The digital age has connected people to an endless amount of
information at their fingertips. Sites such as WebMD have led to self-diagnosis
which many times are wrong. The Internet allows people access to most
cosmeceutical brands, the misuse of which leads to unintended consequences that
can affect skin health. While it may seem less expensive and easier at the
time, the risks of buying dermatology products online usually outweigh any
benefits. Patients who receive advice from a trained medical professional have
better outcomes than those who solely consult the internet. The risks
associated with skin care products sold online include:
·
Counterfeit products
Pharmaceutical and personal care products are among
the top five types of products seized by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents.
These items are often brought into the United States from foreign countries in
old bottles filled with inexpensive imitation creams. These imitation creams
can cause adverse reactions to your skin.
·
Expired products
Many formulas found on the internet are sold at a
lower price because the product inside has expired. Ingredients in certain
dermatology products are sensitive to air, heat and the sun.
·
Potentially illegal or toxic products
Several products that have entered the U.S. markets as
antiaging agents, skin lighteners, and acne treatments contain mercury.
Arsenic, lead, beryllium, and other harmful toxins have been in these products
as well.
·
Lookalike imposters
While generic formulas tend to have the same
ingredients found in branded preparations, the order in which the ingredients
are added play a significant role in the potential of the end product and the
actions the product exerts on the skin.
Your skin is the largest organ in your body. Treat your skin
with care; do not skimp when it comes to the health of your skin. It is
important to remember that your costs can include skin irritation and the
improper treatment may cost you more in the long run. Talk to your
dermatologist today and make sure you are treating your skin properly!