The skincare industry can often be a confusing place for consumers. With a myriad of products on the market, each boasting a range of health claims, it can be difficult to discern fact from fiction. Manufacturers often make grandiose claims about their skincare products, promising miraculous results. However, these claims can sometimes be greatly exaggerated, leaving consumers out-of-pocket and underwhelmed.

It is therefore crucial to exercise due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Taking claims about products at face value without investigating the ingredients and their efficacy can lead to disappointment. It is important to critically analyze the claims made about a product and compare them to the ingredients used within the product. This truth assessment can help establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Acne Control Gel by Cerave. This acne treatment gel has made several claims about its effectiveness, and we will be breaking these down and comparing them to the ingredients used in the product.

Let’s delve into the main claims being made about this product and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Hydrates the Skin

Cerave’s Website States: “a hydrating, daily acne treatment”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains ingredients like Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate, both of which are known for their hydrating properties. Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping it to feel more hydrated. Sodium Hyaluronate, a form of hyaluronic acid, can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent ingredient for hydration.

Claim #2: The Product Clears Acne and Prevents New Breakouts

Cerave’s Website States: “clears acne and helps prevent new breakouts from forming”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Salicylic Acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is known for its ability to penetrate into the pores and exfoliate from within, helping to clear acne and prevent new breakouts. It works by dissolving the type of skin debris that clogs pores and causes acne, making it an effective ingredient for acne treatment.

Claim #3: The Product Offers Gentle Exfoliation

Cerave’s Website States: “offers gentle exfoliation with alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids (AHA and BHA)”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid, which are alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), and Salicylic Acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA). AHAs and BHAs are known for their exfoliating properties. They work by breaking down the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, allowing them to be easily removed, resulting in smoother, brighter skin.

Claim #4: The Product Improves the Appearance of Pores

Cerave’s Website States: “help improve the appearance of pores”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Salicylic Acid, an ingredient in the product, is known for its ability to penetrate into the pores and exfoliate from within. This can help to unclog the pores and reduce their appearance. Additionally, Niacinamide is known for its ability to regulate oil production, which can also help to minimize the appearance of pores.

Claim #5: The Product Contains Calming Niacinamide and Barrier-Strengthening Ceramides

Cerave’s Website States: “with calming niacinamide and barrier-strengthening ceramides”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that is known for its skin-soothing properties. It can help to reduce inflammation and redness, making it a calming ingredient. Ceramides are lipids that help to form the skin’s barrier and help the skin to retain moisture. They also protect the skin from environmental aggressors, making them an important ingredient for strengthening the skin’s barrier.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 9/10

Overall likelihood for product to make good on its claims: Highly Likely

The product’s claims are largely supported by the ingredients it contains. Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate are indeed known for their hydrating properties, Salicylic Acid is a well-known acne treatment, and the combination of AHAs and BHAs offer gentle exfoliation. The claim about improving the appearance of pores is also supported by the presence of Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide. Lastly, Niacinamide and Ceramides are known for their calming and barrier-strengthening properties respectively.

However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of these ingredients largely depends on their concentrations in the product. While ingredient lists are in weight order, they don’t reveal the exact amounts of each ingredient. A product may contain a beneficial ingredient, but if it’s not present in an effective concentration, it may not provide the claimed benefits. Therefore, while the product’s claims are supported by its ingredients, the actual effectiveness may vary.

Remember, not all skincare products are created equal. Some may make exaggerated claims based on the presence of certain ingredients, without disclosing their concentrations. Always do your research and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Look for products from reputable brands that provide transparent information about their ingredients and their concentrations.

This product review has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The review is conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, who utilizes a variety of reliable sources to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information provided. These sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), and The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, various publicly available sources are also consulted to provide a well-rounded perspective on the product under review.