
Age Well with Dr Sophie Shotter
Conversations with the award-winning Dr Sophie Shotter covering the latest trends and developments in skincare, longevity, and aesthetics with a science-based approach - and a focus on inner health and wellness.
Latest episodes

May 7, 2024 • 25min
The pregnancy and breastfeeding episode
Dr. Sophie Shotter
Dr. Sophie and Fiona discuss:
• The reasons women need to re-think their usual routine when pregnant
• Can pregnant / breast feeding women have wrinkle relaxing injections?
• Can pregnant / breast feeding women have fillers and skin boosters?
• Skincare alternatives
• Dissolving filler while pregnant
• Can pregnant / breast feeding women have lasers / IPL / microneedling?
• Using topical numbing agents like lidocaine
• Can pregnant / breast feeding women have a chemical peel?
• Salicylic acid while pregnant
• Safe chemical acids while pregnant
• Topical vitamin C
• Other things to avoid while pregnant
• Prescription drugs used for acne - spironolactone / Roaccutane
• Parabens
• Physical positioning during a facial
• Melasma
• Crepey tummies post pregnancy / stretch marks / pelvic floor
• Diastasis Recti
• Skin changes during pregnancy
• Spider Nevus
• Self-care after pregnancy / managing expectations
Find out more by heading to https://drsophieshotter.com/
Follow Dr Sophie on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/drsophieshotter/?hl=en
…and Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@drsophieshotter?lang=en
This podcast was produced by https://thepodcastpeople.co/
Dr Sophie and Fiona mention a few studies – all the links are here (press ‘episode website’ for the full list):
Below is a study to reassure women who had botulinum toxin before knowing they were pregnant (but this wasn’t a placebo controlled ‘quality’ study so again, far more evidence needed – and Dr Sophie would never knowingly treat a pregnant woman – nor should anyone else). This is purely to reassure.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26635276/#:~:text=Conclusions%3A%20A%2024%2Dyear%20retrospective,rates%20in%20the%20general%20population
Various studies show that alpha hydroxy acids can be beneficial in treating hyperpigmentation, and they’re generally safe to use in pregnancy.
Bakuchiol is a retinol alternative that’s safe in pregnancy – it’s a plant-based ingredient and in one study performed just as well as retinol from an anti-aging standpoint. This is a good article that compares both ingredients: https://www.bareluxeskincare.com/blogs/elevated-simplicity/bakuchiol-vs-retinol
Chemical sunscreens that contain oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, or octinoxate should be avoided as these will absorb into the bloodstream and there are concerns about hormone disruption.
Look out for phthalates / formaldehyde / toluene in perfume and nail polishes. Research is being carried out to assess a possible link with birth defects.
Also look out for ammonia found in some hair dyes – several studies show this has carcinogenic properties.
Spironolactone has been liked to birth defects so should be avoided.
Research published by the University of Reading in 2012 found parabens and aluminium in women who’d had breast cancer – although no definite causal link has been identified. But some women choose to avoid them during pregnancy. Parabens are often used as preservatives in things like shampoo.
Many essential oils increase the skin’s sensitivity to UV light or have the potential to over-stimulate and encourage menstruation. The ones to avoid are basil, rosemary, juniper berry, jasmine, cypress and chamomile blue plus camphor, peppermint extract, and mint oil.
After 16 weeks, pregnant women should avoid sleeping on their back. And after 28 weeks, data tells us that back sleeping doubles the risk of stillbirth.
Research has found that pregnancy can accelerate cellular ageing. Read more here: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/having-a-baby-can-age-you
Dr. Sophie and Fiona discussed (but didn't recommend) Kim Anami, the so-called vaginal weight lifter.
Dr. Sophie recommends:
Skin Better Science Interfuse lines (contains a filler grade HA to work inside-out).
Meder Beauty Lipo-Oval products - concentrate and face masks.
The Bionic laser.
Meder Beauty facials.
HydraFacial (although Dr. Sophie may avoid using the peel component in some people).
Nailberry - nail varnishes formulated to be "12 chemical free".
Revision Skincare Body Firm cream (for stretch marks).
The Elvie for the pelvic floor.
The Emsella chair for the pelvic floor.
