Is Medical Grade Skincare Worth the Hype? | Doctorly Investigates 

I'm an esthetician currently employed by a "franchise" spa and I rarely recommend products from the lines we carry for retail. I love the results in the treatment room, but ingredients are ingredients. I can't justify the markup on the 1 oz. retail products for my clients when there are very good OTC products available for a fraction of the cost. The one thing I emphasize with clients is that unless you are consistently using your home care, you will not benefit from the product, whether it costs $200 or $20.

Love how down to earth and transparent these videos are. As a Med Spa owner, I appreciate the insight!!

Skinbetter saved my skin. The alpharet clearing serum is a miracle worker. Trent broke me out so bad for over a year and this stuff helped within weeks!

Thank you, guys!! So informative and love that you continue to recommend same products over time that are science based. I use almost all of them just because of the both of you. I have seen dramatic improvements! You’re my favorite RU-vidrs, and I’m 70!

I really love Skinceutical despite the high price tag for their Vitamin C. Before I invested in myself and started seeing a dermatologist, I have hyperpigmentation around my lips and my skin was very yellow. My dermatologist recommended a routine of HA cleanser, toner, HA, vitamin C, and sunscreen (Elta MD). After 6 months of consistency my skin tone has evened out and I’m absolutely glowing. Also I have started getting Clear and Brilliant to improve my skin texture. I will never stop my skincare routine. Im 34 and I get told I look 24x

Hey Dr. Maxfield and Dr. Shah, just wanted to say a huge thanks for all the information you give us in all of your videos! It's been such a blessing in my skincare journey. I've also been going through a rough time in life and just wanted to say that your videos provide great distraction and comfort, so thank you so much.

Great Video!! I do love the Skinbetter Alpha Ret, but another line that I have fallen in love with is COSRX. I loved the snail muscin and saw the Face wash in Marshall's. It was like $9 bucks. I have Mac and Perricone Md at home and I LOVE COSRX. I've now added the moisturizer and toner. I would never have thought such an inexpensive product would give me better results than my products from the medispa.

Thank you! I well remember when I could only get specific brands from specific med spas, etc. I didn’t realize it is no longer a ‘thing’ and that other brands have used that fact to jump on the bandwagon themselves and adopted the term, “medical Grade”.

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this. Its has become so expensive to buy ‘medical grade’ products in South Africa.

Elta MD sunscreens are so under-rated on social media! I have tried various sunscreens and I ALWAYS go back to Elta MD's UV Clear Tinted sunscreen. It blends well with my brown skin.. the texture, ingredients, quality etc.. is top tier and literally the best for me.

I appreciate U guys sooooo much! Blessed Be ❤

I love Elta MD's enzymatic cleanser. It's my very favorite. It's like no other cleanser I've ever used and is never drying but not heavy handed on moisturizers either.

Love you both, really appreciate how professional & honest you are! Very clever insights & btw, you are both so handsome too ;) love your genuine smiles too!

Thank you for educating me. Although I have access to great medical insurance and see a dermatologist, I appreciate your focus on quality products. You also consider price points for those of us who may not be able to afford some great products (or save us money from buying into the marketing). I value your expertise and appreciate this educational video so much!

Outstanding video!! Im glad you're breaking it down for the masses. Ive tried them all and youre absolutely right, it all depends on your needs and the components that work for you and can definitely be bought at different price points.

Thank you for coming out and educating us about the claims skin care brands often use.

Of the hundreds of skin care channels on RU-vid I completely trust this channel 🙌

I appreciate what I have learned from you guys! It has been so helpful! Would you also consider doing videos talking about: How to avoid ingrown beard hairs for African American men? What are the differences in having procedures done at a med spa vs. a dermatologist? What is the difference between treating a scar and treating a stretch mark? What are the different lasers and machines available in skin care, what do they do?

Been watching you guys for more than 2 years and you guys are always on point and supportive! Keep up the work and by the way, could you make a video about Obagi Medical and specifically about their retinoids? Thank you so much!!

Always look forward to your videos!! I’ve wanted to use those brands you mentioned but the prices 😳. I do use the Elta MD sunscreen. It’s the only one that has not broken me out or irritated my skin, and that I like the way it feels.

