ARTICLE
Knowing the Difference: Cosmetics vs. Cosmeceuticals
We are often asked ‘what’s the difference between cosmetics and cosmeceuticals?’ by our patients. The biggest difference is whether products penetrate the skin’s surface to promote change on a cellular level.
Cosmetics are simply lotions that smooth or hydrate your skin. This category of products is often found in chemists and department stores. Cosmetics cannot perpetrate the epidermis to access the deeper layers of the skin. So, while cosmetics may refresh your complexion for a few hours, they cannot create structural changes or deliver long-term results.
Cosmeceuticals represent the marriage between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Cosmeceuticals contain high concentrations of bioactive ingredients such as Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Retinoids and Vitamin C. Chiral and encapsulation technology enables deep penetration of these active ingredients. As a result, cosmeceuticals can produce structural changes within the skin and are ideal for the treatment of skin conditions like acne, hyper-pigmentation and ageing. Only available in paramedical skin clinics, cosmeceuticals are best prescribed by a skin professional.
At Avenue Advanced Skin Care, we only use medical grade cosmeceuticals so that you can achieve the best results possible. No fluffy cosmetics found here!