Buzz
Many lotions and skin care items boast that they are 'clinically tested' or 'dermatologist tested,' but these terms are not the same as the rigorous clinical tests conducted on drugs, and in many cases, they may not even be meaningful.
Products that are genuinely proven to affect your skin are classified as drugs and are regulated accordingly. For instance, benzoyl peroxide cream for acne comes with a 'Drug Facts' label, as do many prescription skin treatments. In contrast, vague claims like 'revitalizing your skin' on lotions do not meet this standard.
Timothy Caulfield points out in The Atlantic that there is minimal independent scientific research on skin care products, and the testing behind them is often weak or nonexistent.
Terms like 'clinically proven' or 'dermatologist approved' are virtually meaningless, as they could be based on any type of study. For instance, did the manufacturer simply survey a few buyers? Be wary of such claims, especially when there’s little to no critical analysis of the evidence behind them.
Similarly, the author points out that the beauty tips shared in media often lack scientific backing, operating in what he calls a 'science-free zone.' There is no evidence supporting the claims that products can truly improve skin health. To delve deeper, read the full article discussing why skincare company claims go largely unchallenged.
Image courtesy of Shawn Campbell.
