Category: Sun protection

  • The 6 Essentials for Optimal Sun Protection

    The 6 Essentials for Optimal Sun Protection

    The 6 Essentials for Optimal Sun Protection

    The sun is finally here — the perfect time to enjoy vacation season. However, it’s crucial not to overlook sun protection, not only for our children but for ourselves as well. While the sun offers benefits such as improved mood and vitamin D synthesis, prolonged exposure can also lead to premature aging, sunburns, and increased skin cancer risk. Here are the key essentials to protect your skin effectively.

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    Essentials for optimal sun protection: enjoy the sun while protecting your skin from sunburn.

    What Do UVA and UVB Rays Actually Do? 

    UVA Rays 

    UVA rays cause immediate tanning but are just as harmful as UVB rays. They contribute to premature aging, pigmentation disorders, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Unlike UVB rays, UVA rays penetrate glass, meaning their radiation remains constant throughout the day.

    UVB Rays 

    UVB rays are responsible for sunburns and delayed tanning that can last for several weeks. They are most intense between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

    Sunburns 

    Excessive sun exposure can result in sunburns, premature skin aging, wrinkle formation, and increased skin cancer risk. A sunburn is a skin inflammation that causes redness and pain, typically appearing 12 to 24 hours after exposure. Severity varies depending on skin type, with fair skin being more vulnerable to stronger reactions than darker skin tones.

    Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 

    SPF measures a sunscreen’s ability to filter sun rays and indicates how long skin can be exposed before burning. SPF ratings are universal — SPF 15 provides the same level of protection regardless of brand. SPF primarily protects against UVB rays, but it is essential to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen to ensure protection from UVA rays as well.

    Choosing the Right SPF 

    The higher the SPF, the greater the UVB protection. However, it is incorrect to assume that SPF 30 blocks twice as many rays as SPF 15. 

    Here’s how SPF levels compare: 

    • SPF 15 blocks approximately 93% of UVB rays 
    • SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays 
    • SPF 60 blocks approximately 98% of UVB rays 
    • SPF 70 blocks approximately 98.2% of UVB rays 

    To select the protection best suited to your needs, consider your skin type and how it reacts to sun exposure. 

    Applying Sunscreen Properly 

    Using a high-SPF sunscreen can create a false sense of security. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours. Remember to reapply after swimming, sweating, or friction from clothing, as these factors reduce effectiveness. Even with water-resistant products, reapplication after swimming is recommended for optimal protection.

    UVC Rays and Protection Against Pigmentation 

    Sunlight includes not only UVA and UVB rays but also UVC rays, which have a high carcinogenic potential. Although the ozone layer filters most UVC rays, thinning of this layer increases exposure risk in certain regions.

    To enjoy the sun while minimizing skin damage — including pigmentation spots — consider incorporating these essentials into your routine:

    Book your appointment today for a personalized evaluation and discover our full range of sun protection products. 

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  • Men’s Skincare Routine 

    Men’s Skincare Routine 

    Men’s Skincare Routine

    More and more men are adopting a proper skincare routine rather than maintaining a minimal or nonexistent one. A solid grooming routine is a cornerstone of good hygiene and should be considered just as important as maintaining physical and mental well-being. Well-cared-for skin means fewer breakouts, less irritation and redness, and a delay in visible signs of aging. You’ll thank us in 10 years. Gentlemen, here is your new daily ritual. 

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    Men’s skincare routine — essential steps to cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, and protect men’s skin.

    Gentlemen, here is your new daily routine by following the steps outlined below.

    STEP 1 

    CLEANSE 

    Cleansing your skin is essential, both morning and evening. This step removes impurities, excess oils naturally produced by your body, environmental pollutants, sunscreen, and any products applied throughout the day. Daily cleansing helps maintain a balanced skin pH. 

    Note: Washing your face more than twice per day is not recommended, as it may stimulate increased oil production. 

    Suggestion: 

    – Purifying Cleansing Milk | Medicart 

    STEP 2 

    EXFOLIATE 

    Using an exfoliant helps unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, and eliminate debris that can dull the complexion. It can also help prevent ingrown hairs caused by shaving. 

    However, exfoliation should not be performed daily. Once or twice per week is sufficient. 

    Suggestion: 

    – Triple-Action Gentle Exfoliant | Medicart 

    STEP 3 

    HYDRATE & TREAT 

    The final — and certainly not least important — step is hydration. Many factors contribute to skin dryness and irritation, including shaving. 

    To combat dehydration, imperfections, and visible signs of aging, selecting the right treatment product is crucial. This step should be performed morning and evening. 