The content in this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace or substitute advice given by, or consultation with, your doctor or any other healthcare professional. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Dr Sophie Shotter, her company and any employees or representatives are not liable for any claims arising out of or in connection with this podcast.

Apr 30, 2024 • 34min
So what's the deal with lasers (+ LED / IPL)?
Dr. Sophie Shotter
Dr. Sophie and Fiona discuss:
• What do lasers do best?
• An explainer on the different brands
• Brand hype versus actual technology
• Ablative lasers
• Non-ablative lasers / ‘fractional’ technology
• Impacts on the skin barrier
• What’s the difference between IPL, laser, and LED?
• LED’s ability to treat rosacea / psoriasis and other autoimmune disease
• What Dr. Sophie uses in-clinic
• What’s the experience like?
• Results
• Treatment protocols
• Could people with sensitive skin have a laser treatment?
• Maintenance (how many sessions needed)?
• Darker skin tones
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
• Hyped lasers (are they worth the hype?)
• At-home laser devices
Find out more by heading to https://drsophieshotter.com/
Follow Dr Sophie on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/drsophieshotter/?hl=en
…and Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@drsophieshotter?lang=en
This podcast was produced by https://thepodcastpeople.co/
Dr. Sophie and Fiona mention a few studies – all the links are here (press ‘episode website’ for the full list):
One study found that red and blue light therapy helped clear plaque psoriasis and there’s hefty anecdotal support for red light helping to reduce the inflammation that leads to rosacea flushes. Read more here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5756569/
Dr. Sophie uses the Byonik and the Emerald
There are various laser technologies (or types of laser) - a few examples Dr. Sophie mentions are:
The Aviclear
Ruby
Alexandrite
Diode
ND:Yag
KTP
(but this isn’t an exhaustive list).
Dr. Sophie recommends the Dermalux Flex at-home LED device.
The Baby Face refers to a non-ablative treatment from Lutronic.
The Endolift and Lyma were also mentioned in the chat - as was Dr. Priya Verma in London (for the Endolift).
The content in this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace or substitute advice given by, or consultation with, your doctor or any other healthcare professional. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Dr Sophie Shotter, her company and any employees or representatives are not liable for any claims arising out of or in connection with this podcast.

Apr 23, 2024 • 31min
16 things you need to know about sunscreen
Dr. Sophie Shotter
Dr. Sophie and Fiona discuss:
• The sunscreen reapplication issue
• A reapplication tip
• Mineral v chemical sunscreens (and an explainer)
• UVA and UVB – what you really need
• Is there that much of a difference between Factor 30 and 50?
• Can we tan safely? (+ a brand with a different approach)
• Does SPF makeup offer enough protection?
• What about skincare with a built in SPF?
• How effective is water resistant sunscreen?
• Do sunscreens block pores?
• How to wear makeup and sunscreen
• The science behind using antioxidants as sun protection
• Astaxanthin (and the TikTok influencer)
• Supplementing melatonin
• Does being in the sun give health benefits?
• What about vitamin D? And S.A.D.?
• The PA+ ratings on sunscreens – an explainer
• Should we wear sunscreen when flying / driving?
• Sunscreens and the issue of coral reefs
• Is there anything we can do to reverse sun damage?
• Dr. Sophie’s product ‘loves’ and recommendations
• Polarised sunglasses
• Do any meds mean you need more sun protection?
• UV clothing
• How to store sunscreen
• Dr. Sophie’s MOST IMPORTANT TIP!
• And finally…do YOU know this song?
