TNS Recovery Complex
On this website critics examine a number of popular health and beauty products available on the market today. The information presented on the site about each of the products assessed has been obtained from publicly available sources. Those critics and this web site are sponsored by Rauscher | Bekke, manufacturers of Dermapril-SP. The information on this website is intended to inform and educate consumers.

Overview

TNS Recovery Complex® is a product developed and marketed by SkinMedica, a California-based specialty pharmaceutical company. As part of their line of Tissue Nutrient Solution (TNS) products, TNS Recovery Complex® is, according to the SkinMedica corporate website, “designed to enhance skin appearance, reduce signs of aging, and provide other skincare benefits.” Like the other TNS products, TNS Recovery Complex® is marketed as a “cosmeceutical,” in contrast to the four true pharmaceutical products also produced by SkinMedica. According to Dr. Robert A Schwartz, cosmeceuticals, which are topically applied products that contain ingredients that may influence the biological function of the skin, are the fastest-growing segment of the natural personal care industry.

Product Details

TNS Recovery Complex® is a gel-style anti-wrinkle, anti-roughness skin treatment recommended for use twice daily. It is specifically advertised as a treatment for fine lines and wrinkles, age spots and dyspigmentatio, skin roughness, and elasticity. The SkinMedica website indicates that TNS Recovery Complex may also have an effect on photodamage.

The key ingredient in TNS Recovery Complex® is NouriCel-MD®, a SkinMedica exclusive blend of human growth factors. According to the SkinMedica website, these human growth factors include Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-B), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGF), Hepatacyte Growth Factor (HGF), Keratinocyte Growth Factor (KGF), Interleukins (IL-6, IL-7, IL-8), Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (bFGF), Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF1), Platelet-derived Growth Factor AA (PDGF-AA), Transforming Growth Factors TGF-B2 and B3, soluble collagen, matrix proteins, and antioxidants.

The Good

  • Scientific research (authored by the founder of SkinMedica) supports some of the claims made about the product.
  • SkinMedica website provides adequate details about TNS Recovery Complex® and their other products.
  • Website provides full contact information for the company, including a searchable “Find a Physician” database.

The Bad

  • Although not a prescription skincare treatment, TNS Recovery Complex® is only available through physician’s offices.
  • Hormone and growth factor based treatments have not been proven safe in the long term.
  • It is unclear from what source the non-plant derived compounds in TNS Recovery Complex were derived.
  • The product has a strong odor that is displeasing to some.

The Bottom Line

While the short-term results of using TNS Recovery Complex® are supported by research, the long term effects of applying growth factors to the skin is not yet known. Additionally, the research, authored by the founder of SkinMedica, Richard E. Fitzpatrick, may not necessarily be objective. Furthermore, the lack of widespread product availability is a significant drawback. SkinMedica recommends using TNS Recovery Complex® in conjunction with a myriad of other SkinMedica products, including Vitamin C and Retinol complexes; in order to see best results from this product, it may be necessary to purchase these additional creams, at added cost. There are many products on the market that purportedly offer the same benefits as TNS Recovery Complex®, and it is important to research the pros and cons of all of them before making a choice. Until the long-term results and the safety of this product are proven, it may be better to stick with more well established products that are derived from known sources.

Our top pick for 2008:  Dermapril-SP

Dermapril-SP was rated the best-in-class performer, with a cutting-edge formula and results visible immediately after use. Matrixyl 3000™, the primary active ingredient in Dermapril-SP, is backed by clinical research that showed reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles of as much as 33% after two months of use. Additionally, the formula contains the European miracle ingredient Argatensyl™, which creates an immediate tightening effect on applied areas, making results visible within minutes of use.

The treatment helps the skin regain a more youthful biochemical makeup by supporting the natural production of three building blocks – Collagen, Fibronectin and Hyaluronic Acid. The result is a rapid rejuvenation, diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and other cosmetic signs of age caused by sun exposure, smoking, stress, and other common factors.

In clinical trials, Matrixyl 3000™ decreased the appearance of wrinkles by as much as 33% over a six week period. With the immediate tightening benefits of Argatensyl™, this formula has a completely unique combination of short-term cosmetic results as well as sustained, cumulative benefits to the skin. Common reported results include smoothing and firming; softer skin; diminished appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; and healthier looking, glowing skin. Based on the high cost and quality of the ingredients, Dermapril-SP is reasonably priced. Customer satisfaction seems high and Dermapril-SP offers a risk-free trial, so users can evaluate the product prior to paying the full retail price.

>>Read more about Dermapril