It’s not everyday we get the opportunity to ask a world-renowned dermatologist our most pressing {skin care} questions. So, when Team Cult Beauty was invited to have some one-on-one time with skin superhero {Dr. Dennis Gross} - you know, the mastermind behind the {Alpha Beta Daily Peel} pads found on the shelfies of every beauty boffin in the biz - we jumped at the chance.
And, of course, Dr. Gross delivered, with tips and tricks to tackle all our skin care woes. From getting the most of our products to stopping under-the-skin {spots} in their tracks, read on for skin care advice you're sure to treasure…
How can I manage pigmentation without irritating my already-sensitive skin? - Natalie, Junior Copywriter
“{Hyperpigmentation} is caused by an increased production of melanin by cells deep within the skin — which means it can be a stubborn concern to tackle. “The good news is that {vitamin C}, specifically 15% L-ascorbic acid, is a tried and true antioxidant that can slow down and even stop this overproduction. An infamously unstable ingredient, vitamin C can be tricky to formulate with, so it's best paired with a more stable ingredient like {lactic acid}. Lactic acid helps to drive vitamin C into the deepest layers of skin, where it can address the damage done by free radicals, while simultaneously replenishing the moisture barrier and protecting sensitive skin.”I struggle with patches of flakiness across my skin, and my make up doesn’t sit well over the top. How can I prevent this? - Rina, Copy Intern
“Gentle exfoliation is your friend! This will help to remove the flakiness that is disrupting your make up application. However, you also want to make sure you’re not overworking the skin, but instead flooding it with soothing and repairing ingredients that create a lovely, smooth canvas for your base. Many make up artists keep the Alpha Beta Daily Peel in their kit for that exact reason: the two-step treatment system uses {AHAs} and {BHAs} to remove dead skin cells in step one. Step two turns these acids ‘off’, ensuring no irritation or redness in the process.”I’ve heard it's possible for your skin to get used to Alpha Beta Daily Peel pads over time. Is this true? - Julia, Marketing Communications Executive
“Not at all! In fact, the longer you use the pads the more effective they are, as they encourage the build up of collagen over time, which is key to firming skin.“Think of the Alpha Beta Daily Peel pads like your daily dose of skin vitamins. With age, natural processes in your body start to slow down - but the Daily Peel helps to supplement this loss. Not only do the pads improve collagen product (which has a direct result on the appearance of wrinkles and that ‘crepey’ look), it also improves your skin's natural moisturisation process. Prolonged use of the product helps to support these functions over time.”I occasionally get big, under-the-skin spots that never seem to come to a head. How can I tackle them? - Chloe, Senior Copywriter
“Treating acne requires a fine balance: you want to clear blemishes without drying out the skin. Pore-clearing ingredients such as monk pepper, farnesol, {salicylic acid} and {retinol} are good options, but remember to look for products that pair them with repairing and soothing ingredients that support the moisture barrier. I’d also recommend looking into LED light therapy, which is a great tool for preventing acne without drying out the skin. Blue LED light targets and kills acne-causing bacteria, while red LED light reduces inflammation and redness.
“Remember to keep using those acne-eliminating products even after your breakouts subside - these are what will keep the blemishes at bay in the long run!”What skin care steps would you recommend to a total skin care newbie? - Chloe, Senior Copywriter
“Your skin care doesn’t need to be complicated! The most important thing to remember is that consistency is key.“Start with a pH-balanced {cleanser} that removes impurities and any make up and dirt build up, while still being gentle on skin. Next, move on to your target treatments (like the Alpha Beta Daily Peel or a vitamin C serum). Finish your regimen with a {moisturiser} to support your skin barrier and lock in hydration. In the morning, always remember to apply a {sunscreen} of SPF30 or higher. Practising good sun safety habits every day will limit the risk of developing skin cancers like melanoma.”
SHOP DR. DENNIS GROSS SKINCARE >> 
