Skin that looks good isn’t magic. It’s the result of small, consistent habits—plus a few inside tricks from people who understand how to optimize your skin's beauty with select medical skin care products and focused interventions. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by skincare advice (same), consider this your streamlined, real-talk guide to actually making your skin look better.
From layering products the right way to knowing when to outsource to the pros (hi, chemical peels), here are ten genuinely effective ways to upgrade your skin, without the hype.
Washing your face sounds simple, but many people do it wrong. If your skin feels tight after you wash, that’s not a sign of being “extra clean.” It’s a sign that your skin barrier is upset. Stick with a pH-balanced cleanser that does the job without being harsh.
And if you wear SPF (you should) or makeup (you might), double cleansing at night helps more than you’d think. Start with an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to melt off the day, then follow with your regular cleanser. It clears the way for your serums and moisturizers to actually sink in and work.
Before piling on products, get clear on your skin’s type and condition. Is it dry? Breaking out? Dull? Sometimes the hardest part is just figuring out what to fix. A good routine doesn’t mean using everything—it means using what makes sense.
That’s where the team at Brobst Facial Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics makes a real difference. They don’t just recommend products. They get to know your skin, your goals, and your lifestyle so you’re not guessing or wasting time (or money). It’s like finally getting directions when you’ve been driving in circles.
Exfoliation is a vital process that removes dead skin cells from the surface, promoting cell turnover and revealing a brighter complexion. There are two primary types of exfoliants: physical (scrubs with granules) and chemical (acids like AHAs and BHAs). While physical exfoliants can provide immediate smoothness, they may be abrasive for some skin types. Chemical exfoliants, on the other hand, dissolve dead skin cells without manual scrubbing, often resulting in a gentler exfoliation.
Over-exfoliating can compromise the skin's barrier, leading to redness and sensitivity. It's advisable to exfoliate 1–3 times a week, depending on your skin's tolerance and the type of exfoliant used. Always follow exfoliation with hydration to soothe and protect the newly revealed skin.
For those seeking more profound results, professional treatments like chemical peels can be highly effective. At Brobst Facial Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics, our chemical peels are designed to address various concerns, including uneven tone, fine lines, and acne scars, by removing damaged outer layers and stimulating skin regeneration.
Microneedling involves the use of fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. This process stimulates the body's natural wound healing response, leading to increased collagen and elastin production. The result is improved skin texture, firmness, and a reduction in the appearance of scars and wrinkles.
The procedure is minimally invasive and suitable for various skin types. While there may be slight redness post-treatment, downtime is typically minimal. For optimal results, multiple sessions, spaced several weeks apart, may be recommended.
Everyone says to “stay hydrated,” but your skin needs more than water from a bottle. Think of hydration in two steps: pulling moisture in and keeping it there. That’s where hyaluronic acid serums shine. They draw water into the skin, plumping it up and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
But here’s the catch—if you don’t follow with a moisturizer to lock it in, that hydration just evaporates. Layering is key. Use a hydrating serum on damp skin, then seal it with a cream that suits your skin type.
For intensive hydration, treatments like DiamondGlow™ deliver a multifaceted approach. This procedure exfoliates, extracts impurities, and infuses the skin with nourishing serums, resulting in immediate and noticeable radiance.
If you’re using good products but not seeing results, application order could be the issue. A well-layered routine means your actives reach the skin properly, and your skin doesn’t freak out from product overload.
Over-the-counter skincare products provide the basic maintenance, but medical-grade products give you higher concentrations of active ingredients, backed by research and clinical studies. These formulas are designed to penetrate deeper into the skin, addressing specific concerns more effectively.
Dr. Brobst trusts and recommends the following brands:
These aren’t just popular names—they’re part of a long-term skincare strategy built around results. If you’re investing in treatments, don’t skip the follow-through.
Sun exposure is the #1 contributor to premature skin aging, hyperpigmentation, and increased risk of skin cancer. Applying sunscreen daily is non-negotiable, regardless of the weather or your indoor plans.
Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. EltaMD offers a range of sunscreens that are lightweight, non-comedogenic, and suitable for sensitive skin, making them an excellent choice for daily use.
The best skincare plan still needs sun protection to work. Without it, you’re playing defense with no goalie. Remember to apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin areas and reapply every two hours when outdoors. Regular use of sun protection preserves your skin's youthful appearance and also maintains the results of any professional treatments you may undergo.
Your body resets at night—and so does your skin. While you sleep, your skin repairs itself, increases blood flow, and builds collagen. Skipping sleep or staying up with stress on full blast can quickly throw that off.
Chronic stress can trigger skin issues such as acne breakouts, increased sensitivity, and exacerbation of existing conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Incorporating stress-reducing practices such as yoga, meditation, or regular physical activity can have a positive impact on both your mental health and skin condition.
Build a wind-down routine that includes proper cleansing, hydration, and calming treatments like peptides or ceramides. Even better, pair that with real sleep—seven hours or more—so your skin has the downtime it needs to bounce back.
Achieving and maintaining healthy, glowing skin requires dedication and consistency. While it may be tempting to frequently switch products or seek quick fixes, adhering to a well-structured routine tailored to your skin's needs yields the best results over time.
Regular consultations with skincare professionals, like the team at Brobst Facial Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics, can help monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your regimen. This personalized approach ensures that your skincare routine evolves with your skin's changing needs, leading to sustained improvements and long-term skin health.
Remember, patience and persistence are key. By consistently following a regimen designed for your unique skin concerns, you lay the foundation for lasting beauty and confidence.
Keeping your skin looking great is all about finding the right balance between your daily routine at home and the occasional professional touch-up. Everyone's skin is different, so it's super important to pay attention to what yours needs, whether that's tackling aging, acne, or sensitivity. At Brobst Facial Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics in Plano, TX, we have a comprehensive set of treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and DiamondGlow that can really boost your skin's appearance and health. Pairing these treatments with top-notch skincare products from brands like Epionce, SkinCeuticals, and EltaMD will give your skin the best care possible.
It might feel a bit daunting to stick to a skincare routine, but with the right advice and a little dedication, you can definitely see amazing changes. The trick is consistency—if you follow a regular routine and choose your products wisely, you'll notice a real difference over time. Just keep in mind that skincare isn’t one-size-fits-all; customizing your approach is key to effectively tackling your specific skin concerns and goals.
Let's Chat
We want to welcome you into our Plano office for a consultation to chat about how we can protect and preserve your beauty. We want to get to know you as a person and develop a plan that best fits your needs and lifestyle. At Brobst Facial Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics, you’re more than a patient — you’re part of our family. We want to take care of you the way family should. Schedule your consultation to get started today.