The skincare industry can often be a confusing place for consumers. With a plethora of products on the market, each boasting a myriad 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 may lead to disappointment. Instead, it is important to critically analyze the ingredients used within the product and compare them to the claims being made. This truth assessment can help establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

In this article, we will be analyzing the Advanced Repair Hand Cream by Eucerin. This popular hand cream has been praised for its supposed benefits, but do these claims hold up under scrutiny?

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

Claim #1: The Product Gently Exfoliates the Skin

Eucerin’s Website States: “This Eucerin hand cream for dry skin is formulated with Alpha Hydroxy to gently exfoliate”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The ingredient list includes Lactic Acid, which is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA). AHAs are known for their exfoliating properties. They work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed, thus resulting in smoother skin. Therefore, the claim that the product gently exfoliates the skin is true.

Claim #2: The Product Provides Moisture to the Skin

Eucerin’s Website States: “is enriched with Ceramides-3 and Natural Moisturizing Factors…provides the moisture skin craves”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The ingredients list includes Glycerin and Urea, both of which are Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMFs). NMFs are elements that keep the outer layer of the skin protected and well-hydrated. Ceramides, although not specifically listed in the ingredients, are lipids that help form the skin’s barrier and help skin retain moisture. Therefore, the claim that the product provides moisture to the skin is true.

Claim #3: The Product is Fast-Absorbing and Non-Greasy

Eucerin’s Website States: “The fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula in this Eucerin hand cream leaves skin feeling smooth immediately”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: The ingredients list includes several emollients and moisturizers like Dibutyl Adipate, Stearyl Alcohol, and Dimethicone. These ingredients are known for their ability to soften and smooth the skin, and they can be absorbed quickly without leaving a greasy residue. However, the actual feel of the product can also depend on the overall formulation and the ratios of these ingredients, which is not provided. Therefore, this claim is possibly true.

Claim #4: The Product is Fragrance-Free and Dye-Free

Eucerin’s Website States: “This Eucerin hand cream for dry hands is fragrance free and dye free”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The ingredients list does not include any fragrances or dyes. Fragrances are usually listed as “fragrance” or “parfum,” and dyes are typically listed as “colorants” or specific color names. Therefore, the claim that the product is fragrance-free and dye-free is true.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 8/10

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

The product’s claims about exfoliating and moisturizing the skin are backed by the presence of Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Natural Moisturizing Factors in the ingredients list. The claim about being fast-absorbing and non-greasy is possibly true, as the ingredients known for these properties are included. However, the actual feel of the product can vary depending on the overall formulation and the ratios of these ingredients, which are not disclosed. The claim about being fragrance-free and dye-free is also true, as no such ingredients are listed.

While the product seems to be truthful in its claims, users should be mindful of the fact that the effectiveness of skincare products is not solely determined by their ingredients, but also by their concentrations. The ingredient list is in weight order, meaning the first ingredient listed is the most abundant and the last is the least. However, this doesn’t tell us the exact quantities of each ingredient, so it’s possible that some beneficial ingredients are present in less effective amounts.

Remember, not all claims made by skincare products are regulated, so it’s important to do your own research. Look for scientific studies supporting the claims, check if the beneficial ingredients are listed towards the top of the ingredient list, and be skeptical of claims that sound too good to be true. Also, keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different, so what works for one person might not work for another.

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.