Author: Dr Ian Webster

NeoStrata’s Latest Innovation: MicroDiPeptide²²⁹

NeoStrata was founded by Dr Eugene van Scott, a Dermatologist and Dr Ruey Yu a Dermatopharmacologist, in 1988. In fact, they had started collaborating in

July 14, 2025

All About Urea

Urea may be best known for its role in the body, but it’s also one of skincare’s most versatile and effective multitaskers. Found naturally in

May 14, 2025

Why Skincare Matters for Teens

With a barrage of forces at play, teenage skin can be tricky to navigate – hormonal changes, busy school schedules, social stresses, diet, and environmental

February 25, 2025

Centella Asiatica

Centella Asiatica, often referred to as Gotu Kola, is a powerful herb native to Asia, revered for its remarkable skin-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. This versatile

December 20, 2024

The Benefits of Bakuchiol

This plant-derived ingredient, extracted from the seeds of Psoralea Corylifolia (also known as Babchi), behaves on the skin in a way very similar to a

November 13, 2024

Debunking Common Skin Myths & Mistakes

Mixing Sunscreen Formulas & Makeup It’s best not to mix sunscreens with your makeup or other sunscreens. These carefully tested formulas are designed to work

September 17, 2024

Pseudofolliculitis Barbae (Razor Bumps)

Pseudofolliculitis barbae, commonly known as razor bumps or shaving rash, is a skin condition that frequently affects people with dark skin and coarse, curly hair.

September 10, 2024

Anti-Ageing Skincare in Your 40s & 50s

As you enter your 40s and 50s, the natural production of collagen and elastin declines, and environmental factors such as pollution take a visible toll

September 10, 2024

How To Treat Teenage Acne

Teenage acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of adolescents worldwide. It typically arises due to hormonal changes during puberty, leading to increased

August 20, 2024

Anti-Ageing Skincare in Your 20s & 30s

By focusing on preventative skincare in your 20s and 30s, you can make a significant difference in the health and youthfulness of your skin later

August 20, 2024

How to Treat Blackheads

Blackheads are open comedones and are black because of surface pigment, rather than dirt. Like all forms of acne, they are largely hormone-induced, but the

August 15, 2024

Skin Conditions in Babies

Definitions: a neonate is a child younger than one month of age, while an infant is as a child less than one year of age.

August 13, 2024

Tips and products for a dry skin article south africa

Tips & Products for a Dry Skin

Dry skin is a skin type characterised by a lack of moisture and natural oils on the skin’s surface. It can be caused by various

June 12, 2024

Managing Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory disease that affects approximately 3% of the world’s population. It affects males and females equally. Millions of US dollars

June 12, 2024

Early Skin Ageing – Skincare Tips, Treatments & Advice

Early ageing will depend upon your skin type and degree of chronic sun exposure. The first signs of ageing can appear in one’s mid-20s and

June 12, 2024

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic Acid is a saturated dicarboxylic acid found naturally in wheat, rye, and barley. It is also a natural substance that is produced by Malassezia

June 3, 2024

Nicotinamide

Nicotinamide/Niacinamide is the amide form of Vitamin B3 (Niacin) It is an essential water-soluble vitamin that is not stored in the body. Nicotinamide and Niacinamide

June 1, 2024

contact irritant dermatitis article south africa

Contact Dermatitis: Irritant Or Allergic – Knowing The Difference

Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) and allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) are types of contact dermatitis where there is inflammation of the skin caused by direct contact

May 30, 2024

Incorporating masks into your routine article south africa

How to Incorporate Masks into your Routine

Masks are packed full of vital ingredients and can improve skin concerns such as oiliness, dryness, redness, ageing or dullness. Masks can be used as

May 28, 2024

Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a common skin condition that usually starts in children where one gets multiple red scaly bumps (feels like sandpaper), usually on

May 24, 2024

Collagen Loss, Explained

Collagen is a crucial protein in the dermis of the skin and constitutes approximately 75% of the skin’s dry weight. Collagen fibres provide structural support

May 14, 2024

How to Incorporate Essences into your Routine

Essences are water-like fluids and they provide the perfect base for efficient delivery methods of serums and moisturisers to follow. They are generally used post-cleansing

March 27, 2024

Eye Area Concerns: Dark Circles

Periorbital pigmentation or dark circles around the eyes can make you look tired, aged, or even sad. One common cause is eczema or allergies, which

March 26, 2024

Get to know Tranexamic Acid

A synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine, Tranexamic Acid has been used by physicians to address hyperpigmentation via topical application. Studies have also demonstrated

