The Derma Corner: What a dermatologist really thinks of rejuvenating sets
As a dermatologist, I come across patients seeking consult for brighter and smoother skin. More often than not, they would ask me what I think of rejuvenating sets and which one I can recommend them. If you’re not familiar with these, rejuvenating sets are skincare products that are grouped together as a set, usually containing a cleanser, toner, bleaching/whitening cream, and sunblock gel/cream. Here’s my take on them - they’re not meant for every skin type, for every skin concern, and for long-term use.
As a skincare enthusiast myself, I’m well aware of the appeal that rejuv sets holds. Who wouldn’t want a brighter and evened out complexion, free from pimples and dark marks with the added anti-aging benefit? They’re also more affordable in comparison to other skincare products and facial procedures that claim to give consumers a similar effect. Plus, the promise that all those results can be achieved in just a matter of weeks, if not days, is too enticing.
Before you give into the temptation of rejuvenating sets, let me explain things further. See skincare is not a one-kind-fits-everyone kind of thing, which is where the issue with rejuvenating sets come in. What may work for someone else may not necessarily yield the same results on you despite both of you having the same skin type. In order to know which products do work for you, you will have to observe and take note of what your skin loves and what it doesn’t. And sometimes, there are people who can’t tolerate how sensitizing these rejuvenating sets are because they will most likely contain the following ingredients: kojic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and tretinoin or any retinoids. They may be found separately in the soap, toner and cream but when used all together, they can cause an irritating reaction.
I’ve met patients and other people who told me they have endured the irritation brought on by these sets because they were told that the redness, peeling and stinging are all normal reactions to the products. NO, THEY ARE NOT. The moment the skin becomes red and painful, it means that the skin barrier has been damaged and it will need some care and time to repair itself. For that to happen, any product/s that caused the irritation needs to be discontinued and, in this case, the use of the rejuvenating set needs to be stopped.
Another thing, long-term unsupervised use of creams containing hydroquinone can cause more harm than good. Just look up photos of “exogenous ochronosis” in Google and you’ll see the reason. This skin condition is very difficult to treat and we never want our patients to experience it.
If you really want to brighten your skin, prevent breakouts, clear up acne marks, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, just know that there are safer options. The first step includes consulting with a board-certified dermatologist to help you understand your skin better and guide you in the right direction. For now, here are some reminders the next time you’re interested in trying out any skincare product/s that includes rejuvenating sets:
Don’t overload your skin with a lot of actives at the same time especially if it’s the first time you’re applying them. Take it one product at a time and take note of how much your skin can tolerate in regards to frequency of application and product amount.
Never assume that just because the products are FDA-approved, that they cannot have any side effects. You may be allergic to one of its ingredients or if you have sensitive skin, you may experience an irritant reaction. It is best to patch test them first just to be on the safe side.
Don’t give into skincare trends. If you know what works effectively and safely for your skin, stick to it. Your skin is different from everyone else’s.
Listen to your skin and it will tell you what it needs. Your skin may change its needs as you grow older and the skincare you were applying before may not be what it needs now. Same goes for listening to it when it’s becoming irritated.
I really wish you’ll take to heart all I’ve discussed here. Until my next article, stay safe everyone!
Dr. Nikki Paderna is currently available for online consultations thru the HealthNow app on Google Play for Android devices and on the Apple store for iOS devices, or thru the FB page, Vivestrata Dermatology Clinic.
