Blog

Introducing the Dermoaroma Hybrid Peeling System

By Dr Maria Shakoor, GP & Aesthetic Practitioner, DermMED Aesthetics

The wait is over — our newest treatment is here. We are so excited to introduce the Dermoaroma Hybrid Peeling System to DermMED Aesthetics.

This innovative professional peeling system is the latest addition to our doctor-led clinic and reflects our commitment to providing advanced, evidence-informed treatments with a strong focus on regenerative aesthetics.

More Than Exfoliation

Beautiful skin is about more than exfoliation — it's about supporting your skin's natural ability to renew, repair and regenerate. The Dermoaroma Hybrid Peeling System offers a personalised approach to improving skin quality while respecting the skin barrier, making it suitable for a wide range of skin concerns.

As a doctor with a special interest in regenerative aesthetics, I believe treatments should work with your skin rather than simply treating the surface. Hybrid peels can also complement regenerative treatments such as polynucleotides, microneedling and exosome-based therapies, where appropriate, as part of a personalised treatment plan.

What It May Help Improve

Each peel is selected following a comprehensive doctor-led consultation and may help improve:

• Uneven skin tone and pigmentation
• Dull, tired-looking skin
• Fine lines and early signs of ageing
• Acne and post-acne marks
• Enlarged pores and uneven skin texture

A Treatment Plan Tailored to You

At DermMED Aesthetics, every treatment plan is tailored to your skin, your concerns and your long-term skin health — because healthy skin is always in style.

To find out whether the Dermoaroma Hybrid Peeling System is right for you, book a comprehensive doctor-led consultation with Dr Maria Shakoor.

This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for personalised medical advice. Treatment suitability and outcomes vary between individuals.

Hair Thinning and Hair Loss: Understanding the Causes and Treatment Options

Few changes affect confidence quite like noticing your hair becoming thinner. Whether it's finding more hair in the shower, seeing a widening parting, or feeling that your ponytail is no longer as thick as it once was, hair loss can be worrying at any age.

The good news is that hair thinning is often multifactorial, and understanding the underlying cause is the first step towards finding the most appropriate treatment.

What Is Hair Thinning?

Hair thinning occurs when the density of hair decreases over time. Some people experience increased shedding, while others notice that individual hairs become finer and less robust. The pattern and speed of hair loss can provide important clues about the cause.

Both men and women can be affected, although the underlying reasons may differ.

Common Causes of Hair Loss

Genetics

One of the most common causes of hair loss is genetics.

In men, genetic hair loss is known as male pattern hair loss or androgenetic alopecia. This typically presents with a receding hairline, thinning at the temples, and gradual loss of hair from the crown.

Women can also develop a genetic form of hair loss known as female pattern hair loss. Rather than developing a receding hairline, women more commonly experience widening of the central parting and a gradual reduction in overall hair density.

Genetic hair loss develops because certain hair follicles are more sensitive to hormones known as androgens. Over time, affected follicles produce progressively finer hairs, a process called follicular miniaturisation.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations can have a significant impact on the hair growth cycle.

Women may notice hair thinning during:

• Perimenopause
• Menopause
• After pregnancy
• Following changes in hormonal contraception

Declining oestrogen levels during menopause can contribute to reduced hair density and slower hair growth.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Healthy hair growth requires adequate nutrition.

Low levels of iron, vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate, zinc, or insufficient protein intake may contribute to increased shedding or reduced hair quality.

Thyroid Disorders

Both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions can affect hair growth and lead to diffuse thinning across the scalp.

Stress and Illness

Significant physical or emotional stress may trigger a temporary form of hair loss known as telogen effluvium.

This can occur after:

• Major illness
• Surgery
• Rapid weight loss
• Severe emotional stress
• Childbirth

Hair shedding often begins several weeks or months after the triggering event.

Why Assessment Matters

Hair loss is a symptom rather than a diagnosis. Before considering treatment, it is important to understand why the hair loss is occurring.

