Vichy cosmetics are French, but they have also gained popularity outside their homeland. This pharmaceutical cosmetic product began its history more than 80 years ago. The manufacturer develops environmentally friendly cosmetics that care for sensitive skin, made from thermal water from natural purest sources. The brand also takes care of the environment by creating compostable packaging.
But for some time now there have been rumors around Vichy that its products contain not entirely useful components. Vichy hormonal cosmetics or not? Let's try to figure it out.
"Vichy": are cosmetics hormonal?
If you read the composition of Vichy cosmetics, you will see that the base is thermal water, and additionally there are 15 active minerals.
For a long time, rumors persisted around the company that all Vichy cosmetics were hormonal. However, the rumors remained rumors: the presented products are developed and produced in accordance with international standards and have passed mandatory certification in Russia, which completely excludes the presence of hormonal components in their composition.
Vichy cosmetics are designed for sensitive and problematic skin that is prone to inflammation, redness, dryness and other problems. And the presence of hormones in their composition could provoke the development of these problems.
Therefore, the answer to the question whether Vichy hormonal cosmetics are or not is a categorical no.
Placental cosmetics: benefit or harm?
In anti-aging cosmetics there are series based on extracts from placenta, mainly sheep. Placenta extract contains an extensive list of amino acids and vitamins, has anti-inflammatory and immune activity, stimulates cell division, the synthesis of collagen and elastin.
The question arises: are these cosmetics hormonal or not?
The moisturizing, regenerating and toning effect is not associated with the action of hormones, because the latter are absent from the extract - only purified placenta is allowed to be used in the cosmetic industry.
Spermaceti cream is often associated with hormones due to its name. However, let's dispel the myths: spermaceti is a synthetic analogue of fish oil extracted from the heads of cetaceans.
It has a nourishing emollient effect and a beneficial effect on the skin - without any involvement of endocrine system derivatives.
Reviews from cosmetologists
Once Vichy cosmetics have been determined to be hormonal or not, reviews of this brand should be the next step in studying it. First of all, let's turn to the reviews of cosmetologists.
Those ladies who regularly visit such specialists may note that some cosmetologists or makeup artists use Vichy products in their practice. And even those specialists who prefer other cosmetic companies have no complaints about this French brand.
The main difference between Vichy is its base in the form of thermal water. As cosmetologists note, the products of this company are the best suited for problematic and sensitive skin, because the concentration of mineral salts in the products soothes the skin, relieves inflammation and dryness, and normalizes its external condition.
Reviews from cosmetologists about Vichy cosmetics indicate that products from this brand can be prescribed both as primary care and as an addition to hardware cosmetology procedures.
Customer reviews: positive
Reviews about Vichy, which cannot be called hormonal cosmetics, from customers are mixed, but mostly positive. Some women still doubt the absence of hormones in the products of this brand.
After analyzing the reviews, you can identify the following advantages of Vichy:
- high quality;
- products are both budget and expensive;
- available in pharmacies;
- refreshes the skin;
- there is trust in the manufacturer;
- the effectiveness of some products has been confirmed repeatedly;
- gives the skin a healthy color and shine;
- smoothes out fine wrinkles, increases skin elasticity, saturates with oxygen and moisture;
- no restrictions on skin types and age;
- The cosmetics have a pleasant smell and consistency.
To answer this question, let's first understand what hormones are.
Hormones are biologically active substances of organic nature, produced in the endocrine glands, entering the blood and exerting a regulating effect on metabolism and physiological functions. Simply put, these are active substances that are produced by the body and affect the functioning of organs and systems. Nowadays, the production of synthetic hormones, completely similar to natural ones in structure and properties, is widespread.
If natural or synthetic hormones are included in certain products, then these are no longer cosmetics, but pharmaceuticals. Such drugs are sold exclusively in pharmacies and should be used only as prescribed by a doctor. Hormonal external agents are used in cases where other - non-hormonal - simply do not help (for example, with fungal or bacterial skin infections). And when the benefit to the patient significantly outweighs the risk of possible side effects. And the range of such actions is wide: rosacea, anemia, oily seborrhea and skin hair growth, active acne, metabolic disorders, weight gain, sexual disorders, hormonal imbalance, oncology, etc.
This is why the use of hormones in decorative and skincare cosmetics is prohibited almost all over the world. And if you have a cream with hormones in your hands, this is not a mass production, but a “home-made” production. And such a cream can lead to serious skin problems.
Hormones are really important for our beauty and youth. A special role in this regard is played by estrogen (responsible for skin elasticity), somatotropin (preserves tissue youth and muscle tone), and dehydroepiandrosterone (promotes slimness). However, if you have low levels of a certain hormone, then this issue should be resolved according to the recommendations of an endocrinologist, and not with the help of cosmetics.
