What does ‘Cosmeceuticals’ really mean?
The term Cosmeceuticals is being used by skin therapists to describe a range of products and skin treatments, but what does it really mean? Today we lift the veil on this phrase to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to make the best decisions for your skin.
Cosmeceuticals in skincare
Skincare products that are labelled cosmeceuticals are products that have undertaken extensive scientific research and are formulated to provide cosmetic and proven therapeutic effects. Much like regular cosmetics, cosmeceutical products are in the form of creams, serums and lotions but are loaded with active ingredients to cause specific effects on cell function. Most cosmeceuticals are available without a prescription and can be used in your regular skincare regime.
Cosmeceuticals in skin treatments
Like with skincare products, cosmeceutical skin treatments such as our Clinical Strength Facial Peels, are designed to penetrate the dermis layer of skin, delivering active ingredients directly to areas your skin needs it most. The high percentage of clinically proven active ingredients helps to accelerate changes from within the skin.
What skin conditions can cosmeceutical skincare products help treat?
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne
- Pigmentation
- Rosacea
- Dryness/dehydration
- Eczema and Psoriasis
- Scarring
- Skin tone and texture
What are some common active ingredients found in cosmeceutical products and treatments?
Antioxidants such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Nicotinamide (vitamin B3) help the skin combat damage from external factors such as UV radiation and pollution, as well as free radical damage. Antioxidants reduce inflammation within the skin and can help protect against sun damage and ageing.
Hydroxy acids such as AHAs, PHAs and BHA are used to help improve skin texture and help combat signs of ageing by delivering hydration to the skin and promoting cell turnover and exfoliation of the outer layer of skin (epidermis).
Retinoids (vitamin A) penetrate the dermis to act as an antioxidant, protecting skin cells from free radicals and activating the production of specific proteins. Retinoids are used to improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin by reducing the appearance of pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles and improving skin texture.
Botanicals from plant extracts such as roots, berries, fruit and flowers may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and skin-boosting properties. Examples of common botanical extracts include Kakadu plum, green tea extract, witch hazel and ferulic acid.
At Violetta Beauty, we are proud stockists of Payot and Medik8 Australia, two leaders in the cosmeceutical skincare industry. We also provide an extensive range of cosmeceutical skin therapies. To learn more about how we can help you achieve your skin goals, visit us in the salon or give our team a call at 9383 3694.