Welcome to our first-ever Dermatica Skin Journey, where we speak to members of the community about their experience with our personalised custom formulas!
This week, we’re chatting to Lyndsey, a Yorkshire-based skincare fan, who is currently on an acne treatment plan. She was kind enough to tell us about her biggest skincare concerns, talk us through her routine, and share her journey with Dermatica so far.
So Lyndsey, what was your skincare routine like before Dermatica?
Before Dermatica, my skincare routine was way too complicated. I was using multiple serums after cleansing, face masks, and too many actives far too often. I still love to have a skincare pamper night to relax, but I realised after using Dermatica that I didn’t need to use so many different products!
Could you run us through your current skincare routine?
My current skincare routine is to cleanse in the morning with either a balm or cream cleanser, then I go in with a hydrating serum, a moisturiser and the most important thing: my SPF50+. I now wear SPF all year round and wish I had started doing so sooner!
In the evenings, I double cleanse. I start with a balm or oil cleanser to melt away any makeup, SPF and impurities on my face, then I follow that up with a lighter, water-based cleanser. I like ones that foam without stripping the skin, and I usually use them with a silicone facial cleansing brush. After I’ve patted my skin dry, I apply my Dermatica serum, leaving it to properly sink in for half an hour before using a light, gentle moisturiser and an eye cream.
How would you describe your skin journey before Dermatica?
My skin journey was very up and down before discovering Dermatica! I’ve always struggled with acne and texture from either blemishes, bumps and spots under the surface of my skin or acne scarring.
I’ve tried many products throughout the years, starting in my teens, to try and target those specific issues — some seemed to temporarily help, but most did nothing or caused irritation!
I really didn’t think anything could change the issues I had with my skin and thought that was the best my skin could be.
When did you start seeing results with Dermatica?
I started seeing a difference in my skin after just 3 weeks of using my Dermatica prescription, which shocked me! After 3 months I saw a complete transformation in how my skin looked. Now it’s the best it’s ever been!
How do you feel now, looking at your before and after photos?
Looking at my before and after photos still amazes me. The before pictures were my skin on a good day, and seeing how much it’s improved over the course of my Dermatica journey has just been incredible. I was excited to share my results with others who might have the same skin concerns as me and let them know about custom prescription skincare. If I help someone else discover Dermatica and get the same results, I’ll be over the moon!
What’s the best skincare advice you’ve ever received?
Aside from using SPF every day, the best skincare advice I’ve ever received is never to go to sleep without taking your makeup off, no matter how tired you are. Also to drink plenty of water, and don’t forget to include your neck in your skincare routine! This is one of the first areas to show signs of ageing as the skin is very delicate, doesn’t retain moisture well and has fewer oil glands.
And the worst?
The worst skincare advice would probably be to avoid moisturiser if you have oily skin. All skin types need moisture, and sometimes oily complexions are actually dehydrated. It’s just about finding the right moisturiser for you. Another bad tip I heard a lot when I was younger was to exfoliate your face every day with a scrub (one of those harsh gritty ones!) to get rid of acne… just no!
What are your next skin goals?
My next skin goal is to work on my hyperpigmentation, which is particularly visible on my upper lip. I’d also like to concentrate on anti-ageing, and targeting fine and dynamic lines!
Finally, what would you say to anyone thinking of trying custom prescription skincare?
Absolutely go for it! I’ll be honest, I really didn’t think I’d see much of a difference in my skin when I started my Dermatica journey — especially after trying many, many skincare products previously (some very high-end, pricey ones, too!). But I’m honestly blown away by how well it’s worked and the results I’ve had.
Want to share your skin journey with the Dermatica community? Join our Dermatica Facebook Community.
Dr Catriona Maybury
Dr Catriona Maybury is a Consultant Dermatologist, working as Medical Lead for Dermatica and at St George’s Hospital in London. Catriona completed her specialty training at St John’s Institute of Dermatology in London. Catriona has a special interest in medical dermatology, completing a PhD in liver fibrosis amongst psoriasis patients at King’s College London. Catriona is a certified coach and worked as Dermatology Section Editor for the British Medical Journal.