Cosmetics VS Cosmeceuticals
We have been asked by several of our clients “What is the difference between the products you purchase over the counter at the supermarket, Myer and chemists?” So it is out duty to dispel cosmetic counter myths and misconceptions. Most of us at some time have been the victim (myself included) of the amazing sales person who talks the talk and convinces us to purchase. We take the product home only to discover that what we purchased is nothing more than a feel good factor and the bottle has cost more than the contents.
Cosmetic products are not designed to effect any long term change deep within the skin. However, Cosmeceuticals contain active ingredients in high enough concentrations to create change by reaching the deeper dermal levels of the skin. Put simple a Cosmeceutical is an active skin product which is stronger that a ‘passive’ cosmetic-grade skin care product but does not require a medical prescription to dispense.
Our La Clinica Cosmeceutical range is Halall approved and a number of them are also certified organic products. All of which, cause changes in the skin such as reducing fine lines, deeply hydrating the skin, reducing oil production for acne and can address sun damage and pigmentation. It is important to remove dead skin cells so our moisturizers can work effectively. Over 90% of over the counter preparations coat that dead skin cell layer instead of removing it. This creates the ‘cling wrap’ effect and prevents beneficial ingredients being absorbed into the skin and does not allow for the release of toxins.
The best anti ageing Cosmeceuticals recommended by most dermatologists and other skin care professionals is Vitamin A. This Cosmeceutical has been clinically proven to reduce lines, sun damage and uneven skin tone. Vitamin C in Cosmeceutical products helps reduce the signs of ageing, strengthens skin conditions to help repair and recover from damage and provides benefits for the sin to appear visibly younger. In the correct concentrations Glycolic Acid works in breaking down the glue like substance that holds dead skin cells on the skins surface. By sloughing these skin cells a fresher more efficient and hydrated cell is revealed on the skins surface. A softer and smoother look to the skin is achieved. In acne cases the shedding of dead skin cells allows the natural flow of oils/sebum in the skin without clogging. Green Tea helps rebalance and aims to restore the equilibrium and radiance to the skin. It is especially beneficial to hormonally unbalanced.
An ideal source to find effective Cosmeceuticals are salons and clinics where staff are qualified to address common skin conditions as their training surpasses the sales person at the counter. These products and skin care programs can be customized to treat individual skin concerns. However, a serious concern will always be referred to a dermatologist. Down to the nitty gritty! What results can we expect? Realistic are expectations are that an effective product may take up to 6 months to exert its full effect as we are looking to reprogram and restore the skin for a more youthful state. Therefore patience is its own reward!
The main difference between over the counter cosmetics and Cosmeceuticals is the concentration of the active ingredients. Over the counter ingredients are often in such tiny concentrations they never reach target cells in the skin to create the change. The key is proper exfoliation and penetration!
About The Author
Nicole Larsen is the Owner and Operator of Beauty Necessities Laser and Beauty Salon, one of Melbourne's premier Laser and Beauty Salons. Visit our Beauty Salon Doncaster, Melbourne for our exclusive range of Salon Spa packages.
