Did My Skin Survive a 2-Month Detox? Here’s My New Routine

Product photography by Perkin Gotohio

For the past two months, I had been on a skincare detox. The only thing that went on my face was an ointment and a thick neutral moisturizer. Why? Because the holidays, combined with the weather and my hormones, added up to the worst skin days imaginable. My skin was irritated, inflamed, dry, and flaking. A trip to my derma told me that I had a seasonal eczema flare up and prescribed a medicated ointment, and because I wanted no interactions or secret irritations, I put a hold on all my skincare treats and focused on my skincare needs. Now that my skin has bounced back, my eczema has calmed down and I can go back to treating my skin.

I wanted something simple without any overly fancy ingredients and something I was sure would not irritate as I transitioned back into a skincare routine. Suffice to say, I was very open to testing out the Dr. O Skin Lab serums. Because although my issues had been resolved, I found myself left with dull and parched skin.

Dr. O is one of the newest skincare brands in the Philippines, offering a no-fuss approach that targets your skin concerns while being specially formulated for Asian skin. If you're skeptical, see the results for yourself before we take a deep dive into their current offerings!

Before…

…and After, just from two weeks of using Dr. O

The Dr. O Skin Lab Serums

The Dark Spot Solution (P599/30ml), is a serum that targets dark spots and hyperpigmentation with their formula of Vitamin C, ceramides, and aloe vera extract. The vitamin C in this serum, 10% 3-O-Ethylascorbic acid, is a stable and gentle form of vitamin C that helps to fade dark spots while stimulating the production of collagen. And as with all vitamin C serums, it is essential to use a sunscreen after to prevent skin irritation from sun exposure.

The Dryness Solution (P599/30ml) was one that stood out to me immediately, as I love a hydrating serum. The formula is light and is a blend of 5% Vitamin B5 (D-Panthenol), niacinamide, and ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier while providing long-lasting hydration.

If you’ve been looking to incorporate retinol into your skincare routine, you might be interested in the Anti-Aging Solution (P599/30ml). Packed with ingredients like 2% Vitamin E, 0.1% retinol, bakuchiol extract, and ceramides, these ingredients work to target fine lines and stimulate collagen production while maintaining moisture. Moisturizing is essential when you use retinol as the skin turnover can produce some dryness which can be minimized with a moisturizing formula.

The Spotless Pink Mud (P99/7g; P279/20g) is an overnight spot treatment formulated with 2% salicylic acid, niacinamide, and aloe vera extract. The smooth pink mud is slightly tingly so make sure to only apply it on your target areas. The salicylic acid works to exfoliate and unclog pores while the niacinamide and aloe vera keep your skin nourished and skin tone even.

I was intrigued at my options and the affordable price point makes it easy for beginners to build a skincare routine. I chose to put two serums to the test, the Dark Spot Solution as my day serum and the Dryness Solution as my night serum.

My Review

While taking the before photos, I didn’t even realize how much redness I had developed from my dry skin. The serums had their work cut out for them.

I appreciated that both serums came in white opaque bottles with hygienic pumps for dispensing. The opaque packaging helps the ingredients remain stable from any sun or light exposure. The Dark Spot Solution is white and applies clear without any scent while the Dryness Solution dispenses clear with a neutral chemical scent.

Day 1…

…and Day 14 after using the Dryness Solution and Dark Spot Solution for two weeks

After just a few days, I could feel my skin become bouncier and more moisturized, especially around my cheeks. I used both serums for two weeks and I never developed any irritation, acne, or spots. I found that my skin felt smoother and looked brighter and more even in skin tone. I also lost most of my redness in just two weeks, as the areas around my forehead and cheeks received some much-needed hydration. For my more stubborn dark spots and freckles, I didn’t notice much change, but this could be because of the length of my testing. But even without completely fading my dark spots I did observe an overall improvement in my skin complexion.

These were definitely the serums I needed to break out of my skincare fast, perfectly functional, affordable, and with zero irritation!

Packed with clinically proven formulas and powerful actives, Dr. O targets specific skin concerns—hyperpigmentation, dryness, fine lines or wrinkles, acne—without any of the harsh side effects. Grab your very own derma-in-a-bottle now! Dr. O Skin Lab is exclusively available in Watsons stores nationwide and on Watsons online.