A dermatologist answers your common skin questions

Dr. Katharine Saussy shares what actually works

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May 28, 2026 1:45am EDT

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Matte tone:

Why should I be taking care of my neck?

I am a huge proponent of skincare for the neck. The neck is often neglected and is a major tell for someone's age as well as skin quality & damage.

Generally speaking, I recommend patients bring their skincare regimen down to their neck as well (think vitamin C, peptides, retinoids, moisturizers, sunscreens).

The use of a dedicated neck cream is not necessary but can be helpful if trying to target something in particular like crepey loose skin.

For targeted neck care, Forever Firm Peptides Neck Treatment was formulated specifically for this area.

How do I start using a retinoid, and what can it do for mature skin?

Topical retinoids are powerhouses when it comes to skincare. They help with collagen production, fine lines/wrinkles, texture, pigmentation and overall tone.

Here's how to start:

Begin two nights a week, then increase to every other night, then nightly as tolerated.
Start with a lower dose and slowly work your way up to higher strengths as tolerated.
Gently cleanse the skin, then apply a thin layer of retinoid, then a moisturizer.

If you're new to retinoids, Stargaze Retinol Serum is a good place to start. It's formulated to minimize irritation while your skin adjusts.

Can I still use retinoids in the summer?

Yes! You can use topical retinoids all year long. I recommend using them at night.

I stress the importance of wearing sunscreen during the day as well as wide brim hats and seeking shade.

Why does my skin suddenly feel so dry as I age — and what can I do about it?

As you age, your hormones are changing, your collagen and elastin production decreases, UV damage reveals itself, the skin barrier becomes thinner & weaker, all leading to potentially dry or crepey skin.

I recommend a simplified, gentle skincare regimen that focuses on gentle cleansers and hydrating moisturizers, as well as focusing on active ingredients that help support collagen & elastin production (such as antioxidants, peptides, retinoids).

Antioxidants ➡️ Glow Maker Vitamin C Serum

Peptides ➡️ Peptide Squad Serum

Retinoids ➡️ Moonlight Retinal Super Serum

How should I layer my skincare products?

Generally speaking, I recommend patients layer products from thinnest to thickest. Sunscreen is always the last product to apply (besides makeup, makeup would go on last).

I typically recommend cleansing, then serums, then lotions, then creams, then sunscreen, and then makeup (if wearing any).

Are there ingredients I should focus on during warmer months?

Personally, I don't feel there are any particular skincare ingredients that you need to focus more or less on during the warmer months as almost all skincare can be used year round.

However, sunscreen use is stressed even more during the warmer months as the UV Index is higher and there are more hours of sunlight each day.

Reapplying sunscreen is especially important when outside as well as with swimming and sweating.

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Maelove Skincare 1 Embarcadero Center San Francisco, CA 94111

A dermatologist answers your common skin questions

Dr. Katharine Saussy shares what actually works

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