Skincare Trends That Need to STOP | Dr. Sam Ellis

[@marlynarteagasolisrobinson]

My best anti aging is that I live alone with an adorable puppy. No stress. No dramas.

[@pickyAF]

Right??😂❤

[@moniquegenua7287]

@@pickyAF you said it!

[@lisalittlewhite9810]

@@marlynarteagasolisrobinson hahaha, same secret, puppy make us so much younger

[@daniellesammy0827]

What kind of puppy did you get?

[@Sky10811]

it s avoidance. look into therapy sessions with psychologist. also this audio book really helps, it s soothing to listen before sleeping: "Complex PTSD from surviving to thriving "

[@LittleMew133]

We should boycott moisturizers that cost $200-300.

[@bathemeinchampagne]

Very easily. La Mer ingredients same as Nivea original at £ 3.60 uk.

[@veronikayup]

@@bathemeinchampagne Yep, I have a huge tub of it at home and slather it on at night over other active moisturizers especially in the winter. It's awesome and though it has some fragrance, I have never had an irritation from it. Bonus, it's amazing on dry sad cracked lips!

[@Persefone94]

@@veronikayupIt smells great.

[@Persefone94]

@@veronikayupVery few people are allergic or even sensitive to fragrance. It has exploded being critical of the slightest bit of scent. I love scented products.

[@user-lr3gk3pe6f]

100%. I like my skincare humble. There no reason for a skin cream to cost more than $45.

[@dkb2375]

Thank you. The beauty industry has gotten out of control - it's refreshing to hear about what we DON'T need.

[@JnTmarie]

@@dkb2375 you don’t want parabens and they are in ceraV

[@lesann1896]

Influencers are out of controls- also selling their own products

[@lilyannalina]

1. Expensive moisturiser 2. Collagen creams 3. Stretch mark/cellulite creams oils 4. Facial cleansing brush 5. Facial exercise, face yoga 6. Acne safe 7. Clean brands 8. Castor oil for hair growth 9. Non licensed skincare expert 10. Microcurrent devices 11. LED masks What works 1. Skincare Sunscreen Vitamin c Retinoid 2. In office treatments E.g. Laser resurfacing Chemical peels Microneedling

[@jurametall1228]

Thanks for summarizing.

[@gracehetfield5331]

It should be noted that she said 10 & 11 are not total scams. She just said you need to manage expectations and be consistent to make your investment worth it.

[@joyokafor5887]

Thank you

[@JSanime]

My favorite piece of advice Dr. Ellis has given is: the best skincare is the ones you use consistently. ❤

[@cerykheav5043]

During my first pregnancy, I used bio oil religiously and had no stretch marks. I’m currently 37 weeks pregnant (second pregnancy) and have gotten lazy and barely moisturize my belly and I still have no stretch marks. It’s definitely genetics. Both my mom and older sister have 0 stretch marks from pregnancy and neither of them used oils.

[@Shshsh732]

I have a friend that had 4 kids. She got stretch marks with her third. You'd think by then your skin is used to stretching. So it's all just a gamble.

[@dancer11rules]

Same. 3 kids, no moisturizer or anything, zero stretch marks. Same with my mom and sister.

[@javitra33]

I used almond oil religiously during my pregnancies... zero stretch mark on my belly But .. in the 1 st one I forgot hips and I got them there

[@BartonEnglish1]

Agreed. I was religious about BioOil…and have the exact same stretch marks as my mom and sister.

[@maxie-q4r]

Skipped lotion for my second pregnancy and overnight stretch marks appeared.

[@db-gb5xi]

Lab Muffin is a good resource also for when the whole "clean beauty" thing comes. She's addressed reef safe, silicones in hair products, ingredient apps, acne safe, home made sunscreen, how studies are misread/rosemary oil for hair, etc. And another skincare blogger once commented that the EWG wouldn't know a legit clinical study if it walked up and bit them in the ___. Cosmetic Confessions is another good resource for breaking down ingredient studies.

[@grat2010]

Love Lab Muffin. She's a knowledgeable chemist with the ability to explain science-y things in a fun way.

[@froggirl96]

michelle is the best!! i'm so glad my friend told me about her channel, it totally opened my eyes to predatory marketing

[@avirginia8808]

I second both of those people creaters as well as dr Shireene idriss on KZbin, obviously dr drey, and dr vanita rattan, oh and Cassandra banks on. and the podcast the beauty brains which is 2 cosmetic chemists discussing beauty questions. I’m an esthetician and those creators (along with this one) have really helped me feel truly knowledgeable about skin in a way esthetician school didn’t come close to

[@db-gb5xi]

@@avirginia8808 Since you mentioned Dr V, I'd add derm Dr Alexis Stephens who specializes in fitzpatrick skin types 4-6.

[@hurrstardlikemustard]

​@@avirginia8808used to admire Shereene Idriss' content but she have had plenty of questionable claims on her videos - like her demolition job and studies nitpicking on Hyaluronic acid, her thinking that irritation are mostly ingredients based ratjer than the whole formulation, going overboard her expertise and talking over actual experts on toxicology and cjemist formulations, her stand on cyperus oil, her ranting about brands (her brand specifically) not being able to do drug/treatment claims in their marketing and advertising when clearly her products arent registered drugs, and plenty more i couldnt list. Even her Idriss derm page and co-doctors seem to follow similar click bait strategies for 'hacks' that arent scientifically backed - more so like trends in South Korea that are trendy on tiktok and garners engagements rather than treatments and proven established dermatology hacks that other content creator derms also advice to do on certain conditions. Its actually disappointing how low her content quality goes now.

[@echomoonstar]

RE: facial cleansing brushes… my mother gave me the best piece of advice, which is “Treat your face like you would treat a baby’s bottom - - GENTLY.”

