When it comes to skin care products, the number of options to choose from can be exciting or overwhelming. For every product we need, whether it's a moisturizer, toner, cleanser or serum, many skin care products will address any problem you may have. Wrinkles, dull skin, dry skin, acne, age spots, scars... so how do we choose the best skin care products for our skin?
Whether you decide on an over-the-counter product or professional products here are the differences so you can make a more informed decision.
What is considered a professional skin care product?
Professional skin care products are developed and sold for skin care professionals such as estheticians, medical offices or skin clinics.
Some of the things that differentiate them from over-the-counter products are:
They are produced in small batches, which allows for better quality control.
They undergo extensive clinical testing.
The quality of the ingredients is usually higher and they have a higher percentage of active ingredients.
Are formulated for use by licensed estheticians and physicians who have years of experience and knowledge of the skin and its function.
Range of products to address different skin types and skin conditions.
Contains pH adjusted ingredients designed to support the integrity of the skin's protective barrier.
Contains no additives such as synthetic fragrances, colorants or preservatives such as parabens.
Over-the-counter skin care products are designed to be mass-produced. This means they contain preservatives to allow for manufacturing and shipping times, and can remain on the shelves for extended periods. They also have a lower percentage of active ingredients, as they are designed to work for the majority of the population with minimal chance of the product causing irritation.
We're not saying you should go home and get rid of all your products. There are advantages to over-the-counter products. These products are easily accessible as you can find them in many retail stores, including grocery stores. This allows you to choose the product you need, when you need it, without having to consult a specialist. It also means that they are available at different prices and are therefore more affordable for some people. Some of these OTC products may work well for some people. Many OTC active ingredients have excellent efficacy, but usually lower potency. Then there are OTC products that work just as well or better. A great example of this is benzoyl peroxide and some chemical peels can be very effective.
Regardless of the type of products you use, you need to make sure you use products that are right for your skin type. Skin care products can be harmful to your skin if you use products that are not suitable for your skin type. This can be especially true if you have a skin condition. Also, remember that using too many types of products can be harmful. If you are looking for better results, consult with a licensed esthetician or board-certified dermatologist who can help you identify your skin type and make recommendations that are most effective for your needs.
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