Drug Store vs. Medical-Grade Skincare
Why Both Have Their Place
In the debate of medical grade versus drug store, I don’t think the commonly found products from your local pharmacy or Ulta store should be outright dismissed.
In skincare, there’s room for all!
There are several benefits to shopping in-store for your regimen needs, such as easy accessibility, simple ingredients, and affordability.
Depending on your skin's needs, many products out there are excellent for basic skin maintenance and some treatments.
I’ll even share a few of my staples…
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser - a basic, moisturizing face wash that I can combine with my medical-grade products as my first cleanse. Also worth noting: this product was part of our back bar in esthetician school, reserved for clients with very sensitive skin.
Shea Moisture African Black Soap - when I was suffering through a bout of acne in my 20s, this helped tremendously.
The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid - contains a pretty decent concentration of Glycolic Acid, encouraging exfoliation and the fading of dark spots. Be careful not to use it daily as it can dry the skin out and cause peeling. Also, combining it with other active ingredients or sun exposure will result in irritation.
Cliganic’s Organic Jojoba Oil - is excellent as an all-over, multi-purpose moisturizer.
(Any brand) Unscented Witch Hazel - A cure-all I swear by. It is a great toner, useful for removing makeup, easing inflammation, and controlling oil. I also apply it as a non-irritant after procedures.
I find these products to be good basics to have on hand that complement my pro skincare regimen.
What Makes Medical-Grade Worth it?
Medical-grade skincare is designed with efficacy in mind and formulated by professionals: Doctors, Dermatologists, Estheticians, and Chemists. The end result is a formula that will combine specific ingredients to maximize results and minimize potential irritation.
These products undergo rigorous testing and clinical trials to ensure they will show the results they advertise.
I always say: Yes, they do come at a higher price tag, but you can review many months (if not years) of proven results across multiple clients. This simply cannot be said for the latest trending skin care option from Sephora.
Medical-grade, Clinical-grade, and Professional-grade (used interchangeably) products penetrate deeper and contain higher concentrations of active ingredients like AHAs, Retinol, and Vitamin C. Something not permitted by law in over-the-counter products.
You get the added benefit of experienced guidance, as these products are sold through licensed professionals there to assist you and monitor your progress.
More benefits include:
Targeted treatments that address the root of the issue, not just the symptoms.
Instead of layering multiple ineffective options, you can buy fewer products for better results. This can eliminate unnecessary steps in your skincare application.
Consistent use = Long term benefits!
It’s something to think about this holiday season when you pass by that preassembled kit from your local beauty supply store. It may be a tempting bundle, but is it giving you actual results? Or is it merely flashy packaging?
Want to know more about how medical grade products may best address your skincare concerns? Subscribe to Body by Tonic today and fill out my skin analysis to start your journey to healthier skin.