The main differences between pharmacy cosmetics and regular ones
Pharmacy cosmetics or cosmeceuticals are highly concentrated products designed to combat specific problems of each skin type. Cosmeceuticals can be bought in pharmacies, on the official website of the pharmaceutical manufacturer brand or in specialized stores.
What products are classified as cosmeceuticals?
The first and main difference between pharmaceutical facial cosmetics and store-bought products is strict production control, which is based on innovative cosmetological, dermatological and pharmaceutical scientific achievements.
The key task of pharmaceutical products is to correct narrowly targeted aesthetic imperfections of the skin, eliminating the problem from the inside, rather than masking it. The effectiveness of pharmaceutical cosmetics has been proven by independent clinical studies.
What components are included in pharmaceutical cosmetics?
The second difference is the hypoallergenic composition. Innovative formulas of pharmaceutical products include a high content of active components designed to solve skin problems at the cellular level, and not superficially, as mass-market products that camouflage or act only on the epidermis do.
Cosmeceuticals solve several problems at the same time: moisturizing, nutrition, fighting acne, age-related changes, etc.
It also contains the following active components, which are first tested in the laboratory and then in clinical settings:
- vitamins B, C, A, E, PP and minerals to nourish the skin;
- retinol to even out skin texture and complexion;
- glycerin, hyaluronic acid for deep and intense hydration;
- peptides, lipids, ceramides, collagen to maintain skin tone and turgor;
- thermal water to strengthen and protect the epidermis;
- probiotics and prebiotics;
- natural oils to soften, nourish, and moisturize the skin;
- fruit acids to accelerate cell renewal and exfoliation;
- antioxidants to fight free radicals, oxidation processes and stress.
Thanks to its rich composition, active cosmetics allow you to fight visible skin imperfections (excessive sebum production, pimples and blackheads, signs of aging, excessive dryness, sensitivity, etc.) at the cellular level and have a prolonged effect.
The content of pharmaceutical face creams containing fragrances, preservatives and other excipients that can potentially harm sensitive skin and cause an allergic reaction is minimized. Because of this, pharmaceutical products are often odorless or have a slight aroma.
Precautionary measures
When using pharmaceutical preparations for skin beauty, you must be thoughtful and careful in both choosing the product and following the instructions for use. Before purchasing, be sure to read the recommendations for using the drug and find out whether the product has contraindications.
It should be kept in mind that many anti-aging creams contain ingredients that are not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
It is recommended that before using any pharmaceutical product, you visit a dermatologist or cosmetologist to get professional advice regarding the condition of your skin. A specialist can also competently advise the drug and avoid harmful effects on the skin of the face.
Be sure to pay attention to the composition of the face cream, its expiration date and apply the product correctly.
So, we found out what advantages pharmaceutical creams have, and which of them are most effective for skin problems. As you can see, it is best to combat various skin defects, as well as age-related changes in the epidermis, with the help of pharmaceutical products. A positive result in this case is more likely, long-lasting, and besides, drugs that have passed all kinds of clinical trials are safer and more environmentally friendly.
Why do dermatologists recommend using medicinal cosmetics?
Mass market products only affect the epidermis, while the formula of pharmaceutical cosmetics penetrates into the deeper layers of the dermis, bypassing the basement membranes. Pharmacy cosmetics are produced taking into account the standards for medical products, based on global manufacturers.
Pharmacy facial cosmetics are not addictive. Cosmetologists and dermatologists recommend using pharmaceutical cosmetics daily to visibly improve the condition of the skin.
An important advantage of pharmaceutical cosmetics is the high quality of basic functions:
- cleansing;
- hydration;
- regeneration;
- rejuvenation;
- elimination of hyperpigmentation, etc.
Pharmacy product formulas are aimed at eliminating the problem from the inside. Unlike store-bought products, cosmeceuticals contain higher concentrations of highly targeted active ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, retinol, peptides, enzymes, a complex of acids, vitamins and antioxidants.
Bioderma, Micellar water Sensibio H2O AR
Where to find: naos.ru (906 rub.)
It would seem, why buy micellar water for a thousand rubles if you can find it in any supermarket for 300. But those who have tried this pharmaceutical product at least once never return to the mass market. Bioderma water quickly removes makeup and does not leave a sticky feeling.
The line is especially recommended for use by those with sensitive or problematic skin. Therefore, this micellar can be seen in the cosmetic bags of professional makeup artists. She is also recommended by the most popular Hollywood stars: actress Emma Stone, model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and others.
