The skincare industry can often be a confusing place for consumers. With a plethora of products available, 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, some of which may not always be entirely truthful or may be greatly exaggerated.

This can leave consumers feeling out-of-pocket and underwhelmed by the results – it is, therefore, of utmost importance to perform due diligence when shopping for skincare products; taking claims about products at face value without further investigation can lead to disappointment!

In this article, we will be critically analysing the ‘Daily Face Cleanser’ by Deascal. We will be examining the claims made about this product, comparing them to the ingredients used within the product, and performing a truth assessment to establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

So, let’s break down the claims Deascal makes about their product:

Claim #1: The product cleanses and exfoliates the skin

Deascal’s website states: “Helps to cleanse and exfoliate the skin without leaving it feeling stripped. Gently removes surface oil, impurities & makeup, helping to reveal fresher-looking skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The ingredients Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine are both surfactants, which are compounds that lower the surface tension between two liquids or between a liquid and a solid. In skincare, they help to cleanse the skin by allowing water to mix with oil and dirt so that these can be rinsed away. Additionally, Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract is a natural source of salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that can penetrate into the pores to exfoliate the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.

Claim #2: The product helps the skin feel hydrated and “not stripped”

Deascal’s website states: “Designed to leave skin feeling soothed & more hydrated.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Glycerin is a humectant, which means it can attract water to the skin and help retain moisture, thus providing hydration. Panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5, has moisturizing and soothing properties, helping to reduce redness and inflammation. Therefore, these ingredients support the claim that the product hydrates and soothes the skin.

Claim #3: The product promotes clear and fresh skin

Deascal’s website states: “An advanced cleansing gel containing 5 powerhouse ingredients in a foaming gel suspension for flawlessly clear & fresh skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: This product’s formulation combines the gentle exfoliating action of the BHA from Salix Nigra Bark Extract with the balancing effects of Succinic Acid, alongside cleansing agents like Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate and Cocamidopropyl Betaine. The BHA works to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, a crucial step towards achieving clearer skin. Succinic Acid contributes by targeting the skin’s metabolic processes to reduce blemishes and balance sebum production, which can enhance the skin’s clarity and contribute to a fresh appearance. These ingredients, when used together in a cleansing gel, provide a multi-faceted approach to skincare by not only deeply cleansing the skin but also improving its overall texture and appearance. Therefore, the claim that the product promotes clear and fresh skin is substantiated by its carefully selected components, making it likely to be effective for a wide range of users seeking a cleaner, more refreshed complexion.

Claim #4: The product improves the Skin’s Texture

Deascal’s website states: “Designed to help skin appear smoother and less textured with daily use.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation:This product skillfully utilizes the BHA found in Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract alongside Succinic Acid to enhance skin texture. The BHA from Willow Bark Extract is known for its gentle exfoliation, effectively removing dead skin cells and smoothing the skin’s surface without the direct mention of salicylic acid. Succinic Acid further supports this by aiding in the skin’s natural renewal process, balancing sebum production, and reducing potential blemishes. Together, these ingredients offer a comprehensive approach to refining skin texture, contributing to a smoother, more even complexion with consistent application. This substantiates the claim that the product is designed to make the skin appear smoother and less textured, based on the synergy of its key ingredients.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 9/10

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

The analysis supports a very likely chance that Deascal’s skincare products will fulfill their advertised benefits, including cleansing, exfoliating, hydrating, and enhancing skin texture, while also promoting a clearer and more vibrant complexion. Key ingredients like BHA from Salix Nigra Bark Extract and Succinic Acid, noted for their exfoliating and skin-balancing properties, along with hydrators like Glycerin and Panthenol, underpin the product’s claims. However, the impact of skincare products can vary significantly among individuals, depending on various factors such as skin type, condition, and environmental influences. Thus, while the product’s formulation is well-suited to deliver on its promises, users may experience different results.

When selecting skincare products, it’s important to move beyond the hype and evaluate based on ingredients and their known benefits. Ingredients are listed by concentration, offering a clue to the product’s potential effectiveness. Opting for products with active ingredients that address specific skin concerns can enhance skincare outcomes. Consistency and patience in application are key, as meaningful results often take time to manifest. Ultimately, skincare is a personal journey, and what works for one person might not work for another, underscoring the importance of tailored solutions and realistic expectations.

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