[@ShannonAmpuja56]

Re: Castor Oil I'm 68 years old, all my life I had oily skin till about 4 years ago. I started using castor oil on my eyebrows, eye lashes and around my eyes. I saw improvement in about 2 months time. It did grow my eyebrow hairs and made my eyelashes long enough I can use mascara now. After that I started using it all over my face at night for a couple of hours before bed, then I put warm water in my hands and hold my hands over my face to hopefully help the remaining oil absorb into my skin before bed. I lightly pat my skin dry. There is not a week that goes by that I don't get a compliment on my skin. I only do this once or twice a week. Maybe my skin is missing the oil I use to manufactuer on my own. I'm going to keep using it every where!

[@ForbsieLaLa]

I have become delinquent in my use but it really helped me get vibrant skin. Thanks for the reminder

[@marshaolivarez6979]

I'm going to be 70 next year, swear by castor oil, no crows feet, wrinkles on my face, it has made my eyelashes grow a lot, use it every night after exfoliating, it's very affordable too.

[@Dixie_Doll]

​@marshaolivarez6979 Your picture, I would've guessed you were in your 40's at the most!

[@ShellyRogers-oe2wj]

which brand do you use?

[@tammyd4099]

How does it grow lashes and eyebrows but not facial hair

[@jamiebond8481]

Ok it is good to hear from the dermatologist that bio oil does plain nothing to stretch marks and scars

[@vilifaceyoga9208]

I am using a few drops of Castor oil ,massaging my legs every night before bed, and believe it or not but my stretch marks are less visible, the skin surfаse looks more smooth . The cellulite seems to me not so bad. I am happy with the result. So far no other cellulite cream or treatment has been working:(

[@griffithbrenda8069]

Which one do you use? Does it leave a greasy feel?​@@vilifaceyoga9208

[@JasminMiettunen]

The one scam I hate is a product that says “retinol” in the front, but “retinyl palmitate” in the back.

[@DesireUba]

Finallyyy, someone feels the same!

[@sanjap46810]

Different form of vit. A, little less stable but nothing more than that. No scam here I'm afraid.

[@JasminMiettunen]

@sanjapiosijan4686 retinyl palmitate isn’t the scam, it’s claiming that the product contains retinol when it doesn’t. If it said vitamin A serum, it would be accurate, but retinyl palmitate is not retinol.

[@alexsfca]

Or Vitamin C - but it’s ascorbyl phosphate…

[@danisbookshelf3167]

The "clean beauty" trend irritates me so much, and I hate seeing brands and retailers jump on board with it!

[@Persefone94]

Same! Sanctimonious crap.

[@dear_totheheart]

Especially to the detriment of the quality, performance, efficiency, and expiration! Simply ludicrous

[@awetistic5295]

My favorite thing is when "clean beauty" contains well-known irritants and allergens... but it's fine because they're ✨️natural✨️.

[@jessbarnes8521]

I choose to try to avoid carcinogens in make up and beauty products.

[@DVelez-wz3fe]

@@jessbarnes8521Me too and nasty parfum and essential oils. I like that there is a clean beauty trend because it makes brands think twice about putting crap in their products. There used to be some really nasty stuff in cosmetics especially lipsticks. USA is not as diligent about safety in women’s beauty products as they are in Europe. I’ll keep my “cleaner” beauty products, tyvm

[@melanieadorno8813]

OH Dr. ELLIS, MY GOD!!! I can't thank u enough 4this video. I am a retired Esthetician/ Big Island Beauty College School Principal who now works part-time at ULTA, I stay specifically at the register / cash wrap simply because my contious will not allow me to sell so many High- End Prestige product lines instead of Mass skincare and some makeup as well. The staff and many guests know how I am in being honest in reading the inky list of ingredients, what is and is not most beneficial or plain Hype. I completely detest the words clean Beauty or skincare, I start off by saying very simply , I hope water is not a problem 4u as water is a chemical and we go from there, please give a lesson on tje benefits and importance of preservatives in our skincare they seem to have been demonized. I love love loved this share, you are so user friendly, a pleasure and ur brain power of knowlege reads like a lovely book on non- fiction skincare does and don't I love ur channel MORE PLEASE ! Ur new admirer Melanie❤

[@cindysmallwood2695]

I like your no nonsense approach. I appreciate the fact that you created a skincare line that is affordable to the masses and yet you don't spend every other minute promoting it. It is a little funny to watch this and still see that you earn commission on high priced cream like La Mer at $518 and a Bader at $300+. I get that no one is on KZbin for free, so the commissions are just part of it. I still greatly appreciate your content and whatever you do clinically and at home is working on your beautiful face. Youth is also on your side.

[@DrSamEllis]

Thank you! Some affiliate links get auto-created when you upload, which looks like what happened here. I certainly don't expect anyone to use those after this video!

[@michellehogarth]

@@DrSamEllisI would love love a video on thoughts on 7HD hifu in clinics and whether it’s worth the hefty price tag

[@melanieadorno8813]

​@DrSamEllis 🤣🤣 18:21 In all of fairness 2u Doc u did say if luxury is ir thing and money is no object then go for it...HOWEVER you definitely made it understood that it's NOT a necessity to have or purchase a High End moisturizer to feel and be moisturized. For all those who can tolerate fragrance on their face without irritation and can afford it then 4real you do you NO JUDGEMENTS HERE! I reserve ALL my JUDGEMENTS For the companies who create and falsify expectations NOT THE BUYER / USER at all not ever

[@angelagibson5514]

I absolutely love the brand the Ordinary.. The price point is incredibly reasonable.... The Alpha Arbutin,, Hyaluronic Acid, Serum, Niacinamide, and the Resveratrol and Copper..... Tte skin looks amazing...

[@nymia1977]

Love their stuff too

[@michellestratford9753]

I completely agree! Their natural factors (sp?) moisturizer is wonderful too!

[@Zwantceeto]

Niacinamid, resveratrol and azelaic acid are my favorite.

