A vision becomes reality

At 47 years old, I see aging as a natural and even beautiful process. We all want a long, fulfilling life—full of experiences, challenges, and personal successes. Aging means living, growing, and evolving. But let's be honest, just because we're getting older doesn't mean we have to look old, right? For me, I want to look healthy and fresh. It not only reflects my inner energy but also influences how I feel and how others perceive me. It's about finding balance: accepting and appreciating that we are aging while doing our best to maintain a youthful appearance.

I am incredibly proud to have become German Taekwondo Champion three times. This discipline and ambition have greatly helped me in other areas of my life as well. I completed my medical studies and specialized in plastic and aesthetic surgery with outstanding achievements, providing me with the professional foundation for my career. One of my most outstanding achievements is undoubtedly founding my own practice over ten years ago. It was a significant step to become independent and realize my vision of providing individualized and empathetic patient care from woman to woman. My specialties include breast surgeries (reduction, augmentation, lifting), eyelid lifts, labiaplasty, abdominoplasty, and wrinkle treatments with Botox and fillers. I have a job that I love above all else, and I am grateful to help women gain confidence and positivity every day. The experiences and trust I have built over the years inspired me to take another step and create my own skincare line. Developing and launching DOC.BERGER | EFFECT was a passion project that combines my love for science, beauty, and well-being. But what eclipses all of these achievements is certainly the birth of my daughter. Being a mother has given me a completely new perspective on life and work, enriching me on every level. Witnessing our journey together, seeing Eleonora grow into an intelligent, emancipated young woman, is my greatest joy.

As a woman and single mother in the professional world, expectations are often doubled. One must constantly prove oneself and face daily prejudices and additional challenges. However, I believe strongly that where there's a will, there's a way. I always wanted to be a plastic surgeon and entrepreneur—having a Plan B was never an option for me. Above all, I wanted to be a role model for Eleonora. I wanted to embody values like independence, confidence, and inner strength, not just preach them. It was important to show her that despite all obstacles, anything is achievable in life if you believe in yourself and persevere.

My advice to all women and mothers out there: Don't let anything or anyone deter you from your path! Your courage and strength can truly move mountains.

The Japanese beauty culture has significantly influenced my views and approaches to skincare. Here are some observations and practices from Japanese beauty routines:

• Minimal invasive methods: In Japan, there's a strong emphasis on avoiding invasive treatments or surgeries whenever possible. Instead, they focus on consistent skincare using effective ingredients. Skincare is an essential part of daily life, with an emphasis on prevention and maintaining natural beauty.
• Starting early: Skincare in Japan is seen as a long-term investment that should start as early as possible. The goal is to prevent skin issues rather than treating them after they have already occurred.
• Double Cleansing: Double cleansing involves a two-step cleansing method. It starts with a cleansing foam to remove makeup, sebum, and other surface impurities. This is followed by a tonic to balance the skin's pH and provide deep cleansing, preparing the skin for subsequent skincare.
• Glass Skin: The trend towards "Glass Skin" aims for a flawless, almost translucent complexion that is radiant, hydrated, and free from imperfections. Achieving this look involves skincare focusing on deep cleansing, hydration, and exfoliation. Double cleansing is essential to prevent enlarged pores and imperfections. Serums and face masks containing hyaluronic acid are popular, as hyaluronic acid provides intense hydration and promotes the plump, saturated look characteristic of Glass Skin. Regular peelings also help remove dead skin cells and enhance the effectiveness of facial serums.
• Sun protection: Avoiding sun damage is a crucial aspect of Japanese skincare philosophy. Daily sunscreen application is mandatory to protect the skin from premature aging and other UV-related damage.
• Green Tea: This traditional drink plays an important role in Japanese culture and skincare. Green tea is rich in antioxidants, especially EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate), which has anti-inflammatory properties and protects the skin from free radicals. Regular consumption of green tea can promote skin health from within, improve complexion, and slow down skin aging.

In the morning, I start with Foam Intense, an intensive cleansing foam, followed by Tonic Intense to deeply clarify my skin and prepare it for active ingredient absorption. Then, I apply two anti-aging serums - the Vit C + Biobotox Serum for a radiant complexion and the Hyaluron Lifting Serum to provide moisture and firmness to my skin. Both serums also contain a muscle-relaxing ingredient to minimize fine lines. I finish my morning routine with the Anti-Pollution Day Cream, which protects my skin from environmental factors and enhances the absorption of previously applied active ingredients.

In the evening, I use Foam Intense and Tonic Intense again to rid my skin of daily impurities. Then, I apply the Red & Pigment Remover to target and lighten pigment spots, followed by Retinol to boost skin renewal overnight. My absolute evening highlight is the combination of Time Machine and Glow Oil, which deeply nourishes and revitalizes my skin.

Twice a week, I treat my skin to extra care with the Bamboo Enzyme Powder Peeling and the Regenerating Face Masks.

I have never consumed alcohol or smoked in my life, and for good reason. Alcohol can dehydrate the skin and impair blood circulation. Nicotine, on the other hand, constricts blood vessels in the outermost layer of the skin, reducing oxygen and nutrient flow. Studies show that smokers may have up to 40% less vitamin A in their skin, a key vitamin for skin renewal and moisture.

