Professional products are formulated for specific skin types and conditions. They contain a higher amount of active ingredients than drugstore and department store brands. Active ingredients are the ingredients that actually effect, benefit and improve the skin. On average, over the counter products contain 1 to 3% active ingredients, whereas professional products contain 10 to 20%.

Professional products are also pH balanced and non-comedogenic (will not clog pores) which over the counter products may or may not be. Many drug and department store brands claim to be non-comedogenic but I still find that they clog my client’s pores.

Professional product lines spend their money on research, development and quality ingredients whereas drugstore and department store brands spend their money on packaging and marketing. Marketers know how to appeal to consumers, especially the younger ones. They use beautiful celebrities, cool packaging and false claims to lure consumers. Just because it costs more, or is sold at the cosmetics counter of a department store does not mean it is a quality product. Don’t be fooled.

I recommend purchasing skincare products from an esthetician or dermatologist who understands your skin’s specific needs and conditions. If it sounds too good to be true…it probably is. The skincare industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry – everyone wants to get into the moneymaking game. Most of these businesses are not creating products that will actually change or benefit your skin.