Perhaps you have always bought from the high-street, and never considered a cosmeceutical skincare brand? Maybe you’re looking to find the perfect skincare routine for you. If so, we can give you some of the facts to help you understand the science behind the fancy name and the key differences. In this article, I will explain the difference between high-street and cosmeceutical skincare. Most importantly, I will go into detail as to why going cosmeceutical could be the right thing to do for your skin.
So, what is a “cosmeceutical” skincare product?
This was a term coined by the Skincare and Aesthetics Industry in the 1980s. It relates to products which are intended to give both cosmetic and pharmaceutical benefits, including medical-grade ingredients to give proven results for targeted skin problems. Professionals with full training should only prescribe and sell these products. In addition, they should operate from clinics with full specialist registration, as they contain more active ingredients.
High street skincare
High street products are also termed over-the-counter products. This means anyone who walks into the store can purchase them. As a result, they must contain less in the way of active ingredients. This is because there is no way of controlling who is using them. Whilst they can exert positive effects, they must generate a low frequency of reactions in order to be allowed onto the shelf… and so they are less potent. Have you ever looked at the ingredients list of the bottles in your bathroom cupboard? Usually, water is at the top of the list, meaning that is the main ingredient. They also contain more carrier ingredients or bulking agents, glycerin or mineral oil.
Having said that, not all off-the-shelf products are created equal! Do your research and you are likely to find some excellent, non-prescription brands, which follow a robust ingredient policy and do their very best for your skin. What is important to you? Cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan certified, sustainable, low price or are you all about the scent and texture? Looks for brands which are formulated without mineral oil as this silky smooth ingredient hides a darker secret… it actually causes ageing of the skin!
Why you should go cosmeceutical
Recommended by professionals
Cosmeceutical or medical-grade products are recommended by professionals who are trained in their use. They are able to penetrate deeper into the skin and contain higher strength key active ingredients. Conversely, it is more likely that you will experience an “anticipated skin reaction” when you start using them, and this will have been explained by your prescriber. Anticipated reactions are expected and manageable. They are a sign of positive change in the skin cycles and will reduce as your skin becomes accustomed to your new regime.
It might not be as expensive as you think
The other main factor to consider is cost. For many people, this is a barrier to buying cosmeceutical products. The solution? Many brands offer starter kits which last three months (enough time to see some real changes) and maximise your spend so you can experience the products for less. If you are already using the high-end Department store brands, often French brands, you will not find that there is a jump in price at all… but you will see a significant shift in results. Furthermore, because medical-grade products are more concentrated, you will only need small amounts to achieve results and so your purchases will last you longer.
My skin is fine, why would I consider switching?
Maybe you have “good skin” and wonder why you would bother to spend the extra money on a cosmeceutical regime? The answer really comes down to realising the full potential of your genetically good skin… it could look even better. Cosmeceutical products work at the cellular and DNA level, to up-regulate cell turnover, repair barrier function and reduce the length of your skin cycle. They switch on your skin’s natural ability to hydrate, repair and rejuvenate itself; meaning a fresh complexion, even tone and improved elasticity. Even good skin needs a wake-up every now and then, as well as protection from sun damage. Sun damage will catch up with us all if we don’t tackle it from a young age, with a daily intelligent SPF.
In summary
It’s all about finding the right balance for you. Whether that be achieving results, weighing up cost, keeping your regime simple or using every product on the shelf! Talk to a skin expert, ask for advice about your current regime and look at alternatives if it isn’t giving you everything you need to achieve optimum skin health. There are a number of great clinicians out there that will be able to help you take your next steps towards better skincare using cosmeceutical products.
Here at Tay Medispa, we offer in-clinic and online Skincare Consultations for free, so we can give our clients the best advice and product recommendations tailored to their skin type and concerns. We only recommend skincare products from our chosen, reputable skincare brands; ZO Skin Health, iS Clinical and AQ Skin Solutions.
If you’d like to take the next step to finding your perfect cosmeceutical skincare routine, why not book a free appointment with us? We can conduct the consultation online, and you will receive your recommendations with no obligation to purchase if you decide against it. If you do choose some cosmeceutical skincare products, we can ship them straight to you free of charge.
Find out more about our Online Skincare Consultations
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Any questions for us? Something we missed? Pop us a message on Facebook or email info@taymedispa.co.uk
Sarah G
Skin Expert Therapist
Tay Medispa
info@taymedispa.co.uk | www.taymedispa.co.uk
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