1. Clarity Rx is a line of physician-based cosmeceuticals. Can you please explain what a “cosmeceutical” is and what its place is in the very crowded skincare arena?
There are many spokes to the wheel on what makes up a product. Clearly, all products cannot be treated equally. The intention of the term “cosmeceutical” was originally used as a marketing term in hopes of identifying a line of products that is clearly a cut above the rest and would reflect the following:
- Results-driven formulas, corrective in nature
- Made of the highest quality of ingredients
- Made with the appropriate percentage of performing ingredients to yield results
- Made with low molecular weight (LMW) delivery system to drive performing ingredients into the skin
- Has science to support their OWN claims
- Products that are tested for their safety, efficacy and stability
Unfortunately, the FDA does not recognize the term “cosmeceutical” as all products are classified under “cosmetics”. In the past several years we have seen many companies now loosely using the term “cosmeceutical” to increase the perceived value to the consumer even if they wouldn’t qualify with the above mentioned characteristics. In essence, the term has been “watered-down” and has very little to no meaning at this point.
Due to this, the consumer must be diligent and learn as much as possible about the product line. Look for ingredients that can negative or harmful effects on the skin. They can determine quite a bit from looking at the ingredient list to see if it is loaded with unnecessary chemicals, preservatives, fragrances, colorants, heavy waxes and the like. Look for more performing ingredient such as vitamins, minerals, natural extracts, naturally sourced lightening agents, peptides, hydrators, etc. The ingredient list must be in order of percentage, the first ingredient being the most and the last being the least. Look for the performing ingredients to be in the top half of the ingredient list. This indicates that most likely this is a more performing-like product. You can also ssk the manufacturer questions such as disclosing clinical science, full ingredient disclosures, usage instructions, etc. to get a better understanding of that particular product line.
2. Have you seen an increase in the demand for cosmeceutical-based skincare? If so, to what might you attribute this growth?
Absolutely! I contribute this to many things;
Baby-boomers are demanding anti-aging products as they are living longer and want to live a healthier life and look their best doing it!
Awareness…with the information at our finger tips via the internet and other media, consumers are becoming very savvy and are learning the importance of preventative and corrective skin care.
Technology…there has been very big strides in cosmetic technology with the discovery of new ingredients coupled with the latest technology to deliver these ingredients into the skin yielding the results that these savvy consumers are demanding. We finally have the tools to create the positive changes in our skin with the quality, results-driven products like ClarityRx™
3. Is this type of product safe for every skin type or are there some consumers that might be too sensitive?
Yes, this product line is certainly safe for all skin types. The important factor is that the right products are chosen for the right person. We have several categories of products that are designed to care for all skin types, however, we also have a category of products in our line that we call our “Correctors” and these products are formulated to address the unwanted conditions that consumers have such as acne, or sign of aging such a sagging, fine lines, discoloration, etc. In addition to the core regimen that consists of cleansers, moisturizers, and sun protection products, these correctors are added to one’s regimen to correct certain unwanted conditions. These correctors are progressive in nature and should be recommended by professionals for proper use.
4. In your opinion, what are the most important ingredients consumers should be looking for in a skincare line?
The following ingredients are the latest phenoms in anti-aging and for problem skin;
Peptides – These are chains of amino acids that improve texture, tighten and tone the skin, 
reduce wrinkle depth and more!
Malus Domesticus – Plant-based stem cells derived from a rare apple – a true anti-aging breakthrough as it can repair damaged skin from oxidative stress in the skin from lifestyle, diet, sun exposure and more!
Alpha-Arbutin – A natural lightening agent derived from bear berry’s that is a great plant-sourced alternative to harsh chemical bleaching agents. Excellent to even out discoloration and tone to the skin. Safe for all skin color and skin types!
Red Tea from the Rooibus Plant - This is an amazing rich source of vitamin C as an anti-oxidant that can prevent free radical damage iin the skin that leads to advanced aging.
Hyaluronic Acid – the super soaker! This humectant/hydrator is that big drink of water that all skin types need daily. This remarkable ingredient draws moisture from the environment and from the lower layers of the skin to plump up the superficial layers of the skin preventing dehydration. The skin immediately look and feels different once applied.
5. What are your top tips for achieving and maintaining healthy, radiant skin?
The number one thing that I suggest to my clients is that they dial in to a regimen. Take the time to do the simple steps at home that can make a huge impact on the way your skin looks. Daily care for your skin adds up! Sun protection is a must. A simple hydrator and sun protection can do wonders for your skin.
About: Karla Keene, CEO, is an accomplished expert in skin care with more than 30 years of experience as licensed, medically-trained aesthetician, product developer, and educator. She have volumes of practical experience working with cosmetic physicians, aestheticians, clinicians, franchises, and entrepreneurs in this market, as well as with prominent product and equipment companies in a myriad of capacities. Karla has a proven track record with advanced education, profit-driven sales and account management success in the skin care, day spa, medspa and cosmetic medicine industry.
Karla has served as part of several senior-level teams making decisions on strategic and tactical planning, product development, business development, national account development, brand management and new product and line extension launches for some of the industry’s leading skin care companies. She developed RejuvaSkin Medical Skin Care, one of the first post laser products designed for invasive laser procedures sold exclusively to plastic surgeons and dermatologists.
Her latest passion is her newest line of products ClarityRx™ Clinical Skin Care which represents her philosophy in providing safe, quality, efficacious skin care products along with sound education and training.
As a consultant, she has developed and opened over 70 medical aesthetic practices and has trained hundreds of clinicians, aestheticians and spa/medspa owners. She is also currently the Facial Program Consultant for a massage and facial franchise where she has developed their service menu, facial protocols, operations training, and more in over 39 locations and trained over 150 of their estheticians in product knowledge and hands-on services.
Karla has been a member of National Advisory Board for the Medical Spa Expo & Conferences with Reed Expositions as an education advisor responsible for ensuring quality advanced aesthetic education. Karla is a frequent contributor to trade publications, industry resources and articles and has been published/quoted in prestigious national magazines, newspapers, and websites such as Wounds Magazine, New York Daily News, Allure Spa Magazine, Massage Magazine, MedEsthetics Magazine, Franchise News, and more.
To Learn More about Karla’s Product Line please view ClarityClinicalSkinCare.com
