Rethinking GLP-1s in Midlife

Rethinking GLP-1s in Midlife

As a dermatology and aesthetics PA, I’ve spent my career thinking deeply about skin, inflammation, hormones, and how the body changes over time. Over the past several years, however, I’ve noticed a consistent pattern among my patients – and in myself.

In the office, I see the same story repeatedly: women who eat well, exercise consistently, and prioritize their health – yet still experience weight gain, brain fog, fatigue, joint pain, disrupted sleep, and a metabolism that no longer responds the way it once did.

This is often dismissed as “normal aging.” In reality, it’s a biological shift in metabolic and hormonal signaling.

As research into GLP-1 medications has expanded, I’ve spent significant time reviewing the data, understanding their mechanisms, and watching how different dosing strategies affect real people. I also chose to experience this personally. I have never been over-weight or thought of looking into weightloss options.  I run several times a week and hit the gym as much as time allows.  But at 54, I decided to microdose tirzepatide to see what benefits beyond weightloss are possible. I have seen meaningful improvements not only in metabolic stability, but in brain fog and even migraine frequency. This wasn’t a trend I adopted quickly, but an approach I chose carefully.

That experience, combined with emerging science, is what led us to design Evolution Wellness: GLP-1 Metabolic Reset – a program rooted in personalization, guidance, and long-term tissue health.

GLP-1s: More Than “Weight Loss Medications”

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone your body naturally produces. It acts on receptors throughout the body—including the brain, pancreas, liver, and gastrointestinal tract—to regulate blood sugar balance, appetite, digestion, and insulin sensitivity.

Medications like semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) mimic this hormone. Tirzepatide also activates the GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide) receptor, which appears to offer additional benefits related to insulin sensitivity, muscle signaling, and less side effects.

Originally developed for type 2 diabetes in the early 2000s, GLP-1s are now FDA-approved for obesity and obstructive sleep apnea, with late-stage trials underway for fatty liver disease. Research is also exploring their effects on inflammation, cardiovascular health, cognition, and neuroprotection.

Despite this, GLP-1s are often discussed only as weight loss medications. However, this can sometimes be a misleading perspective, especially when considering females navigating hormonal transitions.

Why Midlife Metabolism Is Different

Hormonal changes are a key driver of midlife metabolic shifts. Women experience a significant decline in estrogen during perimenopause and menopause, while men undergo a slower, more gradual reduction in testosterone. Although both hormones influence metabolism, estrogen plays a powerful role in fat storage and insulin sensitivity. As a result, women often experience more sudden changes in weight, energy, and body composition, while men tend to see a slower progression of muscle loss and fat redistribution over time.

GLP-1 Metabolic Reset in Midlife

Especially during perimenopause and menopause, declining estrogen impacts:

*Insulin sensitivity
*Fat distribution (especially central fat)
*Muscle mass maintenance
*Inflammation and joint health
*Sleep quality and cognitive clarity

This is why many women notice weight gain and fatigue despite unchanged habits. The metabolic environment has shifted.

Used thoughtfully, GLP-1s can help stabilize this metabolic transition -but only if dosing and monitoring are approached carefully.

Why Low Dosing and Microdosing GLP-1 Therapy Matters

microdosing GLP-1

Many programs focus on rapid weight loss using aggressive dose escalation. While this can produce short-term results on the scale, it often comes at a cost: muscle loss, hair loss, skin laxity, nutrient deficiencies, gastrointestinal distress, and metabolic rebound when the medication is discontinued.
At Evolution, we approach GLP-1 therapy differently. Tirzepatide is used as a metabolic modulator – not an aggressive weight-centric approach.
Benefits of a slower, lower-dose GLP-1 approach include:

1. Preservation of Muscle and Skin Integrity
Lower doses reduce excessive appetite suppression and extreme caloric deficits, helping preserve lean muscle mass and collagen integrity – both essential for metabolic health and skin quality.

