In the pursuit of healthy, radiant skin, the choices may seem endless. From drugstore shelves to online marketplaces like Amazon, skincare options are all around. However, not all products are created equal, and discerning consumers must navigate through a maze of offerings to find what truly works. Here, we dive into the crucial differences between medical-grade skincare, over-the-counter (OTC) products, and the potential risks of purchasing skincare from online platforms like Amazon.
Understanding the Difference: Medical-Grade vs. Over-the-Counter Skincare
When it comes to skincare, quality matters. The FDA categorizes skincare into two groups: over-the-counter and medical-grade.
Medical-grade skincare products are formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients and undergo rigorous testing for safety and efficacy. These products are often recommended or prescribed by skincare professionals or dermatologists to address specific concerns such as acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, and more.
On the other hand, over-the-counter skincare products are readily available in supermarkets, drugstores, and beauty retailers. While they may offer convenience and affordability, OTC products typically contain lower concentrations of active ingredients and may lack the scientific research and clinical testing seen in medical-grade formulations.
Why Invest in Medical-Grade Skincare
Medical-grade skincare offers reliability, safety, and proven results. These products are developed using advanced formulations backed by scientific research and clinical trials, ensuring that they deliver on their promises.
Skin professionals and aestheticians are highly trained and evaluate a patient’s skin concerns and customize recommendations to target and correct specific issues, such as acne, rosacea, fine lines, and more. A skincare consultation is so important to ensure that you are purchasing the correct combination of ingredients for your skin type, skin concerns, and lifestyle.
Corrective medical-grade skincare penetrates to a “deeper” layer of the skin below the surface called the dermis. Your dermis is filled with fibroblasts, the cells that create collagen and elastin. These products are formulated to stimulate actual transformations.
The Risks Of Purchasing Skincare From Amazon And Other Online Platforms
Amazon has become a go-to destination for shopping convenience, offering a vast array of products, including skincare. However, the platform’s marketplace model presents inherent risks, especially when it comes to skincare.
One of the primary concerns is product authenticity. Counterfeit skincare products are rampant on Amazon, with unauthorized sellers peddling knockoff versions of popular brands. These counterfeit products not only lack the efficacy of genuine formulations but may also contain harmful ingredients that can cause adverse reactions and long-term damage to the skin.
One of our premiere brands, Skinceuticals, conducted an experiment and purchased more than $750,000 of their product via third-party sites, including Amazon. They found that more than 90% were counterfeit and contained none of their active ingredients. Over 99% of the products were either counterfeit, or contained impure, untested, ineffective or inactive ingredients.
Purchasing skincare from Amazon and other unauthorized retailers compromises the integrity of the supply chain as well. Products may be stored improperly, exposed to extreme temperatures, or tampered with, diminishing their effectiveness and potentially posing health risks to consumers.
The Best Choice for Your Skin
When it comes to skincare, the stakes are high. While the allure of convenience and affordability may tempt consumers to purchase products from unauthorized online platforms like Amazon, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Counterfeit products, questionable ingredients, and compromised quality are just some of the dangers associated with buying skincare from unauthorized sellers.
Instead, prioritize your skin’s health and invest in medical-grade skincare products recommended by trusted skincare professionals. By choosing quality over convenience, you can rest assured that you’re giving your skin the care it deserves, with safe, effective formulations that deliver real results.
Book a skincare consultation today with our aesthetics team to begin your journey toward a customized skincare regimen just for you. More information about our consultations can be found in the FAQs.