Find out more by heading to https://drsophieshotter.com/
Follow Dr Sophie on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/drsophieshotter/?hl=en
…and Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@drsophieshotter?lang=en
This podcast was produced by https://thepodcastpeople.co/
Dr Sophie and Fiona mention a few brands, ideas, studies and individuals – all the links are here (press ‘episode website’ for the full list):
The stickers that Dr. Sophie mentions are described in this article https://www.allure.com/story/uv-stickers-reapply-sunscreen-tiktok
More on Institut Esthederm’s approach to tanning https://www.sweetcare.com/gb/sweet-mag/institut-esthederm-suncare-i-1568
Here’s the make-up compact Dr. Sophie mentions https://www.skinbetter.com/shop-skincare/product-category/sunscreens/sunbetter-tone-smart-spf-68-sunscreen-compact-M024.html
Here are the powders https://colorescienceuk.com/products/sunforgettable-total-protection-brush-on-shield-spf-50?variant=7076584751169
The Kate Somerville SPF make-up spray seems to be out-of-stock in the UK. There are others – for example this one from E.l.f. [note: Dr. Sophie hasn’t used this one so this is an example only]: https://www.elfcosmetics.co.uk/suntouchable-all-set-for-sun-spf-30/81514EU.html
There are emerging studies on astaxanthin – such as this one:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073124/
And a study to read on supplementing melatonin is here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24164339/
Some research has shown a class of antioxidants in certain fruit and bark has a dual protective effect against damage from UVA rays. Read more here: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/11/3/471
These are the capsules Dr. Sophie takes https://heliocare.co.uk/products/oral-supplements
Check if your sunscreen is environmentally sound here: https://savethereef.org/about-reef-save-sunscreen.html
Some of the sunscreen brands mentioned and recommended include:
La Roche-Posay Anthelios
EltaMD UV Clear
Intradermology Synergy 6
Revision Intellishade TruPhysical
The Heliocare range
The Institut Esthederm range
A couple of round up articles here:
https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/skin/g11759/best-spf-suncreens/
https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/skin/g32735/best-face-sun-cream-spf-acne-spots-non-comedogenic/ < this one for people with acne
More on polarised sunglasses here https://www.verywellhealth.com/polarized-sunglasses-3422163#:~:text=Polarized%20sunglasses%20are%20designed%20to,%2C%20boating%2C%20or%20playing%20sports.
And finally, here’s that Baz Luhrmann song (enjoy) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTJ7AzBIJoI (and wear sunscreen!)
The content in this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace or substitute advice given by, or consultation with, your doctor or any other healthcare professional. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Dr Sophie Shotter, her company and any employees or representatives are not liable for any claims arising out of or in connection with this podcast.

Apr 16, 2024 • 41min
Everything you wanted to know about wrinkle relaxers
Dr. Sophie Shotter
Dr. Sophie and Fiona discuss:
• How wrinkle relaxers (toxins) work
• Can wrinkle relaxers be used on all lines and wrinkles?
• Can wrinkle relaxers be used on the body?
• Do wrinkle relaxers prevent lines from forming / getting worse?
• The in-clinic experience
• What happens immediately after a treatment
• Trends / dosage / the natural look
• Protocols and advice
• Myth-busting
• Can you cleanse your face that night?
• Skincare
• Does exercise make it wear off more quickly?
• Combining wrinkle relaxers with filler
• Risks and challenges
• Can it cause bags under the eyes / make these worse?
• Lymphatic drainage
• Safety and efficacy
• Different brands (and industry issues)
• Is there such a thing as a ‘clean’ toxin?
• Finding the right practitioner
• What happens if you suddenly stop using them?
Find out more by heading to https://drsophieshotter.com/
Follow Dr Sophie on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/drsophieshotter/?hl=en
…and Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@drsophieshotter?lang=en
This podcast was produced by https://thepodcastpeople.co/
Dr Sophie and Fiona mention a few studies – all the links are here (press ‘episode website’ for the full list):
One study showed that botulinum toxin can boost levels of collagen in the skin (while it’s active in the skin): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22742715/
Alastin’s post-procedure product is here: https://alastin.com/products/inhance-post-injection-serum
A study conducted in 2012 found that toxin’s longevity increased by 30% in patients who took 50mg of zinc daily. Read more here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22453589/
In the UK, head to BCAM or BACN to find a reputable practitioner.
A 2008 paper published in the Journal Of The European Academy of Dermatology showed that when you remove the wrinkles from a photo, a person is perceived as ten years younger than they really are, but when you remove the wrinkles AND even out the pigmentation, the person is perceived as almost 16 years younger.
The content in this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace or substitute advice given by, or consultation with, your doctor or any other healthcare professional. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Dr Sophie Shotter, her company and any employees or representatives are not liable for any claims arising out of or in connection with this podcast.

