We all want access to the best skincare products on the market. But it seems like the sea of options these days is getting infinitely larger and deeper the further we wade out into the skincare waters. On top of that, there are so many professionals out there — aestheticians, doctors, skincare gurus, friends, etc. — throwing in their two cents.
What’s the right answer? Well, it depends on who you ask.
At the end of the day, you have to understand what you’re using and go with what you believe your skin needs and will respond to. It also helps to be educated, which is where your friends at Live Young Wellness Spa come into play.
Over-the-counter (OTC) vs. Professional Skincare lines
We are huge proponents of choosing a professional skincare line over anything else. But before we dive into the reasons why we feel that way, we’re prepared to answer the question: “Is there even a difference?”
The short answer is yes. Over-the-counter and professional skincare products each adhere to some pretty strict FDA guidelines to ensure consumer safety. But while OTC products can be accessed anywhere, they come with very little counseling as to what will be the best option for your unique skin. On the other hand, professional lines are only accessible after consulting with a trained beauty advisor or licensed aesthetician.
These professionals will do a full assessment of your unique skin and help take into account any or all of the following:
- Dry or dull skin
- Skin that “feels tight”
- Roughness
- Redness and sensitivity
- Premature signs of aging
- Itchiness
With all of that in mind, here are 5 reasons to choose a professional skincare line over anything else.
1. Not produced for the masses
Rather than being made in bulk and sold in department and beauty stores nationwide, professional skincare lines such as Alastin, Epionce, and Elta MD are produced in smaller batches. They are also made available to trained or licensed med spas, salons, and skincare centers that provide guidance and advice.
2. Higher levels of active ingredients
OTC products have far less active ingredients than their professional skincare counterparts. And the reason why is because companies want to limit the chance that buyers can have adverse reactions to products they are simply buying off store shelves. Professional skincare is stronger and has fewer fillers and preservatives, but there is far less of a negative reaction because of the fact that they are recommended to the user only after a thorough consultation and skin analysis.
3. Easily penetrate the skin
Most OTC products have ingredients that are too large and don’t fully penetrate the skin. Professional skincare lines have molecules small enough to penetrate deep beneath the skin, so that skin relief is more than just a surface-level fix.
4. pH adjusted ingredients
Any skincare routine should ensure the integrity of the skin’s barrier function by using pH-adjusted ingredients rather than those that open the skin up to bacterial and other harsh elements that hurt the skin.
5. Affordable prices
Many people don’t think about utilizing professional skincare lines because of the price. Simply put, they think these products and the services that come with them are too expensive. But this simply isn’t true. Not only are the price points reasonable, but with proper guidance, you’ll find that the products you do purchase last longer than traditional over-the-counter products.
Call Dr. Drew Sanderson and his team today!!
At Live Young Wellness Spa, we want you to walk in our front doors and feel confident that you will receive the best care for your individual needs. It is our job to ensure that happens. Our primary office is located at 2931 Long Prairie Rd, Ste 100, which is immediately behind Black Walnut Café. Give us a call today!
For more information about Dr. Drew Sanderson, click here.