    Suggestions: 

    – LEXXEL Moisturizing Cream | Vivier Pharma 

    – HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator | SkinMedica 

    IMPORTANT REMINDER 

    While sunny days are always enjoyable, protecting your skin year-round is essential. Health Canada recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. 

    Daily sun protection helps preventlong-term damage such as premature skin aging. 

    Suggestions: 

    – Total Defense + Repair SPF 34 | SkinMedica 

    – Sheer Broad Spectrum SPF 45 | Vivier Pharma 

    BONUS STEP 

    The skin under the eyes is the thinnest area of the face (aside from the lips) and requires special care. Using a targeted eye treatment can help visibly refresh and brighten the appearance of the eyes. 

    Suggestions: 

    – Sublime Eye Radiance | Medicart 

    – GrenzCine Eye | Vivier Pharma 

    This article originally appeared in Medicart’s complimentary web magazine. 

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  • 4 Tips for Aging Gracefully According to Dr. Mai Ho

    4 Tips for Aging Gracefully According to Dr. Mai Ho

    4 Tips for Aging Gracefully According to Dr. Mai Ho

    Recognized for her gentle approach, precision, and deeply human perspective, Dr. Thi Nhu Mai Ho is a highly valued physician among Epiderma’s clientele. For over ten years, she has practiced aesthetic medicine with a unique vision: blending science, art, and sensitivity to deliver natural, harmonious, and personalized results.

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    Dr. Mai Ho, aesthetic medicine physician at Epiderma, smiling in her clinic.

    A Glimpse Into Dr. Mai Ho’s World

    A graduate of the Faculty of Medicine at the Université de Montréal, Dr. Mai Ho initially worked as an emergency physician for 15 years before transitioning into family medicine and later aesthetic medicine.

    “While working at Epiderma, I discovered a deep passion for aesthetic medicine. Having drawn since childhood and being passionate about art, aesthetic medicine allows me to combine my love for medicine, techniques, art, and sculpture.”

    This fusion of medical rigor, attentive listening, and artistic sensibility lies at the heart of her practice.

    A Human, Artistic, and Meticulous Approach

    Many patients place their trust in Dr. Mai Ho because of her delicacy, meticulous attention, and ability to achieve natural-looking outcomes.

    “I believe patients appreciate my work because they know I dedicate my full time and attention to them. I help address their insecurities while delivering the natural results they seek.”

    Guided by a holistic vision, she views the face as a whole and ensures that every treatment preserves the harmony of facial features.

    “Even in family medicine, I am known for taking ample time and providing thorough explanations. Choosing medico-aesthetic treatments often requires courage for many patients. It is therefore my duty to reassure them and explain every aspect of the procedure.”

    What to Expect During a Treatment With Dr. Mai Ho

    A typical treatment generally unfolds in three phases:

    “From the first phase, my patients recognize my sincere desire to help them address certain insecurities while enhancing their natural beauty. I provide honest and thoughtful recommendations.

    During the procedure, patients notice my strong attention to detail and the precision with which treatments are performed. I first design a detailed plan, carefully explaining each step, then administer the treatment while minimizing discomfort.

    Finally, when revealing the results, patients see that their objectives have been achieved with natural, harmonious outcomes and typically very few side effects.”

    Experienced injector with expertise in advanced injection techniques, including microcannula methods and modern aesthetic protocols.

    4 Tips for Aging Gracefully According to Dr. Mai Ho

    1 — Avoid Smoking

    Smoking accelerates skin aging by breaking down collagen and weakening tissue structure. To maintain healthy skin, Dr. Mai Ho strongly recommends avoiding smoking.

    2 — Maintain Physical and Mental Fitness

    She favors Pilates, which combines strength, flexibility, and focus while promoting overall well-being of both body and mind.

    3 — Wear Sunscreen

    UVA rays are present year-round and contribute significantly to premature skin aging. Dr. Mai Ho recommends wearing sunscreen 365 days a year.

    4 — Support Your Face in Combating the Effects of Time

    Since the age of 38, Dr. Mai Ho has adopted a preventive approach:

    “Since the age of 38, I receive neuromodulator treatments every four months and dermal filler treatments once a year to help prevent facial sagging.”

    This gradual strategy helps preserve facial harmony and structure over time.

    Conclusion

    According to Dr. Mai Ho, aging gracefully relies on:

    • Adopting healthy lifestyle habits
    • Daily sun protection
    • Maintaining physical and mental well-being
    • A preventive approach in aesthetic medicine

    For natural, harmonious, and personalized results:

    Book an appointment with Dr. Mai Ho

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  • Brown Spots: How Photorejuvenation at Epiderma Can Help You

    Brown Spots: How Photorejuvenation at Epiderma Can Help You

    Brown Spots: How Photorejuvenation at Epiderma Can Help You

    Over time, it is common for dark spots to appear on the skin, particularly on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, décolleté, and hands.