2. Improves Insulin Sensitivity Without Overcorrection
Lower-dose signaling improves insulin sensitivity at the cellular level without pushing the body into a hypoglycemic or stress response.

3. Better Gut Adaptation
High-dose GLP-1s frequently cause nausea, bloating, constipation and/or diarrhea. Slower titration allows the gut and microbiome to adapt more naturally.

4. Mood and Sleep Stability
When caloric intake drops too quickly, the body interprets this as a stress signal. Cortisol rises, gluconeogenesis increases, and energy becomes erratic – often worsening sleep, anxiety, and mental clarity.
Lower-dose GLP-1 signaling avoids this cascade, allowing metabolic improvements without activating survival mechanisms.

5. Supports Brain Energy and Stability
Your brain is highly sensitive to glucose fluctuations. Rapid swings in blood sugar are a common contributor to:
Brain fog
Midday fatigue
Irritability
Headaches or migraines

This aligns with emerging research on GLP-1 receptors in the brain and their role in neuroinflammation and cognitive signaling.

5. Long-Term Sustainability When Fat Loss is Desired
Slower progress often yields a higher fat-to-muscle loss ratio, less skin laxity, and a more stable metabolic rate – reducing the “yo-yo” effect seen with aggressive dosing.

Why Patients Often “Feel Different” Before Seeing Scale Changes

energy with GLP-1

Because metabolic flexibility affects energy regulation and neurologic function, many patients report:
*Steadier energy throughout the day
*Reduced cravings
*Less “wired but tired” feeling
*Improved mental clarity

These changes often occur before significant weight loss, especially in low-dose or microdosing protocols.

What is “Microdosing” a GLP-1?

There’s no universal definition, but generally:
Low dosing refers to doses below FDA-approved starting doses
Microdosing typically means one-quarter or less of those starting doses

At these levels, dramatic weight loss is not the goal. Instead, patients may notice subtler shifts in appetite regulation, energy, inflammation, and cognitive clarity.

This approach can be especially appropriate for modest weight goals (5–20 pounds) or those seeking metabolic and neurologic benefits beyond the scale.

What to Expect with Evolution Wellness: GLP-1 Metabolic Reset Program

This is a highly monitored, clinician-led program designed to follow you every step of the way.

Office Visits and Monitoring
*Initial visit, weekly check-ins during the first month, then monthly thereafter
*Weight and body composition tracking (fat vs muscle)
*Ongoing discussion of symptoms and side effects
*Optional weekly telehealth check-ins as needed

Laboratory Monitoring
*Baseline labs
*3 months after starting
*6 months, then every 6–12 months once stable

We assess metabolic markers, inflammation, micronutrients, thyroid function, and when appropriate female hormones. This allows us to adjust dosing safely and identify additional contributors to symptoms.

Dosing Philosophy

*Weekly subcutaneous injections
*Begin at the lowest effective dose
*Increase slowly and only if needed, aiming for ~1 lb/week or less
*The goal is metabolic optimization, not rapid loss

Optimizing Results Beyond the Medication

optimizing GLP-1

GLP-1 therapy is most effective when paired with lifestyle strategies that support muscle, bone, and metabolic health.

Our program emphasizes:
*Adequate protein intake to preserve muscle
*Resistance training 2 to 3 times per week
*Targeted supplementation for bone, muscle, and gut health
*Hydration, fiber intake, and gut health support

This is not about restriction, it’s about rebuilding metabolic resilience.

A Thoughtful Approach to Metabolic Health in Midlife

GLP-1 medications are powerful tools. How they’re prescribed, dosed, and monitored matters.

Evolution Wellness: GLP-1 Metabolic Reset Program was created for patients who want:

*Medical oversight and individualized care
*A slower, safer approach to GLP-1 therapy
*Preservation of muscle, skin, and long-term health

This program is not for everyone – and that’s intentional.

