Dr. Howard Murad: 'Healthy skin is a reflection of total wellness'

Dr. Howard Murad

AKA: The Father of Internal Skincare

Home: El Segundo, California

Derm distinctions: Holds 18 dermatology-related patents in anti-aging and skin health; has a patient base of over 50,000; was the first to open a medically supervised day spa; was one of the first to use alpha hydroxy acids and antioxidants to treat the signs of aging.

The doctor is also a bestselling author: Has published two books, Wrinkle-Free Forever and The Cellulite Solution, and is now at work on a third book.

Breakthrough discovery: The Cellular Water Principle, in which the key measure of health is each cell’s ability to hold water, therefore, if we build stronger cells, we can fight disease and reverse the signs of aging.

Anti-aging philosophy: Inclusive Health, which improves skin health by addressing the needs of the whole person: internal care (leading a healthy lifestyle that includes a nutrient-rich diet and taking dietary supplements), topical care (treatments that include appropriate skincare and cosmetic medical services), and emotional self-care (managing stress and nurturing the psyche).

Favorite Murad products: Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Gel, Acne Complex Introductory Kit, Lighten and Brighten Eye Treatment, Intensive Wrinkle Reducer for Eyes

Latest innovations: The new Murad Professional line, featuring four products with Immuno-Skin Complex.

Why they’re must-haves: Boosts the skin’s immune system to fight the causes of aging; blends four essential oils for aromatherapy benefits.

Skincare tips and secrets:

• Take time for a healthy breakfast every day. Whole oats, grains, eggs and fresh fruit boost your metabolism. Maintaining a balanced, healthy diet can do wonders for your appearance and well-being.

• The enemy of healthy skin surrounds us every day in the form of pollution and the harmful rays of the sun. Protect your skin while providing the care and nurturing required for a healthy, youthful appearance by using a powerful, broad-spectrum sunscreen with antioxidants every day.

• Your health and appearance are positively influenced by increasing your emotional and mental well-being. Take time to enjoy life, practice yoga, rest and rejuvenate at a spa every month. Surround yourself with people you care about, reduce isolation and connect with your community by giving back. These tips will boost your emotional health and fill you with a deep satisfaction and passion for life.

Celebrity fan base: Allure and InStyle magazine beauty editors; makeup artist Tom Pecheux uses Murad’s Firming Bronzer SPF 15 as his secret weapon to highlight the cheekbones of the models he works with: “The Firming Bronzer increases firmness by 32 percent in just 15 minutes while providing an instant, sun-kissed glow.”

Best Sellers Activating Cleansing Emulsion

Recommended for: All skin types

What it does: This oxygen-activated, foaming cleanser gently lifts dirt and impurities from the epidermis, leaving pores cleansed and refined.

Immuno-Skin Age Inhibitor

Key ingredients: High-potency peptides

Recommended for: All skin types

What it does: Activates the skin’s fight against aging, helping to improve firmness and elasticity.

Daily Moisture Charge

Recommended for: All skin types

What it does: This multi-active cream immerses skin in intense moisture and protects against UVA/UVB-induced DNA skin cell damage.

Nightly Hydro-Lock

Recommended for: All skin types

What it does: This nourishing cream infuses surface cells with moisture during the nightly repair cycle, helping to smooth away the existing signs of aging.

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Murad Professional products are available at Rustan’s Essenses.