March 7, 2024

Growth factors are naturally occurring substances, usually proteins, that are secreted by skin keratinocytes, fibroblasts and platelets. Growth factors affect cell migration, growth, proliferation and

March 6, 2024

Solar Lentigines

Solar Lentigines are commonly known as sunspots or ‘old age spots’. They occur due to an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for the colour

March 6, 2024

Tips & Products for an Oily Skin

Oily skin is a skin type characterised by an overproduction of sebum, the skin’s natural oil. Sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands, which are

February 19, 2024

Why Ampoules are a Great Choice

Skincare ampoules are potent treatments designed to deliver targeted ingredients directly to the skin. Housed in environmentally-protective packaging with optimal concentrations of active ingredients, they

February 9, 2024

Enlarged Pores (& What You Can Do About Them)

Enlarged pores, also known as dilated pores, are larger skin openings often found on the face’s T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) due to factors like

February 8, 2024

Our Ultimate Guide to Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can improve the appearance of dark spots and smooth fine lines. More importantly, it is a potent free

February 7, 2024

Pilling

Pilling on the skin is the formation of small, rolled-up particles or flakes that can accumulate on the surface of the skin due to skincare

January 24, 2024

All About Arbutin

Arbutin is a naturally occurring derivative of hydroquinone. It is believed to be one of the best alternatives to hydroquinone as it provides the skin-brightening

December 14, 2023

Skin Treatments in Patients with Darker Skin Tones

Dark skin tone refers to individuals with higher levels of melanin in their skin, resulting in a darker complexion. Dark skin tones typically have more

December 14, 2023

Retinol

The term retinoid refers to a group of compounds that are derived from the vitamin A molecule. This means that they possess structural or functional

November 7, 2023

The Benefits of Moisturisers

Dry, dehydrated skin is a common concern that can be addressed with the use of moisturisers. Ageing skin, in particular, tends to lack essential fats

October 27, 2023

Niacinamide

Niacinamide/Nicotinamide is the amide form of Vitamin B3 (Niacin). It is an essential water-soluble vitamin that is not stored in the body. The terms Niacinamide

October 19, 2023

Skincare for Men

Everyone can benefit from adopting a skincare routine tailored to their specific needs and concerns, and we are seeing men adopting high-quality, evidence-based skincare more

October 14, 2023

Who is SkinCeuticals?

A Dermatologist’s Approach to Skin Health SkinCeuticals was one of the first companies to partner with physicians to offer skincare products in their offices. They

October 10, 2023

Difference between Chemical & Physical Sunscreens

The Difference between Chemical & Mineral Sunscreens

When it comes to sunscreens, there are essentially two distinct types of sunscreens that refer to the type of UV filters that are used. These

October 6, 2023

Advice for Skin Purging

Have you ever tried a new skincare product, but it caused your skin to flare up with pimples? This could be your skin purging and

September 15, 2023

Advice for a Reaction to a Product

A reaction to a product refers to any adverse or negative response that occurs after using a skincare, hair care, or cosmetic product. These reactions

September 15, 2023

Malignant Melanoma

Malignant melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. It is

September 15, 2023

Melasma

Melasma is a skin condition more common in women with a darker skin tone. It appears as blotchy, symmetrical brown patches on the face. Various

September 4, 2023

Mature Skin Ageing – Skincare Tips, Treatments & Advice

In our late 30s or early 40s, fine lines around the eyes and mouth become more visible. Deeper wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and volume on

September 4, 2023

Seasonal Switch-Ups: The Spring Edition

Spring is a perfect time to review what products you are using. Take stock of what works and doesn’t to find products that will see

August 29, 2023

When to Consult a Dermatologist

We know that some of you are unsure about when to consult a Dermatologist but the most important time is when you suspect you may

August 26, 2023

The Importance of pH & Skincare

On top of human skin is a thin protective layer known as the acid mantle. This is formed by free fatty acids secreted by sebaceous

August 24, 2023

Advice for Treating Marks & Scars

Marks refer to temporary or non-permanent discolourations or blemishes on the skin caused by various factors. Scars, on the other hand, are permanent changes in

August 21, 2023

Bruising Dermatologist Advice Article in South Africa

Advice for Bruising

Bruising is the extravasation of red blood cells into the tissues. This may be caused by trauma or cosmetic procedures such as Botox and fillers.