If you’ve felt dismissed, rushed, or offered one-size-fits-all solutions elsewhere, know that a more thoughtful approach exists.

To learn more about GLP-1 Metabolic Reset or to schedule your consultation, please call us at 720-738-7770.

We look forward to helping you discover the benefits of this metabolic reset!

Why Consider CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

Why Consider CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

Co2 resurfacing
CO2 laser treatment


At Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, CO, we believe that everyone deserves to have the healthiest skin possible.  As most of us know, over years of sun exposure, stress, hormonal changes and natural aging can leave their mark as fine lines, uneven tone, or dullness.

CO2 Laser resurfacing is an in-office treatment that works to “reset” your skin by stimulating collagen and elastin and revealing new cells on the surface of your skin. The result is smoother, firmer, more radiant skin.  At Evolution Dermatology, we use the most advanced CO2 laser technology to help you achieve dramatic, long-lasting improvement in skin texture, tone, and overall vitality.

What Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

CO2 laser resurfacing is a skin rejuvenation procedure that uses carbon dioxide (CO2) laser energy (10,600 nanometers) to remove damaged skin cells and stimulate new collagen growth. 

The CO2 laser targets water within the skin. Because your skin is largely composed of water, this energy gently vaporizes damaged cells and stimulates fibroblasts (the collagen-producing cells). As your skin heals, it naturally generates new collagen and elastin, resulting in a firmer, smoother, and more youthful appearance.

Why Today’s CO2 Lasers Are Safer and Smarter

CO2 lasers have been trusted by dermatologists and plastic surgeons for decades as the gold standard in skin resurfacing. At Evolution Dermatology, we use fractional CO₂2laser technology, which has revolutionized traditional resurfacing.

Instead of treating 100% of the skin’s surface, fractional lasers create thousands of microscopic treatment columns—leaving surrounding skin intact. This allows faster healing, less downtime, and reduced risk of complications, while still delivering powerful, noticeable results.

Think of it like aerating a lawn: we treat just enough of the surface to stimulate renewal—without overwhelming the skin.

Personalized CO2 Laser Treatments at Evolution Dermatology

No two skin stories are alike, so your resurfacing treatment shouldn’t be either. We have 3 levels of treatment that balance intensity with recovery—so you can choose what fits best for your schedule, lifestyle, and skin goals.

Level

Ideal For

Downtime

Treatment Areas

Level 1 (Light Resurfacing)

Early signs of aging, fine lines, sun damage

5–7 days

Face, neck, chest, hands
Level 2 (Moderate Resurfacing) Moderate wrinkles, uneven texture, sun damage

7–10 days

Face, neck, chest

Level 3 (Advanced Resurfacing)

Deep lines, etched wrinkles, advanced aging

10–14 days

Face, neck

Why CO2 Laser Resurfacing is the Gold Standard

CO2 laser resurfacing remains one of the most effective treatments for:

  • Fine lines and deep wrinkles
  • Uneven tone, rough texture, and large pores
  • Sun damage and age spots
  • Mild to moderate acne scars
  • Lax or thinning skin on the face, neck, or chest

Unlike topical treatments or chemical peels that work only on the surface, fractional CO2 lasers penetrate into the dermis, where collagen and elastin are formed. This depth of rejuvenation helps rebuild your skin from within for lasting results.

Who’s a Candidate for CO2 Resurfacing?

Most healthy adults looking for meaningful skin rejuvenation are excellent candidates. You might be a great fit if you:

  • Have fine to deep wrinkles or uneven skin tone
  • Are concerned about sun damage or skin texture
  • Want visible, long-term improvement—not just a temporary fix
  • Can take 5–10 days of downtime for healing
  • Are ready to commit to sun protection and proper aftercare

We carefully evaluate every patient’s skin type, medical history, and pigmentation risk to ensure your treatment is both safe and effective.

How Much Downtime Should You Expect?

