You’ve probably seen viral posts warning you not to fall for overpriced products that do nothing but hydrate the surface – and the truth is… they’re not wrong. Most skincare products can’t penetrate the skin barrier, which means they can’t actually improve the way your skin functions.
What the Post Got Right
Dr. Gerhard Malherbe, Lezara’s Clinic Director & GP wsI Dermatology, agrees with the original message: “This is true for most products,” he says. “They don’t penetrate. They don’t change your skin at a cellular level. They just sit on top.”
Where It’s Oversimplified
The issue is generalization. “Not all skincare is ineffective; medical-grade skincare is researched to show exactly what layer it reaches,” Dr. Malherbe explains. “For example, growth factor serums like those from ZO Skin Health have been proven, through biopsy, to thicken the dermis by up to 30%. Pigment correction, texture improvements – these things don’t happen unless the product gets in.”
Why We Trust Medical-Grade Products
ZO Skin Health, for example, doesn’t just claim results – it proves them. Clinical studies show how its active ingredients cross the skin barrier, reach specific layers, and stimulate real change in the skin. These aren’t cosmetic claims – they’re backed by science.
How to Choose Skincare That Works
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Look for clinical studies and biopsy-backed results.
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Choose brands developed by physicians or dermatologists.
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Don’t be fooled by packaging or marketing buzzwords – ask what skin layer it reaches.
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Ask your provider what changes you should expect and when.
Dr. Malherbe’s Final Thoughts
Not all skincare is created equal, and not all of it works. But the right products, guided by the right knowledge, can transform your skin from the inside out.
Book a consultation with myself or one of our Specialized Skin Specialists to learn more.*
*GP referral needed to see Dr. Gerhard Malherbe.