A thorough consultation may include discussion of:

• Medical history
• Current medications
• Family history of hair loss
• Lifestyle factors
• Recent illness or stress
• Hormonal symptoms

In some cases, blood tests may be recommended to identify treatable medical causes.

Treatment Options

Treatment should always be tailored to the individual and the cause of hair loss.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

PRP involves taking a small sample of the patient's blood and processing it to concentrate platelets, which contain naturally occurring growth factors.

PRP has been studied as a treatment for certain types of hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia. While results vary between individuals, some patients may notice improvements in hair thickness, shedding, and overall hair quality following a course of treatment.

Polynucleotide Scalp Treatments

Polynucleotides are regenerative molecules that are increasingly being used in aesthetic medicine to support tissue repair and improve skin quality.

When used within the scalp, polynucleotides may help create a healthier environment around hair follicles by supporting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation. Research in this area is ongoing, and treatment should be viewed as a supportive option rather than a guaranteed solution for hair loss.

Microneedling with Purasomes

Microneedling involves the creation of controlled microchannels within the skin using fine sterile needles. This process stimulates the skin's natural repair mechanisms and may support scalp health.

At DermMED Aesthetics, microneedling can be combined with Purasomes, a regenerative topical solution designed to support tissue repair and cellular communication.

Although research into regenerative therapies continues to evolve, microneedling with adjunctive regenerative products may help improve the scalp environment and can be incorporated into a personalised hair restoration programme.

Optimising Scalp Health

Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Treatment plans may also include advice on nutrition, lifestyle factors, hair care practices, and scalp health to support long-term outcomes.

When Should You Seek Advice?

You should consider professional assessment if you notice:

• A widening parting
• Progressive thinning of the crown
• Excessive shedding
• A receding hairline
• Patchy areas of hair loss
• Scalp redness, irritation, or scaling
• Hair loss associated with fatigue or other health symptoms

Early assessment can be beneficial, particularly where hair follicles are still active and capable of producing healthy hair.

How DermMED Aesthetics Can Help

At DermMED Aesthetics, we take a medically led approach to hair restoration. As a GP and aesthetic practitioner, Dr Maria Shakoor combines medical assessment with regenerative treatment options to help patients understand the possible causes of their hair loss and explore appropriate treatment pathways.

Every patient is assessed individually, and treatment recommendations are tailored to their specific concerns, goals, and medical history.

If you are concerned about hair thinning or hair loss, a consultation can help identify potential causes and discuss the treatment options that may be suitable for you.

This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for personalised medical advice. Treatment suitability and outcomes vary between individuals.

Understanding Acne and the Path to Healthier Skin

By Dr Maria Shakoor, GP & Aesthetic Practitioner, DermMED Aesthetics

June is Acne Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about one of the most common skin conditions worldwide. Acne affects millions of people and can occur at any age, from adolescence through to adulthood. Whilst often considered a cosmetic concern, acne can significantly impact confidence, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing.

What Is Acne?

Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that develops when hair follicles become blocked by excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and inflammatory processes within the skin. It commonly affects the face, chest, shoulders, and back.

Acne can present in several forms, including:

• Blackheads (open comedones)
• Whiteheads (closed comedones)
• Papules (small red bumps)
• Pustules (inflamed spots containing pus)
• Nodules
• Cysts

The severity of acne can range from mild occasional breakouts to more persistent inflammatory acne that may lead to scarring.

What Causes Acne?

Acne is a multifactorial condition, meaning several factors contribute to its development.

Increased Sebum Production. Sebaceous glands naturally produce oil to protect the skin. Excessive oil production can increase the likelihood of blocked pores.

Hormonal Influences. Hormones play a major role in acne development. This explains why acne commonly occurs during puberty and may flare during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, or menopause.

Follicular Blockage. Dead skin cells can accumulate within hair follicles, contributing to the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads).

Bacterial Activity and Inflammation. The bacterium Cutibacterium acnes, which normally lives on the skin, can contribute to inflammation when trapped within blocked follicles. Modern research shows that inflammation is an important component of acne development.

