New in My Practice: Cosmeceuticals

Heliocare with Rachel Nazarian, MD

In each issue, Practical Dermatology® magazine spotlights a new medication or cosmeceutical dermatologists are recommending to their patients. Here, Rachel Nazarian, MD, a dermatologist with Schweiger Dermatology in New York City, tells us why she recommends all her patients take Heliocare supplements.

What is Heliocare?

Rachel Nazarian, MD: Heliocare is a daily supplement that is used to support a healthy skincare regimen. It contains a combination of powerful antioxidants derived from a unique fern plant called Polypodium leucotomos (PLE). This exclusive Fernblock technology has been studied for decades and has been used by physicians to manage various skin conditions due to its ability to neutralize free-radical damage. Because free-radical damage, from the environment and our daily exposures, can lead to premature aging of the skin and worsen other underlying skin conditions, I often recommend my patients take Heliocare daily.

How does Heliocare stand out from other products?

Dr. Nazarian: Although there are other products that contain PLE, Heliocare stands out as the only polypodium extract that has been studied for more than 25 years, published in the literature (more than 75 publications and clinical studies), and adheres to a strict standard of quality in plant processing. I direct my patients to use this particular source of PLE and to avoid other versions with unclear processing and limited clinical evidence.

Who is Heliocare best suited for?

Dr. Nazarian: Although patients with a history of sun-sensitive conditions were initially the ideal candidate for daily Heliocare supplementation, the elimination of free-radical damage and the natural support of healthy skin make this supplement a recommended choice for everyone. Heliocare Advance combines Fernblock technology with a form of niacinamide (vitamin B3) that has been shown to be protective against the development of certain skin cancers. For patients who have extensive sun damage, are at increased risk of developing skin cancer, or have already had a skin cancer, I recommend use of Heliocare Advanced. For all other patients, I recommend the original Heliocare. The safety profile is remarkable, and the capsules are vegan and gluten-free.

How do you suggest that your patients use Heliocare as part of their sun protection strategy?

Dr. Nazarian: The ideal way to include Heliocare into your skincare regimen is by taking it daily, in combination with topical antioxidants (such as topical Vitamin C) and daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. I also recommend the adjustment of behavioral habits such as the use of sun-protective clothing and avoiding peak times of ultraviolet radiation midday (when the sun is strongest). Together, these products and habits maximize the potential for healthy, beautiful skin, and preserve the healthy skin you have for longer.