It’s a different matter when we are talking about phytohormones – substances of plant origin, whose structure and properties resemble human hormones. The most popular among them are phytoestrogens - substances with estrogen-like effects, similar in structure to human estrogen. Skin receptors react to them as if the content of the reproductive hormone estrogen has increased in the woman’s body. Due to this reaction, phytoestrogens can have a rejuvenating effect on the skin.
Range
The selection of Vichy cosmetics is huge, the products are varied: these include creams, lotions, makeup products and much, much more.
Like any brand, buyers among Vichy products have their favorites, which have proven themselves worthy in working with skin.
- Mineral 89 is a moisturizing gel to improve skin elasticity.
- Liftactiv is a hyaluronic express facial mask.
- Normaderm is a cleansing and at the same time mattifying foam cleanser.
- Neovadiol is a nourishing cream that increases skin density and elasticity.
- Liftactiv is a lifting cream for the eye area.
- Thermal water with a high concentration of minerals.
- Teint Ideal is a foundation designed exclusively for dry skin.
- Dercos shampoo that prevents hair loss.
- Dercos is a nourishing and restorative hair mask.
What are phytohormones and what do they have to do with cosmetology?
Phytohormones are plant hormones. Thanks to these substances, seeds ripen, ovaries form, plants flower and grow—that is, they regulate vital processes. In different phases of the plant’s life cycle, hormones accumulate in those areas where active growth and cell division occur: leaves, flowers, stem tips.
As a result of studies of phytohormones, it was not possible to determine exactly how they affect the skin, but they are generally considered to be antioxidants.
Phytohormones are not of interest to developers of creams and lotions - they are used mainly in gardening - however, all essential oils and plant juices added to cosmetics always contain them in a complex. Any “green” cosmetics includes a full spectrum of phytohormones without being hormonal.
For face
Vichy facial cosmetics are the most popular among the rest of the brand's products. Various products are produced - creams, gels, masks, etc., coping with problems on the face.
There are numerous reviews about Vichy cosmetics on the Internet. It is rarely called hormonal there, so the demand for it does not decrease. Let's introduce two more popular products from the facial care series. Published reviews of Vichy cosmetics, hormonal or not, it is not possible to guess from its composition, are full of only guesses from buyers.
Corticosteroid creams and ointments: medical hormones
To treat dermatitis, acne, psoriasis and other skin diseases, the doctor may prescribe an ointment or cream containing glucocorticoids - adrenal hormones obtained naturally or synthetically.
Hormonal ointment (Akriderm, Flucinar, Advantan) has many side effects - from the appearance of spider veins on the face to changes in skin pigmentation and the development of fungal and bacterial infections - therefore it is used strictly as prescribed by a doctor, and only in cases where it cannot be avoided, i.e., when non-hormonal drugs were ineffective.
External products have nothing to do with cosmetics - but amateurs, having heard a familiar phrase, connect the two concepts together.
Face masks
The Liftactiv hyaluronic express face mask has an effect within five minutes, according to the manufacturer. The drug moisturizes facial skin cells and maintains moisture throughout the day, gives the skin softness and smoothness, and evens out skin tone. The mask contains two main components:
- Agave extract of natural origin. The component activates the natural synthesis of hyaluronic acid in the skin and moisturizes it.
- High molecular weight hyaluronic acid extracted from fermented wheat. The component promotes hydration and prevents moisture loss.
- Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid that penetrates deep into the skin and has a rejuvenating and smoothing effect.
Detox mask with charcoal Mineral Masks. It contains 15 minerals and macroelements. Regular use helps restore the natural pH balance of the skin, heals and protects the epidermis, and also improves the barrier properties of the skin and helps retain moisture in its cells. Contains:
- Charcoal acts as an absorbent and exfoliant. Cleanses and disinfects the skin from impurities, promotes cleanliness and improves the external and internal condition of the skin.
- Kaolin is a white clay that captures and pushes out dirt particles from the very depths of the pores.
- Mineralizing thermal water "Vichy".
Makeup
Are Vichy cosmetics hormonal or not for makeup? No and no again. All makeup products are represented by mattifying, concealing and tonal products: powders, foundations, foundations and fluids. Here are a few of them:
- Foundation with a lifting effect Liftactiv Flexilift tone 15. Applies evenly and easily to the skin, evening out its tone and making it even. The main ingredients are collagen, carnauba wax, SPF20, Vichy thermal water. Lasts up to eight hours without renewing.
- Compact powder for normal to oily skin. There are three tones - 15, 25 and 35. The main functions of the powder are: hiding any imperfections on the skin, such as acne, enlarged pores, pigmentation. It mattifies and reduces shine. The powder contains: salicylic acid, zinc gluconate, vitamin E. Does not contain parabens. Absolutely hypoallergenic, does not provoke the appearance of comedones, suitable for the most sensitive skin.
- Corrective SOS stick for concealing dark circles and skin imperfections DERMABLEND. A durable masking effect that lasts 16 hours and adequately resists moisture and ultraviolet radiation. Suitable even for application to delicate eyelid skin.