Genetics. Individuals with a family history of acne may be more likely to develop the condition.

Lifestyle Factors. Stress does not directly cause acne but may worsen existing acne in some individuals. Poor sleep, certain medications, and unsuitable skincare products may also contribute to flare-ups.

Adult Acne: More Common Than Many People Realise

Although acne is often associated with teenagers, adult acne is increasingly common, particularly in women.

Adult acne frequently affects the lower face, jawline, and chin and may be influenced by hormonal fluctuations, stress, and changes in skin barrier function.

Common Acne Myths

Myth: Acne Is Caused by Poor Hygiene. Acne is not caused by dirty skin. Excessive washing or harsh scrubbing may actually irritate the skin and worsen inflammation.

Myth: Sun Exposure Clears Acne. Whilst sun exposure may temporarily reduce the appearance of redness, there is no evidence that UV exposure treats acne. Excessive sun exposure can worsen pigmentation, accelerate skin ageing, and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Myth: Acne Is Just a Cosmetic Problem. Acne is a recognised medical condition that can have significant emotional and psychological effects, including reduced self-confidence and social anxiety.

Can Diet Affect Acne?

Research suggests that high glycaemic-load diets and certain dairy products may worsen acne in some individuals. However, dietary triggers vary between people, and no single food has been proven to cause acne in everyone.

Maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle may support overall skin health.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Early management of acne is important because persistent inflammation can increase the risk of long-term scarring and pigmentation changes.

Treatment options may include:

• Evidence-based skincare routines
• Prescription topical treatments
• Oral medications where appropriate
• Chemical peels
• Microneedling for selected acne scars
• Personalised treatment plans tailored to individual skin concerns

The most suitable treatment depends on the type and severity of acne, skin type, and medical history.

Understanding Acne Scarring

Acne-related inflammation can damage collagen within the skin, resulting in permanent scars.

Common scar types include:

• Ice-pick scars
• Boxcar scars
• Rolling scars

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks left after spots heal) is also common, particularly in darker skin types.

Microneedling may help improve the appearance of certain acne scars by stimulating the skin's natural collagen production.

Skincare Tips for Acne-Prone Skin

• Cleanse gently twice daily.
• Avoid picking or squeezing spots.
• Use non-comedogenic skincare products.
• Wear broad-spectrum SPF daily.
• Follow a consistent skincare routine.
• Seek professional advice if acne is persistent or causing scarring.

When Should You Seek Professional Advice?

Consider seeking medical advice if:

• Acne is affecting your confidence or wellbeing.
• Over-the-counter treatments are ineffective.
• You are developing scars or pigmentation.
• Acne is painful, severe, or widespread.
• You experience frequent flare-ups despite good skincare practices.

Final Thoughts

Acne is a common medical condition with a range of effective management options available. Whether you are experiencing occasional breakouts, persistent adult acne, or concerns about acne scarring, early assessment and appropriate treatment can help improve both skin health and confidence.

During Acne Awareness Month, take the opportunity to learn more about your skin and seek professional advice if needed. Every individual's skin is unique, and a personalised approach often delivers the best outcomes.

At DermMED Aesthetics, we provide personalised skin consultations to assess your concerns and discuss evidence-based treatment options tailored to your needs.

This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The information provided does not replace a consultation, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Individual skin conditions and treatment recommendations vary, and anyone with persistent, severe, or worsening acne should seek personalised medical assessment.

Understanding Exosomes in Aesthetic Medicine: Are All Regenerative Technologies the Same?

Regenerative aesthetics is one of the fastest-growing areas in modern skin and hair rejuvenation.

Treatments involving exosomes, growth factors, and extracellular vesicle technologies are increasingly promoted for improving skin quality, supporting healing, and enhancing post-procedure recovery.

However, as these treatments become more widely marketed, patients are often left confused about the differences between plant-derived exosomes, human-derived exosomes, and bovine colostrum-derived regenerative technologies such as Purasomes.

