Pharmacy cosmetics which one to choose

Looking at the wide range of creams on pharmacy shelves, we often wonder how these creams, ointments and emulsions differ from those sold in stores.

The first difference is immediately visible - the high cost of pharmaceutical cosmetics. Does it cost more - does it mean it's better? Or is there something else going on here?

Let's look into this issue, because caring for facial skin, especially problematic skin, requires a serious approach in order to eliminate existing shortcomings and not cause harm.

Why can it only be found in the pharmacy chain?

Pharmacy care products belong to cosmeceuticals - a young and fast-growing branch of the cosmetics industry. It is intended for those who are looking for guaranteed solutions for problematic skin (acne, rashes, spots, an abundance of freckles, excessive porosity and oiliness, peeling, etc.).

If skin defects are not associated with a specific disease of the body, there is no point in using medicinal ointments, and store-bought cosmetic creams are not effective enough to solve these problems.

The main differences between pharmacy cosmetics and those sold in stores

The main differences between pharmacy products are:

1. Proven and guaranteed effectiveness. Confirmation of quality by clinical and laboratory tests and certificates obtained on their basis.
2. Innovative composition enriched with acids, enzymes, vitamins and antioxidants.

Pharmaceutical drugs are medications that cure the causes of acne, inflammation, and other painful conditions. They are free of parabens, fragrances and dyes.

Forms of professional products

Pharmacy products for problem skin are produced by leading companies and laboratories in various forms:

1. balm;
2. spring or micellar water;
3. gel;
4. liquid;

Correct Application

Here are some recommendations for the use of cosmeceuticals. Procedure for selection and purchase:

1. Read the rating of the company producing pharmaceutical drugs and customer reviews.
2. Choose one of the new lines of products to solve this cosmetic problem.
3. Consult a physician, dermatologist, or other appropriate specialist.
4. Study the packaging, booklets, and instructions for use
5. Take the necessary break from using the product, which is essentially a pharmaceutical drug, and give the skin a break from the active effects.
6. Discuss the result with a specialist.

Here's a video about what you need to know when choosing skincare products:

Rating of the best products

Pharmacy facial cosmetics can eliminate and cure serious skin problems. The rating of leading manufacturing companies will help you navigate the variety of effective cosmeceutical products.

The current list of manufacturers-brands is given below based on data on the number of sales, effectiveness and consumer reviews of cosmeceuticals:

1. Vichy;
2. Avene;
3. Galenic;
4. Bioderma;
5. La Roche-Posay;
6. Pharmatheiss cosmetics;

The majority of cosmeceuticals enterprises and laboratories operate in France. Well-known brands from Germany and Israel. The pharmaceutical cosmetics industry is rapidly developing and is in demand all over the world.

And if you are worried about age spots, try Achromin cream. But be sure to consult your doctor before use.

Nano-Botox serum successfully copes with sagging, expression wrinkles, dark circles under the eyes and swollen oval of the face. You can learn more about this wonderful anti-aging product here.

VICHY

The history of the VICHY company dates back to 1931, when the French dermatologist Dr. Allaire discovered the unique natural properties of the VICHY thermal spring water. Even earlier, in 1861, the French Academy of Medical Sciences recognized Vichy as a source of national importance.

The maximum depth from which the source originates is 4,000 m. The water heats up to 140 0C before reaching the surface. This is higher than the temperature at which steam forms, so the water is further purified during the sublimation process.

Having begun studying the composition and influence of water, Aller created a scientific laboratory. The water contains 15 minerals, which is more than any other source of water.

Vichy creams and serums undergo more than 3,000 clinical trials per year under the supervision of dermatologists. All facial care products are segmented according to age and skin type. Vichy preparations are 100% tolerable to skin of any sensitivity.

The VICHY range of medicinal products is represented by the following lines:

1. LIFTACTIV series for basic care (from 40 years):
2. anti-aging cream Liftactive Suprem, a long-term remedy for the correction of wrinkles and elasticity of the epidermis. The cream has 2 texture options and gives an instant effect for dry and combination skin. The cost of the cream is in the range of 2300-2500 rubles;
3. serum-serum for the area around the eyes, the formula of which includes special reflective particles and ceramides. The result of application is visible after 10 minutes;
4. a long-lasting night product that smoothes the skin and moisturizes it;
5. anti-aging serum to restore youth. Rhamnose and hyaluronic acid quickly deliver active ingredients to the epidermis layer that fight the aging process.