Another very interesting video! 😊Thank you both so much! I would love for you to dedicate a series to treatments for darker skin types (phototypes 4-5-6). I live in a country where dermatologists know almost nothing about the specificity of my skin and I have to work hard in order to educate myself and make the right choices. Also, if you can, please share your thoughts on skincare products that are also available in Europe. ☺ Thanks again for your time and for your great content! Your channel and podcast are so unique. I've learned so much with you and am very grateful to you both. 🥰

I noticed a lot of these "empty" terms are used solely for marketing, such as *genuine* leather -- which refers to it being real leather, which is true, but the majority of the time it's poor quality split leather. Or military grade, which are usually poor quality items that are mass produced. It definitely is confusing and can be countered by the individual if they are aware, so I appreciate the video!

Thanks for your videos. Always love watching you two and becoming better educated -- especially since it's almost impossible to see a dermatologist up here in Canada. 🙄 I'd love to hear your thoughts on the ZO skin care line. Thanks again!

PLEAASE do a video on growth factors! Because I’ve been seeing a lot of videos on them and how they are beneficial for the skin but Jesus Christ they are expensive

Thank you for providing this clarifying info!

I absolutely love Elta MD products! I’ve been using UV Elements as my foundation, and AM & PM moisturizer for years! 😊

Thank you! This was very helpful and validates my beliefs on it being a marketing term. I also love Elta MD and have repurchased countless bottles of their UV Clear Spf 46 Tinted. I like Drmatology too but I have yet to try the Skinbetter Alpha Ret. Currently I use a 15% Azaleic Acid gel from my doctor and my skin seems to like it so I hesitate to add. I'll also say that for years I used the Skinceuticals CE Fruelic (sp?) until the price went through the roof and I had to ask myself if it was truly worth shelling out that much money. I may revisit it but that price is steep for any budget imo. Thank you both!!

My dermatologist gave me a skin care routine using the Australian pharmacy brand QV, inexpensive available at every pharmacy it’s a sensitive skin focussed range, she also gave me a goodie bag of samples, I’ve used the same products and same routine for over 3 years and best skin ever, my skin can even tolerate vitamin A now 😀 the simple inexpensive routine has saved my so much money which I can spend on treatments.

Have you both done a video on what the best skin tightening products are for face, neck & décollage?

Very informative and to the point as usual! Thank you! We are all waiting for the Dr. M and S skincare line! ❤

Would love to hear your thoughts on clear stem products! Thanks for the info 👏🏼

OK this is off-topic. I just wanted to comment on videos because I have. Thank you, I have been going to dermatologist for the past 10 years I started suffering from bad acne in my teens and early 20s. . I was just given harsh chemicals that really dried out my skin and make things way worse. I was diagnosed with PCOS three years ago so realize that my hormones had a lot to do with my acne. Got my diet under control. I still have bad scars, big pores, blemishes, and really rough facial skin, because what she has videos I came up with a regimen for my skin type , & scars it’s been two months and I’ve never seen my complexion this clear. Thank you so so much for what y’all are doing!

My aesthetician gave me a few samples of SkinCeuticals vitamin C. Honestly, it didn’t wow me. I don’t think it worked any better then the Drunk Elephant I was using. I can’t justify the price. I use Timeless vitamin C now and it has the same ingredients for a fraction of the price. I agree with you on the Elta MD sunscreen. It goes on beautifully and it doesn’t feel greasy or sticky. Some days I just wear that, concealer and blush.

My husband and I (both in our late 60's) use the Maelove Glow Maker Vit. C and love it. We have both been using it every morning for several years and can both see the difference it makes in our skin. It is pretty much a dupe for the Skinceuticals CE Ferulic, but at a fraction (about 20%) of the price.

You both are awesome ❤️thank you for all the great information 🥰

Already using 3 out of 4 products mentioned. I love every single one on my skin.

6:09 thank you for recommending OTC products in addition to other more expensive items that are only sold through medical offices/spas...it equalizes information and access.

Thank you for your advice!🥰

Love your videos!Would you make a video on products to use for hyperpigmentation on skin of color?

I've been loving the Skinbetter Science Alpharet and One Skin OS-01 Eye Topical Supplement.

