CHOOSE YOUR TREATMENT Cosmeceuticals AKA: Pharmaceutical Grade Skincare/Prescription Skincare. What is it?
We’re all used to the incredible claims made by the big cosmetics companies in their adverts, and most of us have tried a few wrinkle creams, found they don’t work and got a bit cynical about the whole concept of ‘anti-ageing’ cosmetics.
However, there are some products that really do work to change the appearance and sometimes even the structure of your skin, and they’re known as ‘cosmeceuticals’.The name is a blend of the words ‘cosmetic’ and ‘pharmaceutical’, and the reason they’re called that is because they contain ingredients that have cosmetic benefits for your skin at pharmaceutical grade levels, meaning they can actually have an impact on the dermis.
These ingredients include hyaluronic acid,AHAs, vitamin C… all the things you’re used to seeing on the boxes of your usual creams, the difference being the amount of each ingredient that is used - most high street brands contain such tiny amounts that it has no effect on your skin at all.
Some of the top brands in the UK include SkinCeuticals, Obagi, NeoStrata, SkinMedica, glotherapeutics, Medik8 and Exuviance, although there are plenty more.
Who does it?
● Plastic Surgeon ● Face Surgeon ● Cosmetic Doctor ● Cosmetic Dermatologist ● Cosmetic Dentist ● Cosmetic Nurse
Who is suitable?
Because these are powerful products, you really do need a thorough consultation with a skincare specialist - preferably a dermatologist or cosmetic doctor - before
putting them on your
skin.There are even some ranges, like the Obagi products, which have to be prescribed for you, because the ingredients are so strong.
Cosmeceuticals aren’t just for ageing skin, they can also deal with pigmentation problems, acne, rosacea, dark circles and even sparse eyelashes, so pretty much anyone is a candidate, but you do need to make sure you’re using the right products for your skin type, so get a professional opinion before starting a programme.
What’s the treatment like?
Once you’ve ascertained which is the right treatment programme for you, you will be prescribed a number of different products, usually incorporating a cleanser, serum, sun protector, day cream and night cream, although there may be more or fewer products in your regime, depending on the problem you are trying to treat and the range you are using.
With some of the more powerful, prescription-only ranges, you can expect to see really good results in as little as six weeks, but generally you do need to maintain the programme over time to see a real improvement in your skin.
What happens afterwards?
Although results aren’t usually as dramatic as they might be from Muscle Relaxing Injections (p 112) or Dermal Fillers (p 84), you can certainly expect to see a marked difference in your skin, and many people use cosmeceuticals as an adjunct to surgical or non-invasive procedures, as the quality of your skin can be just as important as a lack of lines and wrinkles in the battle against ageing.
Cost From £20 to £150
DrTapan Patel on why consultation is key A consultation with an appropriately trained practitioner, particularly with a prescription-only skincare range such as Obagi Nu-Derm, is
essential.There will be a period of the skin reacting to the products, which patients have to be prepared for. During that time, the skin may go red, dry, itchy or even peel, and it is important that patients realise these are not side-effects but desired effects – we know, when you get that reaction, that the product is working.
There are a lot of products in the Nu-Derm system, which can be daunting, but you have to realise that the old process of ‘cleanse, tone, moisturise’ just won’t work. If you really want to change your skin, you have to invest time and effort, so another part of the consultation is ensuring that patients have the dedication and willpower to follow the system.
www.obagi.uk.com www.acneclinicuk.com
The Cosmetic Surgery Guide 77
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