Achieving perfect skin requires more than just luck—it demands expertise and experience

Words Julia de Armas
Featured photo courtesy of ANESSA Philippines (via Instagram)
April 2, 2024

The journey often seems elusive in the quest for flawless skin, with countless products and treatments promising miraculous results. But what's clear is that achieving perfect skin requires more than just luck—it demands expertise and experience. 

Dr. Windie Villarica Hayano embodies both, with over two decades of medical practice and a wealth of knowledge acquired through extensive training in the Philippines, Thailand, and Japan. In 2008, she co-founded The Skin Inc. Dermatology and Laser Center in Magallanes Village, Makati, where she continues transforming skin and lives.

SUNBLOCK

The first is no surprise. Especially in tropical climates like the Philippines, Dr. Hayano swears by sunblock—but not just any kind. “A hybrid-tinted one,” she explains. “I use sunblock all the time, SPF 50. I apply 2 fingers long every two hours.” But her preference goes beyond mere protection. “I like tinted ones because they serve as makeup primers as well,” she adds.

Dr. Hayano has a keen eye for quality, favoring brands like Anessa, TIZO, Frezyderm, and La Roche-Posay for their elegant formulations. “Sunblock is a must to prevent aging, pigmentation, and of course, skin cancer,” she emphasizes. “NON NEGOTIABLE.”

RETINOID

When it comes to combating signs of aging without breaking the bank, Dr. Hayano advocates for the power of retinoids or BHA/AHA equivalents. “These products are cheap, easily available, and when applied religiously, can deliver great anti-aging benefits,” she explains. “They can stimulate collagen production, prevent pigmentation, and even control breakouts.”

Dr. Hayano emphasizes that skincare doesn't have to be expensive but it does require diligence. By incorporating these affordable yet effective options into your routine, you can achieve remarkable results and maintain youthful, radiant skin without draining your wallet.

BOTULINUM TOXIN INJECTIONS

“People who say they had a vacation or slept well probably had Botox! It truly is a wonderful drug.” Dr. Hayano takes an unexpected turn as she introduces Botulinum Toxin Injections into the skincare conversation. “Not a skin care product... but definitely in it to win it,” she declares with a hint of excitement. “Contrary to what people think, Botox (which is a brand, by the way) is your best friend. But you need to get this done by a doctor.”

She delves into its myriad uses while highlighting its incredible versatility. “It has amazing and varied uses and honestly is one of the best, most effective treatments you can do for active wrinkles, skin flushing, sweating, pore reduction, facial reshaping, etcetera,” Dr. Hayano elaborates.

Dr. Hayano even cites extensive research to support her claims. “There are 20-year-long twin studies on this where they compared one twin that had treatment versus one that didn’t, and the difference is really remarkable in favor of the twin that got toxed.”

Remember, all products need the guidance of a doctor, especially with procedures like Botox, lasers, fillers, or threads. “We have to keep in mind not to focus just on skin because we age in a 3-dimensional way,” concludes Dr. Hayano. 

So, while we’re busy ironing out wrinkles and zapping spots, let’s not forget the bigger picture. Every treatment, every skincare routine—it's gotta be tailored to you! Because let's face it, we're all dealing with our own set of quirks and issues. And that's what makes us beautifully unique, right?