Everything you need to know about medical grade skincare and medical grade results; Here’s how it works.
Table of Contents
What Is Medical Grade Skincare?
Medical-grade skincare refers to professional skincare products formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients and more extensive testing than what you’ll find in drugstore or department store brands. These products are designed to treat specific skin concerns along with maximum product absorption and are typically available through licensed medical professionals, such as dermatologists or medical spas.
Medical Grade vs. Over-the-Counter Skincare Products
Over-the-counter skincare products are formulated to be safe for the general population. This means they may not deliver the same level of results, especially for more stubborn or advanced skin concerns. In contrast, medical-grade skincare is backed by clinical research and uses ingredients like retinol, peptides, or hyaluronic acids.
These professional products are typically only available through licensed providers, who can customize your routine to your unique skin needs and ensure safe, targeted treatment. Think of OTC products as maintaining your skin and medical-grade skincare as restoring it.
Benefits of Using Medical Grade Skincare
Faster, More Visible Results
Thanks to higher concentrations of active ingredients, advanced delivery systems, and more available ingredient forms, medical-grade skincare works efficiently to penetrate deeper into the skin, which means you’ll often see improvements sooner than with drugstore alternatives.
Backed by Clinical Research
Over-the-counter products typically rely on advertisement through media influencers while medical-grade skincare is supported by clinical studies and scientific testing. You’re getting ingredients and formulations that are proven to be safe and effective.
Customized for Specific Skin Concerns
Whether you’re targeting acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, melasma, or sensitive skin, medical-grade products can be tailored to address your unique needs. Plus, they’re recommended by licensed professionals who can guide you away from overhyped products and toward the right regimen for your goals.
Top Medical Grade Skincare Brands to Know
Alastin Skincare
While Alastin skincare is well known for its pre- and post-procedure recovery line, Its daily skincare is powered by TriHex Technology®, a patented blend of peptides that helps clear out damaged collagen and elastin while stimulating the production of new, healthy skin fibers. This makes it especially beneficial before and after aesthetic treatments like lasers, microneedling, or RF, as it helps reduce inflammation, speeds up healing, and enhances overall results.
Alastin’s formulas are backed by clinical research, trusted by dermatologists and medspas, and loved for their lightweight, elegant textures that work well even under makeup. Unlike many skincare brands that offer quick fixes, Alastin focuses on long-term skin health at the cellular level (Alastin).
Environ Skincare
Environ’s step-up system allows the skin to gradually build tolerance to higher levels of active ingredients without irritation. This makes it ideal for long-term use and sustainable skin transformation. With formulations backed by medical science, Environ delivers powerful results that improve skin at a deeper, more cellular level. It can be a great option for those with sensitive skin.
Environ Skincare is known for its science-driven, vitamin-based approach to achieving healthy, radiant skin. Founded by a plastic surgeon, Environ focuses heavily on the power of vitamin A (retinol) to repair and normalize skin function, helping improve everything from acne and pigmentation to fine lines and sun damage (Environ).
SkinCeuticals
SkinCeuticals has earned their status. This medical-grade skincare brand blends pure, high-potency ingredients with peer-reviewed science to deliver visible, corrective results. Best known for its antioxidant serums, SkinCeuticals is all about protecting the skin from environmental damage while targeting signs of aging, hyperpigmentation, and texture concerns.
Their formulas are often used and recommended by dermatologists and medspas for both pre- and post-treatment care, as well as daily skin health. SkinCeuticals bridges between cosmetic skincare and clinical-grade performance, making it a go to for those who want real, research-backed results without compromising luxury and feel (SkinCeuticals).
How Do You Build a Medical Grade Skincare Routine?
If you’re new to skincare and don’t know where to start, keep it simple.
Start with the three basics
Begin with the basics: a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, and sunscreen in the morning. These three steps are enough to build a strong foundation.
When to Introduce Retinol or Active Ingredients
Once you’re comfortable and consistent, you can add a treatment product at night based on your skin goals; like retinol for aging, or a brightening serum for dark spots. You might also include a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week to smooth the texture.
Dos and Dont’s
The key is to stay consistent and give products time to work, at least 6 weeks, before expecting major changes or switching things up. Not every product will work instantly and not every product is the right fit for you.
It’s always a good idea to consult a professional before beginning aggressive peptides and vitamins.
Where to Buy Medical Grade Skincare in Tustin
MedAestheticsOC is here to help you choose the right products for your unique skin type, offering medical grade skincare like Alastin and Environ in Tustin.
If you’re unsure whether or not out services are for you, you can check our on our website or Contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation and experience the power of medical grade skincare!
Sources:
- Environ Skin Care. (n.d.). Your skin reborn beautiful. Retrieved June 4, 2025, from https://www.environskincare.com/us/
- ALASTIN Skincare. (n.d.). Anti-aging & treatment enhancing skincare. Retrieved June 4, 2025, from https://alastin.com/
- SkinCeuticals. (n.d.). Official SkinCeuticals skincare | #1 medical skincare brand. Retrieved June 4, 2025, from https://www.skinceuticals.com/