Is Higher Percentage Skincare Better?

“There are many highly efficacious ingredients at lower percentages. Stronger may not be better for your unique skin.”

It's a pretty common belief that bigger and stronger is better with most things in life. However, this isn't necessarily true when it comes to skincare.

There are plenty of highly efficacious ingredients at lower percentages, like 1% hyaluronic acid, 1-2% salicylic acid, 1% retinol, or 2% alpha-arbutin (derived from the bearberry plant and the cutest name ever!)

Stronger does not necessarily equal better for YOUR unique skin. You may be only able to tolerate a lower percentage of a particular ingredient, and that's ok! It doesn't mean it's not working for you and you aren't receiving the benefits! Just because a product is available in a higher percentage doesn't mean you need it!

This is particularly true about Tretinoin, and I get asked a lot if someone should "move up" a percentage strength after using a lower strength for some time. Moving up isn't always necessary, especially if your skin is acclimated and happy using it. A higher percentage will cause more side effects like irritation, peeling, and dryness in many cases. (It's a good idea to ask your prescribing healthcare provider.)