Is Medical Grade Skin Care Really Worth It? A Top Dermatologist Weighs In On Trending, Pricier Products

There have been lots of advancements made in skin care in the past decade or so, with thousands of new products and many different brands launched each year. With that said, it’s made caring for your skin incredibly more accessible without having to visit the doctor to receive a prescription treatment. And one of the most buzz-worthy branches of skin care as of late is medical grade skin care, which is the middle ground between prescription and drugstore skin care. Here, a top dermatologist explains what exactly constitutes medical grade, if medical grade skin care is worth it and the best medical grade skin care products out there.

What is medical grade skin care?

The first question you may be wondering is what medical grade skin care exactly is. Is it prescription-only? Can you buy it over the counter? These are all common questions regarding this type of skin care.

“Medical grade skincare is generally understood by the public to mean science-backed, higher concentration of active ingredients, and formulated by dermatologists — hence the higher price tag,” explains board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, Pooja Rambhia, MD. “Contrary to popular belief, however, medical grade skincare is not subject to strict regulation from the FDA, thus is used primarily for marketing.”

Dr. Rambhia further explains that while there are brands who use the medical grade label as a marketing ploy, there also are some that truly are a bit stronger and backed by clinical studies. “The label of medical grade skincare can be easily added to products for marketing advantages and to sell the product at a higher price point. Now sometimes, medical grade skincare does contain higher concentrations of active ingredients and are backed by clinical studies compared to non-medical grade skincare, however, this is not mandatory,” she says.

Is medical grade skin care worth it?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to skin care. Everyone’s skin is different, and will respond differently to different products. For example, someone with sensitive skin may not react well to a strong retinol, but it doesn’t mean the retinol is a “bad” product — it’s just not suited for their skin.

When it comes to medical grade skin care, it really depends on the person and the brand when trying to decide if it’s worth it. If your skin can handle stronger and more potent products, it may be worth it to try a medical grade product. Before you do though, do your research and make sure the brand is reputable and has clinical studies to back up their claims.

“Instead of relying on the label of ‘medical grade skincare’, I encourage my patients to look at the clinical studies behind specific products,” affirms Dr. Rambhia. “The label of ‘medical grade’ can be attached to any product as a marketing ploy that lends more credibility to the product than may be deserved. While personal research can guide you toward higher-quality products beyond marketing claims, the most effective way to create a skincare routine is to see a board-certified dermatologist who can provide personalized and tailored medical advice.”

So in short, if you can find adequate studies to back up a brand’s claims, it may absolutely be worth it! And sometimes, your skin just needs a stronger formula to really see a difference.

The best medical grade skin care products

Keep reading for our top picks for medical grade skin care products that truly are worth splurging on.

Skinbetter Science Intensive AlphaRet Overnight Cream

“Skinbetter Science is one of my favorite medical grade skincare brands as their products contain advanced formulations, and they invest in clinical research to back up the efficacy and safety of their products,” recommends Dr. Rambhia. “A retinoid containing cream (like the SkinBetter Science Intensive AlphaRet Overnight Cream) that also combines lactic acid and glycolic acid, in a moisturizing base to minimize irritation. This cream helps to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and texture.”

Skinbetter Science Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum

The Skinbetter Science Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum is a great pick if you’re looking to up your antioxidants. “This contains 17 potent antioxidants including vitamin C and E that fight against free-radical damage,” says Dr. Rambhia.

SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF

SkinCeuticals is a highly beloved medical grade skin care brand that has gone viral all over social media. It’s also one of Dr. Rambhia’s picks too: “This (SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF) is an oil-free vitamin C serum containing 15% L-ascorbic acid and 0.5% ferulic acid, in addition to salicylic acid which can help to unclog pores, while still providing all the benefits of a powerful antioxidant.”

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

Another great antioxidant-packed pick, Dr. Rambhia is a big fan of the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum, and it’s especially great for mature skin. “This serum combines 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 1% vitamin E (alpha tocopherol) and 0.5% ferulic acid. This synergistic antioxidant blend enhances protection against environmental damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to visible signs of aging.”

Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer

For a lightweight, medical grade moisturizer, the Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer is a cult-classic. "This is the perfect non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, lightweight moisturizer that is ideal in warmer, humid climates and won’t break you out," says Dr. Rambhia.

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