Dr Nina hosts Skincare Masterclass for Dermalogica at Harrods

Dr Nina Bal at the Dermalogica Smart Eye Density masterclass at Harrods, in front of the outsmart hollow eyes campaign board

As a leading skincare expert, Dr Nina was invited by Dermalogica to co-host a VIP masterclass on August 11th at renowned department store, Harrods in London. It is part of her ongoing partnership with the brand this year, following the Smart Eye Density campaign that went live earlier this month.

In discussion with the Dermalogica Education Manager, Candice Gardner, Dr Nina gave her clinical insight and thoughts on the newly launched, Dermalogica Smart Eye Density eye serum. Topics covered included the treatment modalities for the delicate eye contour, challenges faced when treating the eyes, the importance of growth factors for improved skin density, and the importance of skincare in supporting in-clinic treatment protocols.

Dr Nina Bal and Dermalogica Education Manager Candice Gardner on stage at the Smart Eye Density masterclass at Harrods

Growth factors are redefining eye care

Why skin rebuilding science is the next big beauty trend.

"We are moving away from a 'quick fix' more towards the regeneration of the tissue. Whether it is with modern skincare or in-clinic devices paired with injectable treatment protocols, the aesthetic industry is certainly leaning towards skin biohacking to regenerate and restore levels of collagen.

I see a movement away from traditional fillers in favour of regenerative injectables.

When it comes to skincare, topical growth factors are great for treating the skin at a more superficial level. Skincare alone cannot resolve hollowness and does not replace injectables, but equally, injectables cannot replace skincare. They work well partnered together, they are complimentary."

Can skincare help address hollow under eyes?

The rise of non-invasive solutions and the demand for treatment-inspired solutions is growing as consumers seek an alternative to injectables.

"So many factors can contribute to the brightness and appearance of the eye contour. From genetics to the natural ageing process, lifestyle choices, external factors and sleep. Darkness and the appearance of dark circles can be the result of pigmentation of the skin and where the skin is thin, blood vessels can be visible at the surface.

While there are in-clinic treatments and devices we can use to treat the eye contour effectively, targeted skincare applied daily is also an important factor. When it comes to the skin, consistency is key. This clever eye serum by Dermalogica, Smart Eye Density, activates the growth factors to effectively rebuild the under-eye contour. It hydrates and plumps the skin for an immediate impact on volume. Discoloration and darkness are visibly diminished, and the eye contour is visibly brighter."

At the clinic, under eye hollows and dark circles are assessed individually before any treatment plan is agreed, because what is driving the shadow differs from patient to patient.

Dr Nina Bal applying Dermalogica Smart Eye Density to the under eye contour at the Harrods masterclass

The eye ageing signs professional skin therapists spot first

"My patients number one concern is often their eye contour. As we age, growth factor signalling slows down, the skin renewal system weakens, and skin density is ultimately lost. There is a depletion of collagen and elastin in the skin, the fat pads drop creating a hollowness and darkness to the under-eye area.

We do a pinch test to first understand the level of elasticity in the skin before undergoing any treatment plan. We always treat the delicate skin around the eye with care and a tailored program of injectables, to include biostimulators and skin boosters can help diminish the signs of ageing and improve skin density."

The in-clinic side of that tailored programme includes polynucleotides, tear trough rejuvenation and Profhilo, chosen against what the pinch test and the consultation find rather than to a formula.

Dermalogica Smart Eye Density cartons on the shelf at the Harrods masterclass

After the masterclass

Attendees were invited to try the product with an interactive session alongside the Dermalogica professional team.

Photographer credit: Valeriia Rii.

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