The faltering economy has cast its’ shadows on numerous markets, and the cosmetic industry is no exception. With people analyzing their expenses more closely, it may be worrisome to spend  hard-earned money on cosmetic procedures, but it doesn’t have to be. Gene Rubinstein, M.D., of the Dermatology and Laser Centre of Studio City dispels the three most common skincare myths.
1. Myth: Spending money on cosmetic procedures is a luxury. Determining a budget you’re comfortable with and finding a dermatologist who presents you with all the possible choices for you is a much more effective way to yield better results than avoiding maintaining your appearance altogether. So many treatment options easily fall within any budget that it is important to not let yourself go. Smaller dermatological procedures such as Botox, chemical peels or Photofacials keep your skin looking vibrant without drying out your bank account.
2. Myth: I can’t afford cosmetic procedures. With so many options for cosmetic procedures from lasers to fillers to Botox, fitting a procedure within your budget is feasible. There are always alternatives. It is just a matter of finding a doctor whom you trust and who will go over every option with you. For example, if you cannot afford laser resurfacing for acne scars, you can always opt for Photofacials, a series of three treatments which will run you less than $1,500. Or, if you cannot afford laser acne treatments, find a dermatologist who will prescribe you acne medication that will cost less than $100 a month.
If you still feel that you cannot afford a procedure, another moneysaving idea is to ask offices and drug manufacturers about ongoing promotions and rebates. A lot of dermatologists offer more incentives than people take advantage of, especially around holidays when many offices package treatments at a discount. Competition between suppliers is also another way that patients benefit. Both dermatologist offices and drug manufacturers want your business and will offer discounts to assure that you will choose them.
3. Myth:The skincare products that dermatologists sell are too expensive. A dermatologist’s office which carries medical-grade skincare lines offers alternatives to department or drugstore products. These products are almost always less expensive than their department-store counterparts and are packed with effective, clinically proven ingredients. The office’s skincare consultant can help you select the items that will be most beneficial for you so that don’t waste time and money testing products.
In the end, it is all about knowing your options and being an educated consumer. Still, Dr. Rubinstein warns that nothing works better than taking preventative measures to protect your skin. He argues that it is much more expensive to treat cosmetic problems once your skin becomes more deteriorated. For anyone looking to cut corners, it may seem logical that if you space out your injection and filler appointments, in the end you will save money. However, cautions Dr. Rubinstein, that’s not always the case. In fact, by prolonging your treatments, you actually may spend more money. By skipping your appointments for a few consecutive months, it is likely that once you do get in the doctor’s chair, you’ll need more help than you originally anticipated.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
