Dr Shamsa Kanwal Dermatologist

31/03/2026

Monothreads can help improve acne scars by stimulating collagen and tightening the skin from within.

These fine threads are placed under the skin to support tissue and trigger natural healing. Over time, this leads to smoother texture and reduced depth of scars.

They work best for mild to moderate atrophic scars, especially when combined with treatments like subcision or microneedling.

Results are gradual and improve over a few months as collagen rebuilds. Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal outcomes.

Aftercare and proper patient selection are key for safe and effective results.

BeforeAfter AestheticClinic

31/03/2026

30/03/2026

Not all acne is the same.
And treating the wrong type can make it worse.

Hormonal acne usually appears along the jawline and chin. It is often deeper, painful and linked to hormonal fluctuations. Ingredients like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide and hormonal regulation help manage it.

Fungal acne presents as small, uniform, itchy bumps, often on the forehead or cheeks. It does not respond to typical acne treatments. Antifungal ingredients such as ketoconazole are more effective.

Bacterial acne includes inflamed pimples, pustules and clogged pores. It responds well to salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and proper cleansing.

Identifying your acne type is the first step to clear skin.
Using random products without understanding your skin often delays results.

Targeted treatment always works better than guesswork.

DermatologyEducation ClearSkin

27/03/2026

Excited to share that I was recently featured in USA TODAY Co., Inc. in their in-depth review of Hers hair growth treatments.

In the article, I contributed expert commentary on the importance of understanding the root causes of hair loss, tailoring treatments to individual needs, and approaching solutions with both medical rigor and empathy.

You can read the full piece here:
https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/hers-review-for-hair-loss/89321157007/

17/03/2026

Proud to be featured in Newsweek discussing why adult acne is becoming more common in Millennials and Gen Z. Adult breakouts are often driven by a mix of hormones, stress, sleep disruption, and products that clog pores. A simple starting plan is gentle cleansing, a non-comedogenic moisturizer, and one acne active at a time, like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, plus broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily. Full article link is in this post.

https://www.newsweek.com/dermatologist-reveals-why-adult-acne-is-surging-among-millennials-and-gen-z-11113392

16/03/2026

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture, but choosing the right type is important for maintaining a healthy skin barrier.

There are three main types of exfoliation.

Enzyme exfoliation uses natural enzymes to break down the proteins that hold dead skin cells together. It is usually the gentlest option and works well for sensitive skin. Common enzymes include papain and bromelain.

Chemical exfoliation uses acids to loosen the bonds between dead skin cells so they can shed more easily. Ingredients such as Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid belong to the AHA group and help improve skin texture, brightness and uneven tone.

Physical exfoliation works by manually removing dead skin cells using scrubs or cleansing devices. While it can give immediate smoothness, overuse or harsh scrubbing can irritate the skin.

The key is balance. Over exfoliating can damage the skin barrier and increase sensitivity.

For most people, exfoliating one to two times per week with gentle products is enough to maintain healthy, smooth skin.

DermatologyTips SkinCareEducation

15/03/2026

Microneedling can stimulate collagen and improve skin texture, but proper aftercare is essential for safe healing and better results.

Right after the procedure, your skin is more sensitive and the barrier is temporarily compromised. Protecting the skin during this time helps reduce irritation and supports recovery.

Avoid direct sun exposure and use broad spectrum SPF 30+ once your provider advises it. Sun protection helps prevent pigmentation and irritation.

Keep the skin well hydrated with gentle, soothing moisturizers. Hydration supports barrier repair and reduces dryness or tightness.

Avoid active ingredients such as retinoids, strong exfoliating acids, or Vitamin C for a few days until the skin settles. These ingredients can irritate freshly treated skin.

Skip makeup for at least 24 hours to prevent clogged pores and allow the skin to heal.

Avoid heat, heavy workouts, saunas, and sweating for the first 24 to 48 hours as they can increase inflammation.

Be gentle with your skin. Use mild cleansers and avoid scrubbing or harsh treatments while the skin is healing.

Following proper aftercare helps your skin recover faster and improves the overall results of microneedling.

HealthySkin SkincareCare

13/03/2026

Healthy skin is not about using more products.
It is about using the right ones for your skin.

Overloading your routine can irritate the skin barrier, trigger breakouts and cause sensitivity. A simple, balanced routine often gives better and more consistent results.

Focus on the essentials:
Gentle cleansing
Targeted active ingredients
Non-comedogenic hydration
Daily SPF 30+

When your skincare supports your skin barrier, your skin naturally looks clearer, smoother and healthier.

Consistency always works better than complicated routines.

SPF30Plus SkinCareEducation

10/03/2026

My interview has been published in the New York Times. You can read complete article here.
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/10/well/wash-new-clothes-before-wearing.html

09/03/2026

Your neck needs skincare too.

The neck often shows signs of aging earlier than the face. The skin is thinner, produces less oil and loses collagen faster, making it more prone to dryness, wrinkles and sagging.

Sun exposure also plays a major role because many people apply sunscreen to the face but forget the neck. Constantly looking down at phones and screens can also contribute to horizontal neck lines.

A simple routine can make a big difference: Extend your skincare from face to neck.
Use gentle hydration and collagen supporting ingredients.
Apply SPF 30+ daily on the neck and chest.

Taking care of your neck early helps maintain smoother and firmer skin over time.

DermatologyEducation SkinCareRoutine

08/03/2026

Acne scars treatment, after one session.

Acne scars do not all respond to the same treatment.
The key is identifying the scar type and choosing the right approach.

Depressed scars such as ice pick, boxcar, and rolling scars are caused by collagen loss. Treatments like microneedling, subcision, fractional laser, and TCA CROSS help stimulate collagen and gradually smooth the skin.

Rolling scars often improve with subcision because it releases the fibrous bands pulling the skin down. Boxcar scars respond well to laser resurfacing and microneedling. Ice pick scars usually require targeted treatments such as TCA CROSS.

Raised scars such as hypertrophic or keloid scars are treated differently. These may require steroid injections, silicone therapy, or laser to reduce thickness.

In many patients, combination therapy gives the best results because scars are often mixed.

Improvement is gradual and usually requires multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart. Consistent sun protection is essential to prevent post inflammatory pigmentation during treatment.

SkinRejuvenation DermatologyTips

05/03/2026

I’m honored to be featured in Vogue’s roundup of the best cleansers for mature skin. In the article, I share my expert take on gentle, effective cleansing that supports fragile, aging skin without stripping it.

Skincare is never just about products—it’s about protecting and nurturing your skin barrier at every stage of life. 💫

You can read the full piece here: https://www.vogue.com/article/best-cleanser-for-mature-skin
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