by Anne Dimon
On a recent Caribbean cruise with Holland America, I met up with Dr. Maurice Diaz (MD) a licensed medi-spa physician and specialist in aesthetic medicine which focuses on improving one’s appearance via non-invasive and minimally-invasive treatments and procedures. He has worked with Holland America’s The Greenhouse Spa & Salon since 2025.
While I did not experience the spa, I did take the time to meet up with Dr. Diaz to discuss the growing interest in anti-aging, and how many of us would certainly like to turn back the clock on our aging facial skin. On that topic, I asked Dr. Diaz has about his best suggestions for basic skin care and slowing the signs of aging.
First and foremost, he says, “the best tool we have to prevent skin damage is sunscreen.” With a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of a least 30 he said the sun screen should be applied every three to four hours every day and, surprisingly, even when we are indoors. Beyond the damaging effects of the sun, “it has been proven,” he explains, “that blue light from digital screens can also lead to hyperpigmentation.”
Secondly, he points out that “injectables are the most popular treatments as they give you instantaneous results. One example he notes is an injection of hyaluronic acid which attracts water from other parts of the body resulting, for example, in the smoothing of wrinkles or plumping of the lips. The product brand he uses on the ship is Restylane.
On a final note he tells me that beyond sun screen, the basic and essential skin care products to help prevent or, at best, delay future damage are cleanser, toner and moisturizer (individual ones for eyes, the face, and for neck and hands).
Two additional steps are masks and exfoliation. He says at least twice a week for a face mask that is best suited to one’s skin type. And, at least once a week for an exfoliation and, again, whatever is best suited to skin type. With regard to skin type he says it’s best to begin by checking in with a dermatologist or esthetician.
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Holland America cruise guests get 25% when booking a spa or salon treatment prior to boarding. Holland America Greenhouse Spa & Salon
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