Cosmeceuticals are cosmetics that also contain pharmaceutical properties. Dandruff shampoo is a great example of a cosmeceutical, as it has both a cosmetic purpose - cleaning hair - and a medical one - eliminating dandruff. Other examples of cosmeceutical products are a makeup foundation that contains SPF protection or toothpaste that contains a fluoride treatment.
Unfortunately, the governing bodies that regulate cosmetics and pharmaceuticals do not always recognize cosmeceuticals as a viable product category. In the U.S., for example, such products can be legally labeled as a cosmetic or a drug, but not both, and while cosmetics are not regulated, pharmaceuticals are. Therefore, anything claiming drug properties falls under the auspices of the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). That, in turn, can cause problems when it comes to marketing claims and labeling. However, products labeled as cosmetics do not have the same strict guidelines to follow, leaving the consumer wondering whether or not he or she can count on their effectiveness.
Some examples of pharmaceutical products infused into cosmetics are: alpha hydroxy acid, collagen, peptides and retinol. Used in some skin care and makeup products, it appears those ingredients may provide some long-term physiological effects. In particular, a lot of cosmeceuticals claim to reduce the signs of aging or even to "turn back the clock." These products usually contain a combination of anti-aging helpers like antioxidants, enzymes, essential oils, herbs, minerals and vitamins. Each is known for its regenerative properties; what isn't always known is the amount contained within the product.
Unfortunately, the governing bodies that regulate cosmetics and pharmaceuticals do not always recognize cosmeceuticals as a viable product category. In the U.S., for example, such products can be legally labeled as a cosmetic or a drug, but not both, and while cosmetics are not regulated, pharmaceuticals are. Therefore, anything claiming drug properties falls under the auspices of the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). That, in turn, can cause problems when it comes to marketing claims and labeling. However, products labeled as cosmetics do not have the same strict guidelines to follow, leaving the consumer wondering whether or not he or she can count on their effectiveness.
Some examples of pharmaceutical products infused into cosmetics are: alpha hydroxy acid, collagen, peptides and retinol. Used in some skin care and makeup products, it appears those ingredients may provide some long-term physiological effects. In particular, a lot of cosmeceuticals claim to reduce the signs of aging or even to "turn back the clock." These products usually contain a combination of anti-aging helpers like antioxidants, enzymes, essential oils, herbs, minerals and vitamins. Each is known for its regenerative properties; what isn't always known is the amount contained within the product.
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