What is the difference between over-the-counter skincare and “medical grade”? It may feel like a marketing scheme – but there truly is a difference. 

• Medical grade products have clinical evidence: they test their products for outcomes. as opposed to making claims for a whole product based on a single ingredient. 

• Medical grade products are tested post-production, to ensure that they actually contain what they say they contain. and at an effective (and often higher than OTC) concentration. 

• Medical grade products are tested and strictly regulated by Health Canada. OTC products are not. 

• OTC products only treat the surface of the skin and cannot penetrate the deeper layers. Medical grade are often formulated to penetrate to the dermis. where collagen, elastin. and cell-production take place. 

• While they may cost more upfront. you generally need only small amounts of medical grade products to see an effect. 

• Medical grade skincare usually comes with a consultation from an expert – to ensure that you are using the products that are most likely to benefit you. I’m not here to plug one particular brand – there are a number of wonderful lines on the market that excel in different products. Talk to your provider about a regime that is tailored to your specific needs and goals!