Downtime varies based on the level of resurfacing:

  • Level 1: 5–7 days of redness and mild peeling
  • Level 2: 2-3 days of swelling, 7–10 days of redness, flaking, and light crusting
  • Level 3: 3-4 days of swelling, 10–14 days of redness, flaking and crusting, with residual pinkness for a few weeks

Throughout recovery, we provide detailed aftercare guidance, gentle skincare recommendations, and antiviral protection if needed. At Evolution Dermatology, our goal is to help you heal comfortably and beautifully.

Aftercare Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Aftercare is important, so we will give you written instructions, all of the supplies you will need, and discuss these tips:

  • Cleanse gently with mild, non-fragranced products
  • Keep skin well-hydrated and moisturized
  • Avoid makeup until your skin fully re-epithelializes
  • Use a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily
  • Avoid direct sun exposure, hot yoga, and saunas for several days
  • Follow any prescribed antiviral or antibiotic medications closely

Proper healing ensures the best outcome—and we guide you every step of the way.

When to Expect Results

  • Weeks 2–4: Skin appears smoother and brighter as healing completes.
  • Months 1–3: Collagen remodeling tightens and refines texture.
  • Months 3–6: Final results emerge—firmer, more radiant, evenly toned skin.

Fall and winter are ideal seasons for laser treatments since the sun is less intense. If you’re ready to invest in long-term skin rejuvenation—and want real, lasting results guided by experienced professionals—CO₂ laser resurfacing at Evolution Dermatology could be the perfect choice.

It’s not just about looking younger. It’s about feeling confident and refreshed in your skin again.

Why Choose Evolution Dermatology?

At Evolution Dermatology, our team combines medical expertise with advanced laser technology to deliver safe, effective, and natural-looking results.
We serve patients throughout Boulder and the Front Range with leading-edge dermatology and aesthetic care—all in a welcoming, patient-centered environment.

Final Thoughts: Is Now the Right Time?

Fall and winter are ideal seasons for laser treatments since the sun is less intense. If you’re ready to invest in long-term skin rejuvenation—and want real, lasting results guided by experienced professionals—CO2 laser resurfacing could be the perfect choice.
It’s not just about looking younger. It’s about feeling confident and refreshed in your skin again.

Your skin journey is unique. During your personalized consultation at Evolution Dermatology we’ll discuss your goals, evaluate your skin, and design a custom plan to achieve the best results possible.
Schedule your consultation and let us help you reveal your healthiest, most radiant skin yet.


Discover the Power of PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Therapy

Discover the Power of PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Therapy

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is used in many aspects of medicine. At Evolution Dermatology, we are excited to offer Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, a cutting-edge treatment harnessing the natural healing power of your own blood. Whether you’re looking to rejuvenate your skin, stimulate hair growth, or enhance your overall appearance, PRP therapy can be a transformative solution.

What is PRP Therapy?

Your body has the ability to heal itself. PRP therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that utilizes the growth factors and healing properties found in your own blood.

The process begins with a simple blood draw, which is then processed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelet-rich plasma. This golden serum is rich in growth factors that can stimulate cell regeneration and accelerate healing.

PRP therapy has been shown to help with hair growth, increase collagen and elastin production and help your body heal faster and better. And best yet, this comes naturally from your own body!

How Can PRP Therapy Benefit You?

1) Scalp Injections for Hair Loss

PRP for hair loss in boulder

PRP is a treatment used to help restore hair growth. Most research on PRP for hair loss has focused on its use to treat androgenetic alopecia (AGA) as it is the most common. Also known as hormone-related hair loss, this is a condition that has been found to affect 80% of men and 50% of women throughout their lifetime. In men with AGA, hair loss typically occurs on the top and front of the head. In women, thinning occurs on the top and crown of the head and often begins with the center hair part growing wider.

