When it comes to loving the skin you're in, Dr. Marie Hayag has the magic touch. She knows that when you look good, you feel good. And at her medical and cosmetic dermatologist practice in the Upper East Side of New York City, she’s all about achieving natural results while reaching her patients’ goals. That’s why she stays up-to-date on all the latest cutting-edge procedures so her patients always receive the best care for their skin needs.
If you’re all about natural results, aging gracefully, and boosting self-confidence, Dr. Marie’s got you covered. We recently caught up with her to ask some of our most burning skincare questions. Check out her top tips on healthy habits, skincare routines, the best and safest treatments and more!
What do you love about your job?
I love that I can practice both medical and cosmetic dermatology.
If you could make your patients pick up one skincare habit, what would it be?
Wear daily sunscreen and a retinoid every day.
And if you could make them drop one skincare habit or misconception, what would it be?
People think they need the sun to get their Vitamin D, but it is much safer and easier to take a Vitamin D supplement.
What are the best skincare routines (or most important things to do) for the main life stages: 20s, 30-40s, 50+?
Your 20s are the time to set the foundation for good skincare habits
If you have dry skin, use a milky cleanser and, if your skin is on the oilier side, opt for a gel cleanser. Use a moisturizer even if you have oily skin (an oil-free moisturizer is a good option). The most important part of your routine is to apply sunscreen everyday all over the face and neck (this part of your skincare regimen is vital across all age groups). You can also begin to use a prescription retinoid or over-the-counter retinol, which helps stimulate collagen production, treats acne, and reduces fine lines.
During your 30-40s, your skin begins to lose collagen more and more rapidly
You’ll begin to notice fine lines in your 30s that will deepen over time. Using a retinoid or retinol product is more of a must than optional. It’s also beneficial to incorporate antioxidants into your routine, as they help provide protection against UV damage. A Vitamin C serum is a good option. Additionally, most women experience perimenopause in their 40s, which causes skin to become drier. Use creamy, gentle cleansers, and make sure to use a richer moisturizer. Some good ingredients to look for in a moisturizer include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide.
In your 50s and beyond, skin can feel quite dry
Incorporate a hyaluronic acid serum into your routine. Keep using moisturizing ingredients, and an antioxidant serum. You can also consider adding products that contain active peptides to help encourage collagen production.
Tell us about the latest treatment or procedures you find invaluable.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is such an invaluable treatment because it provides a permanent approach to hair removal. It removes the need for constantly plucking, waxing, and shaving and all the problems that come along with those methods of hair removal like irritation or in-grown hairs.
Botox Injections
Botox injections are a great way to treat and prevent wrinkles. Additionally, they’re typically painless, have minimal side effects, and results appear fairly quickly.
Qwo for treatment of cellulite
Qwo is currently the only FDA-approved injectable for the treatment of cellulite. Cellulite is caused by fibrous bands that connect the skin to the muscle. Over time the bands can thicken, creating tension and a dimpling effect on the skin, a.k.a. cellulite. Qwo injections break down the bands, leaving skin smooth. This is an innovative treatment that effectively addresses the underlying cause of cellulite.
Body Contouring treatments
Body contouring treatments like Coolsculpt and Emsculpt are great ways to keep you looking your best. Coolsculpt uses controlled cooling to freeze and kill unwanted fat cells for a more sculpted look. Emsculpt also provides a more sculpted look using electromagnetic energy to induce muscle contractions to ultimately improve the strength and tone of your muscles.
How often and at what age should someone start seeing a Dermatologist?
Starting in your 20s, I recommend seeing a dermatologist at least once a year, even if you don’t have specific skin concerns. A total body skin exam can help detect skin cancers and any other skin concerns. If you’ve had skin cancer in the past, have a close relative that has had skin cancer, or have a mole or growth that appears to be suspicious, you may have to see a dermatologist more frequently. If you have a family history of skin cancer or melanoma, I recommend seeing a dermatologist for a total body skin exam during childhood. The earlier one starts a good habit like this the better in the long run.
You can follow Dr. Hayag on Instagram or check out her website if you are in the New York area.
