Skincare
A well-structured skincare routine is essential for maintaining healthy, radiant, hydrated skin, reducing damage from environmental factors like UV rays and pollution.
What is medical-grade skincare?
Medical-grade skincare is an industry term often used to describe cosmetics that are formulated based on scientific research and clinical evidence. Legally, they are still cosmetics but these systems may use upper-range cosmetic doses of active ingredients (such as retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide and exfoliating acids) and sophisticated delivery systems which may provide more targeted results when professionally selected.
Prescription skincare in the UK is only available through a medical professional due to it's potency. It delivers active products at concentrations unavailable over the counter. Prescription-only products are highly regulated and evidence based with proven results. They are particularly effective for treating specific skin concerns such as acne, fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, uneven texture and other ageing skin concerns.
At Revitalise Medical, our doctors frequently prescribe the Obagi Medical range because of it's award‑winning, evidence‑backed formulations which consistently deliver excellent clinical results, particularly for specific skin concerns such acne, rosacea, melasma, photo‑ageing and other medical skin concerns.
We are also able to provide other skincare brands to suit your needs. Please come and see us in our Alton clinic to discuss this further.
Before and after aesthetic treatments
Preparing your skin before aesthetic treatments such as injectables or microneedling can improve treatment outcomes and promote faster healing. Healthy, well-nourished skin responds better to procedures and is less prone to side effects. After treatment, the skin is often more delicate and more susceptible to irritation and pigmentation. Using the right skincare products can support the skin’s barrier function, reduce inflammation, and maintain long-term results.
By optimising your skincare routine before and after procedures, you can enhance treatment outcomes, reduce downtime, and support long-term skin health.
How will the products help me?
A few examples of some of the most regularly used skincare products and ingredients are listed below. Please come and visit us to explore your skincare options further.
DAILY BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN
Up to 90 % of visible skin ageing is driven by cumulative ultraviolet (UV) exposure. A four‑and‑a‑half‑year, randomised controlled trial demonstrated that people who applied a broad‑spectrum sunscreen every day showed 24 % less clinical skin ageing than those who used sunscreen only occasionally.
What this means for your skin
- Choose broad‑spectrum protection (SPF 30 or higher). Broad‑spectrum formulas block both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays, preventing collagen breakdown, pigment irregularities and DNA damage.
- Apply every morning—even on cloudy or winter days. UV rays penetrate cloud cover and glass, so indoor exposure still counts.
- Reapply every two hours when outside, after swimming, or after sweating. Consistent coverage is key to maintaining the anti‑ageing benefit documented in clinical studies.
- Pair sunscreen with antioxidant serums. Ingredients such as vitamin C and niacinamide can boost protection by neutralising free radicals created by any UV that gets through.
RETINOIDS
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives backed by extensive clinical research for their ability to stimulate collagen production, reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve skin texture, and minimise pigmentation.
Regular use can lead to visibly firmer, brighter, and more even-toned skin. These products are typically applied at night, and it’s best to begin with lower concentrations to build skin tolerance and minimise potential irritation. Because retinoids increase sun sensitivity, it is essential to pair them with a high-quality broad-spectrum SPF during the day to protect and maintain results.
Prescription-strength retinoids may only be available through a qualified medical professional. At Revitalise, we offer expert guidance to help you choose the most suitable retinoid formulation for your skin type and goals.
VITAMIN C
Incorporating Vitamin C into your daily skincare routine helps protect the skin from environmental damage by neutralising free radicals. This antioxidant action not only supports brighter, more even-toned skin, but also enhances the skin’s natural protection when used alongside a broad-spectrum SPF.
For best results, Vitamin C serums should be applied in the morning, underneath sunscreen, to boost daytime protection.
Stabilised formulations, particularly those containing L-ascorbic acid, are the most effective. These serums are available in various strengths, making it important to choose one suited to your skin type and tolerance level. We would be happy to help you with this.
NIACINAMIDE
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a powerful skincare ingredient clinically proven to target multiple skin concerns. It helps improve uneven skin tone and minimise the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide supports collagen production, softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, whilst regulating sebum levels to help prevent breakouts. The anti-inflammatory effect helps to calm the skin and reduce visible redness often seen in rosacea. Additionally, it enhances keratin and ceramide synthesis, strengthening the skin barrier, improving hydration, and refining the appearance of enlarged pores. It helps to deliver smoother, more balanced, and radiant-looking skin.
AHA/BHA EXFOLIATION
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are effective exfoliants that improve skin texture and clarity. AHAs, like glycolic acid, work on the skin's surface to remove dead skin cells, while BHAs, such as salicylic acid, penetrate deeper to clear pores. Regular use promotes cell turnover and stimulates collagen synthesis, aiding in the reduction of fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
Collagen Supplements
Oral collagen supplements have been shown to support skin elasticity, hydration, and wrinkle reduction. Results of studies vary but clinical trials indicate that hydrolysed collagen peptides can stimulate fibroblast activity and improve collagen, resulting in firmer, more resilient skin over time.
Evidence would suggest that for for visible skin benefits it is best to choose hydrolysed bovine or marine collagen peptides. These smaller peptides are readily absorbed and have demonstrated an improvement of elasticity, hydration and wrinkle depth within 8–12 weeks in multiple clinical trials .
For the most proven aesthetic results, choose hydrolysed bovine or marine collagen peptides at 2.5–10 g per day. Marine collagen is particularly bioavailable and pescatarian‑friendly, while bovine sources remain effective and widely available. Vegan collagen is a viable option for plant‑based consumers, but check for clinical data on the specific brand.
How do I know which products to choose?
With such a huge range of skincare options on the market, choosing the right ones can feel overwhelming! At Revitalise, Dr Jess and Dr Sarah offer personalised skincare consultations to help you find a bespoke regime that fits your skincare needs in combination with your lifestyle. Come and chat with us!