PRP therapy has shown in studies to be an effective treatment for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). The research has demonstrated that PRP can enhance hair growth by increasing both hair count and hair thickness. For best results, consistency is key. Typically, PRP treatments are administered monthly for the first few months, followed by maintenance sessions every few months.

Depending on your specific reason for hair loss, PRP may work best when it is combined with other treatments, such as topical minoxidil (Rogaine), oral minoxidil, prescription finasteride (Propecia), dutasteride or spironolactone. So if you are noticing hair loss, make an appointment so that we can determine what treatment plan may be the best one for you.

2) Facial Injections

prp for eye area and face

PRP can be injected to treat wrinkles in areas like around your mouth or to improve the skin texture under your eye area. First the area will be numbed with topical anesthetic so that you are comfortable, and the PRP injections are only tiny ones placed just under the skin.

It has been shown that these injections stimulate collagen production and work to improve the quality of skin. Typically, a series of 3-4 treatments, spaced a month apart, will have you feeling like a rejuvenated version of yourself!

3) Microneedling + PRP: A Perfect Match

PRP and microneedling in boulder

Why settle for microneedling alone when you can supercharge it with PRP?  The PRP enhances your results by working to stimulate more cell growth and generate more collagen and elastin production than microneedling alone.  It also decreases downtime and promotes faster healing. 

The PRP is placed on your skin while you are having the microneedling procedure and just after while the channels in your skin created by the microneedling pen are still open. Plus, PRP decreases downtime and promotes faster healing,so you’re back to flaunting your glow in no time!

Pro Tip on the Day of Your PRP Treatment:

Drink plenty of water starting the day before treatment. Being well hydrated will help your blood draw go more smoothly.

Ready to Experience the Magic of PRP?

At Evolution Dermatology + Wellness, we are committed to providing advanced treatments like PRP therapy to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Whether you’re addressing hair loss, fine lines, or seeking enhanced skin rejuvenation, PRP therapy can be a valuable part of feeling your best.

To learn more about PRP therapy or to schedule your consultation, please call us at 720-738-7770.

We look forward to helping you discover the benefits of this innovative and amazing treatment!

Treatments + Products to Increase Collagen Production

Treatments + Products to Increase Collagen Production

The fact that your skin changes over time comes at no surprise—but do you know exactly how?

There are two important components that contribute to this change; they are collagen and elastin.  These components of your skin help keep facial lines and wrinkles at bay and improve the quality of your skin. When you improve the quality of your skin, it will appear healthy and youthful.

There are many cosmetic treatments to help with the aging process, like Botox (and other neurotoxins) that stop muscle contraction to reduce wrinkles, or dermal fillers that replace volume that we lose over time.

However, here I describe ways to help your skin appear more radiant that can be done with or without volumizing fillers and toxins.  It’s all about improving the health of your skin!

What is collagen and elastin?

At the core of skin health is collagen and elastin. Collagen is the main structural protein, which acts like scaffolding and provides plumpness to your skin. Elastin allows your skin to be flexible and helps it keep its shape even after stretching or pinching. Both of these proteins are important to maintain skin quality and integrity. This is why collagen and elastin stimulating treatments are considered both preventative and corrective in anti-aging terms

Why does collagen and elastin decrease in our skin?

Collagen is produced throughout our lives, but the amount begins to reduce in our 20’s.  Elastin production stops around puberty.  Some factors can increase the breakdown of collagen, like excessive sun exposure, pollution and smoking.  This loss makes your skin appear thinner and have less structural support, which is why people begin to notice drooping or sagging of their skin. For youthful skin, it is important to both preserve the collagen you have and stimulate your skin to produce it faster.

What are in-office treatments you can do to boost collagen and elastin production?

There are many treatments at our office that work to stimulate collagen and elastin production.  Which one you choose may depend on your specific concerns, downtime, cost, or what your goals are.  Here is some great information about how in-office treatments improve the quality of your skin, but if you are not sure which one is the best choice for you, come in for a cosmetic consultation.

