Skin care professionals must understand the complexities of skin care product formulation in order to correctly and effectively educate clients on product chemistry and design. There is so much more to formulating a product than most people are aware of, and having a full understanding of chemical purity grades, purity standards, and classifications are part of the overall experience of understanding skin care ingredients and their efficacy.

Chemical purity grade is an important concept to consider when evaluating the quality of a chemical compound or ingredient. It is essential for establishing safe and effective use, as well as for meeting product specifications. The term “chemical purity grade” describes various levels of purity that are established by different organizations and industries in order to guarantee that products meet certain standards. 

United States Pharmacopeia (UPS) grade chemicals are fit for use in food, drugs, and medicines. They are subject to stringent testing and are typically required to have the highest level of purity. For example, isopropyl alcohol 70% USP can be safely used in pharmaceutical applications due to its high purity.1 According to the FDA, pharmaceutical-grade products are required to be 99% pure, whereas cosmetic grade products are only required to be 70% pure.2  

Top of FormBottom of Form Courtney Sykes is the chief administrative officer of Southeastern Esthetics Institute and a licensed aesthetics instructor in South Carolina. Sykes is also the creator of Courtney Sykes Molecular Anti-Aging, a clinical skin care line for consumers and professionals. Her passion lies in creating real change in the aesthetics industry, assisting her students to obtain gainful employment, and making a difference in the lives of their clients. Sykes specializes in a science-based approach to skin health and education. Her primary focus is chemical peels, laser treatments, eyelash extensions, micropigmentation, and cosmetic lasers. Her background in medical spa management has led her to nationally accredit the largest, licensed aesthetics school in South Carolina – Southeastern Esthetics Institute.