BEAUTY BANTER

Dr. Barbara Sturm

BEAUTY BANTER WITH

DR. BARBARA STURM

The orthopedic-surgeon-turned-skin-specialist beloved by the boldest-faced names dishes on her skincare range targeted toward Gen Z and more! BY SYDNEY SADICK

Barbara, why did you want to tap into the Gen Z market?

As an aesthetics doctor, I see girls as young as late teens coming in and wanting quick-fix solutions to acne scarring and even preventative Botox. This is due to not having the correct skincare when they’re young, and a big education gap when it comes to skincare. During the pandemic, I started a virtual education series aimed at teens and young adults called Skin School to teach this generation about the science of their skin as our largest organ and how to have beautiful, glowing skin for longer by focusing on the skin’s barrier function and overall health. I decided that instead of just an education program, they also needed to benefit from correct ingredient science and skincare solutions. This is how the idea of the Microbiotic Collection was born.

What are the most important preventative anti-aging steps you recommend?

The answer lies in adopting the anti-inflammatory lifestyle, and part of that is only using a skincare regimen deploying potent anti-aging ingredient science, as well as your diet.

Unlike many skincare doctors, you started your career in orthopedics. Why did you pivot to this area?

I studied sports medicine and worked in the field of anti-inflammatory molecular orthopedics before shifting into anti-inflammatory aesthetics; inflammation is the trigger for most of the dysfunction and disease in our bodies, and in our skin. I started injecting hyaluronic acid and Botox in the early 2000s and translated the science from orthopedics into the skin to create the first patient blood-plasma facial in 2002. Soon after, I invented my first doctor-issued blood plasma–based cream, called MC1, and prescribed it to my patients. They asked me to create an entire skincare regime, and my anti-inflammatory line was eventually born.

Was it always your plan to open brick-and-mortar stores?

I’ve always had my clinic and am deeply passionate about education. My boutique and spas have been a dream come true because they not only provide a space to experience my treatments and products, but also my expert aestheticians are at each location to give more insight and further education about my philosophy.

Customers love your Glow Drops. What makes them so special?

My Glow Drops are a great makeup alternative for a radiant complexion. It’s a skin-perfecting serum containing a blend of botanical extracts that transform tired, dull complexions into radiant skin—polygonum bistorta root optimizes skin tone and strengthens the collagen synthesis; wild rose extract refines the pores; and hyaluronic acid delivers instant moisture to the surface and deeper skin layers. It also contains lightreflecting mineral pigments, which instantly create a visible, youthful radiance and even out any irregularities in the complexion.

Tell us about your collaboration with Aquazzura!

I admire beautiful shoes, and Edgardo Osorio, the designer of Aquazzura, is a genius and a dear friend. The collection includes my new foot spray and two shoe designs—mules and footbed slides. The foot spray refreshes and revitalizes tired, stressed feet and legs using a combination of powerful ingredients. The shoes embody my idea of style, which is a perfect balance of comfort and femininity! T

STAR-STUDDED BEAUTY PRODUCTS

A look at the best makeup products and skincare spearheaded by celebs and top experts!

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint

RiRi’s vision was to match all skin types and tones via 25 different shades of foundation. Her skin tint delivers smooth skin in just a few drops! $32, ulta.com

JLo Beauty’s That JLo Glow Serum You’ll get J-Lo’s stunning glow via this multitasking powerhouse that lifts, tightens, firms, and boosts luminosity.” $67, jlobeauty.com

Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Soft Pinch Liquid Blush Add some color to your makeup routine via this weightless, long-lasting liquid blush that blends and builds beautifully for a soft, healthy flush! $20, sephora.com

Jori Acne & Oil Control Primer and Daily Leave-On Acne Treatment Mask Say farewell to adult acne, thanks to Cori Zeichner and her derm husband, Joshua! Primer, $70; mask, $52, joriskincare.com

Victoria Beckham Beauty Posh Lipstick The designer’s lipstick range is rich in color and deeply moisturizing. Tied to her personal memories, it celebrates the journey taken to become the woman she is today. $38, neta-porter.com

Dr. Barbara Sturm Microbiotic Gentle Cleansing Balm Introducing one of the skincare maven’s latest hits! $45, drsturm.com