Dr. Peres: Holistic Dermatologist

Alaena skincare combines medical expertise with natural formulations based on active ingredients from fruits and sprouted seeds, absolutely free of any toxic ingredients.

Interview with the dermatologist we all dream of having!

Where are your roots?
My influences are many, but I've always remained close to nature, except during my medical studies in Bordeaux. My father reminded me that the Latin etymology of Sylvie (the name) was "forest." First, in Savoy, where I was born, my grandfather, a grocer, sold seeds (I appreciated their variety and their soft texture) and cheeses that we would go and collect in the mountains. As a child, I went to live with my parents in Algeria and Libya. There, I discovered biodiversity, and it has been an obsession ever since. I can't bear to see species disappear—I wouldn't be able to show them to my children and grandchildren! Then, in Béarn, where my best friend had a farm, and where I witnessed the transformation of agriculture. Finally, in the Basque Country, where my husband and I settled 26 years ago.

Was medicine a calling?
Yes, medicine was a calling; I already dreamed of humanitarian work. I was lucky enough to do some during my studies, in India as an operating assistant to support my surgeon husband, and in Senegal where I was able to practice tropical medicine in a dispensary.

As for dermatology, I loved practicing this specialty, which may seem a little superficial on the surface, but which allows one to discover the depths of being. Paul Valéry said, "The skin is what we have that is deepest."

Have you always practiced a "holistic" dermatological medicine, seeking the cause of the problem?
For a long time, I trusted conventional university education. Before, when a patient asked me why they were ill, I would say that medicine didn't have the answer, but deep down, that didn't satisfy me. In my research, I encountered walls of misinformation, and this continues. I found help in the world of patient associations, with colleagues from other specialties who shared the same approach. In particular, I spent a lot of time trying to understand the problem of endocrine disruptors, a new form of toxicity never before encountered, which explains many modern epidemics (cancer, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases).

How do you recharge when you feel things are moving too fast or sounding false?
Indeed, between my profession, which I cherish, the development of the Alaena range, and my work with an ocean conservation association, I sometimes feel overwhelmed. Outdoor sports clear my head; I enjoy surfing, mountain biking, ski touring, and yoga. I love going on vacation with my family, visiting my eldest daughter in New Caledonia, or discovering unspoiled corners of paradise.

What are your favorite foods (physical and spiritual)?
For me, it's very important to eat organic and local food; the two are inseparable. I often remind my patients of the very serious study cited by the American Academy of Medicine and published in Le Monde: "Eating organic: 25% less cancer."

I have a real sweet tooth, and eating should be a pleasure. I've significantly reduced my animal protein intake, but I'm not a vegetarian; I have just as much respect for animals as I do for plants. Since researching our patented sprouted seed-based ingredients, I've been incorporating a wide variety of legumes and grains into my diet. I soak my legumes for 24 hours before cooking them; this starts the germination process, improves absorption of the nutrients, aids digestion, regenerates the gut flora, and reduces cooking time. For flours and pasta, I combine wheat with squid, oats, chestnuts, flaxseed, and barley. Of course, I also eat seasonal fruits and vegetables.

For my spiritual nourishment, I read extensively about the plant world, which fascinates me more and more each day (Francis Hallé, Lebenwholen). The relationship of so-called primitive peoples with nature should guide us to rediscover the path of balance and respect (Satish Kumar's * For a Spiritual Ecology* , Ysé Tardan-Masquelier's * The Masters of the Upanishads *). Ecological art is a trend in contemporary art where artists address environmental issues. I am fortunate to know Professor Nicolas Grimaldi; his books approach philosophy with simplicity, and speaking with him is a joy—he gives me clarity. Classical music ties all of this together. Gardening is essential to me, as is cooking for my friends and family.

You live in Biarritz. What do you like (or dislike) about this city?
I find this city very beautiful; I love seeing the ocean and its waves at the end of the street. I'm always amazed when surfers cross the street amidst the city dwellers. The Basque Country is a very diverse region; you can enjoy water sports there, but you can also quickly find yourself in the mountains for hiking. It's also culturally rich (crafts, exhibitions, the Le Temps d'Aimer La Danse festival). Unfortunately, we must be careful that the over-tourism in the summer doesn't cause the Basque Country to lose its soul.