Missed you both ❤

hi dr. max & dr. shah! was curious if you'd be willing to make a video or yt short on skin, hair, acne and hard water vs. soft/distilled water and just water ph in general. very informative vid as always! ❤

As always very informative video. Please could you do a video on probiotics in skincare.

Love your videos! Question: could you please do a video about growth factors? I have spent a small fortune buying AnteAGE products, but I don’t know if it’s worth it. Do growth factors work? What exactly do they do? How should you work them into a routine? Are there other brands/products you recommend? THANKS!

Thanks, Dr. Shaw and Dr. Maxfield! I’ve been using the DRMTLGY line for years now, and my skin is amazing for a 58 year-old! That tinted sunscreen is magical!

Another great video! What are your thoughts on the Colorescience tinted sunscreens?

I have been watching your videos for long time and really enjoy the information you guys provide❤. Can you guys please talk more about TCA CROSS?

Very helpful! Thank you!

Would you mind doing a video for the ultimate dry skin care routine and the ultimate sensitive skin care routine? I need a starting point. Thanks!

Well I love my tretinoin of course. That's great. But the CE ferulic, omg obsessed with it. I love it.

Great as always! Do y'all have any thoughts/ recommendations for face oils? Is it even a worthwhile step?

I love DRMTROGY!!! The needle-less serum is my holy Grail!

As a few derms who've talked about medical grade have said, it's not medical grade if your derm hasn't written a prescription for it. That said, there are derm channels who only recommend luxury skincare (Ania Marie, MD, Stefani Kappel, Heather D. Rogers, etc).

You book look nice. Thanks for the video.

Thanks for the explanation

Thank you for your videos!

Hi, I became a fan of your videos! Could you make one explaining exosomes?

I’m currently using Skincueticals Vitamin C Slytherin. love how bright my skin looks, BUT I have had a couple cystic break outs that i have not experienced in a year 😢

A topic I would like to see discussed is the skin care that is sold from independent aestheticians that has been formulated and a label is created for their business to sell. I enjoy giving my aesthetician business and would like to support her by purchasing an item or two here and there. But when researching some of these products there isn't much available to read. I am sure she did her homework on the products she sells. But in a world of cosmetic transparency I do my homework before I make a purchase. I just cannot find any literature or information (or very little) on these products. Like I said, I want to support here. However, I also want reassurance that I am getting a product that will produce the results she claims it does. Thank you for considering this topic for a future video. I enjoy your content.

I’m an RN and work in a med spa so I’m a little bias to medical grade skincare. I really love Skin Better, Alastin, and some PCA products. They’ve transformed my skin. I also love drugstore as well but I do believe there’s a huge difference. Now the items sold in Sephora like drunk elephant and such I just don’t know. At the end of the day if you’re already paying $80 for a peptide moisturizer why not just spend a little extra for more/better ingredients. Although I do get all the products at wholesale cost and some companies do staff discounts of 20% below wholesale so I’m paying drunk elephant prices anyway. The markup on all skincare is insane!

Good info!! Your videos usually only cover products for your face (some others “body”)… what about (specially women) the neck and chest area. U don’t want my face to look off from these other two areas as I age. i.e. loose skin, neck lines, hyperpigmentation (neck very sensitive) etc. thanks!

I am also longing for the day that you make a vitamin C video. I am looking for one for mature skin right now for a customer of mine. There are a few on the market but nothing that really satisfies all of her needs

About time 😂🤣😂. You need to do daily videos.

Good video - Thanks

I am a believer of medical skincare because of scientific studies and efficacy , but at the same time I buy other less expensive products that work just as good or even better. It is like buying a luxury bag then it breaks and then a non luxury bag stronger and better. I guess it is best to do research.