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    Photorejuvenation treatment to reduce dark spots and even out skin tone at Epiderma

    These pigmented spots, often caused by prolonged sun exposure without adequate protection, are among the most visible signs of photoaging. Fortunately, effective solutions are now available to restore a clearer, more even complexion.

    At Epiderma, thanks to our rigorous medical framework and expertise in medical aesthetics, we have been offering advanced photorejuvenation treatments since 2022 using Elos Plus technology (SRA applicator). This innovative treatment targets both superficial and deeper layers of the skin to effectively address benign pigmentation concerns such as dark spots, redness, and superficial melasma.

    By combining intense pulsed light (IPL) with thermal energy, photorejuvenation stimulates collagen production beneath the skin without damaging its surface. The result is progressively clearer, smoother, and more radiant skin, with a restored natural glow, minimal discomfort, and little to no downtime.

    Before/after photorejuvenation at Epiderma showing improved skin tone, smoother texture, and reduced spots.

    “Photorejuvenation allows for gradual improvement in skin quality, with results that can last for several months,” explains Dr. Alexis Du Cap, Medical Director at Epiderma.

    Whether you are looking to reduce pigmentation, refine skin texture, or revive your complexion’s radiance, Elos Plus photorejuvenation is a safe, quick, and effective solution performed under medical supervision in our clinics.

    Book a free consultation and discover how we can help you achieve radiant skin.

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  • How Can You Get Rid of Dark Circles? 

    How Can You Get Rid of Dark Circles? 

    How Can You Get Rid of Dark Circles?

    When we develop hollow or discolored dark circles under the eyes, they can create the impression that we are tired. When concealer is no longer enough, it may be time to address the issue more directly.

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    Woman gently touching her under-eye area to reduce the appearance of dark circles.

    Why Do We Get Dark Circles? 

    Dark circles under the eyes can becaused by several factors.

    Here are the most common causes:

    1. Fatigue and lack of sleep – One of the most frequent causes. Insufficient sleep can lead to a dull complexion and make dark circles more noticeable.
    1. Genetics –Hereditary predispositions play an important role. Some individuals naturally have thinner skin or more visible blood vessels under the eyes.
    1. Aging – Over time, the skin loses elasticity and thickness, making the underlying blood vessels more visible.
    1. Dehydration – Poor hydration can make the under-eye area appear drier and emphasize dark circles.
    1. Allergies – Allergies may trigger inflammation and vascular congestion, contributing to darker under-eye shadows.
    1. Sun exposure – Excessive sun exposure can increase pigmentation in this delicate area.
    1. Underlying health conditions – Certain medical conditions may also contribute to dark circles.
    1. Water retention – Fluid retention, often linked to high salt intake or hormonal fluctuations, can accentuate the appearance of dark circles.
    1. Stress and diet – An unbalanced lifestyle may also play a role.

    To help improve the appearance of dark circles, it is often recommended to adopt an appropriate skincare routine, stay well hydrated, optimize sleep habits, and consult a professional when needed.

    How Can You Reduce the Appearance of Dark Circles?

    There is no secret: quality sleep and a balanced lifestyle remain essential. However, if shadows persist despite healthy habits, effective solutions are available.

    Using a targeted eye contour treatment combined with a suitable concealer can significantly improve the appearance of the under-eye area. The most effective eye treatments are those designed to decongest, brighten, depigment, and illuminate the skin.

    Key ingredients to look for include:

    • Caffeine – Helps stimulate and drain
    • Vitamin C – Brightens the complexion
    • Licorice extract – Helps reduce pigmentation
    • Fruit acids – Promote gentle exfoliation
    • Daily sun protection (SPF 30+) applied carefully around the eye area is also crucial to prevent further darkening.

    Can Hollow Dark Circles Be Treated?

    The answer is yes. Over time, the area between the inner corner of the eye and the mid-cheek gradually loses volume due to the natural decline of collagen and hyaluronic acid. When dark circles appear hollow and the tear trough becomes more visible, hyaluronic acid filler injections can effectively reduce their appearance.

    For pigmented or persistent dark circles, a PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) treatment may also be recommended. This 100% natural regenerative approach helps improve skin quality, reduce discoloration, and restore a fresher, more rested look.

    Depending on age and individual needs, specialized regenerative skincare products or formulas rich in hyaluronic acid may also be incorporated. However, it is essential that treatments in this delicate area be performed by a highly trained physician with a strong understanding of facial anatomy.