At DermMED Aesthetics, we believe patients should receive honest, medically led information to help them make informed decisions about their treatment options.

What Are Exosomes and Extracellular Vesicles?

Exosomes are microscopic extracellular vesicles naturally released by cells. They contain signalling molecules such as proteins, peptides, lipids, amino acids, cytokines, and growth factors that help cells communicate with one another.

In aesthetic medicine, regenerative technologies containing extracellular vesicles or growth-factor-rich formulations are increasingly used alongside treatments such as:

• Microneedling
• Laser treatments
• Hair restoration procedures
• Skin rejuvenation therapies

These technologies are designed to support skin recovery, hydration, collagen stimulation, and overall skin quality.

However, not all regenerative products are created equally, and the source of the product may influence its intended function and clinical application.

Plant-Derived Exosomes: What Patients Should Know

Plant-derived exosome products are often marketed as natural skincare or regenerative solutions and may be sourced from ingredients such as rose, aloe vera, centella asiatica, or ginseng.

These products may provide antioxidant and soothing properties that can help support general skin health and hydration.

However, plant cellular signalling systems differ significantly from human biological pathways. Although plant-derived technologies may offer supportive skincare benefits, there is currently limited high-quality clinical evidence demonstrating the same level of regenerative signalling associated with more advanced medical aesthetic technologies.

For this reason, plant-derived products are often viewed as supportive skincare ingredients rather than highly active regenerative treatment systems.

Human-Derived Exosomes: Ethical and Regulatory Considerations

Human-derived exosome products have also gained increasing attention within the aesthetics industry.

These products may be sourced from donated human tissues or cell cultures and are currently an evolving area of regenerative medicine research.

While research continues to develop, important considerations remain regarding:

• Ethical sourcing
• Donor traceability
• Product standardisation
• Sterility and quality control
• Regulatory oversight
• Long-term clinical safety data

Regulatory frameworks surrounding human-derived exosome products continue to evolve internationally, and not all products marketed online may meet UK regulatory expectations or clinical governance standards.

For this reason, practitioners should carefully assess the evidence, sourcing, and manufacturing standards of any regenerative product used in clinical practice.

Why We Choose Purasomes at DermMED Aesthetics

At DermMED Aesthetics, patient safety and ethical treatment selection remain central to our approach.

Purasomes are derived from highly purified bovine colostrum and contain naturally occurring extracellular vesicles, growth factors, peptides, amino acids, and bioactive proteins designed to support skin recovery and cellular communication.

Unlike some human-derived products, bovine colostrum-derived regenerative technologies avoid many of the ethical concerns associated with human tissue sourcing while still providing growth-factor-rich regenerative support.

Purasomes are commonly used alongside treatments such as:

• Microneedling
• Laser rejuvenation
• Hair restoration procedures
• Skin recovery treatments

Potential benefits may include:

• Improved skin hydration
• Enhanced skin radiance
• Support for collagen production
• Reduction in visible inflammation
• Support for post-procedure recovery
• Improvement in overall skin texture

Many medical aesthetic practitioners favour regenerative technologies that are ethically sourced, carefully screened, and designed specifically for aesthetic applications.

Why Evidence-Based Aesthetic Medicine Matters

The field of regenerative aesthetics is developing rapidly, and patients are increasingly exposed to marketing claims on social media and online platforms.

It is important to understand that not all products labelled as "exosomes" are equivalent in terms of scientific evidence, sourcing, manufacturing standards, or intended use.

When considering regenerative treatments, patients should always ask:

• What is the source of the product?
• Is the product ethically sourced?
• Is there clinical evidence supporting its use?
• Is the treatment being provided by a medically qualified practitioner?
• Is the treatment appropriate for my individual skin concerns?

A thorough medical consultation remains essential before undergoing any regenerative aesthetic treatment.

Final Thoughts

Regenerative technologies represent an exciting and evolving area of aesthetic medicine, offering new possibilities for supporting skin quality, recovery, and rejuvenation.