Here are 6 in-office treatments that can increase collagen and elastin:

Radiesse was approved by the FDA as a facial filler at the end of 2006 and has been used as a volumizing filler since. However, it can be used as a biostimulant in your skin rather than just a filler when saline and lidocaine are added to Radiesse.  This mixture triggers the body to produce new collagen and elastin so that you get immediate results plus long-term improvement. The benefits of this treatment are skin tightening and thickening, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and crepiness. Overall, skin tone, texture and elasticity can be markedly improved!

Microneedling is a procedure where a device with fine needles is moved across your skin.  The needles puncture the top layer of the skin and create a controlled skin injury to improve skin texture and promote collagen growth. Once this micro-injury is created with the needles, your body is stimulated to produce new collagen to fill them in as part of the healing process. This new collagen can make your skin look smoother, tighter, and more youthful.  It can also help diminish acne scars.

PRP therapy is used in many aspects of medicine. PRP is a serum that results from your own blood that can amplify the natural growth factors in your body and stimulate the growth of new cells. At Evolution Dermatology, we use PRP as injections and topical application to diminish wrinkles, improve skin quality and help treat acne scars

This procedure uses fractionated plasma energy to resurface your skin and deliver effects similar to a deep resurfacing treatment without the downtime. The Opus device uses both radio frequency energy and plasma to create fractional injuries on the surface of your skin tissue regeneration and collagen remodeling

Sofwave is a clinically-proven, non-invasive approach to rebuilding collagen and elastin to tighten and improve facial lines and wrinkles. This procedure uses ultrasound energy to pass through the surface of your skin, heating the mid-dermal tissue at just the right depth to stimulate new collagen and elastin production. With no downtime, Sofwave works to enhance and rejuvenate your skin quality and firmness.

These use hydroxy acids (like glycolic, lactic acids) to boost skin cell turnover, which in turn stimulates collagen production. You can see immediate benefits from chemical peels, as they can help with tone and texture, giving you an instant glow.  These are best done in a series done monthly to get the most collagen regeneration and longer lasting results.

What skin care products can help?

These clinically proven skin care products are a great way to add nourishment to your skin and promote healthy collagen and elastin.

Here are the 3 main topical powerhouses…

1) Prescription Tretinoin (known by the brand name Retin-A):

Applied in the evening to your skin, this vitamin A derivative upregulates genes involved in collagen production while it exfoliates to encourage collagen and new healthy skin cells. Tretinoin and retinoids have been proven for years to be a gold standard in anti-aging skin care as stated in this publication here in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Just ask when you are in the office if this might be a good skin care topical treatment for you!

2) Vitamin C Serum:

Protect collagen with topical vitamin C.  Slather on a vitamin C serum in the morning. This vitamin is a strong antioxidant that protects the collagen in your skin against UV damage. More than that, it triggers collagen formation and stabilizes the collagen proteins in skin. Has been studied for years proving its effectiveness.  At Evolution Dermatology we have a vitamin C serum that also has ferulic acid and vitamin E to add antioxidant power with a hydrating hyaluronic acid base.

Evolve Vitamin C Serum from Evolution Dermatology in Boulder CO
Evolve Vitamin C Serum

3) Sunscreen:

Sunscreen is vital for skin cancer prevention — but also for keeping skin young and springy. UV exposure can lead to the breakdown of collagen, which can lead to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, so you’re never too young to start wearing sunscreen every day. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and don’t forget to cover your neck, ears and chest too!

There is no magic bullet when we talk about aesthetic treatments and skin care.  No one treatment or product does everything. It is about combining treatments and products depending on your skin type and your specific goals.

5 Back to School Tips for Teens and College Students

5 Back to School Tips for Teens and College Students

This is for all of you heading back to school this fall.  As you gear up to hit the books again, don’t forget to give your skin some TLC too. Here are five practical skincare tips that will have you looking fresh and ready to conquer the new school year.


