SkinMedica Review: 10 Best SkinMedica Products
A higher number of people are accepting skincare as part of their beauty routines.
Whether you are an ardent fan of skin care products or are just starting the journey towards discovering brands, there’s one company we’d like to introduce. Since 1999, SkinMedica has created a range of premium skin products that cater to skin health and beauty.
Developed by dermatologists, the products use various research-based ingredients that are tested for quality and safety. If you want to get a better understanding of SkinMedica’s best-selling products, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve reviewed the ten best SkinMedica products on the market today, along with answering any questions you may have about the brand.
Without further ado, let’s check the reviews-
10 Best SkinMedica Products
1. SkinMedica Retinol Complex
SkinMedica Retinol Complex 0.5 Age Defense is an exclusive formula that contains the PhytoShield Complex. This anti-oxidant complex enhances skin texture and minimizes irritation, thus ideal for sensitive skin. The formula is also available in 0.25% and 0.1% retinol strength for customers to choose from.
Essentially, due to the powerful properties of retinol, this formula improves collagen production and boosts new cell generation. Also, it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that make the skin look coarse and dull. With retinol, other components of niacinamide, vitamin E, and collagen-stimulating peptides help improve skin tone and resilience.
Drawback
The product quantity is slightly less for the price.
Verdict
Overall, this was an incredible formula for those looking to reduce visible signs of aging. It Is easy to apply and shows results within a few weeks of use.
2. SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
If you are looking for a soothing, rejuvenating cleanser that improves skin texture while removing dead cells, this product is worth considering. Gently scrubbing this exfoliating cleanser removes grime and excess oils, plus the alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy components improve skin tone, texture, and appearance. Instead of AHA and BHA in their pure form, this formula consists of extracts of fruits like apples and lemons that have natural AHAs.
Another useful ingredient used is salicylic acid, which controls sebum secretion in the skin. It is excellent for clearing the pores to reduce acne, common in naturally oily skin. The dead skin build-up is responsible for dull-looking skin, but you do not have to worry about it with this powerful exfoliator. Over time the texture and tone of the skin improve visibly with regular use of the product.
Drawback
The cost of the product is on the higher side, considering the volume of cleanser per bottle.
Verdict
The natural ingredients used in the formula make it a safe option for exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells. We also liked that the formula reduced discoloration and brightened the skin tone.
3. SkinMedica Rejuvenative Moisturizer
The problem of recurring dry skin may not reduce with over-the-counter moisturizers, and hydrating formulas may be necessary to fix the issue. The skin biologists at this company have developed a formula that restores lost moisture without making the skin appear oily. Thus, the SkinMedica Rejuvenative moisturizer is perfect for normal to dry skin types, providing intense moisture and preventing flaking and dullness.
For best results, experts recommend using this product twice a day after cleansing, toning, and treatment products, if any. Ideal for combating dryness on the face and neck, a small amount is sufficient for application as it spreads easily on the skin.
Drawback
This product is available for shipping in US states only.
Verdict
The intense moisture the product restores to the skin is unmatched by any regular cream or lotion on the market. Plus, you can continue using it until the skin improves as a daily face moisturizer.
4. SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturizer
Some of you may not require the deeply hydrating properties of the Rejuvenating moisturizer, and something lightweight might be ideal. Oily skin may need a product that brightens the skin while not feeling too heavy, like the Ultra Sheer moisturizer. Infused with the properties of vitamins C and E, this product is super nourishing when worn daily.
Since the formula uses vitamin C ester, a stable form of vitamin C, regular application improves skin tone and radiance. Applying this formula is best on sunny days or areas with hot weather since the product is not sticky and oily after application. People with sensitive or acne-prone skin will find that using the moisturizer helps significantly reduce recurrent breakouts.
Drawback
The formula may be too sheer, and light for mature skin, and thus applying in larger amounts may be necessary for hydration.
Verdict
The brand has carefully selected two vitamins, E and C, that have a nourishing effect on the skin. Its formula is light, simple, non-comedogenic, and will suit most skin types.
5. SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
The TNS Advanced serum is similar to TNS Essential Serum; it smoothens the skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The formula consists of TNS-MR, which has human fibroblast conditioned media, commonly known as the growth factor blend. This blend is responsible for evening the skin texture and reducing wrinkles in the process.
Since the bottle has a dual-chamber system, you get two formulas in one purchase. The first one has TNS-MR, while the second chamber contains RENESSENSCE (RSC) ADVANCED. The formula of RSC is made of extracts from natural ingredients like flaxseed and is designed to support the TNS growth factor.
Drawback
Sometimes, the bottle pumps may not function correctly to get an even amount of product on the palm.
Verdict
With the goodness of marine extracts, green microalgae, and botanicals, the RSC perfectly combines with TNS-MR to give you a nourishing formula. It is the perfect everyday serum for youthful-looking skin.
6. SkinMedica Dermal Repair Cream
Dry skin calls for specialized skin care creams, and the SkinMedica Dermal Repair Cream is a potent version of drugstore creams that may not provide adequate moisture. As we have seen with this brand, they have quite a range of skin hydration products, and this cream also has ingredients that soothe the skin.
