Firstly, I would like to say that Skinceuticals is the first medical-grade skincare that really got me into the game. It's not that this is any cheaper than my previous skincare shopping hobbies (La Mer, Guerlain, and I stopped myself before getting into the La Prairie series).
As someone with a super clean, wholesome food diet, regular exercise, and a very frequent travel schedule, I would say my skin has gone through a lot with me over the years. Constant travel through different climates, from super dry regions to never-ending moist summer climates, makes it hard to have well-rested, good skin days. Needless to say, the top-tier brand-name skincare never worked for me, nor did the trendy best-seller brands from Sephora.
Just saying, thanks to Skinceuticals, I discovered skincare that made a difference.
Due to my career, my need for something new doesn't fade with age, unfortunately. In a sense, I'm tenacious and don't quit. So, in this case, the Skinceuticals Phyto line is like an experiment I just can't quit, because I can't figure out if it's a me problem or a product problem.
Phyto Corrective Gel
I have occasionally sensitive skin with redness appearing for no reason, discoloration, and dehydration. I thought I fit the bill quite nicely for the Phyto Corrective Gel.
Despite glowing online reviews, I found the gel sticky and hard to absorb. Determined not to waste it, I used it as an at-home facial treatment.
After cleansing, I’d apply a generous layer, leave it on, and cover it with a sheet mask (any sheet masks works) for 15 minutes. Then, I’d wipe away the excess and massage the remainder. If too much was left, I’d rinse it off before bed or heading out. This method helped me finish the bottle.
A few months ago, my colleague gifted me a Phyto Corrective Masque. It was mid-summer, and between sunscreen buildup and dehydration from flights, I thought I’d give it a try. That’s when I realized I completely used my Phyto Corrective Gel the way I should've used the Masque.
All Skinceuticals Phyto products seem to turn your face green, like Elphaba. Both the Phyto Corrective Masque and gel have a herbal, minty scent. These are the moments I have to admit that I miss the indulgence of Guerlain or Chanel. Skinceuticals never made me feel pampered the way Guerlain does. The Phyto Corrective Masque smelled like mouthwash—though still far more tolerable than the "hot dog water" scent of the Skinceuticals CE Ferulic serum.
If I haven’t raved about its effects by now, it’s because I didn’t find them noticeable. I have no idea why I thought the third time would be the charm, but then I came across the Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment and decided to give it a try.
Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment
When I saw the word “brightening” on the Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment, I couldn’t resist. After finishing two bottles of Skinceuticals Discoloration Defense, I was eager to try it.
This serum, darker green than the gel, absorbs much better and works as an oil-free moisturizer for acne-prone skin. It balances oily skin, improves texture, and calms redness almost instantly.
While it’s excellent for summer, it might not be enough for dry Canadian winters. For peeling or patchy skin, you’ll need something thicker, like Triple Lipid Restore. Still, the serum is the best of the three Phyto products I’ve tried.
Its calming effect is remarkable, soothing red, itchy patches on my cheeks. However, I didn’t notice significant brightening effects. Its hydrating and calming properties make it a great choice for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Thankfully, the third time was a charm. The Phyto A Brightening Treatment is a great product, and I can see myself getting it again next summer—using it for dehydration, calming my skin after a day in the sun, and preventing summer sunscreen acne.
I also saw many endorsements from dermatologists and celebrities for these products. There are also various products available in Skinceuticals' medical-grade skincare lines, including best-selling bundles and collections to explore.
Who can benefit from these medical-grade skincare products?
- Phyto Corrective Masque: Ideal for at-home spa facials.
- Phyto Corrective Gel: Best for calming and hydrating sensitive, oily skin.
- Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment: Perfect for moisturizing sensitive, acne-prone skin.
Which product do I recommend?
- Acne-prone skin: All three work.
- Sensitive skin: Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment absorbs best.
- Calming for sensitive or red skin: The Phyto Corrective Masque is great because it’s a mask you can lather on, and the Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment also works almost instantly.
- Brightening effect: Once you remove the green, there’s an instant brightening effect!
- Hydration: The Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment provides excellent hydration, while the Phyto Corrective Gel is too sticky for me to tell if it’s hydrating or blocking my pores.
The Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment is my top choice. It’s lightweight, absorbs well, and hydrates without greasiness. I can see myself repurchasing it next summer for post-sun dehydration and preventing sunscreen-related acne.
What can you expect when using medical-grade skincare products?
There are many advantages to choosing medical-grade skincare; you can expect higher-quality ingredients, more effective formulations, and potentially better results for your skin concerns compared to non-medical-grade products. The science behind medical-grade skincare lies in their advanced formulations and concentrated active ingredients, setting them apart from regular skincare items.
These products are often formulated to address specific skin issues and are often backed by scientific research and clinical testing. However, it's always important to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine which products are best suited for your individual skin type and concerns.
How quickly can you see improvements?
I start to see noticeable improvements in my skin within just a few weeks, with continued improvement over time in signs of aging, including fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and dull skin.
Get ready to turn into Elphaba with Skinceuticals Phyto Corrective.