Apr 9, 2024 • 21min
Cellulite, stretch marks, stubborn fat and loose skin
Dr. Sophie Shotter
Dr. Sophie and Fiona discuss:
• Body positivity and personal choice
• What causes cellulite?
• The role of diet and exercise
• Lotions and potions
• Body brushing / lymphatic drainage
• Clinic grade treatments and devices
• What to do about stretch marks
• Pockets of stubborn fat
• Loose skin following pregnancy / weight loss
• Body positivity influencers
• A new technique pioneered by an American surgeon
• Cellulite is very common and very normal!
Find out more by heading to https://drsophieshotter.com/
Follow Dr Sophie on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/drsophieshotter/?hl=en
…and Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@drsophieshotter?lang=en
This podcast was produced by https://thepodcastpeople.co/
Dr Sophie and Fiona mention a few studies – all the links are here (press ‘episode website’ for the full list):
Dr. Sophie recommends:
https://www.paulaschoice.co.uk/skin-smoothing-retinol-body-treatment/m5800.html
https://bodyballancer.co.uk/
https://www.flaviamorellato.co.uk/
https://dimple-amani.com/pages/body
She also discusses:
https://www.healthline.com/health/cellfina
Morpheus8 microneedling
Venus Viva radiofrequency skin resurfacing
Profound RF microneedling
Profhilo Body
AirSculpt at Elite Body Sculpture (Dr Aaron Rollins)
Data is still emerging on acoustic wave therapy – here’s one study https://www.beamedtrading.com/wp-content/uploads/storz_aesthetics_pdf/Adatto_AWT__Volume_Reduction.pdf
Meet Chessy King https://www.stylist.co.uk/people/chessie-king-instagram-influencer-body-positivity-love-your-body/274717
…and Danae Mercer https://danaemercer.com/
The content in this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace or substitute advice given by, or consultation with, your doctor or any other healthcare professional. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Dr Sophie Shotter, her company and any employees or representatives are not liable for any claims arising out of or in connection with this podcast.

Apr 2, 2024 • 33min
A run-down on rosacea / sensitive skin
Dr. Sophie Shotter
Dr. Sophie and Fiona discuss:
• Is it sensitivity or rosacea?
• The symptoms of sensitivity (possible links to other issues)
• The different types (and symptoms) of rosacea
• The importance of managing symptoms asap
• Fiona’s experience and how it cleared up
• Perimenopause and the link with acne rosacea
• Rosacea triggers
• Will HRT help?
• What causes rosacea?
• A link between rosacea and a stomach bacteria
• The role of stress
• Rosacea skincare / product recommendations
• Products labelled “hypoallergenic”
• What to look for in a skincare range
• Can you use acids?
• Can you use retinoids?
• Thoughts on SPF
• Topical antibiotics
• Ivermectin
• Roaccutane
• Low dose (oral) antibiotics
• Laser treatment
• Facials
• Peels
• LED light
• Prescription creams for flushing
• How muscle relaxants can help
• Gut health and rosacea
• Foods that could be a trigger
• Make-up
• Is taking skincare samples home…theft?!
• Who is most prone to rosacea?
• Darker skin types and rosacea
Find out more by heading to https://drsophieshotter.com/
Follow Dr Sophie on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/drsophieshotter/?hl=en
…and Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@drsophieshotter?lang=en
This podcast was produced by https://thepodcastpeople.co/
Dr Sophie and Fiona mention a few brands, ideas, studies and individuals – all the links are here (press ‘episode website’ for the full list):
The cream Fiona was prescribed:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ivermectin-topical-application-route/side-effects/drg-20075441?p=1#:~:text=Ivermectin%201%25%20topical%20cream%20is,only%20with%20your%20doctor%27s%20prescription.