The CAPITAL SOLEIL series implements the mission of the Vichy company - effective protection against ultraviolet radiation. The fight against sun exposure is not limited to effective creams with a protective factor of 50+: the company conducts active educational activities. A special technique for applying protective agents has been developed to guarantee results.

The difference between the products in this series is the protection of the skin at the level of stem cells located in the deepest layers of the epidermis. It is these cells, according to research by scientists from the Vichy laboratory, that can regenerate the epidermis after a sunburn. The effect of the drugs has been scientifically proven by numerous clinical studies.

The cost of sun protection products ranges from 700 to 1000 rubles

AVENE

Avene laboratories are known for the widest range of products for beauty and health. The company's products consist of more than 55% thermal water.

Problems associated with skin sensitivity are solved by thermal water with its unique characteristics. It has a neutral pH, contains silicon compounds and has an anti-inflammatory, antipruritic soothing effect.

GALENICK

GALENIC uses spring water and special know-how to effectively treat rashes, pimples and blackheads. “Smart cells” in the products themselves find problem areas and provide an effect where it is needed.

The company is distinguished by a special scientific approach to the research and development of drugs. The Kotre series includes a cleansing healing gel. The gel is designed for gentle cleansing of mixed and oily skin.

The price of medicinal cosmetics for the face of the Cotre series is 650-900 rubles.

BIODERMA

French dermatological laboratory that produces products for the prevention and treatment of skin diseases. They are aimed at caring for problematic and diseased skin. Bioderma medicinal cosmetics are available in several lines to solve dermatological problems:

1. Atoderm - for external care for atopic dermatitis. Atoderm PO zink - antibacterial cream that treats dermatitis;
2. Sensibio - for hypersensitive skin, as well as for rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis. Redness occurs as a reaction to cold, heat, and sun rays. Redness can develop into rosacea. In the affected areas there is a feeling of itching, burning, and inflammation may develop;
3. Cicabio – for healing;
4. Sebium - for acne and skin seborrhea.

La Roche-Posay

The reputable company La Roche-Posay, which develops products for the regular care of acne-prone, oily and comedonal skin, actively uses thermal water.

The company produces the following series:

1. Cicaplast;
2. Effaclar;
3. Hydraphase;
4. Lipikar;
5. Nutritic Intense;
6. redermic;
7. Rosaliac;
8. Toleriane.

The Effaclar line is a special series for pimples, blackheads and acne to restore skin-lipid balance. Helps eliminate the cause of excess sebum and reduce greasiness. The cost of the line is 600-750 rubles.

Balm LIPIKAR AR+ - Lipid-restoring facial treatment against irritation and itching. Instantly soothes very sensitive dry skin.

Pharmateiss cosmetics

The laboratory of the German pharmaceutical company Pharmatheiss cosmetics is working to improve the created formulas and develop new technologies on a scientific basis. The Pharmatheiss brand produces D'Oliva, Skin in balance, and Pure Skin.

Skin in balance – innovative products that include:

1. calendula;
2. thermal water;
3. lavender extract;
4. purple-red algae.

Forms of products from the Skin in balance line:

1. cleansing milk;
2. day care cream;
3. special gel for intensive care.

The cost of drugs in this line is 600-800 rubles.

Pharmatheiss scientists chose extra-virgin olive oil as the basis for the D`Olive line. This oil is used for the innovative cosmetic series D`Olive and is produced in the province of Tuscany.

Cosmeceutical pharmaceutical preparations from leading manufacturers can solve appearance problems:

1. early aging and fading;
2. sensitivity and hypersensitivity;
3. dark spots;
4. acne, pimples of various origins;
5. rosacea;
6. dryness and tightness, wrinkles;
7. exposure to the sun and hard ultraviolet rays.

The cost of cosmetic pharmaceutical products is ultimately justified by their safety and effectiveness. Pharmacy cosmetics, or cosmeceuticals, are special medicinal products for problematic facial skin that can only be purchased in specialized pharmacies.

To correctly select and use pharmaceutical products, it is necessary to consult a specialist and strictly follow the instructions or recommendations.

