Dermatologist’s Best Guide to Cosmeceutical Skincare

What is cosmeceutical skincare?

Cosmeceuticals refer to skincare that has been developed from the combination of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. They have medical or drug-like benefits, such as improving appearance through its ability to affect the structure and function of the skin and are recognised by dermatologists.

As cosmeceutical skincare contains bioactive ingredients, which means it has been laboratory tested and formulated, they ensure effective and proper penetration of skincare onto the skin. Cosmeceuticals differ from normal moisturisers or typical cosmetic formula as they contain anti-ageing, anti-wrinkle, sun-protective, anti-acne and anti-oxidant ingredients that have indeed been backed by dermatological research.

Who are cosmeceuticals for?

Cosmeceutical skincare is for everyone. They are commonly recommended by dermatologists as a complementary treatment for those who are undergoing cosmetic dermatology treatments such as lasers, fillers and botox for anti-ageing. It is also recommended as a form of skincare when treating skin conditions like acne. In addition, they serve as a cost effective option for patients to maintain the beneficial effects of such cosmetic treatments at the comfort of their homes and regular users of cosmeceuticals to maintain their youth and improve the appearance of their skin.

How to find the right type of cosmeceutical skincare for yourself?

As cosmeceuticals are not regulated by the FDA or Health Sciences Authority in Singapore, as a quick rule of thumb, a product recommended by a dermatologist (check your doctor’s accreditation) would be safe bet. The skincare and aesthetics market today is flooded with cosmetic companies and even ‘doctor-designed’ skincare products by aesthetic doctors (who are not dermatologists) to add on to the public’s confusion of who’s the real skin expert.

One would be wise to do thorough brand research, look for the labels ‘dermatologist-tested’, ‘dermatologist formulated/recommended’ or just consult a dermatologist before you buy. As a cosmeceutical skincare product, it should also ideally be formulated in a laboratory rather than in a cosmetic factory. It should also have the approval of a dermatologist. The reason these factors are important are because, one has to bear in mind that even when a correct active ingredient is present, it may lack effectiveness because of an inappropriate drug delivery system, compound instability, poor penetration, inadequate dosing or the ingredient itself may lack good clinical studies to back it up.

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Meet with Dr. Teo Wan Lin, consultant dermatologist at TWL Specialist Skin & Laser Centre, for a thorough consultation to determine the most suitable treatment for your skin.

To book an appointment with Dr. Teo, call us at +65 6355 0522, or email appt@twlskin.com. Alternatively, you may fill up our contact form here.