However, understanding the differences between plant-derived products, human-derived exosomes, and bovine colostrum-derived regenerative technologies is important when making informed treatment decisions.

At DermMED Aesthetics, we remain committed to providing ethical, medically led, evidence-based treatments tailored to each individual patient.

If you would like to learn more about regenerative skin or hair treatments, we welcome you to book a consultation with our clinic.

This article is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual suitability for treatment can only be determined following a professional consultation.

Why Choosing the Right Laser Technology Matters for Hair Removal

Laser hair removal has become one of the most popular aesthetic treatments worldwide, offering long-term reduction in unwanted hair with minimal downtime.

However, not all laser hair removal treatments are the same.

The technology used during treatment can significantly affect:

• Treatment results
• Patient comfort
• Safety
• Suitability for different skin tones
• Number of sessions required

Understanding the differences between laser systems can help patients make informed decisions before beginning treatment.

Not All Hair Removal Devices Are Equal

Many people assume all laser hair removal devices work in the same way. In reality, there are major differences between medical-grade laser systems and lower-powered technologies.

Some clinics may use IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), which is not technically a true laser. While IPL may help with certain skin concerns, medical-grade laser systems are generally considered more precise and effective for long-term hair reduction.

The type of technology used can influence:

• Treatment effectiveness
• Speed of results
• Comfort during treatment
• Safety for different skin types
• Risk of pigmentation or burns

This is why consultation and skin assessment are important before starting treatment.

Understanding Laser Wavelengths

Different laser wavelengths target hair follicles differently. Certain wavelengths are more suitable for lighter skin tones, while others are considered safer for darker or tanned skin.

One of the most recognised medical-grade laser platforms worldwide is the Candela GentleMax Pro.

This advanced system combines two laser technologies:

Alexandrite 755nm

Typically best suited for:

• Lighter skin tones
• Fine to medium hair
• Faster treatment response

Nd:YAG 1064nm

Typically best suited for:

• Darker skin tones
• Tanned skin
• Deeper hair follicles
• Increased safety for pigmented skin

Using the correct wavelength helps improve treatment outcomes while reducing the risk of complications.

Why Skin Type Matters

Laser hair removal works by targeting melanin (pigment) within the hair follicle. However, melanin is also naturally present within the skin.

Using unsuitable technology or incorrect settings can increase the risk of:

• Burns
• Hyperpigmentation
• Skin irritation
• Scarring

This is particularly important for patients with:

• Asian skin tones
• Middle Eastern skin tones
• Black skin tones
• Tanned skin

An individual assessment helps determine the safest and most effective treatment approach for each patient.

The Importance of Cooling Technology

Modern laser systems often include advanced cooling technology to improve patient comfort and help protect the skin during treatment.

Cooling systems can help:

• Improve treatment comfort
• Protect the skin surface
• Reduce heat-related discomfort
• Allow safer delivery of effective energy levels

Many patients are surprised by how comfortable laser hair removal can be when advanced cooling systems are used.

Why Cheap Laser Hair Removal Isn't Always Better

Laser hair removal prices can vary significantly between clinics.

Lower-cost treatments may sometimes involve:

• Lower-powered devices
• Less advanced technology
• Inexperienced operators
• Inadequate skin assessment
• More sessions required to achieve results

Choosing experienced practitioners and high-quality medical-grade technology can contribute to safer treatments and better long-term outcomes.

The Importance of Medical Oversight

Laser hair removal is a medical-grade treatment and should always prioritise patient safety.

Important factors to consider before treatment include:

• Skin type
• Hair thickness and colour
• Hormonal influences
• Medication use
• Sun exposure
• Contraindications
• Risk of pigmentation complications

A personalised treatment plan helps improve both safety and effectiveness.

What to Look for in a Laser Hair Removal Clinic

Before starting treatment, patients may wish to consider:

• Is the device medical-grade?
• Is the clinic experienced with different skin types?
• Is patch testing performed?
• Are treatments tailored individually?
• Is there proper consultation and aftercare?
• Is patient safety prioritised?

