But what exactly are cosmeceuticals? How do they help combat ageing? And what can they do for specific skin issues and concerns? That’s exactly what we want to know, too.
So, we spoke to Carley Dowdle, ASAP Skin Products’ managing director, and quizzed her about cosmeceutical skin care products…
What are cosmeceuticals and how do they work?
Cosmeceuticals are scientifically produced products, which contain biologically active ingredients that have proven, clinical benefits. When applied topically, these active ingredients are able to reach the deeper dermal layers of skin, allowing them to make noticeable changes in the skin. These changes can include reducing acne severity, hydrating the skin, diminishing the appearance of ageing and sun damage, and promoting a healthy, radiant complexion.
How do cosmeceuticals differ from cosmetics?
The main difference between cosmeceuticals and over-the-counter cosmetics is the concentration of active ingredients. Cosmeceuticals contain many more active ingredients and in much higher concentrations. These active ingredients can therefore penetrate deeper into the dermis layer of the skin, which results in more visible, longer-term benefits.
How do cosmeceuticals differ from prescription skin care products?
The ingredients in cosmeceuticals are stronger than your cosmetic-grade skin care products, but not as strong as pharmaceutical products. Therefore, they do not require a medical prescription to dispense, and can be used regularly on the skin. Pharmaceutical products are usually used over a short-term period and can be very reactive, so they need to be controlled and the dispense limited.
What are some of the active ingredients that are most commonly found in cosmeceuticals?
The following active ingredients encourage cell renewal and provide protection from environmental damage, and are all used in ASAP’s Australian made cosmeceutical skin care products because they have been scientifically developed to produce impressive, fast-acting and noticeable results: Glycolic Acid (AHA), vitamin C, Retinol (vitamin A), Niacinamide (vitamin B3), Hyaluronic Acid, Idebenone and antioxidants.
Product picks: try ASAP super A+ serum to accelerate your skin’s cell-renewal process, ASAP super B complex to reduce discolouration and promote even skin tone, and ASAP ultimate hydration to nourish and improve skin elasticity and texture.
What age/skin concerns are cosmeceuticals best suited for?
Skin concerns such as sun damage, dry, dull or dehydrated skin, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, oily and acne prone skin can really benefit from the use of cosmeceutical skin care products. ASAP Skin Products are formulated to quickly and effectively improve the appearance of these common skin complaints. However, you don’t need a specific skin concern to use cosmeceuticals like ASAP – they are perfect for maintaining a clear, healthy complexion. So, basically anyone who wants to look great and feel confident about their skin should try cosmeceuticals.
Can you use cosmeceuticals after a treatment such as laser, microdermabrasion or peel?
Cosmeceutical products should be used in preparation for treatments. The higher the levels of antioxidants and the healthier the skin is before a treatment, the better the results. We recommended that our clients introduce ASAP skin care products into their skin care routine at least two weeks prior to a peel or microdermabrasion treatment. This will ensure optimal results are achieved and there is less likelihood of a reaction. We also encourage the use of ASAP soothing gel directly after laser, microdermabrasion and peels, and suggest waiting 48 hours after a treatment before using products with a high-concentration of AHAs and BHAs, such as the ASAP daily exfoliating facial scrub, ASAP anti-ageing night cream or ASAP clearskin gel. Continued use of cosmeceuticals like ASAP Skin Products after a treatment will help prolong results and is critical for an optimum outcome.
Product picks: try ASAP moisturising daily defence SPF30+ and ASAP sheer tint moisturiser SPF15 to ensure your skin is protected from the sun post-treatment.
Is there anything consumers need to consider before buying or using cosmeceuticals?
ASAP Skin Products are professional strength cosmeceutical products and although they are suitable for all skin types, some products may not be suitable in certain circumstances. For this reason, we suggest you visit ASAP trained stockists for a skin assessment so you can receive advice on what combination of products is best for your skin. All ASAP stockists have attended our university-developed ASAP Skin Academy training program and are continuously educated and updated with advances in the skin care industry, so they are certain to be able to answer any of your skin care concerns.
For more information on ASAP Skin Products, and to find your local ASAP professional and stockist, you can visit asapskinproducts.com or engage with the ASAP Facebook page.
Have you ever tried ASAP cosmeceuticals? Are you keen to incorporate cosmeceuticals into your skin care regimen now you know what they are and how they can help your skin?
