Many over the counter skin treatments promise to treat the same conditions, so what actually sets them apart from prescription alternatives?

Prescription and over the counter treatments usually contain the same active ingredients, so they both have the potential to treat skin conditions effectively. The key difference is that prescription treatments tend to focus on treating one specific issue, while over the counter products target a number of different conditions simultaneously. This broader approach can reduce their effectiveness for any single, specific issue.

If you have a specific skin concern you're trying to address rather than taking a holistic approach to your skin's health, a prescription treatment is generally the better choice. Additionally, prescription treatments typically have a limited cost compared to over the counter options, which don't have the same pricing restrictions and are often more expensive.

The bottom line: for targeted skin concerns, consult your GP or dermatologist about prescription options. For general skin maintenance and prevention, quality over the counter products can serve you well.