Switch to this cream if you do not see significant improvement in skin dryness with over-the-counter creams. This product restores the texture and tone, making the skin softer and supple to touch. Since it is infused with potent vitamins C and E, your skin gets its daily source of antioxidants that keep the cells younger for longer.
Drawback
Color may not be pure white as some people expect it to be.
Verdict
This repair cream is ideal for those with normal to dry skin, and everyday use is encouraged. Even though it comes in 1.7-ounce containers, it lasts long since a small amount is enough for regular use.
7. SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator
The HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator serum is an excellent product for oily or acne-prone skin. The main ingredient, hyaluronic acid, moisturizes the skin by retaining a large amount of water that prevents the skin from drying and flaking. But the best part is that the product achieves these results without feeling sticky or heavy on the skin.
Essentially, the formula is a high-potency moisturizer developed with exclusive VITISENSCETM technology. It uses the potent anti-oxidants naturally found in the Vitis Flower Stem cells, which smoothen the skin layer and keep it wrinkle-free. Perfect for whole-body use, the best way to reap its benefits is by applying the product twice on your skin, preferably after bathing.
Drawback
Although there is no doubt about the benefits of using this hyaluronic acid-based product, it is slightly expensive compared to others on the market.
Verdict
All in all, the HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator works instantly to smoothen the skin and supports the skin’s natural ability to stay free of lines. Plus, the formula also improves texture and gets rid of roughness with the first application.
8. SkinMedica 2.0 Lytera Pigment Correcting Serum
SkinMedica has spent considerable time researching and developing a formula that corrects skin discoloration gently. The 2.0 Lytera Pigment Correcting serum is the result of extensive brand research that balances long-standing uneven skin tones. The product contains a unique blend of brightening agents, hydrating ingredients, and peptides that even out the skin tone.
Unlike other skin brightening serums, this option does not contain parabens and fragrances that harm the skin in the long term. In fact, this formula does not use hydroquinone or retinol, and it is non-comedogenic, thus making it perfect for all skin types. It includes niacinamide which is one of the ingredients known to reduce blotchiness, inflammation, and hyperpigmentation in the skin.
Drawback
It might not work for all types of skin conditions.
Verdict
The carefully selected ingredients in this product reduce the excessive production of melanin, thus brightening the complexion safely. Frequent application helps remove dark spots and works wonders on dull-looking skin.
9. SkinMedica Vitamin C + E Complex
What makes this product unique is the use of two forms of vitamins C and E that are used for their anti-oxidant properties. Upon application, the skin receives high levels of vitamins C and E, which provide antioxidant protection throughout the day. The component Cyclopentasiloxane is used as a base to hold the other ingredients. As a result, the product boasts a silky texture and better spreadability.
Moreover, Vitamin C protects the skin from free radical damage, stimulates collagen production, and eventually lightens dark spots on the skin. On the other hand, vitamin E also acts as an antioxidant, but it also plays another role in skin health. It is known to retain moisture, thus keeping the outer layer of the skin hydrated.
Drawback
It was disappointing that the product was not available in different bottle sizes.
Verdict
Customers love the age defense product, and some even claimed it was hands down the best option for improving skin tone. It also works spectacularly well to strengthen the skin and improve elasticity.
10. SkinMedica TNS Illuminating Eye Cream
Composed of a number of unique components, the TNS Illuminating eye cream is designed to retain skin texture around the eyes and even improve it. The skin under the eyes and the surrounding area is prone to darkening, developing wrinkles, crows, feet, and fine lines. Keeping this in mind, the makers have developed one such cream that smoothens the skin easily.
The formula also contains a variety of other ingredients like chrysin and hydroxysuccinimide, both of which keep the dark circles under control. On the other hand, Boron nitride brightens the under-eye area and shows visible results upon the first application.
Drawback
Compared to some other similar products on the market, the price is on the higher end.
Verdict
TNS or Tissue Nutrient Solution encourages the natural rejuvenation of the skin to enhance appearance. It also smoothes fine lines and wrinkles and maintains texture without the use of harmful chemicals.
Ingredients Used In SkinMedica Products
SkinMedica makes use of various research-based components that have a proven history of improving skin. Out of the many ingredients used in its range of products, here are some of the most frequently used ones-
1. Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
As it so happens, hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that gives the skin a smooth appearance. Thus, this ingredient is popular in the skincare industry, and every brand has its own version of HA creams, lotions, etc. According to research, HA might be linked to healing wounds by binding to the cell bodies [1]
When HA levels naturally decrease due to aging, the skin loses its firmness and becomes loose and saggy. [2] Adding HA to creams and skincare products helps add this essential component to the skin. Hyaluronic acid can bind almost 1000 times its weight in water which means it will add moisture to the skin and prevent it from evaporating quickly.
2. Vitamin C
You may have heard of the most popular antioxidant, vitamin C, and its extensive use in the skin nourishment industry. Due to its ability to defend against damage, SkinMedica uses stable forms of vitamin C in several products. It can lighten dark spots, brighten skin tone, and combat hyperpigmentation, all of which are concerns that customers frequently share.