[@rebeccamariabolton7131]

The glycolic acid, retinal emulsion and cold pressed rosehip oil is amazing too ,love the ordinary ❤❤❤❤

[@angelagibson5514]

The Alpha Arbutin really brightens the skin...

[@kanikahandle]

I have never been pregnant but was a bit on the chubbier side from teenage to early twenties. Lost weight and I have the stretch marks quite similar to what a pregnant woman might have. Once a technician doing ultrasound for some medical issue asked if I have ever been pregnant. Really, it is the random people and society who kind of judge others without giving it a proper thought. Stretch marks on previously obese people is also very normal. Thank you doctor for debunking the common myths.❤❤

[@Lexagmor]

Man idk why techs think it's their biz to ask or assume such things! I once had an x-ray tech after seeing thr images (I have digestion issues and it causes abdominal distension) and seeing that it's just my belly there, start going on about how people need to stop eating junk like Starbucks etc. I just responded in agreement and told her I prefer to make my own coffee drinks. But seriously then acting like they're Dr's who can comment on your health like that wth

[@brothersinfur]

I'm so happy I found your channel! I love how direct and to-the-point you are-no filler, just real, useful insights. It's exactly what I’ve been looking for. Keep doing what you do!

[@sharon5222]

As my father used to say, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

[@petiteapple9563]

Thank you thank you THANK YOU for addressing "clean" products. I 100% agree with you and is irritating!!!

[@debraraby4376]

Dear Dr Sam, if you read this I just want you to know how grateful that I am for your information. You are clearly a beautiful person inside and out.

[@DrSamEllis]

Wow, thank you!

[@Palice321]

I love how concise you are with each point, and the accompanying evidence in support/against the claim. I also really love that you don’t just consider just what works for skin but also how sustainable it is, or realistic it is and whether the effort/cost are reflected in the results. With that all being said, I guess I would like to gently push back a little on the concept of making one’s skin ‘better’ or ‘improvement’. I feel like it would’ve been nice to hear you at least prefacing comments like that with something like “as long as you are taking care of your skin you don’t *need* to do anything more and accepting that your skin will change with age is the most time/cost effective skin-friendly thing you can do. BUT if you want to make x changes then doing x, y, z would be the most efficient way of doing this.” I know this is pedantic but it’s so important that we also push back on society’s expectations that no wrinkles is better, or having a certain face shape is prettier. They are, as you say, medical interventions after all. Yours sincerely, An increasingly wrinkled 37 year old, and proud 😁❤️

[@hopesprings4967]

When I was 37 my feeling was, what you see is what you get. I’m not gonna ever get breast augmentation or get a facelift and in fairness I never have. I thought I would never do Botox. Well I waited too long. I’m 61 and it has helped, but it will never be as beneficial, if I had started it at 40. So while at 37 you embrace the notion of aging without intervention as a worthy practice…Dr. Ellis is better off saying NOTHING either way. As witnessed by your comment and others there is no way she can please everybody. She mentioned nothing either way. Medical interventions are in fact really the only way to change your face. Fillers are terrible for older women in particular. After I had my Botox, I looked 10 years younger and you know what, at 61 looking 50 made me feel great. I believe I have high self-esteem so it wasn’t about looking for an emotional fix. Fixing the outside doesn’t make the inside any more secure, as witnessed by the plethora of beautiful women ruining their faces with fillers etc. I would even have a facelift. I can’t afford one, however I would definitely consider it. Not because I want to satisfy a beauty standard or NEED to look younger, I want my face to reflect how young I feel. It’s almost a congruency thing. I totally understand your point of view though. I truly believed that I would do nothing, other than skin care to improve my looks. Media if I wasn’t still working, “trying” to find work, it would be less important to me. I love that you said you know it’s pedantic. I was your age when I learned what pedantic meant… I can be very pedantic too, as you might have noticed lol😂

[@lindacurtis7267]

The problem with toxic ingredients is that we only have a few that are banned in the US whereas in Europe there are hundreds that are not allowed.

[@MyshelLeAnn]

Yes definitely makes you think if another country won’t allow certain ingredients in their product but we do🤔 So who’s to say who is correct in thinking it’s toxic or not toxic. I just have very little faith in the US these days😞 Of course as a doctor she’s going to support the fda

[@pickyAF]

Preach!

[@claudia-B.]

That's why I use beef tallow

[@lijasuede7750]

After not following beauty industry content for several years, recently I started watching some videos from a very select few beauty&skincare related content creators, my social media is bombarded with beauty related videos and I feel overwhelmed by the amount of black and white statements that are shared left, right and center. Whatever your relationship to yourself and beauty might be, please be mindful what type of content you’re inviting in and always do your own research. There is a ton of studies and research being done, and a lot of time there are major differences between them, so inform yourself and do what seems right for you. Don’t give your trust easily away. Use your common sense and remember that this is beauty industry whose aim is to sell you products and earn money off of you. They, sadly, don’t have your best interest at heart. It’s going to be a while till it’s out in the open exactly what type of ingredients are in all of these products and the effect they have on your body. Your skin is an organ that’s connected to the remainder of your body. If a product contains 50+ ingredients whose effect you don’t understand , it’s not “just” or “safe” anymore. If something is branded as natural or clean, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to work for you, but it probably won’t have negative consequences on your health compared to the typical products. Self care, self love, emotional and mental health are vital. Drink pure water, eat well, do some detox, spend time in nature, stretch your body and bring your focus to what’s truly important in life. When you’re mindful about more important aspects of life, then the matter of using skincare and makeup is something you select and apply carefully out of joy, not necessity, or feeling self conscious or as a result of being a consumer who is targeted to buy stuff. Be gentle with yourself. Less is more. 🤍

[@Mary1393]

Folks are talking about castor oil, what do you think about this oil for skin?