Find out how to use it correctly: We were wrong: how to actually use micellar water
Benefits of La Roche-Posay pharmacy cosmetics
La Roche-Posay pharmacy brand products are professional cosmetics for home care for reactive skin of various types, approved by dermatologists and developed taking into account innovative achievements in cosmetology and pharmaceuticals.
The effectiveness of the patented formulas of La Roche-Posay skin care ranges has been proven by independent clinical studies and is designed to solve the problem of skin imperfections at the cellular level. Unlike cosmeceuticals, conventional creams mask the external manifestation of skin imperfections without eradicating the problem.
The first signs of aging
Skin aging begins at age 25. The renewal processes in the epidermis gradually decrease, the state of collagen fibers changes, and the hydrolipid mantle weakens. And also the frame. Externally, this is manifested by a decrease in skin turgor and deterioration of complexion. In addition, the first wrinkles and circles under the eyes appear in the facial zones.
The best pharmacy creams can quickly eliminate the first signs of aging. Dermatologists recommend paying attention to the following products:
- Vichy Slow Age. Night cream fights the effects of poor diet, stress, and smoking. And also lack of sleep. It corrects the first signs of aging, saturates the skin with oxygen, moisturizes and smoothes it. The day cream from this series creates a protective barrier and strengthens the epidermis. It prevents the appearance of the first signs of aging.
- Lierac Deridium. Vitamin E, echinacea and ivy extracts stimulate collagen production, moisturize and improve the relief of the epidermis. The cream for dry skin is additionally enriched with pumpkin seed and corn oil. As well as glycerin and squalane.
- La Roche Posay Hyalu B5. This cream can be used both morning and evening. It contains vitamin B5 and two types of hyaluronate. This product moisturizes, softens and soothes the skin. After just a month of use, visible imperfections of the epidermis are eliminated, and its color improves.
How to choose suitable pharmacy cosmetics?
Choose facial care according to your skin type and needs.
Normal skin
For the care of normal skin types
choose product formulas based on hydrofixatives and nourishing oils that strengthen the skin's hydrolipid barrier. Wash your face twice daily using cleansers that are pH balanced between 5.2 and 5.7.
Dry and sensitive skin
The main component of products for dry skin
– intense moisturizing and moisture-retaining components and lipids. Choose products with hypoallergenic formulas based on vegetable oils and fats that restore the lipid mantle. Look for soothing, softening components in the composition, for example, thermal water, hyaluronic acid, glycerin. Avoid the presence of preservatives, parabens and chemical fragrances in the composition.
Oily, problem skin
Include sebum-regulating, mattifying products with moisturizing formulas in your beauty routine to prevent skin dehydration. On the packaging of products for problem skin
Look for the “non-comedogenic” label. Provide your skin with high-quality deep cleansing: use soft gels for washing with a pH ranging from 4.0 to 5.2, without alcohol. Apply white clay masks twice a week to deeply cleanse pores.
Combination skin
Look for products labeled “for combination skin” that contain moisturizing ingredients at the heart of the formula to prevent transepidermal moisture loss in the U-zone and mattifying, sebum-regulating, antibacterial components that normalize the condition of the skin in the T-zone.
Anti-aging cosmetics
Composition of anti-age cosmetics
care often includes antioxidants to combat the negative effects of free radicals on cells and slow down the aging process of the skin. Anti-aging formulas also contain hyaluronic acid, components that stimulate the synthesis of natural collagen and elastin, retinol, vitamin C, peptides and sunscreens to prevent skin photoaging.
Avene, Thermal water Eau Thermale
Where to find: OZON (656 RUR)
Avene thermal water is the secret of youth and freshness of many Hollywood stars. For example, Jennifer Aniston has been using it for many years. This product from the pharmacy is a real salvation for those with dry skin. You can carry it in your purse and refresh your face throughout the day. Water relieves all irritations and moisturizes the skin, preventing premature aging.
But you need to know how to use thermal water correctly and for what. The product from the French pharmacy brand is multifunctional. It is suitable for relieving skin irritations after any procedures, tanning and hair removal. It can even treat diaper rash in babies.
See what we need thermal water for and how to use it correctly
Assortment of pharmaceutical cosmetics La Roche-Posay
You can buy La Roche-Posay dermatocosmetics in city pharmacies or order delivery from the manufacturer’s online store. The range is presented in several ranges for different types and needs of facial and body skin.
