Posted on May 15, 2015
Should you get your skin care products from a doctor’s office or from the department store or spa? What is the difference?
Things to think about:
- Strength. Many of the over the counter products claim to have Retin A, retinol, or hydroquinone. They may have some, but the strength of what is allowed without a prescription is small. The three products I just listed require a doctor’s license to sell them above a certain strength.
- You want to know the strength of what you are using,
- and in general use the strongest one your skin will tolerate to get maximal change.
- Cost. Buying your skin care cream at Neiman Marcus or Macys likely is not cheaper than a doctors office. It would seem like it should be, but I have found patients using a retinol cream they bought at a department store which costs more and works less than the one I carry.
- Where is the science? I don’t carry products unless the brand can show me the scientific studies (ideally with histology slides) showing the improvement in the skin. Be careful you are not swayed by the pretty packaging, the famous starlet claiming to use it, or great fragrance. I do not know how other doctor offices are with their products, but I carry few products and try to make sure they prove they do what they claim.
- Look at all the products you are using. A doctor can help you look at your whole regimen. You want to make sure you are using products which work well together and target what is bothering you. Also many products are not pregnancy or baby safe, so you should alert your doctor if you are trying to conceive, pregnant, or nursing.
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding your health or medical condition.