1) Choose the right cleanser for your skin type (and wash your face twice a day!)

The trick here is finding your perfect match. Just like finding the right study group, finding the right cleanser for your skin type is essential. Oily skin? Opt for a gentle foaming cleanser. Dry skin? Cream-based cleansers are your go-to. Choosing the right cleanser can make all the difference in limiting irritation and keeping those breakouts at bay.

Here are some great options:


Sugar and Coconut Foaming Cleanser

Gentle Foaming Cleansers if you are prone to acne or have oily/normal skin.  Enriched with plant extracts, this helps to soothe and protect your skin.  Aloe vera calms the skin while coconut oil derivatives gently wash away impurities. (Available for purchase only in our office).

Evolve Sugar and Coconut Foaming Cleanser at Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Evolve Sugar and Coconut Foaming Cleanser

Epionce Gentle Foaming Cleanser

This gently cleans surface impurities including makeup without leaving the skin feeling tight, dry or stripped; cleanses without irritation; helps smooth and refine texture; leaves skin feeling hydrated.

Epionce Gentle Foaming Cleanser Available at Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Epionce Gentle Foaming Cleanser

Epionce Lytic Cleanser

For a little extra exfoliation, this spa-like cleanser contains salicylic acid to remove impurities and calm problem skin without unnecessary irritation or dryness; refreshes and calms problem skin; and removes stubborn dirt, oil and makeup.

Epionce Lytic Gel Cleanser Available at Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Epionce Lytic Gel Cleanser

Nutriance Organic Cleansing Milk

Cream Cleansers for dry/sensitive skin: This is a silky emulsion enriched with marine and botanical ingredients to gently remove impurities, dirt, surface oils and makeup residue.
(Available for purchase only in our office)

Nutriance Cleansing Milk Recommended by Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Nutriance Cleansing Milk

Epionce Milky Lotion Cleanser

This soothing cleanser is effective without harming, irritating or causing unnecessary dryness in the skin. It helps calm redness and scaly texture; leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized; and non-foaming formula for sensitive skin.

Epionce Milky Lotion Cleanser recommended by Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Epionce Milky Lotion Cleanser


2) Moisturize Day and Night

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize.

Imagine showing up for a pop quiz without studying – that’s your skin without moisturizer. Moisturizing twice a day after cleansing keeps your skin’s hydration game strong. Repairing your skin barrier with moisturizer can keep wrinkles in check and irritation at bay. Even if you are acne prone, moisturizer is important.

Here are some suggestions:


Acne Prone

Evolve HA Serum

This serum draws moisture into your skin with no oils, and contains squalene, coenzyme Q10, and peptides to repair your skin barrier.

(Available for purchase only in our office)

Evolve HA Serum made my Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Evolve HA Serum

Cetaphil Gentle Clear Mattifying Acne Moisturizer

This lightweight moisturizer with acne-fighting salicylic acid, helps breakouts while soothing acne-prone, sensitive skin. Hydrates for 48 hours, and improves skin tone and texture

Cetaphil Mattifying Acne Moisturizer recommended by Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Cetaphil Mattifying Acne Moisturizer

Normal/oily

Evolve Peptide Moisturizer

This contains hyaluronic acid, shea butter and non-comedogenic jojoba oil in addition to botanical actives to help promote elasticity and firmness to your skin.

(Available for purchase only in our office)

Evolve Peptide Moisturizer Made By Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Evolve Peptide Moisturizer

Dry/Sensitive skin

Nutriance Organic Rejuvenating Rich Cream

A luxuriously nourishing marine botanical-based cream with antioxidants to improve skin firmness and decreases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. (Available for purchase only at our office)

Nutriance Organic Rejuvenating Rich Cream Recommended by Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Nutriance Rejuvenating Rich Cream

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream

Ultra hydrating facial cream with 4.5% Squalane has a unique lightweight texture and lasting 72-hour hydration to leave skin softer and visibly healthier. Formulated with Squalane, Glacial Glycoprotein and Pro-Ceramides, this non-greasy, lightweight moisturizer is clinically demonstrated to hydrate 15 layers deep for softer, smoother, and healthier looking skin.

