Why are Dermacosmetics Better than OTC Skincare Products?

New-age dermacosmetics have taken the skin & hair industry by storm with certain products being formulated for specific skin types or restore skin health. Dermacosmetics are scientifically formulated products that are effective and often do more than they claim. According to Research Dive, the continuous technical advancements in the dermacosmetics sector are in order to produce advanced products based on user personalization and customization. These aspects are expected to boost the growth of global dermacosmetics market in the coming future. By 2027, the global dermacosmetics market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% and reach up to US$76,839.5 million increasing from $48,944.0 million in 2019. Furthermore, the report states that the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the global dermacosmetics market in 2020, owing to a sharp fall in demand for dermacosmetic products.

‘Prevention over cure’ is the buzz phrase presently doing the rounds in the beauty industry. Dermacosmetics have evolved as both a substitute and a complement to medical recommendation. As the awareness of the long-term damage caused by external agents such as pollution, sun, and antibacterial products is growing among consumers, the demand for products that can guard against this damage is increasing rapidly. Dermacosmetic products unanimously offer high quality as well as effective skin solutions and stand out from other generic skincare buys. Listed below are some of the benefits of the dermacosmetic products over OTC skincare products.

• More Potent and Advanced Ingredients
  
  Dermacosmetic products feature active ingredients in higher concentrations as compared to OTC products. These ingredients are more potent as they are formulated under the guidance of trained skin care professionals. Thus, the concentration of ingredients such as vitamins, peptides, retinols, alpha hydroxy acids, and niacinamide are higher in dermacosmetic brands than in over-the-counter (OTC) skincare products.
  
  Dermacosmetic products undergo rigorous clinical as well as consumer testing to ensure efficacy on fragile or sensitive skin. For example, the leading skin care line in European pharmacies, Avène USA’s products are formulated with the exceptional ‘Avène Thermal Spring Water’ that runs in the South of France and caters to sensitive, intolerant, atopic, and allergy prone skin.
   
• Higher Quality Ingredients
  
  The source, purity, grade, and effectiveness of ingredients in dermacosmetics brands are often pharmaceutical grade. For example, the best ester forms of vitamin C - Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) and TetrahexyldecylAscorbate (THDA), are common ingredients in dermacosmetic products.
   
• Better Delivery Of Ingredients
  
  Besides comprising top-graded ingredients, the technology of delivery of the product into skin is far superior in dermacosmetic brands. Skin is quite impermeable, which makes it harder for the skin benefitting ingredients to enter the dermis and reach to the lower layers of skin where they can truly have an effect. Dermacosmetic products are especially formulated with sophisticated delivery systems to spread and reach where they are needed most.
   
• More Sophisticated Formulations
  
  Dermacosmetic products are designed to be multi-tasking with a more comprehensive approach to treating the root cause of a problem. For instance, BiodermaSebium Global’s Intensive Purifying Care product is especially designed for oily skin but has more targeted ingredients than a standard pore minimizing or oil absorbing formula. Their patented fluidactiv complex treats the root cause of blemishes on a cellular levels and thus offers hydration to the skin. Zinc gluconate and enoxolone reduce any irritation and redness, while a blend of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) esters and dermatological agents work in chorus to zap blemishes.
   
• Use Dermacosmetic Formulas or Not?
  
  Using dermacosmetic brands is not a must for good skin. A healthy lifestyle,customized hair and skin care routine suited to the skin and scalp type are more important than the brands used. However, if there is any concern or problem with skin and the scalp, considering dermacosmetic product is a good idea.
  
  Conclusion
  
  A huge response for dermacosmetic products is seen from the skincare and haircare industry, owing to various benefits it offers over OTC products. The companies functional in the dermacosmetics market are creating products focused on specific rather than equivocal skin health concerns and this trend is expected to continue in the years to come.

About the Author(s)

Princy A. J

Princy holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the prestigious Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. University at Chennai, India. After a successful academic record, she pursued her passion for writing. A thorough professional and enthusiastic writer, she enjoys writing on various categories and advancements in the global industries. She plays an instrumental role in writing about current updates, news, blogs, and trends.