[@jkayla_lashae]

I like the video… but I disagree w/ the “if it wasn’t safe, it wouldn’t be legal”… in many countries, there are many chemicals/dyes/things that are ILLEGAL there, that are LEGAL in America…. and that’s in our own FOOD industry/pertaining to things that go INSIDE our bodies… so I would say just because something is on a shelf doesn’t mean it’s safe… have to think about the long term effects

[@larissabarbosa6020]

Yes, but the use of the term clean continues to be a great scam that can actually be dangerous because some brands sell that preservatives are not good and don’t use them in the clean products, and they can go bad really fast

[@michellemckay2667]

I was going to say the same exact thing. It is true that EWG isn’t unbiased though so you have to become a researcher yourself to learn about ingredients and their long term effects. The US government needs serious reform in regulating this.

[@JnTmarie]

Wow surprised you picked CeraV! Yikes. New news about that one not good

[@yogabeantt]

There are also ingredients that are banned in the US that aren’t banned in the UK or Germany so, your argument doesn’t really hold up very well.

[@kburnette7524]

@@JnTmariewhat is the new news about Cerave? I haven’t heard and I’m interested please

[@greenbeauties]

I didn’t see any wrinkles or signs of aging until 46-47 years old. Treating my skin gently is what I have done my whole life. BTW, “clean” to me means like having no talc (asbestos) in my makeup etc. Also hair colour can be toxic because of resorcinol and other formaldehyde ingredients in there

[@DaisyLarson4936]

I've been rubbing castor oil on my eyelids for a few months due to blepharitis and it 100% has improved my condition with the added advantage of my eyelashes growing back. They are longer than I ever remember. I've been rubbing the excess on my elbows without looking at them. The other day I did and am shocked at how thin a once puckered 40 year old scar is! It's not going to fade but it looks more like a normal scar now than the butchering the surgeon did!

[@RG-bd5fy]

@@DaisyLarson4936 I would think oils such as viamin e, almond, coconut, etc would also help. I should run one of my many oils on my abdominal scar from three surgeries. It wind get rid of it after 20 years but it won’t hurt.

[@alonaampuan6834]

Been uzing it for 7 months almost daily i dont see results on my lashes but my eyebrow did grow??? My floaters gone, putting it on my nibble made my constipation gone. But my lashes 👀

[@SSmith-dn9ib]

​@@alonaampuan6834I have been using castor oil in my face and neck for 8 months now but noticed no difference at all, in anything😢. Lashes and eyebrows exactly as they always were. Same with wrinkles.😮 I had stopped facial exercises too because I looked worse after 3 months even though I did not do them much but almost daily. Nothing works for me😅

[@MarciaSvitko]

A dermatologist told me that rubbing reduces the scar.​@RG-bd5fy

[@jmg7467]

Smart lady. THE VOICE OF REASON. WELL DONE.

[@urischwartz6711]

This is really educational, even as a man as we are more aware of care routines these days. Thank you so much!

[@arabesque7790]

My brother was putting castor oil on the cysts on his head because he read it would get rid of them. 🙄 Thankfully he took my advice (as someone who has had many removed) & has a referral to a dermatologist. Through my teenage years, my mum would put olive oil on my hair once a month. Wrapped my hair in plastic & a towel, left it overnight and shampooed the next day. My hair was super shiny and I had very few split ends even though my hair was to my waist.

[@carolpeterson5515]

I really appreciate these no nonsense straight up valuable information videos. You get right to the point and express it very well. I would like to find a qualified dermatologist or aesthetician in my area who focuses on cosmetic skin procedures but I have no idea how to find one. Women of a certain age don’t seem to advertise their use of such services or post reviews.

[@sereda78681]

Many products are full of toxins.

[@lisalittlewhite9810]

Dr Ellis, Thanks and I am grateful to hear someone to say that EWG got paid from the brands

[@Sunshinesue4444]

Your face and hair looks absolutely gorgeous! Love the cut.

[@krooks6367]

I am happy to see that we talk about this subjekt! We should discusse it much more. In my country we have strict laws since 2023 about fillers and botox and other processes that before anyone was allowed to do. Not anymore! That doesnt hinder people to do it beside the rules. There is a market

[@sehajg1510]

As someone coming from marketing, I agree on the “clean” terminology. That being said when I think of “clean” I am thinking of how the ingredients impact the environment (ex: animal testing, exfoliating micro-beads not dissolving, etc)

[@OnaBlaser]

Thank you...for addressing this issue's. Their are so many products out there that you get overcharged for and claim to be a miracle worker product. I appreciate your honesty.

[@GiseleAzerad-l4t]

Thank you Dr Ellis ,I was born and raised in France and used a light cleanser ,then rinsed thoroughly with water ,using my hands ,my grandmother did the same and she had gorgeous skin ….

[@deerinheadlights100]

Sun exposure in childhood and during life makes a difference.

[@priyad9376]

Dr Ellis, Please make a prequel product for hyperpigmentation soon! 🤞I love the lucent-c and it’s the only vitamin C my neck could tolerate! I switched inbetween and that didn’t work. Went back to prequel again ❤️my skin loves it!

[@midlifemom5829]

I splurge on in-office procedures and prescription actives for my melasma. I use budget brands for wash, moisturizer and other anti-aging serums.

[@onichmojica632]

You are one of the best OUT THERE!! Thank you and your team for everything!!!!

[@mdeyoung]

Could you do more videos that go in depth on different office procedures? I’m 39 and considering ultherapy for the beginnings of neck and jawline sagging. But there are such strong opposing views that it’s hard to know what to do. Especially when so many procedures are so costly.

[@erderder1]

I appreciate the knowledge shared on KZbin by dermatologists and plastic surgeons. I think the biggest trend/scam in the beauty industry is influencers and filters. I enjoy learning about skin and I enjoy at home procedures. I’ve spent years working in a med spa and my favorite bang for your Buck procedure is the IPL laser. Quality skincare (not expensive) at home along with sunscreen are key. Smoking and sun exposure are #1 when it comes to premature aging.

[@agatheherrou7333]

I'd be interested in an video on Yuka and the likes, elaborating on whether their claims on "unsafe" ingredients hold up etc.

