Learning about skincare and experimenting with products is almost everyone’s favorite thing to do. But there’s something to be said about the skincare tips that have become classics over the years. Here, we caught up with Dr. Aanand Geria, a board-certified dermatologist who dishes on the skin care steps you should include in your daily routine, what dermarolling is all about and the benefits behind it, how to achieve the perfect glowy skin and so much more.

What are the top 3 steps everyone should implement in their everyday skin care routine?

First, you must wear sunscreen every morning in order to prevent sun damage and skin cancer. Second, use a topical retinoid at night to boost collagen production and to minimize fine lines and wrinkles. Third, use antioxidants such as VItamin C serum to protect your skin from environmental aggressors. 

The number one skin care product everyone should splurge on?

A sunscreen that is compatible with your skin — meaning it doesn’t leave a white residue, doesn’t irritate your skin or cause breakouts and provides broad-spectrum coverage against UVA and UVB rays. 

How to achieve the ultimate healthy and glowy skin look?

I’m a firm believer that a series of alternating Hydrafacials and chemical peels are one of the best ways to get your skin ready for a big event or just for routine maintenance. The Hydrafacial works by cleaning out your pores gently with vacuum suction and then infusing your skin with antioxidants and hyaluronic acid. Meanwhile, chemical peels, are done to remove the rough, sun damaged or hyperpigmented top layers of the skin, which should reveal a more even complexion and softer skin underneath.   

What are the benefits dermarolling and how quickly can patients see results?

Dermarolling and micro needling are procedures in which tiny needles are introduced into the skin at a controlled depth causing microscopic injuries. This process sets the wound cascade and results in increased collagen production. This can improve fine lines and wrinkles as well as break up scar tissue and stubborn pigment. Results can be seen as quickly as one week but optimum results occur after 3-4 monthly treatments.  

What ingredients do you recommend patients use in their skin care products in order to get rid of acne scars, scarring and dark spots

There are many over the counter products that can be helpful for dark spots. Some ingredients to look for include soy, arbutin, vitamin C, licorice, kojic acid, and niacinamide. For more heavy duty results, you can visit your dermatologist and get a prescription for hydroquinone 4%. In addition, wearing sunscreen every day is critical when dealing with hyperpigmentation.