What’s the difference between cosmetics and cosmeceutical skincare?
The Difference Between Skin Care Products Sold by Professionals and What You Can Get Over the Counter.
Cosmetics vs. Cosmeceutical
Is there a difference between the products sold by your skincare professional and what you can get at the drug store or “over the counter?” The short answer is YES!
Skincare products referred to as “cosmeceutical” or “pharmaceutical grade,” contain active ingredients such as antioxidants, exfoliating acids, growth factors, peptides, and vitamins. These ingredients penetrate the epidermal layer of the skin to create structural change.
In comparison, products purchased at the drug store are referred to as “cosmetics,” which do NOT include active ingredients. They can be great for cleansing or moisturizing the skin, but if you are looking for something to correct a skin issue, such as wrinkles or discoloration, cosmeceuticals are the way to go.
While it can be difficult to differentiate a cosmetic from cosmeceuticals, the ingredient label is a great source of information.
Ingredients To Look For:
Glycolic, Salicylic, and Lactic Acids: acids that work to exfoliate dead skin cells gently
Growth Factors: natural substances produced by skin cells to maintain healthy skin
Hyaluronic acid: a molecule that pulls in and binds water to the skin; very intensely hydrating
Peptides: amino acids that are considered the “building blocks” of protein to help support skin health
Retinol: a concentrated version of Vitamin A that helps stimulate the cell turnover process, which helps with skin texture
Vitamin C: a vitamin that helps with collagen production, fights free radical damage, and helps correct hyperpigmentation
There are many other beneficial ingredients - consult with your aesthetician or skin care professional to determine what would be best to reach your personal skincare goals. As always, one of the MOST important products you can use is sun protection!
By: Kellie Holbert