Professional vs. Pharmacy Skincare Products

When it comes to skincare there are many products on the market to choose from. Since many people don't take the time to get their skin properly assessed, they're more likely to go to the pharmacy to choose a skincare product. In order to get the best skin possible it's important to understand how professional grade and pharmacy brand products differ.

Professional products can sometimes come at a premium price, but should be seen as an investment toward better health. Here are some important things to consider when it comes to choosing skincare products:

'Know The Importance of Ingredients
“There are two types of key ingredients [in skin care products]: active ingredients (which actually are the treating ingredients) like Vitamin C, glycolic acid or caffeine, and vehicle ingredients, like the ingredients that make up the lotions or cream that the active ingredients are dissolved in,” shares Dr. Schultz. “Active ingredients are more important than vehicle ingredients but they both count and are necessary.”

Figure Out What You Are Paying For
“With department store brands, you are paying for] ingredients, formulation, the way the ingredients are actually mixed together, packaging, prestige, and perception,” shares New York City-based dermatologist, Dr. Neal Schultz, Founder of DermTv.com and creator of Beautyrx.com. “In some cases, you may be paying for efficacy as well.”

Certain Products Are Worth The Splurge
“I’d recommend splurging on treatment products like eye creams, moisturizers, exfoliants and antioxidants. These products contain large amounts of active ingredients, which often are at least marginally better in department store products,” explains Dr. Schultz. “Infrastructure products like cleansers, toners and sunscreens can be purchased at the drugstore. Sunscreen ratings are regulated by the government so you are getting the same protection from equivalent SPF numbers no matter where you purchase.”'

You're going to spend money on these products one way or the other, but by taking the time to get your face properly assessed and using professional grade products specific to your skin type that are recommended by a professional will help yield the best results. At LCI your Ottawa skincare specialist, we offer different medical skin care products and services to help your skin glow it's brightest.