Also, this ingredient can protect the skin against UV-induced photodamage, preventing patchy or blotchy skin. [3] Not only that, in many pieces of research, it was established that this component could reduce wrinkles and fine lines due to its anti-aging properties. [4] Additionally, collagen synthesis boosts when vitamin C or any of its forms is regularly applied to the skin.
3. Vitamin E
Another ingredient synonymous with skincare is vitamin E which is well known for its skin benefits. Similar to vitamin C, this component is also an antioxidant that helps protect the cells from free radical damage. However, there are key ways in which it improves skin when applied topically. One study mentioned that topically applied vitamin E prevented inflammation and oxidative stress on the skin. [5]
Mainly, vitamin E used in moisturizers effectively prevents the loss of moisture and softens the skin. Due to its anti-oxidant properties, it also protects the cells from damage. [6] Plus, vitamin E could assist in reducing the swelling, reddening, and thickening of the skin. Thus, it is no wonder that SkinMedica and numerous other brands choose vitamin E as the main ingredient in several skin creams.
4. Salicylic Acid
While reading through the ingredient list of some skin lotions, you may have come across salicylic acid as a listed component. Out of the many benefits to skin upon application, the most important might be exfoliation, which helps oily and acne-prone skin.
In a 2015 study, subjects with moderate to severe acne were treated with salicylic acid peels. [7] Significant improvements were observed due to this ingredient as a result of its pore cleansing properties.
Salicylic acid penetrates the skin and clears the pores of dead skin cells, accumulated dirt, excess oils, and bacteria. As a result, oily skin and incidences of acne are significantly reduced. Due to its astringent properties, users also observe a tightening effect on the skin that closes large pores.
5. Retinol
SkinMedica also uses retinol as a prominent ingredient in products like Retinol Complex. Studies have concluded that retinoids work well when it comes to managing skin aging. [8] The first retinoid was Tretinoin which was used as a treatment for acne in the 1970s. It was much later that researchers found that in addition to acne, retinol could also reduce pigmentation and improve skin cell production.
With improved collagen production and increased cell turnover, this component assists in keeping the skin looking young and fresh. Regular application is often followed with improved skin texture, reduction of fine lines, and reduced incidences of breakouts. One thing to note is that retinol can be drying on the skin, which is why companies use it in combination with moisturizing agents.
6. Peptides
Peptides, or polypeptides as some may call them, occur naturally in the skin and are basically a bunch of amino acids that build tissues. To be specific, they create collagen in the skin, and the industry widely uses some form of these peptides to promote collagen production. Since natural collagen production reduces with age, application in the form of moisturizers and creams can enhance skin quality visibly.
Most notably, collagen reduces deep wrinkles and fine lines by plumping the skin layers. [9] As a result, the layers become fuller and smoother, contributing to young-looking skin. Apart from collagen production, this ingredient also forms a part of proteins called elastin fibers. This helps in the elasticity of the skin and helps the surface look firm.
7. Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 and is known to treat some skin conditions like eczema and acne. The vitamin can help improve keratin levels, thus keeping the skin firm and taut. It promotes the growth of a natural lipid barrier that keeps moisture trapped in the layers. Additionally, niacinamide protects against sun damage, hyperpigmentation, redness, and skin blotchiness.
A 2019 study observed that niacinamide was proven successful in protecting skin cells from oxidative stress caused by particulate matter.[10] This displayed its restorative and protective properties that make it an excellent ingredient in skincare products. Also, the component can regulate oil production and prevent excessive sebum production.
Are SkinMedica Products Worth It?
We think SkinMedica products are worth checking if you are looking for a long-lasting transformative solution to skin problems. The makers of this brand have created a range of products for all types of skin concerns and skin types. Thus, you are sure to find one that suits your needs.
Generally, the products are priced slightly higher than other brands on the market, but SkinMedica makes up for it by delivering long-term results.
Where To Buy SkinMedica Products From?
You can find SkinMedica products directly on the website and discover the entire range of skincare products in one place. Otherwise, they are also available on third-party platforms like Amazon.
Benefits Of SkinMedica Products
SkinMedica products use only clinically proven ingredients that have previously been verified to work in improving skin. The brand ensures the use of components and practices that are non-toxic and soothing to the skin. Thus, their formulations suit all skin types, even those with relatively sensitive skin.
With a research-based approach, SkinMedica has successfully provided innovative formulas for rejuvenating and enhancing skin quality. Instead of relying on temporary fixes, this brand focuses on transforming the skin in the long term, which looks better and feels younger.
Customer satisfaction is another aspect that makes this brand stand out among the crowd. Most of their moisturizers and creams have high ratings on third-party sites.
Verdict
In conclusion, we appreciated the honest approach to high-quality, research-based skincare SkinMedica provides. The best part is that they carefully select ingredients that work harmoniously with the natural healing abilities of the skin. This gentle approach ensures people of all skin types can benefit from them.
Since SkinMedica products were created to deliver results, one can expect their specialized products to show results in a matter of weeks.
References
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10231509/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
[3]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5579659/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5605218/
[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18262176/
[6] https://health.clevelandclinic.org/vitamin-e-for-skin-health/
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4688384/
[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2699641/