​Anyone who has visited a professional skin care office seeking to improve the appearance of his or her skin has likely received a recommendation to use professional skin care products.  Excluding prescriptions covered by insurance, the price of the products may be surprising.  The reasons are worth understanding if you are serious about tackling issues such as melasma/dark spots or acne, as well as fine lines, wrinkles, and the host of problems caused by photodamage.

The best medically dispensed skin care is clinically tested for positive results, so you can be confident that the product is backed by real results.  Before and after photos should give you an idea of typical results.  Clinical study engagement is one cost in the development of good skin care products.  Because the products are part of a skin care professional's recommended regimen, practitioner training and instructional materials are provided by the manufacturer.  Continuing education by the practitioner is critical for patients' success. Professionals who recommend specific products will guide you and address any questions or concerns that may arise during the treatment course.

Some may still wonder why medically dispensed skin care costs more than mass- retail skin care, considering that many of those cosmetic skin care brands make incredible claims! Products regulated as cosmetics (and not drugs) make claims that haven't been scientifically supported or approved by the FDA so it is often up to consumers to protect themselves. Faced with the possibility that some cosmetic skin care products might be making claims that haven't been evaluated by the FDA how can a consumer choose the right cream or lotion?  Consider a quote from the FDA:"If a product seems too good to be true, it probably is."