    Because the under-eye area is complex and fragile, choosing an experienced provider is crucial.

    A professional evaluation will determine whether fillers, PRF, or a cosmetic approach is best suited to your type of dark circles.

    BOOK AN APPOINTMENT FOR AN EVALUATION

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  • 4 Beauty Resolutions to Add to Your Routine in 2026

    4 Beauty Resolutions to Add to Your Routine in 2026

    4 Beauty Resolutions to Add to Your Routine in 2026

    Each new year is an opportunity to refocus on what truly matters: taking care of your skin, simplifying your routine, and choosing beauty habits that make a real difference. Between daily sun protection, aging prevention, and personalized skin assessments, it has never been easier to adopt simple, effective, and long-lasting habits.

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    Woman applying a facial treatment as part of a minimalist beauty routine recommended by a medical aesthetic clinic.

    Here are 4 simple and proven beauty resolutions to incorporate into your daily routine for glowing skin, winter and summer alike.

    1 — Apply Sunscreen Every Day

    Today, sun protection is considered the most important anti-aging step. UVA rays are present year-round, even on cloudy days, and are responsible for premature skin aging: wrinkles, fine lines, pigmentation spots, and loss of radiance.

    To protect the health and youthfulness of your skin:

    • Choose an SPF 30 or higher, based on your needs.
    • Opt for a formula suited to your skin type: mineral, tinted, or fluid.
    • Apply it every morning, even in winter and even in the city.
    • Be extra vigilant if you are receiving in-clinic treatments (laser hair removal, microneedling, microdermabrasion, etc.).

    Daily sunscreen use is one of the beauty habits that delivers the best long-term results.

    2 — Make Time for Yourself

    Stress, lack of sleep, and a fast-paced lifestyle can affect the appearance of your skin. In 2026, self-care and treatments that help the body recover are more valued than ever.

    Some simple ideas:

    • Take a warm bath followed by a nourishing body cream.
    • Apply a hydrating or soothing mask in the evening.
    • Enjoy a professional facial treatment in clinic (facial, peel, Bela MD, etc.).
    • Adopt a minimalist routine: cleanse, hydrate, protect.

    These moments of self-care help reduce stress, improve skin hydration, and promote a brighter complexion.

    3 — Choose Skin Care Tailored to Your Needs… with a Professional Assessment

    Every skin type is unique: sensitive, acne-prone, combination, dry, mature…

    To achieve visible results, it’s essential to choose treatments that are truly adapted to your skin’s needs.

    In clinic, a free personalized skin assessment allows our medical-aesthetic technicians to evaluate:

    • Your skin type
    • Your concerns (wrinkles, pigmentation, redness, loss of firmness, texture, pores, etc.)
    • Your current routine
    • Your goals

    Based on this assessment, they can recommend appropriate facial treatments and medical-aesthetic solutions such as photorejuvenation, skinboosters, neuromodulator injections, or dermal fillers.

    The goal is simple: to build a routine and treatment plan that respect your skin, your budget, and your lifestyle.

    4 — Simplify Your Routine

    The 2026 trend: skinimalism, or the art of using fewer products that are better chosen.

    Simple habits to adopt:

    • Replace disposable wipes with gentle cleansers applied by hand.
    • Choose multi-functional products (e.g., antioxidant, brightening, and anti-aging serums such as SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic or Vivier Radiance Serum).
    • Finish your products before purchasing new ones.

    A simplified routine is often more effective, more consistent, and gentler on the skin.

    Conclusion: Your Skin Deserves Personalized Support

    Adopting new beauty resolutions also means giving yourself the support of passionate professionals. Our medical-aesthetic technicians are here to guide you and help you create a routine that reflects who you are — simple, effective, and tailored to your goals.

    Because beautiful skin starts with the right choices, supported by professionals.

    Book a free in-clinic consultation.

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  • Gift Ideas: Find the Perfect Gift at Epiderma 

    Gift Ideas: Find the Perfect Gift at Epiderma 

    Gift Ideas: Find the Perfect Gift at Epiderma

    The holidays are approaching, and you’re looking for a gift idea that truly delights? Giving a facial, an in-clinic treatment, or a quality skincare product is always a safe choice. Here are our top suggestions for every budget — perfect for caring for your skin or treating someone you love.

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    Epiderma beauty gift ideas featuring facial treatments, Medicart products, and a gift card.

    Gift Ideas Under $50&

    Epiderma Gift Card

    Give the freedom to choose from all our treatments and products. Treat your loved ones — or yourself — with a Medicart + Epiderma gift card, offering access to a wide range of medico-esthetic treatments and high-quality skincare products.