[@KristineWahl-ft9qj]

"Don't bother with this" is one of my favourite topics. Very helpful and money saving!

[@jazzli1626]

Subbed. Like you for your no-nonsense, sincere content rather than “indirect selling” like most other content creators. Thank you!

[@lucrecevonkasm]

Well done for being the voice of reason in a world of predatory marketing. 💙🙏🏻🕊🌞

[@Tcon1969]

I'm frustrated with Sephora and their clean beauty standards. One of my favorite tinted lip balms removed the SPF from their products. I didn't realize they made that change until I had sun exposure that caused me a lot of pain and I thought I was protected. It doesn't make sense and many good products have been dropped.

[@80sliftinglady]

My new favorite thing is everyone trying to sell beef tallow for the face as a moisturizer. The crazy stuff I get on my feed😎

[@Tellyawhat4]

I skin needle at home and it does make a noticeable difference....plumpness and it's collagen boosting. A colleague once said that I looked younger (without knowing I had skin needled at home 2 days earlier). I asked, what do you mean and she said my skin looked "ironed out", meaning fewer visible wrinkles. You have to do it every 2 to 3 weeks, but it works. I use the White Lotus brand. You need to apply an organic green tea facial oil first.

[@ksc743]

Just be aware, anyone reading this, plastic surgeon Dr Amir Karam was talking about microneedling the other day, and he said to never use needles longer than 2mm because longer needles dissolve the deep fatty subcutaneous layer. 10 years ago I had a series of microneedling treatments done on my top lip by an aesthetician. The needles were so long I first popped into the dentist and she injected my lip with anaesthetic so that I could withstand the pain of those needles. To this day the worst lines on my face are the ones on my top lip.

[@ReginaReRoma]

I was on board until you said facial massages don't work... I'm over 50 and I totally disagree with this point because I started daily facial massages 3 times a day two months ago for a couple of minutes and I can see big improvement in my saggy cheeks and upper cheeks and eyes area. The second point you mentioned was about Castor oil, it really helped allot on my falling eyebrows and eyelashes The rest of the points you mentioned are so true. Thank you Dr. Sam for all the wonderful info.

[@christinejolliffe8002]

Can you provide a link to which massages worked for you? I'm sure some are better than others. What facial exercises have you been doing?

[@catspeakegroove]

Yep. Me too. I learned from Eva Fraser herself decades ago and my face has pretty much stayed the same in 30 years!

[@melanistar]

As a massage therapist I agree. Massage has dozens of physical benefits and there is a ton of evidence/proof. Massage increases bloodflow/circulation, relaxes tight muscles, releases trigger points, improves posture, flexibility, helps keep soft tissue and skin healthy and firm, reduces injuries, stress, and pain. And so much more. The fact that this "doctor" is unaware of the health benefits makes me skeptical of anything else she says.

[@feralhomunculus]

​@@catspeakegrooveCongratulations! You have amazing genetics

[@feralhomunculus]

​@@melanistarThe fact that a massage therapist thinks she knows more than a board certified dermatologist makes me question anything you have to say.

[@norwaybirds3015]

Thank you so much for speaking about this topic. I've only learnt much of this from watching excellent Dermatologists like youself, or cosmetic surgeons who talk about what can and can't be achieved with skincare. It's taken 50 years and lots of youtube to learn this! Thank you❤. It saves me a ton of money.

[@lkbarrett39]

Yeah, bio oil might not affect stretch marks, but I use it on my face, hands, etc after my moisturizer,1 and I love it. Wonderful smell, plus it doesn't irritate my sensitive skin. Keeps my skin soft in cold weather.

[@DebbieTDP]

It's crap, sorry 😊

[@terrifiorelli9819]

I like it too. I am dry, so maybe that is why. Feels nice.

[@ninavaldez7864]

I love how it absorbs into my skin and brightens my tattoo without leaving it feeling oily. It works great with my acne prone skin. I also love castor oil, but it is very thick and doesn't absorb quickly or smell well. I'm not using bio oil for stretch marks or scars though. I use it as a surface body and lip moisturizer and tattoo brightener. My skin is super soft with bio oil.

[@cheryldavies5078]

Bio oil reacted really badly with my skin, therefore I would not touch it again. I don’t have particularly sensitive skin either.

[@IzzWizzWillRule]

This is my KZbin marathon sorted, I’ve been looking for a new creator to follow!

[@Tbonebby]

I would love to hear your thoughts or advice on estheticians, like how to research a good one, what procedures are more appropriate for them to do vs procedures or servies that only an acrual dermatologist should be preforming, etc. I recently fell down a reddit rabbit hole where many many people have had terrible luck with laser resurfacing and now have way worse scarring etc because the person that preformed it was not well trained and likely used incorrect settings and techniques. I was shocked to see that the advice was split almost 50/50, with some people saying this is why you should only go to a licenced derm versus other people saying a lot of dermatologists won't be familiar with these so you should only go to an esthetician for this service. Got me thinking a lot and now im not sure how to procede for myself or even where to begin vetting a person for this.

[@fazzybear3]

If you're in central NJ, I use an esthetician who is trained at the Master level and is amazing!!

[@pnevlud]

My doc is an ocular facial plastic surgeon located in Fairfax Va. I have had two fractional co2 lasers and have great results.

[@ykm18181]

Thank you! After watching your videos I’ve come around to in-office procedures and they have been game changing.

[@keschlvincent7464]

Have you done any videos on laser hair removal and at home devices for it? I think that would be a great topic

[@kylarae367]

Not sure what it's like in the US, but I'm in Australia and received a medical referral to see a dermatologist for excoriation disorder scarring and the dermatologist told me that I would need to see a 'cosmetic dermatologist' and was told that you don't need a referral to see them. Point is that I definitely agree with the sentiment that it can be extremely challenging to find 'the right' professionals to see for skincare.