Sophie’s On Stella article https://www.onstella.com/the-latest/dryness-itchiness/a-guide-to-rosacea-menopause-treatment/
Research that shows a possible link between rosacea and a bacteria called helicobacter pylori https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6042414/
Sophie recommends:
Revision Skincare Gentle Cleansing Lotion
Meder Beauty Net-Apax Prebiotic Cleansing Mask
The Byoma range https://byoma.com/uk/
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
La Roche-Posay Toleriane range
Sophie also recommended PHAs - Polyhydroxy acids
NeoStrata’s Restore range
Sophie talked about azelaic acid
Sophie also flagged granactive retinoids
She talked about Elizabeth Arden Retinol + HPR Ceramide cream
Byoma’s Retinol oil with granactive retinoids
Meder Beauty Red Apex Concentrate
SkinCeuticals PhytoCorrective Serum
Synchrorose by SkinMed
La Roche-Posay’s Rosaliac Anti-Redness Intense Serum
Obagi Hydrate
Meder Beauty Salva Derm moisturiser
Sente Ultranourishing Cream
Heliocare Mineral Tolerance Fluid or their A-R Emulsion
Intradermology Synergy 6
La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF50+
The Vichy range of sunscreens
This is the Sali Hughes article Fiona mentions:
https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2015/aug/29/rosacea-treatments-that-work-sali-hughes
Clarins’ Sensitive Skin Beauty Repair Concentrate is mentioned
Sophie mentions the Byonik laser https://illuminateskinclinic.co.uk/treatment/byonik-laser
We do have clinical studies that show a link between gut health and rosacea – here’s one https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/skin-microbiota-linked-with-systemic-disease-rosacea
Lex Gillies on Insta is @talontedlex
Try Oxygenetix's foundation
Also… Rosalique 3 in 1 Anti-Redness Miracle Formula SPF 50
You could also try Avène Tinted Mineral Fluid SPF50+
The content in this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace or substitute advice given by, or consultation with, your doctor or any other healthcare professional. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Dr Sophie Shotter, her company and any employees or representatives are not liable for any claims arising out of or in connection with this podcast.

Mar 26, 2024 • 40min
Hair loss | hair thinning | hair health
Dr. Sophie Shotter
Dr Sophie and Fiona discuss:
• What causes alopecia?
• Genetic hair loss
• The role of dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
• The role of diet and medications
• Over-processing / styling
• Traction alopecia / braids
• Dyson’s new range of dryers and straighteners
• The role of hormones: childbirth, (peri)menopause, PCOS
• The role of stress
• Trichotillomania
• Hair loss caused by auto immune disease
• The work of Angela Christiano
• JAK inhibitors
• The role of the immune system
• Isolated white patches of hair / trauma / shock
• Gut health (see study info below)
• COVID and hair loss
• Hair re-growth after chemotherapy
• Treatments – including…
• Minoxidil
• Finasteride
• Laser therapy
• Home LED devices
• PRP
• Stem cell therapy
• The Trichotest (advanced DNA testing)
• Blood tests to check for micronutrient deficiencies
• The Keravive by HydraFacial
• Hair transplants
• Biotin
• Viviscal Hair Growth Supplements
• Do hair growth shampoos work?
• How often should we wash our hair?
• Scalp massage
• Products available
• Olaplex and lilial (what we know so far)
• Dr Sophie’s favourite hair products and hairdresser
Find out more by heading to https://drsophieshotter.com/
Follow Dr Sophie on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/drsophieshotter/?hl=en
…and Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@drsophieshotter?lang=en
This podcast was produced by https://thepodcastpeople.co/
Dr Sophie and Fiona mention a few brands, people, and studies – all the links are here (press ‘episode website’ for the full list):
The Manta hairbrush
Dyson’s range of products
Luke Hersheson’s products
Philip Kingsley’s Tricho 7 Scalp Drops
More on the work of Dr Angela here: https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/close-to-home-nih-researcher-and-alopecia-patient-seeks-a-cure#:~:text=Treatment%20breakthroughs-,Dr.,But%20not%20all%20people.
There have been reports linking hair loss to dust mites, cytomegalovirus, or Epstein-Barr virus – and the role of the microbiome. Read more: https://www.actasdermo.org/en-alopecia-microbiome-a-future-therapeutic-articulo-S1578219021001487
Dr Sophie offers:
The Trichotest (advanced DNA testing)
Calecim Professional stem cell therapy
Viviscal Hair Growth supplements (has around 10 published clinical studies)
She highly recommends https://giellygreen.co.uk/ in London – especially Jordan Favier
Dr Sophie recommends:
MONPURE’s Follicle Boost Hair Density Serum
The K18 hair range
Dr Sophie also mentions…
KeraHealth that uses a patented technology ingredient
Philip Kingsley's PK4 – a soya-based supplement
Nue Co's hair growth supplement
More on the Olaplex story here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64662934
The content in this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace or substitute advice given by, or consultation with, your doctor or any other healthcare professional. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Dr Sophie Shotter, her company and any employees or representatives are not liable for any claims arising out of or in connection with this podcast.