August 21, 2023

Active Ingredients – Low & Slow

The distinction between active and non-active ingredients forms the cornerstone of effective formulations. Active ingredients The powerhouses of skincare formulations, that directly impact skin health

August 11, 2023

Peptides (& what they do for your skin)

Peptides are chains of amino acids that are found naturally in every human cell in the body. They are biological messengers communicating between various cells

August 8, 2023

Anti-Ageing Products for a Sensitive Skin

Many traditional anti-ageing products have been designed to address advanced signs of ageing (wrinkles, sun spots, rough texture, loss of collagen) with higher concentrations of

July 27, 2023

Preventing Skin Cancer

There are generally two broad groups of skin cancer namely Malignant Melanoma and Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer. Malignant Melanoma Melanomas may arise from an existing mole

July 25, 2023

Adult Acne

Adult acne is defined as acne that develops (late-onset acne) or continues (persistent acne) after the age of 25 years. Adult acne can affect up

July 11, 2023

What is Visible Light?

Visible light (400-700nm) makes up 40% of solar radiation that reaches the surface of the earth. It is damaging to the skin as it is

July 6, 2023

Elastin, Explained.

Wrinkles, uneven pigmentation and loss of skin firmness are all changes associated with ageing skin. There are some obvious and not-so-obvious signs of ageing in

July 4, 2023

Isotretinoin: Pre, During & Post Treatment Advice

Isotretinoin is a retinoid derived from Vitamin A and is the only drug that has the potential to put acne into remission. If given at

July 2, 2023

Understanding Rosacea

Patients with Rosacea tend to flush or blush more easily. They often have a background redness of the skin with multiple small papules and pustules.

June 22, 2023

Winter skin, it’s a thing.

As winter approaches with its lower temperatures, the humidity in the air drops, especially in the cold Highveld regions of South Africa and as a

June 18, 2023

Advice for Treating Unexpected Breakouts

Unexpected breakouts refer to the sudden appearance of acne or pimples on the face or body. It is not uncommon for pesky inflammatory lesions to

June 2, 2023

Redness & rosacea-prone skin in South Africa

Redness & Inflammation

Skin inflammation can be caused by external factors such as lots of sun exposure, pollution or reactions to various chemicals or active ingredients on the

May 23, 2023

Stretch marks and what you can do about them article south africa

Stretch Marks & What You Can Do About Them

Stretch marks, otherwise known as Striae Distensae, are linear scars in the dermis which generally occur when skin is stretched causing tearing and breakage of

May 19, 2023

Eye Area Concerns: Fine Lines & Wrinkles

With age, the skin loses elasticity and collagen, which are responsible for maintaining its smoothness and firmness. As a result, fine lines and wrinkles, such

May 18, 2023

Hydroquinone Products & Creams

Hydroquinone is a prescription topical skin-lightening agent used to treat severe forms of hyperpigmentation, including melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Topical hydroquinone products are usually specially

May 13, 2023

Caring for a Baby’s Skin

Approximately one in five children in the Western world will develop atopic eczema or dermatitis. The terms eczema and dermatitis essentially mean the same thing so

May 5, 2023

Our Glow Guide

Glowing skin refers to skin that appears healthy, radiant, and luminous. It has a natural, dewy, and youthful appearance. Glowing skin is often associated with

April 25, 2023

Advice for Treating Dry & Itchy Scalp

A dry and itchy scalp refers to a condition characterised by dryness, flakiness, and persistent itching of the scalp. Common scalp issues The scalp may

April 21, 2023

Advice for an Eczema Flare-Up

An eczema flare-up refers to a period of intensified symptoms and inflammation associated with eczema, a chronic skin condition characterised by dry, itchy, and inflamed

April 21, 2023

Advice for Treating Cracked & Sore Heels

Cracked and sore heels refer to a condition where the skin on the heels becomes dry, rough, and develops visible cracks or fissures, often accompanied

April 21, 2023

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found throughout the body’s connective tissue and is a popular ingredient in skincare and make-up. It is

April 12, 2023

Poikiloderma of Civatte

Poikiloderma of Civatte is a common skin condition resulting from chronic sun exposure, primarily affecting middle-aged and older women with fair skin, and characterised by

April 7, 2023

Regrow your Lashes

Eyelashes are essential for protecting the eyes from foreign objects. They prevent dust, sand, and water from entering the eyes by sweeping away debris when

April 6, 2023

Antioxidants

Antioxidants help protect our cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules produced during normal bodily processes and exposure to

April 6, 2023

Advice for Treating Heat Rash

A heat rash, also known as prickly heat or miliaria, is a common skin condition that occurs when sweat becomes trapped in the skin’s sweat

April 3, 2023

Skincare During Menopause

During perimenopause and menopause, hormonal changes occur, including a decline in estrogen levels. These changes can impact a woman’s skin, requiring adjustments to her skincare

March 21, 2023

The Skin Microbiome

Our mouths, gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and skin normally have, on their surfaces, millions of resident bacteria, fungi, viruses as well as mites. In a normal

March 10, 2023

Tips for Optimum Nail Health

Visible changes in your nails can be caused by internal factors such as the ageing process, systemic diseases, medications and systemic skin diseases such as

March 3, 2023

Is an SPF in a moisturiser really enough?