Kiehl's Ultra Moisturizing Cream Recommended by Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Kiehl’s Ultra Moisturizing Cream


3) Use an Eye Cream

Say goodbye to panda eyes with a good eye cream.

Late-night study sessions can leave you with dark circles that resemble panda eyes. Enter eye cream – your sleep-deprived savior. Bid adieu to those bags and welcome a fresher look.


Evolve Brightening Probiotic Eye Cream

This is moisturizing with probiotics, kojic acid, botanicals and caffeine to reduce puffiness and dark circles. (Available for purchase at our office only)

Evolve Probiotic Eye Cream Made By Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Evolve Probiotic Eye Cream

Epionce Renewal Eye Cream

This product is great for adding moisture and antioxidants around your delicate eye area.

Epionce Renewal Eye Cream Available at Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
Epionce Renewal Eye Cream


4) Make Sunblock a Daily Non-Negotiable Habit

Consider sunblock getting your face dressed every morning.

Just as you wouldn’t go to class without a backpack, don’t step out without sunscreen. The best way to use it is applying it every morning – in fact it can be what you use for your moisturizer. Rain or shine, sunscreen is your shield against premature aging caused by the sun. Trust me, your future self will thank you.

Here are some great choices for your face and neck that are not pore clogging and are easy to use:


COOLA: Rōsilliance® Tinted Moisturizer Organic Sunscreen SPF 30

Mineral tinted moisturizer! A lightly hydrating formula with antioxidants and mineral blocking zinc and titanium dioxide.

COOLA Rosilliance Tinted Organic SPF Available at Evolution Dermatology in Boulder, Colorado
COOLA Rosilliance Tinted SPF

Epionce Daily Shield Tinted SPF 50 Sunscreen

This one offers more moisture, a sheer tint, with zinc and titanium dioxide for Broad-spectrum SPF 50 UV protection; Light, quick-absorbing anti-oxidant rich sheer formula; Water Resistant (80 minutes)

Epionce Daily Shield Tinted SPF 50 Available at Evolution Dermatology in Boulder Colorado
Epionce Daily Shield Tinted SPF 50

If a tint is not your thing:

COOLA Mineral Sun Silk Crème Organic Face Sunscreen SPF 30

This is not your usual white zinc sunblock. It is much more sheer, oil-free, and great for every day.

COOLA Sunsilk Mineral SPF 30 Available at Evolution Dermatology in Boulder Colorado
COOLA Sunsilk Mineral SPF 30


5) Consider a Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C serum – your skin’s BFF.

Want that lit-from-within glow? Vitamin C serum is about to become your skin’s best friend. It fights dullness and dark spots like a pro. It is a powerful antioxidant that can both repair and protect your skin. Start a habit of beginning your day with this serum after washing. You won’t regret the resulting healthy glow!
Choosing the right vitamin C serum is important to make sure the active ingredient is stable and it is able to appropriately penetrate your skin without irritation.

My favorite vitamin C serums:


SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum

This serum has been a gold standard for years, the only setback is the price tag (usually around $180). 🙂

SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum Recommended by Evolution Dermatology in Boulder Colorado
SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum

Evolve 20% Vitamin C Serum

This potent antioxidant contains ferulic acid, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid to repair the effects of sun exposure, lighten age spots, and smooth and brighten skin. (Available for purchase only in our Boulder office)

Evolve Vitamin C Serum from Evolution Dermatology in Boulder CO
Evolve Vitamin C Serum

So, as you embark on your academic adventure, remember that taking care of your skin is just as important as acing your exams. Incorporate these tips into your routine, and you’ll strut through the halls with confidence.

Happy studying and happy skin-caring!