[@tammyd4099]

The reason the dermatologist recommended a cosmetic dermatologist is because a dermatologist fixes skin problems like dermatitis, psoriasis etc, not scarring. A cosmetic dermatologist is essentially a beautician trained in the use of beauty equipment. Some dermatologists here in Australia have a side business that does the non invasive procedures like lasers and Needling etc. I'm don't know if you had a referral from your GP to see the dermatologist but the GP is the one that put you in the wrong direction if this was the case.

[@felicitycann949]

Love this type of content! Thank you Dr.Ellis!!

[@ceebee5848]

My eyelashes EXPLODED with castor oil. People ask me all the time if I have false lashes but they’re all mine. I don’t even use mascara anymore, just curl them and go. I’ve been using castor oil on them every night for about 6 years. My brows too. I’ve never had such long, dark lashes as I do now at almost 40, even when I was a teen. I use it on my face nightly too, and it’s helped my acne scars tremendously. My skin is very sensitive and acne-prone and its never caused a breakout. I’m assuming it’s helping with fine lines as well bc I don’t have any. I don’t use anything on my skin as far as “skincare” because everything irritates it. I wash with antibacterial Dial soap (as suggested by my derm 20 years ago for acne), and moisturize with castor oil/rosehip oil. My skin is wrinkle and blemish free, soft and glowing. I haven’t worn foundation since my 20s. Maybe there isn’t “scientific studies” on castor oil, but there very well SHOULD be. But unfortunately, the multi-billion dollar pharmaceutical/beauty industries don’t tout natural things that actually heal, they want us to keep buying products, so we’ll probably never see any “scientific” studies on castor oil. But there is a plethora of anecdotal evidence online of the benefits of castor oil. As far as I’m concerned it’s a miracle in a bottle.

[@LinaGenX]

I have dry skin, and live in a cold climate. The game changer for me was switching from moisturiser to face oil. My skin alway felt too tight and dry, after I switched to face oil my skin feels like it fits my body. On my face I use Clarins face oil for dry skin. On the rest of my body I use jojoba oil, no particular brand, I just get whatever 100% jojoba oil they have. I'm sure other brands than Clarins have just as good face oils as the one I buy from them. In addition I use SPF, for my face I use products made for face, SPF body products make my skin break out. I only wear makeup on special occations

[@ksc743]

Clarins is a fabulous product. They do have lots of research behind their name and I like the fact they are truly plant based. For years I used Estee Lauder - good but full of synthetic chemicals then I discovered Clarins and my skin just loves it !

[@martithornton241]

LOVE face oil. It's a game changer.

[@tammyd4099]

Yes. People need to be less afraid of using oil based products as a moisturiser, and realise that oil does not clog pores. Vaseline is also great. Essentially anything that keeps the moisture in your skin is a moisturiser!

[@michellebetcher-hill5306]

Amazing video as always and your products are awesome! Thank you for calling out “clean” products so many people do not believe that it is a marketing scam!

[@catherinebissonnette8132]

Dr. Ellis, could you PLEASE put your makeup and clothing links/products in your description boxes for your videos? Please please please?!?!?!? Thank you 😂

[@Auldreekie967]

Dr Sam’s make up always looks so fresh faced and gorgeous. I’d like to know her make up products too. ❤

[@noora7773]

An incredible video! I am so used to seeing videos from dermatologists and other doctors who are extreme in their views but I can truly support everything said here. It is so common to see all kind of weird opinions stated as facts especially in tiktok videos by actual doctors. I am happy every time people bring up that clean beauty is a scam as there is nothing toxic in normal skincare. I remember a few years ago it was common to hear consumers talking about natural deodorants and that aluminum causes breast cancer! I'm glad I don't hear that bs anymore very often...

[@KO-ef8ls]

Also, everything I ever used on my skin that was labeled as an acne product made my breakouts waaaaay worse, little did I know, I was over drying the top layer of skin creating the problem. Finally, after just focusing on the moisture barrier, did I finally get relief from the worst of the chronic acne. Now I just deal with small periodic hormonal acne.

[@sanjap46810]

I heard that so many times. And you are right. Problem is that no one will tell you: it's going to be worse for couple of weeks - that will not sell the product. Even Isotretinoin does that, exacerbation before getting better. But what works for you is the best solution.

[@KO-ef8ls]

@sanjapiosijan4686 tretinoin always helped me, but I followed the directions of going slow and building up. I still can't use benzoyl because it over dries the top layer of my skin regardless of the moisturizer I use and traps oil underneath. Hydrating products have been my holy grail, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, thick moisturizers, aquaphor, and conservative amounts if actives like tret and salicylic

[@mihadana1959]

I totally agree with you. This is the sad truth about new beauty industry. You are the only professional who expose the truth.

[@radiandrea]

Red light panels and nuface and facial yoga is my holy grail. I do it consistently. Apart from sunscreen, vit c and retinoids. In office procedures are too costly and just unnecessary for me at the moment.

[@MyammiRose]

Face and Neck Yoga done in the right way can be so beneficial...but as always once these trends get going get misinterpreted and there is no baseline system as such when this happens, I got rid of my double chin doing neck stretches...but it needs to be done in moderation and as part of a routine that has been researched and not just taken up because of a tiktok viral...I'm still a bit confused about some of the videos where you see people doing the skin pinching and reforming with fingers I don't even know if this has any real science behind it? or weather some of these practices are long forgotten like some of the Chinese practices like Gua Sha techniques etc...Its really confusing.

[@carylfontaine3640]

Doctor, you are 100% spot on!!! I've been long enough to know..research! ❤

[@christinegiangreco2112]

Thank you for all the great information! I can’t agree with you more about going to a licensed professional for skin care. My girlfriend suffered some pretty intense burns from an On licensed and untrained provider. People also have to realize that the devices themselves need to be regularly maintained and inspected. I personally think that no serious devices should be allowed in anything but a medical practice with a dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon.

