Does a Higher Concentration of an Active Ingredient in a Cream Always Mean It’s Better?
Not necessarily, and sometimes quite the opposite.
The desire to use a cream with the highest concentration of an active ingredient for maximum effectiveness is understandable as a logical thought process. However, it’s not always clinically accurate. Let me clarify this for you.
Active ingredients in skincare products, which have been clinically studied, have what’s called a “therapeutic window.” This refers to the range in which the ingredient is effective—from the minimum concentration where it starts to work, to the maximum concentration before it becomes problematic, unsafe, or simply ineffective.
Here’s an Example:
Imagine an active ingredient with a therapeutic range between 1% and 3%:
• Below 1%: No effect.
• Between 1% and 3%: Effective range.
• Above 3%: Ineffective, potentially harmful, or causes strong side effects.
If you’re choosing between a product with 3% of the ingredient and one with 5%, which is better? Since the ingredient’s therapeutic window maxes out at 3%, there’s no clinical justification to opt for the 5% product.
So, What Should We Look for in Active Ingredients?
1. Effective and Safe Concentration
Ensure the active ingredient concentration falls within its therapeutic window.
2. Smart Formulations
Look for creams with time-release formulas that allow the active ingredients to work gradually over several hours.
3. Synergy
Active ingredients should work harmoniously with other ingredients in the product and with other products in your skincare routine. Incompatible combinations can harm the skin or weaken the efficacy of the ingredients.
4. Consistency
Clinical studies that show the effectiveness of an active ingredient often assess its impact over consistent use, not a one-time application. Regular use of effective products is far more important than focusing solely on a higher concentration.
And Most Importantly:
The key to choosing the right active ingredient lies in proper evaluation by me, under my guidance. We don’t select a product or active ingredient based on advertisements, recommendations, or what worked for a friend. Your skin is unique, and your treatment should be too.
