A CryoCorrect treatment can be a blessing from the beauty gods for a multitude of reasons. (Think removing stubborn age and sun spots, targeting unwanted skin tags, and the list of benefits goes on.). But the post-care routine required after an appointment is crucial if you want to maintain those results, as irritation and discoloration are just a few of the side effects you may experience during the recovery downtime. That’s where you need the right product to protect your skin from all the elements. We think we’ve found our new favorite serum to cover all our post-Cryo treatment needs—meet SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF.
Beauty lovers know to trust SkinCeuticals for all their skin concerns (IYKYK). But before diving into what sets this particular serum apart from the rest, we have to understand how discoloration happens in the first place. According to New York dermatologist Michelle Henry, MD, uneven skin tone can occur for many reasons, including changes in hormones, pregnancy, sensitivity to makeup and some medication, and pollution. But the main reason why most people experience discoloration in their skin is through sun damage. “When your skin is exposed to UV rays, dark spots can occur; [these are] most commonly referred to as sun spots. The skin kicks in to protect you by producing melanin and that causes the brown or dark spots,” Dr. Henry explains.
Your skin is especially more sensitive and susceptible to discoloration and other forms of sun damage after a procedure like a laser treatment, so you’ll want to use more than just sunscreen to protect it. To see just how this little miracle worker can make a huge difference for your skin post-Cryo and beyond, read on below to learn more. Your skin will thank you for it later.
The Benefits
The benefits of using Phloretin CF serum are many, as it is packed with powerhouse ingredients to get you clearer, brighter, and smoother skin. It contains a patented vitamin C antioxidant, which Dr. Henry says will protect your skin from environmental aggressors while also reducing the appearance of fine lines and improving discoloration you might get from the sun.
It is also made with phloretin, which is an ingredient found in apple trees that is known to have anti-inflammatory properties. She explains that because it contains ferulic acid and is a plant-based antioxidant, it can help fight free radicals that are known to contribute to your anti-aging skin concerns. As an added bonus, the texture is lightweight and oil-free and it absorbs easily into the skin.
Though similar, this should not be confused with SkinCeuticals’ other classic serum, C E Ferulic. Dr. Henry says Phloretin CF may be a better choice for skin types such as normal, oily, and combo, and can work on all skin tones to treat discoloration and visible signs of aging. So, something to keep in mind when trying to find the right serum for your skin.
How to Use It
The serum is super easy to incorporate into your routine. Dr. Henry says that you can use it for morning and as mentioned previously, it plays well with other products in your regimen. (Yes, you can even use retinol with it if you choose to.) All you need to do is add this after you cleanse and tone and right before you lock everything in with a good moisturizer.
And of course, don’t skimp out on the sunscreen. She urges everyone to always use some form of SPF with the serum for added protection from sun damage, which is especially important for post-treatment skin that is very sensitive. “Sunscreen is absolutely critical and pairs well with Phloretin CF,” she says. “I often call antioxidant-containing products like Phloretin CF ‘insurance for sunscreen.’ They provide a backup to neutralize free radicals that sunscreen [can’t].”
So the next time you book a CryoCorrect appointment, consider using this serum for your post-treatment recovery routine; it really is your best shot at optimal results. Even if you’re not planning on getting a treatment anytime soon, you’ll still enjoy the benefit of extra sun damage protection and addressing all your anti-aging skin concerns. And who wouldn’t want that?