Watch the second part of the video about medicinal care cosmetics from famous manufacturers:

Women who care about their appearance and take this issue seriously prefer to purchase face cream at the pharmacy. This is due to the effectiveness of using such products, comparable to procedures in a beauty salon. What drugs can be bought in the pharmacy chain, how the products from well-known global manufacturers differ, how to make the right choice - this is discussed in the review of branded medicinal products.

What are pharmaceutical cosmetics

The modern development of science, turning to traditional medicine, has helped to create a new direction at the intersection of pharmacology and cosmetology - cosmeceuticals, which is engaged in the development of medicinal drugs. Pharmacy cosmetics are products whose action is aimed at solving dermatological and aesthetic problems. These drugs:

1. contain active natural ingredients;
2. use the latest scientific developments;
3. safe - they do not contain dyes, fragrances, parabens;
4. promote rapid restoration of the skin, treatment, and preventive care.

Pharmacy cosmetics have their own characteristics. They are associated with the high quality of products, the serious attitude of manufacturers to products produced under brands, and therefore are sold through pharmacies. Medical cosmetics:

1. solves skin problems from the inside;
2. has certificates - undergoes many laboratory tests;
3. helps reduce doses of medications;
4. guarantees long-lasting effect;
5. differs in the quality of cleaning;
6. serves as an addition to treatment or acts independently.

Pharmaceutical companies developing unique formulations for pharmaceutical cosmetics produce products that:

1. solves specific problems of the epidermis;
2. simultaneously treats, eliminates defects and cares for the skin;
3. has a price that includes the costs of developing new formulas and clinical studies;
4. contain vitamins, antioxidants, enzymes that act at the cellular level.

Well-known brands are trying to expand their product line. They produce pharmaceutical cosmetics that satisfy any requirement. Leading companies produce the following types and forms of products:

1. creams that solve various problems;
2. lines of hair products;
3. cosmetic nail care products;
4. micellar water;
5. tonics;
6. emulsions;
7. vibes;
8. serums;
9. foam;
10. gels;
11. mousses;
12. milk;
13. oils;
14. lotions.

How is it different from normal

Those with sensitive skin find it difficult to choose cosmetics even in specialized stores. Hypoallergenic pharmaceutical cosmetics have a serious therapeutic effect on skin diseases. Unlike conventional drugs, these products:

1. penetrates into the deep layers of the epidermis;
2. actively moisturizes the skin;
3. contains ingredients that are used in the production of medicines;
4. does not cause allergic reactions.

The products of well-known brands are distinguished by the fact that all components of pharmaceutical products undergo high-quality pre-purification. The effectiveness of drugs is determined by:

1. no preservatives, parabens, fragrances;
2. guarantee of laboratory and clinical tests, confirmed by certificates;
3. use of natural components and modern developments;
4. the possibility of treatment, preventive care from the effects of the sun, ultraviolet rays;
5. the ability to solve problems of early aging and fading;
6. effectiveness in the treatment of acne, acne, rosacea.

Pharmaceutical companies produce drugs that meet the diverse needs of consumers. All pharmacy cosmetics are divided into three groups. The most accessible, which is cheap, but distinguished by quality and safety, are mass market products. These drugs, in addition to pharmacies, can be purchased in specialized cosmetics stores and supermarkets. Popular products of domestic and foreign brands:

We bet you go to the pharmacy not only for pills and medicine, but also for face cream or micellar water? Pharmacy cosmetics are becoming more and more popular every year. What are its advantages?

1. What are pharmaceutical cosmetics
2. Types of pharmaceutical cosmetics for skin care
3. How to choose pharmacy facial cosmetics
4. What you need to know about pharmaceutical facial cosmetics: expert opinion
5. Pros and cons of cosmetics from pharmacies
6. Review of pharmaceutical cosmetics for the face

What are pharmaceutical cosmetics

Everything is simple here: these are beauty products that are sold only in pharmacies; you won’t find them in regular cosmetic stores. The formulas are based on the latest achievements in cosmetic chemistry, beauty industry, and pharmaceuticals.

Sometimes these products have been developed for years, and their effectiveness is proven by independent clinical studies.

