What We Learned from Dr. Natasha Cook: Your Skin’s Future is in Your Hands
When we sat down with dermatologist and skin expert Dr. Natasha Cook for this week’s episode of In Your Skin, we expected insights on skincare – but what we got was a deep dive into how much control we actually have over how our skin ages.
Dr. Cook’s approach is refreshingly straightforward: most skin concerns stem from lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and misinformation – not just genetics. The best part? That means we have the power to change our skin’s future. Listen to the full episode here.
Takeaways Here are our Biggest Takeaways:
1. Your Skin is 80% in Your Control
We often blame genetics for our skin issues, but Dr. Cook debunked this myth: 80% of how our skin ages is determined by lifestyle, not DNA.
That means sun exposure, pollution, stress, nutrition, sleep, and even how we cleanse our skin all play a bigger role than we think.This means we can reprogram our skin’s future with the right habits.
2. Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable
Australia has the harshest UV exposure in the world, making sun protection a daily must, not an option.
Dr. Cook warns against the false security of spray-on sunscreens, which don’t provide full protection. Instead, she recommends high-quality mineral-based sunscreens with zinc and titanium dioxide, which offer broad-spectrum coverage without irritating sensitive skin.
3. Too Many Skincare Steps? You Might Be Hurting Your Skin
The beauty industry is saturated with complicated 10-step routines, but Dr. Cook believes in simplicity over excess.
Too many products can overwhelm the skin, leading to irritation and imbalance. Instead, she advocates for a streamlined, results-driven routine focused on cleansing, moisturising, sun protection, and strategic actives like niacinamide and vitamin A.
4. Too Many Skincare Steps? You Might Be Hurting Your Skin
Dr. Cook shared that skin isn’t just about what we apply topically – it’s a mirror of what’s happening inside.
Hormonal imbalances, gut health, stress, and diet all show up on the skin. In her practice, she screens patients for nutritional deficiencies, hormonal issues, and stress-related conditions before recommending treatment.
5. Rosacea, Acne & Pigmentation Need a Targeted Approach
Many people mistake rosacea for acne, leading to over-washing and using harsh treatments that make it worse.
Dr. Cook explained that conditions like rosacea, pigmentation, and acne require personalised care, and that heat exposure, inflammation, and over-exfoliating can exacerbate these issues. For rosacea-prone skin, she recommends cooling techniques, barrier-strengthening skincare, and gentle hydration.
6. Trendy Doesn’t Mean Effective
Dr. Cook doesn’t buy into skincare fads. From overhyped ingredients to misleading marketing, she prioritises scientifically backed, dermatologist-approved treatments over trends.
Her philosophy? Proof over promise. Facts over fads. Expertise over influence.
Final Thoughts: Take Back Control of Your Skin
If there’s one thing we took away from Dr. Cook, it’s this: your skin’s future is in your hands.
By making smart skincare choices, protecting against environmental damage, and prioritising overall health, we can achieve the best skin of our lives – without falling for industry hype.
So let’s keep it simple, stay informed, and invest in what truly works.
Who’s ready to start taking control of their skin health? In Your Skin! 🎙️