These factors can make a significant difference to both safety and results.

What We Offer at DermMED Aesthetics

At DermMED Aesthetics, laser hair removal treatments are performed using the Candela GentleMax Pro — one of the most recognised medical-grade laser systems worldwide.

The Candela GentleMax Pro combines:

• Alexandrite 755nm technology
• Nd:YAG 1064nm technology
• Dynamic Cooling Device™ (DCD™) cooling technology

The integrated DCD™ cooling system delivers a burst of cooling cryogen spray to the skin before each laser pulse. This helps improve comfort during treatment while also helping to protect the skin surface.

This advanced combination allows treatments to be tailored safely and effectively for a wide range of skin tones and hair types, including lighter, darker, and tanned skin.

Benefits of the Candela GentleMax Pro include:

• Effective long-term hair reduction
• Advanced cooling for improved comfort
• Precision targeting of hair follicles
• Faster treatment times
• Safer treatment options for multiple skin types

Treatments are individually tailored following consultation and patch testing to help determine the most appropriate treatment approach for each patient.

Laser hair removal treatments are available for:

• Face
• Underarms
• Legs
• Bikini and intimate areas
• Back and chest
• Full body treatments

The focus at DermMED Aesthetics is on safe, personalised, medically-led treatments designed to support effective long-term hair reduction and overall skin health.

Results from laser hair removal treatments can vary between individuals depending on factors such as hair colour, hair thickness, skin type, hormonal influences, and adherence to treatment schedules. Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction rather than permanent hair removal. Multiple sessions are usually required for optimal results. A consultation and patch test are required prior to treatment to assess suitability and discuss potential risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.

Why Product Choice Matters in Aesthetic Treatments: A Doctor's Perspective

When patients explore aesthetic treatments, the focus is often on the procedure itself — microneedling, skin boosters, or injectable therapies.

In clinical practice, however, outcomes are rarely determined by the procedure alone.

They are influenced by three key factors:

• The quality and composition of the product used
• The technique and delivery method
• The clinical judgement behind the treatment plan

As both a GP and aesthetic practitioner, my approach is grounded in the same principles that guide medical practice: safety, evidence-informed decision-making, and long-term tissue health.

For this reason, I use a structured, system-based approach in clinic, working with the DermaFocus range, which includes Purasomes, Plinest polynucleotides, and Celora Vita. My choice is based on careful consideration of product composition, scientific rationale, and consistency in clinical use, rather than trends or branding alone.

Supporting Skin Function, Not Overstimulating It

The skin has an inherent ability to repair and regenerate. Many aesthetic treatments work by initiating this response through controlled stimulation.

However, stimulation alone does not ensure optimal outcomes.

For effective repair, the skin requires:

• A well-regulated inflammatory response
• Effective cell-to-cell communication
• A supportive biochemical environment

In ageing, sensitive, or previously compromised skin, these processes are often less efficient. Without appropriate support, healing can be inconsistent.

This is where considered product selection becomes clinically important.

Purasomes: Supporting the Skin's Healing Environment

Microneedling creates controlled micro-injury within the skin, triggering a repair response and temporarily increasing permeability.

During this phase, what is applied to the skin can influence how that repair process unfolds.

Purasomes are used within this context to help support the healing environment. They contain extracellular vesicles — naturally occurring particles involved in cellular communication.

These vesicles carry a range of biological components, including:

• Proteins involved in signalling pathways
• Lipids that contribute to cellular structure
• Small regulatory molecules that influence how cells respond and repair

In regulated formulations, these components are produced under controlled laboratory conditions and undergo purification processes to support consistency and safety.

Their role is not to force regeneration, but to help coordinate the skin's natural repair processes, particularly by:

• Supporting balanced inflammatory responses
• Facilitating communication between skin cells
• Assisting the transition from inflammation to tissue repair

Clinically, this approach is particularly relevant in patients where healing may be slower, or where inflammation needs to be carefully managed.

