Blogs

Hi. My name is Sandra Bennett, and I’m addicted to skincare products. I’m always on the search for the latest and greatest cream, serum, or balm and I have a “more is more” mentality. Before I worked at QVC, I loved to wander the store aisles, carefully choosing what I would try next. Now that it is my job to try skincare lines and products so I can present them to you, I have gone overboard. My poor husband routinely has to ask me to de-clutter the bathroom closet. It’s pretty bad when he can’t find a place to put the freshly laundered towels because the linen shelf is crowded with body lotions and face serums. I have gotten to the point where it seems normal to put five layers of products on my face before I get into bed. But am I really helping my skin with such a complicated routine?

Recently, I had a conversation with Dr. Will Kirby. He is a Board-certified dermatologist with a private practice in Beverly Hills, CA. He has partnered with Neutrogena Dermatologics to bring a sophisticated line of skincare to QVC that focuses on retinol. Because he is known for treating a lot of celebrity clients, I wanted to see what he recommends to his patients. Turns out, it’s pretty simple and consists of only two things: retinol and sunscreen. In fact, he told me that it is what he uses himself (and he has beautiful skin).

Why retinol? Retinol is a non-prescription source of Vitamin A. It fights the signs of aging, making the skin smoother, clearer, and more even toned. Dr. Kirby explained that there are a lot of products that contain retinol. You can find it in some of the most expensive and least expensive skincare lines. However, Neutrogena Dermatologics (a specialized, prestige division of Neutrogena that you can’t find in stores) has a patented process of stabilizing retinol that keeps it in its purest and most effective form. So, I’m thinking that if I’m going to use retinol, it should be a retinol that allows my skin to get the maximum benefit. The most popular product in the line, the Retinol Nx Serum, also provides long-lasting hydration (we all know that properly hydrated skin looks younger). The product is not only very effective, it’s also very popular. It won the 2011 Customer Choice Award for Best Anti-Aging Treatment!

Neutrogena Dermatologics Retinol Nx Anti-Aging Duo

Dr. Kirby also says everyone should use sunscreen daily, especially if you use a retinol product because it can increase sensitivity. This is advice that I have no problem taking. I’ve been wearing a daily sunscreen on my face for more than 20 years. I have tried many during that time, but my current favorite is Dr. Denese Daily Defense Cream SPF 30 (A69437). I love it because it gives me moisture, sun protection, and a sheer tint. In fact, I think it provides such amazing, natural-looking coverage that on days that I’m not working I can skip foundation.

If you are interested in trying Neutrogena Dermatologics, Dr. Kirby will be presenting the brand’s first-ever Today’s Special Value on May 29th, featuring the popular Retinol Nx Serum in a Super Size and Retinol Hand, Neck, and Décolleté Treatment.

For the next few weeks, I’m going to challenge myself to cut back on the number of products I use and I think this might be a good place to start. How would you describe your beauty routine?

I would love to hear more about your beauty routine. You can also join the discussion about skincare on my Facebook page.