The main goal of pharmacy cosmetics is to effectively correct skin imperfections and eliminate the problem from the inside. Unlike cosmetics sold in stores, pharmacy ones contain in higher concentrations:

complexes of fruit acids.

You won’t find beauty products that are sold only in pharmacies in regular cosmetic stores © iStock

As you can easily guess from the name, these products are distributed in pharmacy chains, medical clinics or through online pharmacy stores.

“All dermatocosmetics (they are also called pharmaceutical, medicinal, active, cosmeceuticals) are manufactured according to standards close to those used when creating drugs,” says Elena Eliseeva, medical consultant at Vichy. — Testing for effectiveness and safety is mandatory.

At the same time, clinical studies of effectiveness, as in the case of tablets, take place in 3 stages:

testing of the active substance;

testing the performance of the product in vitro;

and finally, in vivo validation.

Formulas must be tested to be hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic and safe for sensitive skin.”

Types of pharmaceutical cosmetics for skin care

Cleanser

Since we are talking about pharmaceutical cosmetics, these products are aimed at solving problems:

elimination of oily shine;

Thorough cleansing of acne-prone skin;

delicate cleansing of sensitive skin prone to allergies and redness.

Micellar water

It easily and effectively removes dirt and makeup without irritating or damaging the skin. The main active component is microscopic micelles, complex compounds of fatty acid esters. They are responsible for thorough cleansing. And glycerin in the product softens their effect.

The main goal of pharmacy cosmetics is to truly correct skin imperfections and eliminate the problem from the inside. © iStock

It is selected individually depending on what problem needs to be solved. Some products help cope with increased oily skin and acne, others with dryness and dehydration, and others fight hyperpigmentation and signs of photo- and chronoaging.

Mask

Cleansing, moisturizing, nourishing - pharmaceutical masks are very effective. In some cases, for example, after hardware and injection rejuvenation techniques - mesotherapy, laser, they can become an alternative to professional masks. Of course, provided that it is used correctly and in a timely manner.

How to choose pharmacy facial cosmetics

For the product to be truly effective, choose it according to your skin type and specific problems.

Normal skin

There may be nuances with the texture: for the winter period it should be denser, for the warm season it should be light.

Dry skin

The main active ingredients in cosmetics for dry skin are oils and hydrofixatives. After all, this type needs not only active hydration, but also moisture retention.

Oily skin

Light sorbets, gels and fluids will come in handy. They reduce the production of sebum (sebum), mattify, while softening and moisturizing the skin well, giving radiance.

All active components undergo additional testing and purification and have a significantly higher concentration. © iStock

Problem skin

There are probably the most pharmaceutical products for this skin type. There are cleansing products, mattifying masks, and special acne products. If you don’t know which one to choose, consult a cosmetologist or dermatologist.

What you need to know about pharmaceutical facial cosmetics: expert opinion

When studying the label of a pharmaceutical product, it may seem that its composition is no different from the store product. The same hyaluronic acid, collagen, plant extracts. But there are important differences: all active components undergo additional testing and purification and have a significantly higher concentration.

In addition to them, pharmaceutical cosmetics usually include:

thermal water, which does not evaporate, but penetrates into the deep layers of the skin;

Zinc oxide is a known antiseptic;

lactic and glycolic acids - they stimulate cell regeneration, moisturize and nourish the skin;

polysaccharides (fermented kombucha tea extract, rose moschetta seed oil) - prevent aging and fading of the skin.

Pros and cons of cosmetics from pharmacies

All pharmaceutical products are quite expensive - and this is perhaps their main drawback. The high price is explained by the fact that the manufacturing company introduces patented ingredients and/or technologies into the composition, thanks to which the active ingredient is delivered exactly where it is needed.

For the product to be truly effective, choose it according to your skin type and the specific problems you have. © iStock

For example, vitamin C. Everyone knows that this is an excellent antioxidant. However, the molecule of its most active form, L-ascorbic acid, is very unstable and requires transdermal delivery to reach the deep layers of the skin. Developing such technologies is not cheap.

But believe me, it's worth it. After all, these means:

hypoallergenic, their safety has been clinically proven;

solve many problems, from acne and hyperpigmentation to preventing early aging;

they smell pleasant and have a comfortable consistency (laboratories pay special attention to these qualities).