Thoughts on Augustinus Bader's skincare line I've used it and have had great results. That being said they have a patented complex of TFC8

As a daughter to a dermatologist I completely agree 💯

Skin better is fantastic. Their trio moisturizer is chefs kiss

Found your channel actually because I just went to the derm for the first time in years and she told me to start using a sunscreen every day even though I stay inside pretty much all the time (WHOOPS). Their office actually sells SkinCeuticals and she recommended one of their products, she uses it every day etc. But it is $60, and of course I'm skeptical because obviously they SELL it. I'm sure it is a nice product but I just can't justify it when there are cheaper options. I found y'alls video on best sunscreens so I ordered the isntree for home/remote work days and the drmtlgy tinted one for going out days. Twice as much product (actually more than, since the SkinCeuticals one is only 30ml) for closer to $50! So, thank you for your videos. Really helpful!

Sorry, not paying 300. For 1 product as too many others out there. Unless covered by my insurance. Every person is different. Thanks Both of you!!!! ❤love watching you two ! Seriously

I bought he Skinceutical CE Ferulic serum twice and halfway through the bottle, it changed color and oxidized. Back then they were advising against using after it oxidized. I did email them and asked if they considered changing the packaging to a pump instead of dropper..

Some items in a doctors office are for sale and not prescriptions in Dermatology. It’s where I found Elta MD sunscreen. It’s great with lot of choices for type.

Thank you!

Could you do a review video on ZO Skin Health products please? I’m seeing these products in many different locations (medspa facilities & dermatology offices) recently.

I would love to get your opinion on some of the mad hippie products.

I love this vid ! N u guys lol. I have a question, what do u think of the app Yuka to track ingredients in products ?

Thank you sooooo much..😁❤️

Would love you guys to review NIOD (sis line to The Ordinary) they have a very unique brand and would love to know what you think of their products! ❤

I am almost out of my vitamin C serum…Please make that video soon!!! As much as I want it idk if I can justify the skinceuticles one especially before the holidays.

Personally, I avoid " medical grade" products due to not being regulated and the cost. I've been able to find great skincare at lower to reasonable prices. Also, shop the sales for products you use and stock up. Love you guys! ❤❤

Topical clindamycin works wonders for my skin and I am not young but have young skin!

Pleas make a vitamin c video!! Have yet to find one that I like

Thanks!

Thank you for great information! I’m looking for a great Vitamin C serum, and just can’t afford Skinceuticals…what is the best affordable alternative??

Can you guys do a video about PRF injections and PRF microneedling please 🙏🏻🥹. Thank you

I find that those products also often have deliberately designed clean looking logos to make them look more premium and gift bags for the products themselves that you get when you buy them from a skin care center.

I love the Skinceuticals vitamin C products ❤️

Educated Mess has a great L-ascorbic acid serum stabilized in a complex so it’s at a higher PH and not as irritating. Made by a cosmetic chemist!

Dermalogica and Murad were among the handful of top skin care products 25 years ago. I used to scrape my paychecks together to buy them. 😅

My favourtie products lately are from Skinmedica (retinol, scar gel, HA5), Vichy (hyaluronic gel, salicyclic cream), and skinceuticals C and E serum.

Love your videos! I am 70 years old. I try to get face treatments once a month - skin tightening, oxygen facial, micro needling etc. they always try to push products on me - and I did fall for it at first but now I’m wondering if I can get the same results from cheaper products. My question is is it necessary to use a “night” cream? Or can I just use a moisturizer? Does my face really know the difference?

What about Zo skin health by Zein Obagi MD is it worth the money?

Thanks for the education 👍I always thought medical grad💵💵were the only ones that really worked! I’ve learned so much & I love Drmtlgy too👍

Great vid

Being a big fan of your channel, I‘d like to hear something from you about sebaceous gland hyperplasia. Suffering here ..

Hi guys!! Thank you so much for the great videos and the education and advise that you give!! Can you tell me what you think of Josie Maran Argan Bright skin vitamin C serum? Do you think the delivery system for this particular serum is actually working to get the vitamin c penetrated into the skin? And I have heard putting oils on facial skin is not good with this include argan oil or do you think that it is good and effective? Thanks!!!

Hi! Can you guys review at home lasers such as the Nira and Lyma?

I always felt that if you understand ingredients and what you like in skincare that you deff don’t have to get medical grade skincare. I think some of them are deff good products but the whole idea that they are better than other skincare is deff not true

more on pregnancy skin care routine please

Thank you for this! Do you guys recommend any type of facial maybe every few months to help with hyperpigmentation? Is the only answer chemical peels?