Polynucleotides (Plinest): Improving the Skin's Internal Environment

Polynucleotides represent a different aspect of regenerative treatment.

Plinest consists of highly purified DNA-derived fragments that interact with the skin at a deeper level, contributing to the environment in which cells function.

Rather than producing an immediate visible change, they support processes associated with tissue repair and resilience.

Their effects are understood to include:

• Supporting fibroblast activity, contributing to collagen and elastin production
• Enhancing hydration through water-binding properties
• Helping regulate inflammatory responses
• Supporting protection against oxidative stress

This makes them particularly useful in clinical scenarios such as:

• Thin or fragile skin
• The under-eye area
• Skin that is reactive, inflamed, or slower to recover

Results tend to develop gradually, reflecting improvements in skin quality and function, rather than temporary cosmetic change.

Celora Vita: Replenishing the Building Blocks of Skin Repair

Ageing skin is characterised not only by structural changes, but also by a gradual depletion of the components required for repair.

This includes amino acids, which are essential for protein synthesis, and molecules responsible for maintaining hydration and tissue integrity.

Celora Vita is designed to help address this by providing:

• Amino acids that support collagen and elastin formation
• Hyaluronic acid to maintain hydration and dermal structure

This approach focuses on replenishing what the skin requires, rather than relying solely on stimulation.

In clinical practice, this can help:

• Support ongoing repair processes
• Improve hydration within the skin
• Enhance overall skin quality and resilience over time

A Structured, Individualised Approach

In medicine, outcomes are rarely achieved through a single intervention.

Similarly, in aesthetic practice, optimal results often come from combining different mechanisms in a controlled and thoughtful way.

Using a structured system allows for the integration of:

• Mechanical stimulation (e.g. microneedling)
• Cellular support (e.g. polynucleotides)
• Biological signalling support (e.g. extracellular vesicles)
• Nutritional and structural components (e.g. amino acids and hyaluronic acid)

Every treatment plan is tailored, taking into account:

• Skin type and condition
• Medical history
• Sensitivity and inflammatory tendencies
• Long-term goals

Final Thoughts

Aesthetic medicine is increasingly moving towards a regenerative and evidence-informed model, focused on improving how the skin functions over time.

My choice of products is based on reviewing available scientific literature, understanding formulation composition, and applying clinical experience.

The aim is not rapid or exaggerated change, but:

• Healthier skin
• Natural, balanced results
• Sustainable, long-term improvement

Individual results vary. A consultation is required to assess suitability for treatment.

Why Your Skin Suddenly Changed After 40 — And What Actually Works

Understanding perimenopausal skin changes and the approach that genuinely supports healthier skin.

If your skin has started to feel different in your late 30s or 40s — drier, more sensitive, or lacking its usual glow — you're not imagining it.

One of the most common things we hear in clinic is: "My skin has suddenly changed, and nothing I use seems to work anymore."

For many women, this shift isn't just down to ageing alone. It is often linked to perimenopause, a stage where hormonal changes begin to affect the skin in noticeable and sometimes unexpected ways.

What Happens to Your Skin After 40?

From your late 30s onwards, your skin begins to change at a structural level. During perimenopause, these changes can become more pronounced.

• Collagen production gradually declines. Collagen keeps skin firm and smooth, and levels reduce over time, particularly as oestrogen decreases.
• Hydration levels reduce. Oestrogen helps maintain hyaluronic acid within the skin, and lower levels can lead to dryness and a loss of plumpness.
• The skin barrier can become weaker. This may result in increased sensitivity, irritation, and reduced tolerance to products that were previously well tolerated.
• Cell turnover slows down. This can contribute to dullness, uneven skin tone, and a less radiant appearance.

Common Skin Changes During Perimenopause

• Persistent dryness or dehydration
• Fine lines becoming more noticeable
• Loss of firmness or elasticity
• Increased sensitivity or redness
• Breakouts, particularly around the jawline
• Uneven skin tone or pigmentation

These changes can feel sudden, which is why they often come as a surprise.