[@blake.johnson]

Thank you for sharing this honest and candid information! I certainly spend way too much time and money seeking the "perfect" routine. Everything has 5,000 5-star reviews and can be found on every top 10 must-have product list. I have nothing against expensive luxury skincare products and enjoy some of them myself; that said, consumers should know when they are paying a premium for experience versus efficacy. Love your content and have found some of your videos to be really insightful. Thanks again Dr. Ellis :)

[@ElizabethOnTheLake]

Cellulite - I can’t believe I’m actually about to post this because I truly do not understand why it worked. A few years ago, I started taking Sunrider Nuplus. it’s like a medical food or something. I would mix it into a drink twice a day. I think I took four scoops total. Anyway, I took it because of some other health problems I was having, but surprisingly, my cellulite disappeared! I could not believe it! Also, my nails, and my hair grew so fast that I was actually annoyed with it because I had to get my nails done and my haircut more often. I don’t know what is in that stuff, but honest to God my cellulite disappeared.

[@Soycowgirl]

Interesting!

[@doloresfuertes6677]

My eye lashes improved noticeably when I used a castor oil just for one month.

[@alonaampuan6834]

How come 7 months didnt do weel on my lashes but my eyebrow did

[@VeronicaSpark]

"If I have ti choose between an LED mask and in-office treatments..." This is a decision made by my pocketbook, actually, not my skin. An LED mask is expensive, but it's a one-time expense; in-office treatments are very expensive each time you get one. Thank you for you hard work, Dr. Sam! And thank you specially for Prequel! Wonderful products. 🙏🏼💖

[@a.h.8231]

Thank you so much for the TRUTH and enlightening us, because most of us spend soooo much money on skincare and at home devices etc. the pressure for us women is always heightened and we always have to remain “young” especially when we get older in our late 40’s or 50’s

[@JNapi-y7w]

Thank you so much for your time in creating this very useful content.

[@spongeybro9341]

thank you so much for bringing your wonderful Prequel products to all of us Fantastic & so affordable

[@naynay3174]

I’m a complete hypocrite for saying this, but imagine being able to feed a family of four for a week or two but instead going to buy a useless $300 moisturizer.

[@DVelez-wz3fe]

Or go to a dermatologist for in office treatments every month…can’t do that either

[@ChristineSpeller01]

I use SkinMedica TNS Advanced + Serum that retails for $295 for 1 oz, however, I will not pay that! SkinMedica lasts about 9 months or so past its use by date. If people want to pay almost $300 that’s their business but I try to not pay more than $150. I know the authentic product.

[@daymonwilson]

I agree one hundred percent

[@daymonwilson]

​@@ChristineSpeller01What is your point?That doesn't make any sense

[@daymonwilson]

What doesn't make sense??

[@JeramieSaito]

Wow. Thank you for this Doc! Really needed this video!

[@fiercegirldesign1]

Hey Sam! I’m a big fan. Thanks for cutting through the crap and keeping it real.

[@alisondorantes-garcia5751]

People forget that most businesses are built around creating things people want, not need. I learned in my 20s that a lot of things like skin texture and elasticity, oiliness, acne, hair density, etc are mostly if not completely genetic. We can improve things to some degree via healthy eating and healthier environments, but every body is different and we all respond to things differently.

[@kcamrygirl]

i hust ordered your lucent c i already have a few other products being on social security your skincareis within my budget! thank you so much for the products and your advice, at 66 i wish i wouldve found you years ago! thank you again, i am a huge fan

[@sayantaniist]

This one really a honest video on skincare products... really appreciate doc

[@epicjane]

Nothing can ever separate me again from my beloved Korean skincare. Real barrier saved my burning mature skin. Expensive brands ? Why would I waste my money. I don’t expect my wrinkles and lines to vanish but these skin care brands are taking care of my face because I‘m to lazy to follow a routine in the early morning at 4.45 am. 😝

[@kg811]

May I ask what is your age range? I am in my 60's and I was using it along with my daughter and I didn't think it was working. I live in an arid climate as well. So I went a different direction which didn't do anything for me and came back to some of the Korean sc I had and noticed it was much more moisturizing.

[@Danica.Powell]

Korean skincare is like insane. So cheap and so nice. I do have some really expensive skincare but I could replace most of it with kbeauty stuff that would be just as good.

[@bobababy6089]

True. Cheap and works. Not to mention very aesthetically pleasing packaging 😊

[@marilyndclack]

I just turned 43 and started to really take care of my skin in my very late 30s. By far Korean skincare has worked so much better for me than any other skincare am/pm routine that I have used. Even OG Korean brands are amazing, cheap and last you a while, compared to ones I would previously buy at Sephora. I wish I could afford in office procedures. But unfortunately it’s quite expensive. But sticking to a simple routine and being consistent is very much true.

[@Danica.Powell]

@@marilyndclack You are beautiful 🫶

[@maureenturk8578]

Thanks for this reminder that overpriced products are not necessarily more effective than average priced products. Skin products - especially pricey regimes with lots of steps - are not necessarily paths to beauty. And yes, seeing a certified MD for skincare is the only way to go. ❤

[@heyboi_]

I had used a Clarisonic from about 2012 to 2019 because it died and I decided to follow online skincare advice of sticking with hands for cleansing and gradually I started getting bad breakouts and congested skin. I think around 2021 or so I decided to try the silicone PMD device and it literally did nothing it felt so cheap. I then came across the Spa Sciences Nova which is like Clarisonic but anti microbial and since then my skin had been sooo much better. Thorough cleansing with sonic bristles is just really effective for me. I tried double cleansing with oils and balms and they broke me out too. I make sure I wash and disinfect the head often. I love it. My products feel like they work better after and sink in well.

[@evelynbarton6349]

I agree 💯

[@sarahm3240]

Good to know. Can I ask, how do you disinfect the head of the equipment? Thank you

[@heyboi_]

@@bathemeinchampagne like I said MY skin is visibly much better and not congested. Sonic brush cleansing is very effective for my skin to be clear.