Another habit I've adopted from Japan is sun protection. In Germany and on social media, you often see people proudly displaying their sunburns, but honestly, that's far from cool or funny. UV rays are the number one cause of skin aging and also increase the risk of skin cancer. Daily sunscreen with SPF 30, even in winter, is therefore not just a matter of beauty but of health.

Lastly, I try to eat healthily, drink plenty of fluids (preferably green tea), get enough sleep (although sometimes challenging with everyday stress ;D), and exercise at least once a week.

To stay updated, I browse through specialized articles, research findings, and studies on new active ingredients and technologies daily. What makes it particularly exciting for me is the exchange with my daughter Eleonora. Through her, I have a direct connection to the trends and viewpoints of young people. We complement each other perfectly: Eleonora brings fresh ideas and perspectives, while I contribute my medical expertise and years of experience in science and beauty. Together, we have a broader understanding of the diverse needs and desires of our customers and can effectively cater to them across generations.

I wanted to create products that truly deliver results based on scientific research, without compromising on the purity and safety of the ingredients. With DOC.BERGER | EFFECT, I aimed to fill a gap in the market by offering skincare that is effective, modern, and also socially and environmentally responsible.

There are many myths circulating in the world of skincare. Here are five of them that I would like to clarify:

1. Myth: Natural or organic ingredients are always better for the skin
   Reality: Natural cosmetics can actually trigger allergies more frequently and lead to skin irritations or redness. The concentrations of active ingredients in natural cosmetics can be inaccurate and variable, reducing their effectiveness and reliability. In contrast, active ingredient cosmetics are based on precise, scientifically proven formulations that ensure consistent and reliable results.
2. Myth: Daily exfoliation leads to healthier skin
   Reality: Exfoliating too frequently can damage the skin and weaken its natural barrier. Moderation is key!
3. Myth: Large pores can be permanently reduced
   Reality: The size of pores is genetically determined. Good cleansing and targeted skincare can improve their appearance but cannot permanently reduce them.
4. Myth: Oily skin doesn't need moisturization
   Reality: Even oily skin can be dehydrated. Adequate moisturization is essential for every skin type, though the extent and application may vary.
5. Myth: UV protection is only necessary in summer
   Reality: UVA and UVB rays reach the Earth year-round, even on cloudy days. Daily sun protection is essential to protect the skin from aging.

I understand that everyone prefers to see immediate results when it comes to skincare—who wouldn't? However, it's important to emphasize that true skincare is not a sprint but a marathon. Our mission aims to keep your skin healthy, radiant, and youthful in the long term. For comprehensive anti-aging benefits, expect to dedicate several months to regular and proper usage, so patience is key!

Nevertheless, I have also developed a few standout products that can deliver immediate effects. My face masks and eye pads are perfect examples. They deeply hydrate all layers of your skin within 10-15 minutes, protect against oxidative stress, and give your complexion a rosy glow!

1. Start with the basics: Begin with a double cleanse using foam and tonic, use 1-2 serums, apply a day cream and a night cream. It's best to start with our Discovery Kit.
2. Learn your skin type: Differentiate between dry, oily, normal, sensitive, and combination skin. Each skin type comes with its own challenges, issues, and needs. With our free skin analysis, you can quickly and easily discover how to best protect, nourish, and maintain your youthful skin.
3. The right order: Begin with the double cleanse using foam and tonic, pat in your serums, apply the correct eye care, and finish with your day/night cream. If unsure, always remember: from liquid to solid!

I would not combine different brands because each brand has its own system, philosophy, and active ingredients that are formulated to work together. At DOC.BERGER | EFFECT, for example, we use a special transport molecule designed to effectively deliver active ingredients deep into the skin. Mixing and matching skincare products, especially from brands whose formulations and ingredients you're not familiar with, can have unintended consequences. Our DOC.BERGER carrier cannot distinguish between "good" or "bad" ingredients. This means it could potentially transport unwanted or controversial additives from other brands deeper into the skin, leading to redness, irritation, or other skin reactions. Therefore, if you choose DOC.BERGER | EFFECT, we recommend sticking with this line to ensure all products work harmoniously together and provide your skin with the care it deserves, without the risk of unintended interactions.

First and foremost, it's important for me to emphasize: Skincare is not just for women! Everyone ages, and everyone desires to look healthy and youthful for as long as possible. Regardless of gender, skincare and the desire for youthfulness are universal. Embrace giving yourself the best care possible!

Start with the basics: Proper cleansing is key. Especially if you have a beard, daily cleansing is important to avoid ingrown hairs and skin irritation. Always use a sharp razor blade to prevent inflammation, and follow up with a soothing day cream.

An absolute secret weapon against tired eyes and highly favored among my male clients is the Lifting Eye Wonder from DOC.BERGER | EFFECT. With a highly concentrated blend of caffeine, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and Ectoin, it effectively combats puffiness around the eyes, ensuring you start the day with a refreshed and clear look.

A step I highly recommend is incorporating retinol into your nighttime routine. Retinol is a powerhouse in skincare, helping to improve skin texture, combat signs of aging, refine pores, and reduce pigmentation and scars.

So gentlemen, it's time to give yourself what you need to feel comfortable in your own skin. Skincare is an investment in your well-being and your radiance.