Below are the most popular La Roche-Posay ranges according to customer reviews for 2022:
- EFFACLAR
– cosmetics for oily and problem skin; - LIPIKAR
– cosmetics for dry atopic skin; - TOLERIANE
– care for sensitive and allergic skin; - CICAPLAST
– soothing multi-regenerating cosmetics for face and body; - HYALU B5
– moisturizing anti-aging care; - ROSALIAC
– care for reactive skin prone to redness; - ANTHELIOS
– sun protection.
The prices for active cosmetics also differ from the cost of store-bought cosmetic products. Often, medical cosmetics are more expensive, which is explained by patented production technologies, highly concentrated formulas and independent clinical studies confirming the high effectiveness of the products.
The best pharmacy cosmetics from La Roche-Posay
Caring for capricious sensitive skin is not an easy task, which dermatological pharmaceutical products will help simplify. If dryness, irritation, flaking, and itching of the skin are your constant companions, you should try La Roche Posay corrective care. The main active component of all products for sensitive skin is thermal water
from the source of La Roche-Posay. Below is a rating of the best pharmacy cosmetics brand by type of product
Thermal water
Thermal water La Roche Posay
enriched with selenium (a natural antioxidant), which increases the ability of cells to fight free radicals and regenerate. Reduces discomfort from irritation and itching, quickly soothes, moisturizes and softens the skin, has wound-healing, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory effects, and slows down the aging process of cells.
EAU THERMAL
Thermal water for all skin types
Instantly moisturizes and softens the skin, reduces redness.
399 rub. more details
Pharmacy cosmetics against acne
To effectively combat acne, it is necessary to use pharmaceutical cosmetics containing salicylic acid and lipo-hydroxy acid. These components provide a micro-exfoliating effect without damaging the skin. Skin with imperfections needs comprehensive care, which consists of delicate cleansing, exfoliation of dead skin, moisturizing, nourishing and correcting rashes. All these products can be found here
.
Effaclar micro-exfoliating cleansing gel is especially popular among users.
. According to clinical studies (52 participants used the product for 4 weeks), systematic use of the gel eliminates up to 51% of severe imperfections and eliminates acne marks by 57%. In addition to reducing pronounced imperfections, the product prevents the appearance of new rashes and post-acne.
- Corrective cream-gel for problematic facial skin Effaclar Duo(+) spf30/ppd10
₽1554Rating: 98% of 100
(44) Read reviews
Add to wishlist
- A micro-exfoliating cleansing gel for skin with severe imperfections. Effaclar Micro-exfoliating cleansing gel
₽1342
Rating: 94% of 100
(421) Read reviews
Add to wishlist
- A micro-exfoliating cleansing gel for skin with imperfections. Effaclar A micro-exfoliating cleansing gel for face and body
₽1968
Rating: 93% of 100
(25) Read reviews
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Pharmacy face creams
Face creams are one of the most common forms of pharmaceutical cosmetics. They are used for night and day skin care, to correct wrinkles, to correct signs of fatigue and to moisturize the skin around the eyes. In the La Roche-Posay assortment you will find a large number of face creams for various skin types.
One of the most popular La Roche-Posay creams is the Toleriane Sensitive light cream.
. The product instantly moisturizes and soothes the skin. Ceramides in the cream strengthen the skin's natural protective barrier. Regular use of the product protects the skin from the negative effects of environmental factors. Toleriane Sensitive consists of 74% thermal water, making it ideal for sensitive skin (both adults and babies).
- Intensive moisturizing care for dehydrated normal to dry skin types Hydraphase ha Rich cream
₽2200Rating: 98% of 100
(242) Read reviews
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- Corrective cream-gel for problematic facial skin Effaclar Duo(+) spf30/ppd10
₽1554
Rating: 98% of 100
(44) Read reviews
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- Intensive concentrated gel-cream for the correction of wrinkles and skin texture Redermic Retinol
₽2947
Rating: 98% of 100
(51) Read reviews
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Pharmacy balms
Facial balms can be used to cleanse, heal, moisturize the skin and more. The La Roche-Posay range of balms includes products for restoring the skin's protective barrier, soothing products for irritated skin and balms for atopic skin.
One of the bestsellers is Lipikar Baume AP+M triple action balm
. It is suitable for both body and face. Effectively soothes irritated skin and helps reduce itching. The new complex of ingredients in the product effectively regulates the skin microbiome. Most effective in combination with La Roche-Posay thermal water.