[@heyboi_]

@@sarahm3240 I pour rubbing alcohol on it and let sit for a few mins a few times a week and I wash the head with soap before every use also.

[@sarahm3240]

@@heyboi_ Thanks for getting back. Will try this.

[@cristinamerlini]

Foreo made me feel like my hands were not enough..and they are expansive so I focus on the ingredients and what my skin needs as well. Loved this vídeo!! Thank you for debunking a lot of things

[@CoastalGaga]

Thank you! I stopped watching so many because of just this. I’m 72 and not much I haven’t tried and some were really so far fetched back in the 70’s. You have definitely gained a follower!💋

[@abcdefg-z5n]

This one really works wonders. Skinlyte has a soap that is loaded not only with collagen but also keratin peptides. It is called Hair & Whole Body Bar. It is fast absorbed because it has an enhanced binding enhancement technology which produces a water molecule that hydrates skin and hair. It repairs, rebuilds and strengthens hair and skin. I got it at Amazon and I am impressed with new benefits I discover every time I use it. I noticed many improvements in my hair, skin and nails. What I like best about it is that it's all natural and without harmful chemicals such as synthetic dyes, fragrance, SLS or preservatives.

[@Melissa-cy9se]

The only thing that minimized my cellulite was Pilates 2x/week. I was very surprised by the results.

[@camillemacquarrie7797]

Dr. Ellis, thank you for your informative video. I’d like for you to address the use of PFAS chemicals in cosmetics such as mascara and foundation. The FDA has allowed these chemicals in cosmetics. They don’t seem to be doing a great job regulating Thanks!

[@jodynuttall3215]

My favorite silly scam is Monat which markets its products as "clean" and "vegan". One of the reps chirped about Monat's vegan status and then started talking about how she's using tallow moisturizer.😁

[@josiehowe-fd8ee]

I do a double cleanse and I use you glenser and I love it. Thank you Dr Sam

[@guadelot]

The OLD Blue Nivea can It's "almost" a dupe to LaMer Cream. My grandmom uses only that & her skin is amazing

[@zarishumar4182]

My grandmother uses ponds moisturizer cream and she has stunning skin . I use the same moisturizer. Works great on me !

[@Zwantceeto]

Second the Nivea, everyone uses it in the family and it's great for winter.

[@Anikajannatul-zw6rp]

Thank you. The beauty industry has gotten out of control - it's refreshing to hear about what we DON'T need. 209 1

[@neopachisia4563]

Thanks sam.. you are saying what most won’t esp calling out brands like aug bader. I got conned into it because i really trusted bobbi brown who was promoting it so much. 😓😓😢But finally good sense has prevailed. Will NEVER buy anything that expensive again. Have total respect for dermatologists who’ve never promoted any brand like that. It made NO difference from any other good korean moisturizer,, i feel so angry ..

[@nataliemarshall7158]

Don’t be hard on yourself I doubt there is anyone that has never been swept up in the hype of some product at some time? Me personally I got sucked in several times before learning my lesson and I still get tempted from time to time. I have recently started using some Korean skincare and initially was at a loss with where to and how many products to start. I decided that doing something has to be better than doing nothing and have started with Beauty of Joseon as I found it very reasonable price wise and a lot of YT’S either love it and have stuck with it or they loved it but used it as a launching pad to then delve into the more “up market” Korean products that they feel are better for whatever reason. I do get tempted to also try the “up market” products but I remind myself “something is better than nothing” especially when I am enjoying the BOJ when I remember to be consistent I am also enjoying the benefits I’m beginning to see.

[@janetchen959]

Can you recommend some good eyes gel or cream to reduce eyes wrinkles.

I really appreciate the sharing of your expertise on skin care, Dr. Sam. Thank you.

[@diannewarren553]

When I dye my hair, I shoot a few pumps of castor oil into the bottle. It protects my scalp and moisturizes my hair during the process. I've also used avocado and coconut oil. The castor oil had better results.

[@Mikaracat]

I myself have weirdly sensitive skin, and it took me years to find a line that didn't cause a reaction. Where I agree that Tatcha is a bit expensive compared to other brands, it's worth it to me.

[@blobneon]

There is a “holistic master esthetician” out there on KZbin who touts castor oil and her own skincare line as the only things that work, and writes off derms and other licensed professionals as wrong. She deletes any comments of anyone who has had a negative experience with her methods. It’s insane out there, thank you so much for sharing your knowledge about the science behind skin, it’s helped me so much. Selling a 10+ step routine as a holistic practice may totally work for people, that’s awesome and I respect that, but some fall pray to channels like hers blindly and when they question their massive cystic pimples from piling castor oil on top of a hundred dollar “holistic” skincare line, they are told they must be doing something wrong or that they need the entire line.

[@tanyasilmanson]

Thank you! It’s been very very helpful!😊

[@trishajohnson4692]

Nope with castor oil. I have tried different oils, different moisturizers but only castor oil has helped my eyebrows grow, and once i stop, my growth goes away

[@sdarling6518]

Good for you but that's anecdotal evidence. It also doesn't apply to everyone or most of us according to the research behind it so far.

[@blobneon]

⁠​⁠@@sdarling6518exactly! I got ZERO benefits from using a quality castor oil on my lashes and brows religiously for almost a year. I stopped when I started getting massive deep pimples under my freakin eyebrow lol. Does that make my experience the law? Nope, simply my experience but valid just the same.

[@charmainebarvitius7906]

​@@sdarling6518 Too right, unfortunately. For me, my eyelashes and brows are exactly the same after a year of religious application....😢.

[@Minxythemonkey]

We need to take collagen in through our digestive system not externally ❤ good supplementation

[@wawa3]

I used to have really deep frown lines, but I started massaging my eyebrows and the area around my eyes, and it really works. It helps relax the muscles and relieve tension.