Mar 15, 2024 • 35min
How to get the best night’s sleep of your life
Dr. Sophie Shotter
Dr. Sophie and Fiona discuss:
• New data on the link between poor sleep and poor health
• What happened when the light bulb was invented
• Bright light and the circadian rhythm
• Burn-out / work / sleep deprivation
• How much sleep we really need
• Sleep deprivation and the skin / accelerated ageing
• What is good sleep hygiene?
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Evening exercise and cortisol
• Body temp
• Blue light / screen time / melatonin
• Devices in the bedroom
• Circadian rhythm
• Night owls / morning larks
• REM sleep
• The Oura ring (+ Kim Kardashian + Gwyneth Paltrow on socials)
• Sleep apps
• Insight Timer’s sleep stories
• Weighted blankets
• Sunrise alarm clocks and other types of alarm
• Sleep ear buds
• Temp controlled mattresses
• VR sleep head sets / Therabody Smart Goggles
• Space masks
• Sensate (+ the vagus nerve)
• The Apollo wristband
• Magnesium
• CBD
• Dreem Distillery
• 5 HTP
• Ashwagandha
• The role of glycine
• The availability of melatonin in the UK (versus the US)
• Blue light / amber light / device use
• The Dodow device
• ASMR
• Lofi ASMR
• Coloured noises (white noise etc)
• Nature / forest / rainfall sounds
• Sleep and hormones
• Progesterone
• The DUTCH test
• Silk pillowcases – and sleep lines / bed head
• Napping – good for longevity
• Dr. Sophie’s espresso nap hack!
• Working night shifts
• Jet lag
• Black-out blinds
• The Time shift app
Find out more by heading to https://drsophieshotter.com/
Follow Dr Sophie on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/drsophieshotter/?hl=en
…and Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@drsophieshotter?lang=en
This podcast was produced by https://thepodcastpeople.co/
Dr Sophie and Fiona mention a few studies – all the links are here (press ‘episode website’ for the full list):
The link between good sleep and good health. Read more:
https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/poor-sleep-may-increase-markers-of-poor-brain-health-new-study-finds/#:~:text=Poor%20Sleep%20May%20Increase%20Markers%20of%20Poor%20Brain%20Health%2C%20New%20Study%20Finds,-January%2029%2C%202024&text=Sleeping%20too%20much%20or%20too,life%2C%20a%20new%20study%20suggests.
How much sleep do we really need? Read more: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/how-much-sleep-do-we-really-need#:~:text=Most%20healthy%20adults%20need%20at,happy%2C%20healthy%2C%20and%20sharp.
Napping and longevity. Read more: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2023/jun/20/short-daytime-naps-may-keep-brain-healthy-as-it-ages-study-says
The content in this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace or substitute advice given by, or consultation with, your doctor or any other healthcare professional. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Dr Sophie Shotter, her company and any employees or representatives are not liable for any claims arising out of or in connection with this podcast.

Mar 12, 2024 • 30min
Active skincare proven to work on lines and wrinkles
Dr. Sophie Shotter
Dr. Sophie and Fiona discuss:
• What causes lines and wrinkles?
• Peptides – a brief intro
• Retinoids
• Peptides – more info
• How peptides work and the different types
• Peptides v retinoids
• x2 peptide creams Dr. Sophie loves
• How peptide creams can work where injectables can’t
• Ceramides (why it’s important)
• Understanding the role of hyaluronic acid
• AHAs and BHAs and other acids
• Protecting the skin barrier (esp with acids / retinoids)
• PHAs and bionic PHAs (gentler acids)
• Bakuchiol (a gentler exfoliant)
• Ceramide supplements
• The data on peptides v retinoids
• Alastin’s unique approach to skincare
• Different peptides will do different things
• Dr. Sophie’s recommendations
• Is this product worth the huge TikTok hype?
