iS Skin Source 2022 Q1 | Page 65

not only to grow the practice , but to elevate the care for patients who do not necessarily require medical-grade prescription products .
With the rise and popularity of skincare products , access to purchasing these products is virtually limitless . They have been available over-the counter ( OTC ) for numerous years , while online purchasing has surged in the last several decades . While there are excellent OTC products for general skincare , some may not be well-regulated or may lack sufficient potency in the active ingredients to produce satisfactory results . Those who shop for more specialized products online can run the risk of receiving a counterfeit , expired product , or even a toxic product that causes serious health problems . Cosmeceuticals are a unique crop of products that sit comfortably between OTC and medical-grade options , and are usually exclusively available for purchase through a medical practice . They are typically higher in potency than OTC products but are not as potent as medical-grade prescriptions . While cosmeceuticals may seem pricier up front , they can actually be more cost effective for patients in the long run . They require less money and time spent on ineffective OTC products , and can possibly prevent the need for medical-grade products that may cause irritation and side effects . If the use of cosmeceuticals provides satisfactory results for a patient , this may prevent them from spending on more invasive procedures .
Consultation with a trained and licensed dermatologist is advised when considering a regimen to address specific skin concerns , as we are wellequipped with the knowledge to recommend the most effective products . The addition of cosmeceutical-grade products , like iS Clinical , to the practice , has allowed us to offer products in-house that contain trusted ingredients from a trusted source , providing a convenient “ one -stop shop ” service to our patients . It has heightened the provider-patient relationship , as it starts a conversation and opens the dialogue for patient education . We are able to explain the purpose of each product and its active ingredients and discuss how , when , and

While cosmeceuticals may seem pricier up front , they can actually be more cost effective for patients in the long run .

in what order to use the products . Follow-up visits are then scheduled to assess progress and to make adjustments as needed , which allows for continuity of care . We see patients leave the office satisfied and with a regimen tailored to their specific needs and concerned . Throughout the years , it has been rewarding to see how the decision to offer cosmeceuticals has positively impacted the practice and our patients .
With the rise and popularity of skincare products , access to purchasing these products is virtually limitless . www . iSSKINSOURCE . com 65