For body
Body cosmetics from Vichy include roll-on deodorants, aerosols and creams. Hormonal cosmetics “Vichy” or not for the body? No. Deodorants are completely safe. What anti-sweating drugs are the most popular among buyers?
- Roll-on deodorant for sensitive skin. It is designed to soothe the skin and reduce sweating for up to 48 hours. Well suited for application to the skin after hair removal.
- Anti-stress deodorant against excessive sweating. For 72 hours you can forget about the unpleasant odor.
- Deodorant cream “7 days” to normalize sweating. The product is alcohol and paraben free. Reduces excess sweat production for up to 7 days, prevents the release of unpleasant odors.
- Mineral deodorant without aluminum salts. Guarantees freshness, dryness and a pleasant aroma in the armpits for 48 hours.
- Deodorant spray against stains. It not only maintains freshness and reduces sweating, but also prevents the formation of stains on clothes: it does not turn dark things white, and does not leave a yellow tint on white ones.
For hair
The Vichy hair care line includes products such as ampoules, dry and liquid shampoos, conditioners. Here are the most favorite drugs among women.
Vitamin Shampoo for hair shine Dercos Nutrients. Moisturizes hair, gives it mirror smoothness and shine, softens the hair structure. The product contains:
- tonic acai berries;
- aloe vera.
These components add moisture and saturate the hair structure with vitamins and macroelements.
Nutri Protein restorative mask is designed for damaged and split hair. Regular use of the mask helps restore the structure of the hair along its entire length, smooths out split ends, prevents further destruction and breakage of the hair shafts, and also makes the hair smooth and shiny, more manageable. The active ingredients are prakaxi oil and quinoa bran.
Intensive anti-dandruff shampoo for dry hair “Derkos”. It not only relieves excessive dandruff, but also fights the causes of its appearance. This is facilitated by the active components in the composition:
- Selenium DS eliminates fungus on the scalp, which is the root cause of dandruff;
- ceramide P envelops each hair with a protective layer, preventing the negative effects of the environment;
- salicylic acid exfoliates dead skin flakes;
- tocopherol fights free radicals and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
Peeling shampoo 3 in 1 Micropeel eliminates dandruff (but not the causes), moisturizes the scalp, washes hair, giving it smoothness and shine. Contains salicylic acid and glycerin.
Sun protection
Protection for the body, face, various sprays, creams, balms, etc. Vichy hormonal cosmetics or not? No, sun protection is completely safe and does not contain hormones.
CAPITAL IDEAL SOLEIL - 3 in 1 anti-aging care with SPF50. As you know, ultraviolet radiation ages the skin, and Vichy cream prevents this, while simultaneously moisturizing and toning the skin. The composition is enriched with many different filters, and also contains black tea extract, camu camu and tocopherol.
Mattifying emulsion CAPITAL IDEAL SOLEIL has the structure of a weightless powder, not only masking, but also protecting. Contains:
- hyaluronic acid;
- cassia bark extract;
- burnet root extract;
- ginger root extract;
- thermal water "Vichy" SPA.
Phytoestrogens - substances with estrogen-like effects
These plant components have proven themselves in cosmetology. They are not true hormones, but got their name because they resemble human estrogen in their structure - skin receptors react to them as if the content of the reproductive hormone has increased in the woman’s body. This explains their rejuvenating effect.
The following types of phytoestrogens are used in cosmetics:
- sterols that are part of vegetable oils (soybean, sea buckthorn, corn, etc.);
- isoflavones from various plants (soybean, iris, red clover, licorice, wild yam, tsitsimifuga).
Each developer uses its own complex, combining sterols with isoflavones, extracts and essential oils of fruits and herbs.
Are these substances effective? During menopause and hormonal imbalances, the amount of female hormone decreases, and the skin gradually fades. Phytoestrogen is capable of “deceiving” the cells of the epidermis, normalizing the synthesis of collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid - or at least slowing down the aging process - but only under conditions of significant concentration.
Unfortunately, manufacturers of age-related cosmetics do not indicate the concentration of phytoestrogens, so the effectiveness of a particular series can only be verified experimentally.
- Cheap brands of mass demand, using the popular terms “phytohormones” and “phytoestrogens” in advertising, contain negligible amounts - their effect is comparable to the placebo effect.
- Companies producing pharmaceutical and professional cosmetics take care of their reputation - anti-aging phytocomplexes produce results, significantly improving the condition of the skin.
Doctors do not recommend abusing phytoestrogens - their use is indicated only during menopause or during hormonal imbalances in young women. If your estrogen is normal, it is better not to accustom the epidermis to external stimulation - let it recover naturally.
Are phytoestrogens-based cosmetics hormonal? No, because substances just imitate hormones, deceiving skin receptors. It is absolutely safe and does not cause side effects.
