Are Cosmetic Efficacy Claims All Just a Waste of Money?

Ms. Li recently spent a fortune on a luxury facial cream that claimed to "reduce wrinkles in 7 days." However, after using it continuously for two weeks, the wrinkles in the mirror still stubbornly remained. This made her wonder: How exactly should the efficacy of cosmetics be judged? Today, we are going to lift the veil of mystery surrounding cosmetic efficacy evaluation.

Modern cosmetic efficacy evaluation has developed a complete scientific system, mainly including the following three methods:

• In Vitro Experiments: Test the activity of ingredients through methods such as cell culture and artificial skin models
• Instrument Testing: Use professional equipment such as skin moisture testers and Visia skin analyzers
• Clinical Evaluation: Professional physicians score the skin conditions of volunteers before and after use

Cosmetics with different efficacies have distinct evaluation methods:

• Moisturizing: The water content change of the stratum corneum needs to be measured, and an increase of ≥10% is usually required
• Anti-aging: It needs to be evaluated through objective indicators such as wrinkle depth and quantity
• Whitening: The content and distribution of melanin need to be detected

Although professional testing has a relatively high threshold, ordinary consumers can also make a preliminary judgment through the following methods:

• Take high-definition bare-faced photos before use and compare and observe them monthly
• Record changes in skin condition during use (such as allergies, oiliness, etc.)
• Choose a sample and try it for at least 28 days (the skin metabolism cycle)

Currently, China has strict regulations on cosmetic efficacy claims, requiring enterprises to provide corresponding scientific evidence. However, some merchants still try to skirt the rules through the following means:

• Use vague expressions such as "help" and "improve" to evade responsibility
• Cite data from foreign laboratories without retesting in China
• Create "pseudo-efficacy" by taking advantage of consumers' psychological suggestions

Faced with a wide variety of cosmetics and overwhelming publicity, we need to maintain a clear understanding: There is no one-size-fits-all product, only suitable formulas. It is recommended to check the product filing information before purchasing, pay attention to objective evaluation data, and consult a dermatologist if necessary.

Have you ever been "duped" by cosmetic publicity? Welcome to share your story in the comment section, and let's discuss how to choose skin care products more scientifically.