Is adult acne more common today than before? What are the causes? How is it treated?
Yes, acne is a condition on the rise. It is the combination of several factors: genetics (there is a family history), tobacco, modern lifestyles (stress, lack of sleep), processed food (high glycemic index, additives, too much dairy), medications (certain contraceptives, particularly those based on Norgestrel derivatives), and finally hormonal imbalances, especially the increase in polycystic ovary syndrome.

To treat acne, it's important to adopt a careful cleansing routine using a cold-process soap. Moisturizing, makeup, and diet must also be adjusted; this requires a collaborative effort from a dermatologist, gynecologist, and nutritionist.

Rosacea is a problem that has been brought to our attention very often.

What is the appropriate skincare routine? How can it be overcome?
Rosacea is thought to be caused by the proliferation of a skin parasite, Demodex mite, which is exacerbated by an imbalance in the skin's flora and likely also in the gut. In addition to a suitable skincare routine (cleansing with cold-process soap, using a natural moisturizer free of allergens and essential oils), courses of probiotics or kefir can be considered. It is also very important to avoid smoking.

Have you noticed a link between digestive problems and acne / rosacea / dehydrated skin?
The link between the gut and the skin is well-established, and recent studies show a connection between inflammatory skin conditions (acne, rosacea, eczema) and imbalances in the gut microbiota, considered the second brain. Understanding the microbiota and rebalancing it with prebiotics and probiotics, combined with a suitable diet, represent promising avenues for the future.

Does stress have an impact on the skin? How does it act?
Yes, absolutely. We often see acne or eczema flare-ups before the baccalaureate exam, at the start of the academic year, or following an emotional shock. The underlying mechanisms are beginning to be understood. Techniques such as sophrology, yoga, and meditation can be helpful.

How can a dermatologist help us age gracefully?
In addition to a healthy lifestyle, sun protection is essential. A dermatologist will recommend regular skincare routines (moisturizer, mask, peel). Furthermore, cosmetic dermatology techniques, used judiciously and tailored to each individual, can achieve beautiful results. The goal isn't to eliminate all wrinkles, but to age gracefully.

What are your 5 tips for preserving youthful skin?
1. A good diet.
2. Practice different sports that combine cardio work and stretching, ideally outdoors to enjoy beautiful nature.
3. Rigorous sun protection (this is the first anti-wrinkle treatment).
4. My Alaena treatments and regular dermatological care.
5. To enjoy myself, to have fun, while life allows me to avoid the folds of bitterness.


What was the trigger for launching ALAENA?
For years I had returned to preparing custom-made medications in the pharmacy to create bespoke formulas, eliminate toxic cosmetic ingredients, and choose good natural ingredients. I quickly noticed the results on my patients, their skin regaining its radiance. My daughter then suggested creating our Alaena range, combining the effectiveness of the formulas developed with a spa ritual.

What skin problem did you want to treat first with ALAENA?
Fragile, dry, or even atopic skin. My patients used to moisturize every day, and their skin would crack as soon as they stopped. With my custom-made preparations, applying them twice a week provided real, lasting repair. This also applies to young skin, like my daughters', and more mature skin, like mine and my friends'—creating a ritual adapted to our busy lifestyles.

How did you come up with the idea of using sprouted seed extracts in your cosmetics?
I discovered the skin benefits of vitamins and amino acids, but these molecules weren't available in organic form. So I immersed myself in scientific publications. Drawing a parallel with diet, where proteins are provided by grains (cereals and legumes), I realized their richness for the skin. Germination, a symbol of life, increases the levels of vitamins, primarily B vitamins, and amino acids, especially prolamins, which promote collagen production.

What was the biggest challenge in creating organic and essential oil-free skincare products?
Indeed, originally cosmetics were preserved using essential oils. Today, there are preservation systems approved by organic labels (Ecocert Cosmos Organic for Alaena) that are less allergenic and fragrance-free. Regarding the active ingredients in our formulas, we have chosen those derived from biotechnology.

What are your commitments as a doctor and entrepreneur?
As a physician, it is important for me to return to the Hippocratic Oath, Primum non nocere , "First, do no harm." I am committed to offering my patients treatments, and more broadly, lifestyle guidelines, to avoid toxic substances. I am also involved in environmental medicine, seeking to better understand the link between modern epidemics and the degradation of our environment, which I strive to protect through my work with ocean conservation organizations. As an entrepreneur with my daughter, all these commitments are reflected in the values of Alaena.

What is your most exciting project at the moment?
Becoming a grandmother!