If a day moisturiser contains a sunscreen it will usually have a SPF15 to SPF30 maximum. The sunscreens in the day moisturiser are sometimes not

February 16, 2023

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Upon visiting the NeoStrata® headquarters in Princeton USA in 2014, Dr Webster had the privilege of meeting the two famous doctors who founded the NeoStrata®

February 2, 2023

The Role of Vitamin E in Skincare

Vitamin E is a popular antioxidant and ingredient choice, and is found in many skincare products simply because it serves many beneficial and vital functions

January 24, 2023

Summer Skin Issues

Summer is the time of the year when a few common skin issues make their appearance or get worse. It can be confusing trying to

January 19, 2023

Exfoliation: Best Practice Tips

Facial exfoliation refers to the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the face using mechanical or chemical exfoliators. Facial exfoliators come

January 11, 2023

Advice for Treating Insect Bites

Insect bites refer to the marks or injuries caused on the skin by the feeding or defensive actions of various insects. When insects bite, they

January 6, 2023

Advice For Dry, Cracked Lips

Dry and cracked lips refer to a condition where the skin on the lips becomes dry, dehydrated, and develops visible cracks or fissures. It is

January 5, 2023

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis is a common, chronic, or relapsing form of eczema/dermatitis and commonly affects areas of the skin with high sebum production: Scalp Nasolabial folds

October 11, 2022

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH for short) is a localised form of skin darkening that can appear after inflammation or injury on the skin. It is usually

September 1, 2022

Alleviating Atopic Eczema

Atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is characterised by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Eczema or dermatitis

July 5, 2022

The Hyperpigmentation Playbook

Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common reasons for a dermatological consultation, particularly in patients with darker skin tones. It is characterised by the darkening

July 2, 2022

Dry Skin Meets its Match

Dry skin is one that lacks moisture and feels dry, rough and scaly. Dry, scaly skin is essentially due to a disturbed epidermal barrier which

June 14, 2022

Acne with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Acne with Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation refers to acne, usually in persons with a darker skin tone, where the breakouts lead to dark spots and/or scarring. It

May 17, 2022

Nodulocystic Acne

Nodulocystic acne is a severe and inflammatory form of acne. This type of acne often leaves permanent scarring on the face, jawline, upper back, and

May 17, 2022

Papulopustular Acne

Papulopustular acne is the second stage of acne where you develop multiple, papules (red bumps) and pustules (pus-filled red bumps). Look for red, raised bumps

May 17, 2022

Comedonal Acne

Comedonal acne is the first stage of acne where testosterone stimulates the sebaceous gland to produce more sebum. When there is an overproduction of sebum,

May 17, 2022

s, How to Treat & Recommended Care South Africa

Backne

Backne is essentially acne that develops on the skin of the back, including the upper back, shoulders, and lower back. The skin naturally sheds dead

May 17, 2022

Freckles

Freckles are small, flat-coloured spots of pigment, also known as ephelides. They are generally a genetic trait and are most often found in individuals with

May 17, 2022

Meet MartiDerm

In 1952, Josep Martí Tor, a restless chemist establishes his pharmacy in Barcelona, Spain. By 1989 Josep had developed a legendary formula by combining Proteoglycans

May 4, 2022

Eye Area Concerns: Puffiness

As we naturally age, a hollow area called a tear trough can form beneath our eyes causing under-eye swelling or bags. Puffiness around the eyes

March 26, 2022

Acne & Ageing Concerns in Adult Women

Lifestyle stresses, and hormonal and environmental factors all play a role in the development of acne, especially in adult women. Up to 40% of adult

March 1, 2022

Effective Scar Treatments

Scars on the skin may form from trauma, burns, surgery, and after more severe forms of acne. There are several different types of scars: Atrophic

February 12, 2022

Debunking Skin Myths

We often hear or read things that are not always necessarily true when it comes to the skin, so we decided to choose a couple

December 1, 2021

"The good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge"

Bertrand Russell

A regenerating anti-ageing serum that reveals a smooth glow!

Huxley’s Conditioning Collection

Designed to mirror the structure of ceramides.

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Author: Dr Ian Webster

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