- Soothing and restorative Cicaplast balm b5 spf50
₽1243Rating: 91% of 100
(143) Read reviews
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- Soothing multi-regenerating balm Cicaplast Baume b5
₽1588
Rating: 96% of 100
(37) Read reviews
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- Revitalizing lip barrier balm for children and adults Cicaplast lips
₽564
Rating: 94% of 100
(193) Read reviews
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Serums
Facial serums are a real find for women of any age. The high concentration of active components makes the serum an ideal assistant in the fight against age-related skin changes.
Pure Vitamin C10 Anti-Aging Antioxidant Serum
contains a high concentration of Vitamin C. The serum visually reduces not only small superficial wrinkles, but also deep age wrinkles. In addition, regular use of the product significantly evens out the surface and tone of the skin.
- Hydrating concentrated anti-wrinkle serum Hyalu b5 Serum
₽3865
Rating: 94% of 100
(864) Read reviews
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- An intensely soothing serum that activates the skin's protective function for the face and eye area. Tolerian Ultra dermallergo
₽2435
Rating: 92% of 100
(162) Read reviews
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- Antioxidant serum for skin renewal Vitamin c10 serum
₽3502
Rating: 89% of 100
(245) Read reviews
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Masks
A pharmaceutical mask successfully selected for your skin type can replace a full trip to a cosmetologist. Face masks moisturize the skin, cleanse it of surface impurities, mattify the skin and reduce the appearance of imperfections (pimples, blackheads, rashes).
Particularly popular is the moisturizing, soothing mask Hydraphase Intense Masque
. It has a gel-cream texture and is suitable for all skin types (including sensitive ones). The product contains fragmented hyaluronic acid, which helps retain moisture in the skin. Shea butter in the composition helps strengthen the skin's protective barrier and intensively nourishes the skin.
- Purifying mattifying mask for oily problem skin Effaclar Mask
₽1284Rating: 97% of 100
(359) Read reviews
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Gels
Facial gel is a must-have in your pharmacy cosmetics arsenal. It gently cleanses the skin of strong secretions and dirty particles, restores the skin barrier and protects it from harmful environmental influences. Gels cleanse the skin more gently compared to scrubs or soaps.
Toleriane Caring Wash Cleansing Gel
designed specifically for sensitive skin. Thanks to niacinamide, the gel soothes irritated skin and reduces discomfort. Panthenol restores and softens the skin, while ceramides help retain moisture in the skin.
- Face and body cleansing gel for babies, children and adults Cicaplast lavant b5 cleansing gel
₽1106
Rating: 98% of 100
(360) Read reviews
Not available
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- A micro-exfoliating cleansing gel for skin with severe imperfections. Effaclar Micro-exfoliating cleansing gel
₽1342
Rating: 94% of 100
(421) Read reviews
Add to wishlist
- A micro-exfoliating cleansing gel for skin with imperfections. Effaclar A micro-exfoliating cleansing gel for face and body
₽1968
Rating: 93% of 100
(25) Read reviews
Add to wishlist
Micellar water
Micellar water is visually similar to ordinary water, but contains special particles - micelles (particles of surfactants). These particles help remove the smallest dirt, grease particles, makeup residues, dust and other contaminants from the surface.
Micellar water La Roche-Posay
– one of the brightest representatives of pharmaceutical facial cosmetics. It delicately moisturizes and cleanses the skin and at the same time has a physiological pH level. The product is suitable for all skin types (including allergy-prone and sensitive skin).
EFFACLAR ULTRA
Micellar water
Thoroughly cleanses the skin of impurities and reduces oily shine.
RUB 1,092 more details
Restoring the oval
Nothing affects the skin as negatively as hormonal aging. This process develops at high speed and covers all layers of the epidermis. The lipostructure becomes significantly thinner or disappears altogether. The sebaceous glands partially atrophy, the epidermis becomes drier and begins to sag in some places.
Pharmacy facial skin creams designed to correct hormonal aging are capable of resisting these changes. The most effective are the following:
- Vichy Neovadiol. This unique cream can increase skin density and reduce sagging in just a few days. It stimulates the natural production of lipids and collagen. Accelerates exfoliation and cell regeneration. Gradually, the skin of the face is renewed, and its contours become clearer.
- Lierac Arkeskin. This super-nourishing cream contains magnesium, calcium, proteins, urea and cytopearl. Pigment spots, after using the care product, become less noticeable. Wrinkles and deep creases are gradually smoothed out.
- Avene Serenage. This cream for mature skin increases its vitality and elasticity. It contains a unique fragmented hyaluronic acid and pretocopheryl.