This month, we're thrilled to spotlight one of our top aesthetic clinic partners - the renowned Dr Alek Nikolic.
With over 25 years in private practice, 20,000+ procedures under his belt, and a reputation that spans continents (from Paris to Bangkok!), Dr Alek is not only a pioneer in aesthetic medicine, but a passionate educator, global trainer, and skincare aficionado. As Vice President of the Aesthetic and Anti-Ageing Medicine Society of South Africa and the founder of SkinMiles, we couldn't think of a better expert to share seasonal skincare advice, his go-to root favourites, and the in-practice treatment he believes every patient should consider heading into winter.
Let's hear what Dr Alek has to say...
Which root skincare or supplement product are you currently loving and recommending most often-and why?
I am a firm believer in using a retinol serum to address fine lines, pigmentation and overall skin health and a great choice from the root range is the root4 SupernovA Retinoid Oil which contains granactive retinoids which are known to be the least sensitising of all the retinols currently on the market.
As we head into the cooler months, what skincare advice do you have for clients wanting to maintain healthy, glowing skin through winter?
The two most important priorities as we head into winter is SPF and skin barrier repair and maintenance.
What's your go-to aesthetic treatment in-clinic to complement a strong homecare routine, and how does it work alongside root?
Dermapen4 skin needling combined with a good at home skincare routine with products that contain hyaluronic and peptides will promote collagen stimulation resulting in firmer healthy skin and both of these ingredients can be found in the root Complete Serum and if used both mornings and evenings it will help to maintain and prolong your treatment results.
Is there a particular root4 product combo (skincare + supplement) you swear by for pigmentation?
Pigmentation and in particular Melasma (hormonal pigmentation) can be distressing for patients and often it is difficult to treat completely and I have found that using a combination of topical products containing retinol and here l would look at the root SupernovA Retinoid Oil and oral supplements that contain ingredients such as glutathione and resveratrol which are known to both reduce and prevent pigmentation from forming offer good results and both of these can be found in the root4 Melano-Correct Skin Pods.
What's one skin myth or trend you wish more people would stop believing?
If you have oily skin it is not necessary to use a moisturiser.
Oily skin does need oil free moisturisers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin.
What inspired you to get into aesthetic medicine, and what do you love most about your work?
The main inspiration came from seeing an emotional and psychological positive change to patients who have had aesthetic treatments. My biggest passion and what I love about my work is the use of soft tissue fillers to bring back the natural ratios of the face as this is truly where science and art meet. When fillers are done incorrectly everyone notices the unnatural results but when the treatment is performed correctly everyone thinks that you are looking great for your age.
If you could bottle one skincare rule and have everyone follow it religiously-what would it.
The main skincare rule I would like to bottle is SPF and to have everyone use it regularly and several times daily.