• Is there a ‘hero’ product out there?!
• Product overwhelm / the choices available
• How the medical brands work (versus big-name brands)
• A brand working uniquely on peri-meno skin
• Can you get away with using just skincare actives?
• A focus on ageing healthily
Find out more by heading to https://drsophieshotter.com/
Follow Dr Sophie on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/drsophieshotter/?hl=en
…and Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@drsophieshotter?lang=en
This podcast was produced by https://thepodcastpeople.co/
Dr Sophie and Fiona mention a few brands, ideas, studies and individuals – all the links are here (press ‘episode website’ for the full list):
A 2019 study on women over the age of 40 found that the topical application of peptides created "significant improvements in skin wrinkles" in just two weeks. Read more here: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/21/1/73
Dr. Sophie recommends:
Meder Beauty Mio Fix
Revision Skincare Revox Line Relaxer
[these next ones are mentioned later in the podcast but we’re putting all the recommendations in one place]
Skin Better Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream (plus the eye version)
Skin Better Science Interfuse Intensive Treatment LINES
SkinCeuticals HA intensifier
This is Indeed Labs’ best-seller with the snoxin that Dr. Sophie mentions https://indeedlabs.com/collections/fine-lines-wrinkles/products/snoxin-ii
Vichy – Mineral 89
Medik8’s retinoids
Dr. Sophie LOVES https://www.revisionskincare.co.uk/products/d-e-j-face-cream?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAi6uvBhADEiwAWiyRdvi5K1-F5sxZHLRVvfOZp2A4MLXkx_PCLrAbHXKwmGLhLOrQXvT6AhoClxIQAvD_BwE
Dr. Sophie mentioned two particular PHAs called gluconolactone and lactobionic acid (the latter derived from milk) – these are gentler alternatives to AHAs, BHAs, retinoids and even glycolic and salicylic acid.
Bakuchiol is an antioxidant found in the leaves and seeds of the psoralea corylifolia plant. This is also an alternative to AHAs, BHAs, retinoids etc.
This is the Alastin skincare technology Dr. Sophie mentioned: https://alastin.com/pages/trihex-ingredient
Dr. Sophie responds to the hype re this product from The Ordinary https://theordinary.com/en-gb/argireline-solution-10-serum-100403.html?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAi6uvBhADEiwAWiyRdhg0oHPH2QS-4-EzAp7_7jEKh1QUYWunkBW58Di58oHlZERfryTgCRoCEh8QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
A quick guide from Elle UK on the different types of peptides https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/skin/a45735491/peptides/
The brand Dr. Sophie mentions that has a unique action with oestrogen and MEP technology https://emepelle.co.uk/pages/the-science-of-emepelle-and-mep
The content in this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace or substitute advice given by, or consultation with, your doctor or any other healthcare professional. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Dr Sophie Shotter, her company and any employees or representatives are not liable for any claims arising out of or in connection with this podcast.

Mar 5, 2024 • 26min
Are you ready for skin boosters yet?
Dr. Sophie Shotter
The American Elle magazine article Fiona mentions:
https://www.elle.com/beauty/makeup-skin-care/a43552346/what-is-profhilo/
Some of the brands Dr. Sophie offers include:
Profhilo
Croma PhilArt
Volite (SKINVIVE in the USA)
Viscoderm Hydrabooster (great for the forehead and around the mouth)
Other brands Dr. Sophie offers:
Sunekos (with amino acids)
Sculptra
Dr. Sophie personally uses Profhilo (inc on her decolletage) and polynucleotides around the eyes and she loves / uses Volite (inc. around her neck).
Dr. Sophie talks about biostimulators for the body including Sculptra; Lanluma; and Lenisna.
Some more useful information:
https://drsophieshotter.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-polynucleotides/
The content in this podcast is for general information purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice or to replace or substitute advice given by, or consultation with, your doctor or any other healthcare professional. Please contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health. Dr Sophie Shotter, her company and any employees or representatives are not liable for any claims arising out of or in connection with this podcast.
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