The difference between a cosmetic and a cosmeceutical is simply that ‘cosmetic’ refers to an ingredient that can affect only the appearance of the skin and a ‘cosmeceutical’ ingredient can affect skin function at a cellular level and penetrate the layers of the epidermis. Each active ingredient is clinically tested with proven results.
Raymond Reed, the founding member of the United States Society of Cosmetic Chemists, coined the term ‘Cosmeceutical’ in 1961. Today’s Cosmeceuticals are serving as a bridge between personal care products and pharmaceuticals; also Cosmeceuticals are the fastest growing segment in skin care market.
Your extra investment into cosmeceuticals come with a guarantee that each active ingredient doesn’t go to waste, your skin will deeply absorb them into each layer of the skin. As ingredients are very pure, there is less contamination present. They are highly adaptable to the skin and overall there is less chance of irritation.
Generally, the effectiveness of a cosmeceutical is dependent on:
- Can the active ingredient penetrate the stratum corneum (outer layer of the skin)?
- Do the pharmacy grade ingredients have a biomechanical effect on tissues/cells?
- Active ingredients are researched, tested and scientifically proven to deliver results?
*Sources: International Journal of Pharma Research & Review, May 2015