When cosmetics and pharmaceuticals are blended together, they are known as cosmeceuticals. The goal of cosmeceuticals is to take active ingredients that are known to be beneficial to humans in some way, like the antioxidant vitamin C, and add it to a lotion or other cosmetic product. Those who are keen on maintaining youthful, healthy skin for as long as possible often include cosmeceuticals in the line of defense against the effects of aging. Many cosmeceuticals include ingredients such as botanical and marine extracts, vitamins, or peptides.
Dermatological research suggests that the ingredients used in cosmeceuticals have benefits beyond the traditional moisturizer. When applied topically, it is thought that these active ingredients can reach the deeper dermal layers of skin, allowing them to make noticeable changes in the skin. Some benefits of cosmeceuticals include reducing the severity of acne, hydrating the skin, diminishing the appearance of aging and sun damage, and last but not least promoting a healthy, youthful, and more radiant complexion.
Cosmeceuticals are sold in medical offices and qualified medical spas. The main difference between cosmeceuticals and over-the-counter cosmetics is the concentration of the active ingredients. Cosmeceuticals contain more active ingredients and are in much higher concentrations than their over-the-counter competitors. With higher concentrations, the active ingredients can penetrate deeper into the dermis layer of the skin, thereby resulting in more visible, longer-term results.
Cosmeceuticals are best suited for those with skin concerns such as sun damage, dry, dull, or dehydrated skin, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, or oily and acne-prone skin. While cosmeceuticals can alleviate a myriad of skin complaints, they are also perfect for maintaining a clear, healthy complexion. Anyone who wants to look and feel confident about their skin should give cosmeceuticals a try.
Cosmeceuticals are also great after a treatment such as a laser, microdermabrasion, or chemical peel. Cosmeceutical products are also often used in preparation for treatments. Optimal results are achieved when skin is as healthy as possible, well-hydrated, and full of antioxidants. The use of a soothing gel directly after laser, microdermabrasion, and peels aids in recovery and continued use of cosmeceuticals will help prolong results.