December 21, 2021 Beauty Editor

What Is The Difference Between Medical-Grade Skincare and Over-The-Counter Products?

Which is more beneficial medical-grade skincare or OTC?

Why Medical-Grade Skincare Is Worth It (and What Makes It Different)

By the Team at Gerrish MedEsthetics
AGE by Gerrish™ | Regeneration, Not Aggression™


Skincare makes up 42% of the global cosmetic industry and is projected to reach $200 billion by 2026. That’s no surprise: more men are prioritizing skincare, millennials are investing in prevention, and aging skin is being supported with advanced science—not just hope in a jar.

With products sold everywhere—from department stores to your local gym—it’s easy to fall into the cycle of trial and error. But that cycle gets expensive fast. A $30 cream here, a $40 serum there… it adds up. And more often than not, these products don’t deliver on their promises.

So what’s the real difference between over-the-counter (OTC) skincare and medical-grade skincare—and is it really worth it?


OTC Skincare: Designed for the Masses, Not Your Skin

Over-the-counter skincare is mass-produced for general use. It’s formulated to be safe for as many people as possible, which often means low concentrations of active ingredients and minimal absorption. These products are meant to sit on the skin, not work deep within it.

  • No requirement to list active ingredient percentages

  • Minimal clinical testing or claim validation

  • Made with broad tolerability in mind—not personalized results

Think of it like a generic multivitamin versus a customized supplement plan. OTC might do something, but it’s not targeted, and it’s not tailored.


Medical-Grade Skincare: Designed for Precision, Backed by Science

Medical-grade products are developed with a different mission: results. These formulas contain active ingredients in higher concentrations, are often supported by clinical research, and are designed to penetrate the skin to create real, visible changes.

  • FDA oversight requires brands to clinically substantiate any performance claims

  • Higher-quality ingredients, often patented or exclusive to professionals

  • Formulated to sync with advanced in-office treatments for seamless regeneration

This is the foundation of our ClockWork AGE™ protocol: a carefully timed, synergistic approach to aging gracefully—starting in the treatment room and continuing at home with targeted medical-grade skincare. It’s not just a product—it’s your everyday regenerative rhythm.


ClockWork AGE™: The Missing Link Between Your Appointments

Even the most powerful in-office treatment is only part of the story. That’s why we created ClockWork AGE™—our exclusive skin and body aftercare system designed to extend your results 24/7. Think of it as your home-care prescription, created to support the 700+ hours between visits.

From antioxidants and peptides to brightening agents and barrier-strengthening formulas, every product in your ClockWork AGE™ plan is chosen with precision. No guessing. No wasted steps. Just smart, cellular support that keeps your skin on pace with your treatment cycle.


A Smarter Investment for Long-Term Results

Let’s talk value. You could spend $300 over six months on drugstore products and see minimal results—or spend the same on a personalized, medical-grade routine and see meaningful change in 6–8 weeks. Your skin is your largest organ—and how you care for it today determines how it looks and functions 30, 60, even 90 days from now.

Just like you invest in healthy food and fitness, it makes sense to invest in professional skincare that works in time, on time—with your body’s rhythm.


Start Your ClockWork AGE™ Routine

If you’re ready to stop guessing and start glowing, we’re here to guide you. Our team at Gerrish MedEsthetics offers custom skincare evaluations and access to medical-grade skincare that aligns with your treatments and goals.

📍 Scottsdale, AZ – (480) 651-8110
📍 Vienna, VA – (703) 255-5580
📍 Alexandria, VA – (703) 549-9940

Your skin is on a schedule. Let’s make every hour count.
Clock in. Glow on.™

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480.651.8110

SCOTTSDALE, AZ

703.255.5580 

VIENNA, VA

703.549.9940

ALEXANDRIA, VA