Why Your Old Skincare Routine Stops Working

What worked in your 20s and 30s may no longer be effective. Your skin now requires more support for hydration, barrier repair and collagen stimulation. Using too many active ingredients or frequently changing products can sometimes worsen sensitivity rather than improve the skin.

What Actually Works

A more effective approach focuses on improving overall skin health and supporting the skin's natural function.

Skin regeneration and hydration. Treatments that support skin quality can make a noticeable difference, including:

• Skin boosters such as Profhilo or Sunekos, which improve hydration and elasticity
• Polynucleotides, which support skin repair and resilience
• PRP (platelet-rich plasma), which uses your own platelets and is intended to support natural skin repair processes

Collagen stimulation. To improve firmness and texture, options include medical microneedling such as SkinPen, and laser treatments to support collagen and overall skin quality.

Medical-grade skincare. A simple, consistent routine is often the most effective:

• Gentle cleanser
• Hydrating moisturiser to support the skin barrier
• Antioxidant such as vitamin C (if tolerated)
• Retinoid introduced gradually
• Daily SPF

The Role of Hormones

For some women, skin changes are closely linked to hormonal shifts. Addressing underlying factors, where appropriate, with guidance from a qualified healthcare professional may support both skin health and overall wellbeing.

What to Avoid

• Over-exfoliating or using multiple active ingredients
• Frequently changing skincare products
• Following trends without understanding your skin

Healthy skin after 40 is best supported through a consistent and personalised approach.

A More Balanced Perspective

Your skin is not "failing" — it is changing. Understanding these changes makes it easier to choose appropriate treatments and avoid unnecessary or ineffective products.

When to Seek Advice

If your skin feels persistently dry, sensitive, or has noticeably changed in texture or appearance, it may be helpful to seek professional advice. At DermMED Aesthetics, we provide personalised skin consultations for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause-related skin changes in Ingleby Barwick and surrounding areas.

FAQs

Why does skin become dry after 40? Hormonal changes, particularly reduced oestrogen, can affect the skin's ability to retain moisture.

Can menopause cause acne? Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to breakouts, often around the lower face and jawline.

What is the best treatment for ageing skin after 40? A combination of appropriate skincare, collagen-stimulating treatments, and personalised advice is usually most effective.

Do skin boosters really work? They can improve hydration and overall skin quality over time when used as part of a structured treatment plan.

This article is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Skin concerns and treatment suitability vary from person to person. A personalised consultation with a qualified medical professional is essential before starting any treatment. Individual results from aesthetic treatments may vary.

The Rise of Regenerative Aesthetics

Why patients are choosing healthier skin over a "done" look.

Over the past few years, there's been a noticeable shift in what patients want from aesthetic treatments. It's no longer about looking "done" or dramatically different — most people simply want to look like a fresher, healthier version of themselves.

This is where regenerative aesthetics comes in.

Rather than adding volume or freezing movement, regenerative treatments aim to support your skin's natural ability to repair and renew itself. Treatments such as PRP (using your own platelets), polynucleotides, and advanced microneedling are intended to support collagen activity and skin quality over time, with results that vary between individuals.

The results aren't instant or dramatic — and that's exactly the point. Skin gradually becomes smoother, stronger, and more radiant, without obvious signs of having had "work done."

This approach is particularly appealing to those who:

• Want subtle, natural-looking results
• Prefer to improve skin quality rather than change facial shape
• Are noticing early signs of ageing, dullness, or sensitivity

What's important to understand is that ageing is not just about wrinkles. It's about changes happening deeper within the skin — loss of collagen, hydration, and elasticity. Regenerative treatments aim to address these underlying changes, not just what we see on the surface.

Aesthetic medicine is evolving, and patients are becoming more informed. The focus is shifting towards long-term skin health, prevention, and natural results — and regenerative aesthetics sits right at the heart of that change.

If you're unsure whether this approach is right for you, a personalised consultation can help guide you based on your skin, your concerns, and your goals.