After more than 20 years of working with patients, one thing I've learned is that good skincare doesn't have to be complicated. But it does need to be personal.
Today, we're surrounded by skincare advice. New products, trending ingredients, and treatments promising dramatic results are everywhere. With so many options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed or assume that more products mean better results.
But I've always believed that the best place to start is by understanding your own skin.
Here are a few things I wish more people knew about caring for it.
1. Prevention is still our most powerful tool.
When I completed my dermatology residency in the early 2000s, the number of active skincare ingredients available was relatively limited. Today, we have an incredible range of options for treating different skin concerns.
But one thing hasn't changed: prevention remains one of the most important things we can do for our skin.
Sun damage, in particular, is something I wish everyone took more seriously. It accumulates throughout our lives and can contribute to premature aging, changes in pigmentation, and skin cancer.
Daily sunscreen is essential, but so are protective clothing, hats, and being mindful of sun exposure.
We can't prevent every change that comes with aging, but we can make choices today that support healthier skin in the years ahead.
2. Your skincare routine should fit your life.
When someone comes to see me for the first time, they often have several concerns. Fine lines, dark spots, redness, dryness, acne, or changes in skin texture.
Of course, I'd love to help with everything. But I usually begin by asking one question:
If we could improve just one thing about your skin, what would make you feel better?
That helps us identify what's most important to the patient.
From there, I evaluate their skin and recommend a routine or treatment plan based on their individual needs.
I also want to know how much time they have for skincare and what feels comfortable within their budget.
I don't believe everyone needs a complicated routine with ten different products. A few carefully selected ingredients, used consistently, can often be a much better starting point.
3. Not every treatment is right for every skin concern.
This is something I feel particularly strongly about.
Two people may come to me with concerns about their skin's appearance, but the reasons behind those concerns can be very different.
For example, skin affected by years of sun exposure may benefit from ingredients such as retinoids and antioxidants, or treatments like chemical peels and microneedling.
Rosacea requires a different approach.
Because rosacea-prone skin is often sensitive, certain products and ingredients can actually make symptoms worse. In some cases, intense pulsed light (IPL) can be helpful in reducing visible redness.
The important thing is knowing which approach is appropriate for each person.
I never want to recommend a treatment simply because it's popular. I want to understand the skin first.
4. Healthy skin is about more than appearance.
My background in dermatology has shaped the way I approach skincare.
When I look at someone's skin, I'm thinking beyond the surface. I want to understand their concerns, the condition of their skin, and what might be contributing to the changes they're experiencing.
That's also why I value providing skincare services within a medical practice.
At Laurie Birkholz, MD & Associates, we share a philosophy of individualized care. We take the time to listen, consider the whole person, and make thoughtful recommendations rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
Sometimes that means an in-office treatment. Sometimes it means simplifying a skincare routine. And sometimes a skin concern needs further evaluation by a medical provider.
My goal is to help patients make informed decisions about their skin, with realistic expectations and a focus on long-term health.
5. Good skincare takes time, and that's okay.
One of the most rewarding parts of my work is seeing patients feel better about their skin.
I love reviewing before-and-after photos together and seeing the improvements that can happen with consistent care.
I often think of our skin like a plant. When we give it what it needs, water, nutrients, protection, and the right attention, it has the opportunity to flourish.
Our skin responds to care in much the same way.
Not every concern can be resolved immediately, and not every treatment is right for everyone. But with patience, consistency, and the right guidance, meaningful improvements are possible.
And seeing someone become more comfortable and confident in their skin is something I never get tired of.
You don't have to figure it all out yourself.
If you're unsure where to begin with your skincare, that's perfectly okay.
You don't need to know which treatment you want or arrive with a long list of products you're already using.
We can start with a conversation about your concerns, your goals, and what makes sense for your skin.
Above all, I want every person who visits our Skin Clinic to feel listened to, comfortable asking questions, and confident in the care they're receiving.
Because good skincare isn't about doing everything. It's about doing what's right for you.
Anely Perez
LBMD Skin Clinic
Our Skin Clinic is open to everyone. No LBMD membership required.
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To schedule a consultation, call 616-345-5263.