Great skin for a lifetime

Most of us have the potential for healthy vital skin. It is programmed into our DNA. But skin genetics are also heavily influenced by the environment. Sun, pollution and natural ageing play a part in damaging the skin's genetic code, resulting in DNA replication errors that can lead to premature wrinkles, dryness and blotchy brown 'age spots'. A good skincare regime can help create a positive microclimate for your skin, protecting it from DNA damage and assisting in repair to skin cells. The difficulty lies in finding products and routines that actually work. This is where your plastic surgeon can help.

Increasingly, sawy skincare consumers are turning to their doctor for skincare advice and the best product. Mr Paul Banwell, a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at The Mclndoe Surgical Centre in East Grinstead , has been an early adopter of medical-grade skincare products for his patients. skin is our presentation to the word and the first indicator of ageing. if you keep your skin in top condition, you look younger and fresher says Mr Banwell. " Good skincare is the logical first step in any anti-ageing regime. It isn't difficult or complicated but need to use the right active ingredients at the correct concentrations.

Most doctors agree the fundamentals of modern skincare invove protecting the skin during the day and repairing any damge at night. Underlying these principles is the awareness that your skin has its own immune system that needs to function optimally for skin to look healthy and glowing. the skin's immune cells (called Langerhans Cells) can be overwhelmed by too much sun, leading to premature ageing and possibly skin cancer. Daily use of sunscreens is important, but medical experts are beginning to understand that this step alone may not be enough.