Dr. Speron Plastic Surgery

Toner is The Most Misunderstood Step in Skincare!

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Hello everyone. I’m Dr. Sam Speron, a board-certified plastic surgeon in The Chicago area. Today, we’re talking about one of the most misunderstood steps in skincare — toner. Some people swear by it, and others think it’s completely unnecessary. If you’ve ever wondered whether toner really matters, let’s clear that up.

Years ago, toners were often harsh and full of alcohol, which left skin feeling tight and stripped. No wonder so many people stopped using them. But times have changed. Modern toners are nothing like the old versions — today’s formulas are packed with hydrating, soothing, and even anti-aging ingredients that actually support your skin’s health.

Think of toner as the primer for your skincare routine. It preps your skin, balances your pH, and helps other products absorb more effectively. It can also remove any leftover traces of makeup or debris that your cleanser might have missed. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, toner can help control shine and minimize the look of pores. For dry or sensitive skin, it can calm and replenish.

Toners also play a bigger role than most people realize. Beyond surface hydration, they help strengthen your skin barrier and support long-term repair — something that’s especially important if you use active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C. These powerful treatments can improve collagen and pigmentation, but toner helps your skin recover and maintain balance along the way.

So, should you use a toner? Absolutely, as long as you choose one that fits your skin type and complements your routine. Skincare works best when every step is intentional and customized. If you’re unsure where to start, book a consultation, and we’ll find the right toner to help your skin look its healthiest and most radiant.

Dr. Sam Speron

Want to Protect Your Brain? Grab a Bike!

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Hello everyone. I’m Dr. Sam Speron, a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Chicago area. We all know cycling is great for your body — but new research is showing it might also be one of the best things you can do for your brain.
A large study recently found that people who bike regularly have a significantly lower risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease compared to those who rely on cars, buses, or trains.

The numbers are impressive — cycling was linked to about a 20 percent lower risk of dementia overall. It turns out that hopping on a bike doesn’t just strengthen your legs; it helps keep your mind sharp too.

Cycling boosts circulation, which increases blood flow and oxygen delivery to brain cells. It also stimulates the hippocampus — the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning. This kind of physical activity encourages the growth of new neural connections, supporting long-term brain health and cognitive performance.

What I find so encouraging is that you don’t need to train like an athlete to get the benefits. Even cycling a few times a week, or choosing to ride instead of drive for short trips, can make a measurable difference. If outdoor biking isn’t an option, stationary bikes are an excellent alternative that deliver many of the same cognitive and cardiovascular benefits.

The takeaway is simple: movement matters. Exercise isn’t just about looking good or staying fit — it’s one of the most powerful tools we have to protect the brain and preserve memory.

So next time you want to boost your mood, clear your head, and strengthen your mind, skip the car keys and grab your helmet. Your brain will thank you for it.

Dr. Sam Speron