    Shop this product

    Medicart Renaissance Glove — $30 (Made in Québec)

    An essential for exfoliating both face and body. This glove gently removes dead skin cells and impurities, leaving skin visibly smoother, softer, and more radiant.

    Shop this product 

    Medicart Pure Cleansing Milk — $45 (Made in Québec) 

    A rich cleansing milk that removes impurities and makeup while respecting the skin’s natural balance. Ideal for a comforting daily skincare routine.

    Shop this product 

    Gift Ideas Under $100

    Medicart Triple Action Gentle Exfoliator — $60 (Made in Québec)

    A foaming cream that gently exfoliates using its Triple-Sphere formula (jojoba, bamboo, and diatoms). It removes dead skin cells, stimulates cell renewal, and improves microcirculation for a more even, radiant complexion.

    Shop this product 

    Face Shield Flex SPF 50 – Colorescience 

    A high-performance tinted sunscreen combining EnviroScreen™ technology with innovative color correction. Its lightweight formula enhances the complexion while providing comprehensive protection. Available in four flexible shades to suit a wide range of skin tones.

    Shop this product 

    Gift Ideas Under $300

    Chemical Peel

    The ideal glow-boosting treatment before an event or at the change of seasons. It evens out the complexion, softens the skin, and instantly revives facial radiance.

    Book this treatment

    Vivier Facial

    A high-performance treatment combining medical-grade pharmaceutical ingredients with exclusive protocols. The result: brighter, smoother, revitalized skin thanks to antioxidants, peptides, and growth factors.

    Book this treatment

    Microneedling

    A powerful treatment that stimulates collagen, improves firmness, and reduces the appearance of scars and imperfections. A transformative gift for visibly smoother, more even skin.

    Book this treatment

    Ready to Shop?

    No matter your budget, you’ll find the perfect beauty gift at Epiderma. Quality products, professional treatments, or a gift card — now is the perfect time to offer a moment of well-being.

    Discover all our treatments and shop our products to give — or treat yourself to — the perfect gift.

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  • 4 Products to Care for Your Skin This Summer 

    4 Products to Care for Your Skin This Summer 

    4 Products to Care for Your Skin This Summer 

    Summer is back — and with it, the need to adapt your skincare routine to properly protect your skin. UVA and UVB rays are present even on cloudy days and contribute to premature aging, pigmentation spots, and skin damage. 

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    Four skincare products to protect and soothe the skin during summer

    Here are four essential products recommended by our professionals to keep your skin healthy, radiant, and protected all summer long — and all year round. 

    1 — Sheer Broad Spectrum SPF 45 — Vivier Pharma

    Price: $65

    This silky, non-greasy sunscreen lotion provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Perfect for normal to dry skin, it leaves your skin feeling comfortable throughout the day. 

    Made in Québec, this Vivier product is also cruelty-free — an ideal choice for effective and ethical sun protection. 

    2 — Sunforgettable Brush-On Powder SPF 50 — Colorescience 

    Price: $94 

    The ideal powdered sun protection to keep in your bag for quick touch-ups during the day. 

    This 100% mineral formula protects against UVA/UVB rays as well as daily environmental stressors. 

    Available in four natural shades, it suits all skin types while lightly evening out the complexion. Perfect for outdoor activities, sunny days — or for easily reapplying SPF over makeup. 

    3 — Face Shield Flex SPF 50 — Colorescience

    Price: $80 

    The tinted version of Colorescience sun protection, featuring exclusive EnviroScreen™ technology for comprehensive defense against: 

    • UVA / UVB 
    • Blue light 
    • Pollution 
    • Free radicals 

    Its flexible color-correcting formula adapts to your skin tone for a radiant, unified finish. Available in four shades, it’s ideal for those seeking high-performance protection while enhancing their complexion. 

    4 — Soothing Balm — Medicart 

    Price: $55 

    Perfect after a day in the sun, this balm provides immediate relief for overheated or irritated skin. It soothes, hydrates, and delivers a refreshing sensation upon application. 

    An ideal ally for:

    • Redness after prolonged sun exposure
    • Feelings of discomfort
    • Mild sunburn

    A must-have in every summer skincare kit. 

    Conclusion 

    To fully enjoy summer with peaceof mind, the formula is simple: daily sun protection + the right products for your skin. 

    These four essentials go wherever you go — from the terrace to the poolside — while preserving your skin’s health and beauty. 

    Ask our professionals for personalized advice on choosing the ideal SPF. 

    Book an appointment for a skin evaluation. 

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