The skincare industry can often be a confusing and overwhelming 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, promising everything from anti-aging miracles to acne cures. However, these claims are not always truthful and can be greatly exaggerated.

When shopping for skincare products, it is important to conduct due diligence. Taking claims about products at face value may leave consumers out-of-pocket and underwhelmed. It is crucial to look beyond the marketing hype and examine the ingredients used within the product. This can provide a more accurate picture of what the product can actually deliver.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Glycolic Renewal Cleanser from the brand Skinceuticals. We will be assessing the claims made about this facial cleanser and comparing them to the ingredients used within the product. This truth assessment will help establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

So, let’s delve into the main claims being made about the Glycolic Renewal Cleanser and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Exfoliates the Skin

Skinceuticals’s Website States: “Glycolic Renewal Cleanser is a high-concentration, soft-foaming gel face wash designed to effectively exfoliate skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains glycolic acid, which is a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). AHAs are well known for their exfoliating properties. They work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed from the skin’s surface. This results in a smoother, fresher layer of skin being revealed. Therefore, the claim that the product exfoliates the skin is true.

Claim #2: The Product Brightens the Complexion

Skinceuticals’s Website States: “This exfoliating cleanser helps deliver a clear and bright complexion.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains glycolic acid and phytic acid. Glycolic acid, as mentioned earlier, helps in exfoliating the skin, which can lead to a brighter complexion. Phytic acid, on the other hand, is known for its antioxidant properties and its ability to inhibit the formation of melanin, which can lead to a brighter complexion. Therefore, the claim that the product brightens the complexion is true.

Claim #3: The Product Removes Oil, Dirt, Debris, and Long-Wear Makeup

Skinceuticals’s Website States: “This exfoliating cleanser…removes oil, dirt, debris, and long-wear makeup.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Coco-Glucoside and Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, which are surfactants. Surfactants work by lowering the surface tension between two liquids or a liquid and a solid, allowing for easier spreading and mixing. In skincare, they are commonly used for their cleansing properties, as they can effectively remove oil, dirt, and makeup from the skin. Therefore, the claim that the product removes oil, dirt, debris, and long-wear makeup is true.

Claim #4: The Product Does Not Strip the Skin of Moisture

Skinceuticals’s Website States: “This exfoliating cleanser…removes oil, dirt, debris, and long-wear makeup without stripping the skin of moisture.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains glycerin and aloe leaf juice, both of which are known for their moisturizing properties. Glycerin is a humectant, which means it attracts moisture from the air and locks it into the skin. Aloe leaf juice is also known for its hydrating and soothing properties. Therefore, the claim that the product does not strip the skin of moisture is true.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 10/10

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

The product’s claims have been verified and found to be true based on the ingredients it contains. Glycolic acid, a known exfoliant, and phytic acid, a known brightening agent, are both present in the product. Additionally, the product contains surfactants that effectively remove oil, dirt, and makeup. Lastly, the presence of glycerin and aloe leaf juice, both known for their moisturizing properties, supports the claim that the product does not strip the skin of moisture.

However, it is important to note that this assessment assumes all ingredients are used in effective quantities. In skincare formulas, ingredient lists are in weight order, meaning the first ingredient listed is the most abundant and the last is the least. However, this does not necessarily indicate the effectiveness of the product as certain ingredients can be effective even in small quantities.

Remember, not all skincare products work the same for everyone. Individual skin types and conditions can greatly affect the effectiveness of a product. Always do a patch test before trying a new product and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns.

When evaluating skincare products, be skeptical of claims that seem too good to be true. Look for scientific evidence or clinical trials that support the claims. Be mindful of the ingredients and their known effects. And remember, the most expensive product is not always the best. Sometimes, simple and affordable products can deliver the same, if not better, results.

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.