Latest news with #DannyGuo
Globe and Mail
04-07-2025
- Health
- Globe and Mail
Tired of ingrowns? It's time to revamp your summer hair removal routine
If razor burn or ingrown hairs are stopping you from feeling confident and fuzz-free this summer, it's time to rethink your hair-removal routine. 'What you do after is just as important as the treatment itself,' says Kyla Dufresne, the Vancouver-based founder and CEO of Foxy Box Laser and Wax Bar. 'Whether you've waxed or lasered, the skin needs a little TLC afterward to keep it calm, smooth and happy.' The same goes for shaving. Preventative care is the best way to manage any form of irritation, inflammation or hyperpigmentation (such as dark spots) that occurs because of hair removal, says Danny Guo, a dermatologist at Rejuvenation Dermatology in Calgary. 'Apply a gentle post-treatment product – we love aloe vera, tea tree or chamomile to calm redness and reduce inflammation,' says Dufresne. In the case of razor burn, Dr. Guo suggests applying a cool compress to hydrate the area. 'Follow that with a thicker moisturizer such as an ointment or a balm,' he says, pointing to the CeraVe Healing Ointment and La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume as solid options. Then, it's best to practice patience. Dr. Guo says it's best to allow the skin to fully heal before shaving again, as it will be prone to further irritation. This can take a few days; once any burning or redness subsides, you're in the clear. For maximum smoothness and to prevent ingrown hairs, it's worth incorporating regular exfoliation sessions. Ingrown hairs are caused by the hair shaft poking into the skin and getting trapped underneath, causing irritation and inflammation. 'This often appears as a red pimple,' explains Dr. Guo, adding those with curly or coarse hair are particularly at risk of developing ingrowns. 'This is definitely more common if you shave against the grain because there will be no portion of the shaft that is outside the skin.' After hair removal, it's important to maintain a buffer period before exfoliating the area. 'Wait 48 to 72 hours, then exfoliate gently two to three times a week,' says Dufresne. 'This helps keep dead skin cells from clogging follicles.' Whether you choose a mild scrub, a dry brush, or a chemical exfoliant with ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta hydroxy acid (BHA), use a light touch and don't overdo it, she warns. As for the 'best' hair-removal option, different methods offer various perks and trade-offs. Dufresne highlights waxing as incredibly versatile, because it's suitable for all skin tones, hair types and nearly every body part. 'It's perfect for people who want quick, immediate results without a big commitment,' she says. 'Plus, it actually damages the bulb of the hair, so when it does grow back, it's weaker, finer and less noticeable.' Laser hair removal is pricier, but offers long-term results. 'It's generally a very successful treatment that can permanently remove or reduce hairs in the treated area,' says Dr. Guo. However, it isn't suitable for all skin tones. 'The laser has trouble distinguishing the melanin in your skin and your hair,' he says. 'The bigger the contrast between the hair and skin colours, the easier it is to optimize the laser's energy output.' Shaving earns top marks for speed, accessibility and low cost. If you're going the razor route, the first step is to clean the area to minimize infection, says Dr. Guo. Next, trim hairs longer than a quarter inch for a more effective shave. He adds that you should never shave dry. 'It's best to use shaving gel to reduce friction and irritation. At the very least shave with water.' And don't underestimate the impact of grooming with a tool that's in top shape. 'Use a clean razor and ensure the blade is sharp,' says Dr. Guo. 'People often overuse razors without replacing them, which can cause the blade to be dull, thus causing disruption to the skin barrier.' At-home hair-removal helpers, starting at $16
Hindustan Times
01-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Dermatologist shares how to pick moisturiser based on where you live and your skin type for best results
Dr Danny Guo, a dermatologist took to Instagram on April 17 to share a video on how to pick a moisturiser that suits you best. He said in the video that by considering your skin type, climate, and specific skin concerns, you can choose a moisturiser that provides the right amount of hydration and protection for your skin. Also read | Worried about dry, oily or acne-prone skin in summer? Don't miss this skincare guide tailored to different skin types From gels that are lightweight, non-greasy, and perfect for oily skin or humid climates to ointments, which are thicker and more occlusive, often used for severely dry skin or skin conditions like eczema, Dr Gua shared different product types and when to use them. Dr Gua said, 'First, we need to understand the six thickness categories of moisturisers – water-based, gels, lotions, creams, balms and ointments – going from the lightest to the thickest. In general, the thicker it is, the lower the water content, but the more it prevents water loss from your skin. Contrary to popular belief, having more water in the formulation does not lead to more skin hydration. Moisturisers work by improving the skin barrier and preventing water loss because the majority of the water in your skin comes from your blood and not from the environment.' A post shared by Dr. Danny Guo, MD (@ Dr Gua added, 'So, we will number the lightest type, water-based, no. 1 and the thickest type, ointment, no. 6. Try to follow along.' He said: ⦿ If you have dry, sensitive skin, pick 4 ( creams) or 5 (balms). ⦿ If you have oily skin, pick 2 (gels) or 3 (lotions). ⦿ If you live in a hot area, drop your number by 1. ⦿ If you live in a cold area, increase your number by 1. ⦿ If you live in an area with hard water, increase your number by 1. ⦿ If you are using a retinoid, increase your number by 1. ⦿ If you have eczema, increase your number by 1. He wrote in his caption, 'Skincare is nuanced but not difficult. If you learn the reasoning behind why dermatologists recommend certain things, then you should be able to make those informed choices as well, so let's start with how to choose a moisturiser.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
