the scientific literature. Studies have consistently shown its ability to reduce acne lesions in terms of count and severity. Additionally, salicylic acid is highly recommended for its effectiveness in treating other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and dandruff, due to its ability to soften and remove scales and flakes from the skin.

Physiological Effects

Keratolytic Action: Salicylic acid is known for its ability to exfoliate the skin by dissolving the intercellular 'glue' that holds skin cells together. This helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Comedolytic Effect: It is particularly effective in reducing comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) by unclogging pores and preventing the formation of new comedones.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Salicylic acid reduces inflammation, which is beneficial in treating acne and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Sebum Regulation: It helps to regulate oil production, making it a valuable ingredient for managing oily and acne-prone skin.
Penetration Enhancement: Due to its lipophilic nature, it can penetrate sebum-filled follicles, effectively treating acne located deep within the pores.

Role in Managing Dermatological Conditions

Acne Vulgaris: Salicylic acid is a cornerstone in acne treatment, effectively preventing and treating existing acne lesions.
Psoriasis: Its keratolytic properties effectively soften and remove scales associated with psoriasis.
Warts: Salicylic acid is commonly used to treat warts because it can exfoliate and remove the thickened skin.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: It helps manage seborrheic dermatitis by reducing scaling and redness.
Keratosis Pilaris: Salicylic acid can aid in smoothing the rough bumps associated with keratosis pilaris.

References

Zaenglein, A. L., Pathy, A. L., Schlosser, B. J., Alikhan, A., Baldwin, H. E., Berson, D. S., & Thiboutot, D. M. (2016). Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 74(5), 945-973.e33.
Kornhauser, A., Coelho, S. G., & Hearing, V. J. (2010). Applications of hydroxy acids: classification, mechanisms, and photoactivity. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 3, 135.
Zander, E., & Weisman, S. (1992). Treatment of acne vulgaris with salicylic acid pads. Clinical Therapeutics.
Gupta, A. K., & Nicol, K. (2004). The use of sulfur in dermatology. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

Bakuchiol

Bakuchiol's mechanism of action is similar to retinol's; it stimulates collagen production and accelerates cell turnover, improving skin texture and tone. It also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, making it an effective ingredient in anti-aging skincare products.

One of the key advantages of bakuchiol over traditional retinol is its gentleness on the skin. Retinol is known for potential side effects like dryness, redness, and irritation, particularly in sensitive skin or when used in high concentrations. Bakuchiol, however, is far less irritating. In addition to its anti-aging properties, bakuchiol exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, further contributing to its skin benefits. It helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and can soothe it, reducing redness and inflammation.

Bakuchiol's retinol-like effects and its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties make it an effective ingredient for various skin concerns, especially for those seeking natural alternatives in anti-aging and acne treatment.

Physiological Effects

Retinol-like Function: Bakuchiol mimics the actions of retinol, stimulating collagen production. This helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improves skin elasticity.
Antioxidant Properties: It offers antioxidant benefits, protecting the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by environmental factors like UV radiation.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Bakuchiol has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the skin and reduce redness and irritation.
Improved Skin Tone and Texture: Regular use of bakuchiol can improve skin tone and texture, making it smoother and more even.
Acne Management: Bakuchiol's antibacterial properties and ability to regulate sebum production make it effective in managing acne.

Role in Managing Dermatological Conditions

Aging Skin: Bakuchiol is popular in anti-aging skincare because it stimulates collagen production and reduces signs of aging.
Sensitive Skin: As a gentler alternative to retinol, it is suitable for sensitive skin types that cannot tolerate traditional retinoids.
Acne-Prone Skin: Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial in acne treatments.
Hyperpigmentation: Bakuchiol can help treat hyperpigmentation, enhance skin radiance, and reduce dark spots.

References

Chaudhuri, R. K., & Bojanowski, K. (2014). Bakuchiol: a retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects. International Journal of Cosmetic Science.
Dhaliwal, S., et al. (2019). Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing. British Journal of Dermatology.
Sivamani, R. K., et al. (2019). Clinical efficacy of a bakuchiol, niacinamide and zinc pyrithione formulation in facial sebum control and mild acne. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.