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, promising to deliver 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 effectiveness can lead to disappointment. It is important to understand what each product contains and how these ingredients work to deliver the promised results.

In this article, we will be critically analysing the Hydrating Face Cleansing Gel + Hyaluronic Acid by Eucerin. We will examine the claims made about this facial cleanser and compare them to the ingredients used within the product. This truth assessment will help establish whether or not the product really lives up to its claims.

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

Claim #1: The Product is Soap-Free

Eucerin’s Website States: “This sensitive skin cleanser is soap-free…”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Soap is traditionally made from fats and oils mixed with an alkali, like lye. The ingredients list for this product does not contain any of these traditional soap ingredients. Instead, it uses gentle surfactants like Coco-Betaine and Coco Glucoside to cleanse the skin. These ingredients are derived from coconut oil and glucose, and they work to remove dirt and oil from the skin without the harshness of traditional soap.

Claim #2: The Product Hydrates the Skin

Eucerin’s Website States: “…combines the hydrating power of Hyaluronic Acid…”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Hyaluronic Acid, listed as Sodium Hyaluronate in the ingredients, is a powerful humectant. This means it has the ability to draw moisture from the surrounding environment and hold onto it, effectively hydrating the skin. Additionally, Glycerin, another humectant, is also present in the formula, further enhancing its hydrating properties.

Claim #3: The Product Removes Impurities Without Stripping the Skin

Eucerin’s Website States: “This daily face wash lifts and removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping your skin…”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product uses mild surfactants like Coco-Betaine and Coco Glucoside to cleanse the skin. These ingredients are known for their ability to effectively remove dirt, oil, and makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. This means they cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils, which can lead to dryness and irritation.

Claim #4: The Product is Suitable for Sensitive Skin

Eucerin’s Website States: “Our refreshing formula is clinically proven to be suitable for sensitive skin…”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: The product is formulated without common irritants like soap, fragrance, alcohol, oils, or parabens, which is a good sign for sensitive skin. However, everyone’s skin is different and what works for one person may not work for another. While the ingredients are generally considered gentle and safe for sensitive skin, individual reactions can vary.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 8/10

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

The product’s claims of being soap-free, hydrating, and gentle on the skin are all supported by the ingredients listed. The surfactants used are mild and derived from natural sources, and the presence of humectants like Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin support the claim of hydration. The claim of suitability for sensitive skin is somewhat subjective, as individual skin reactions can vary, but the absence of common irritants is a positive sign.

However, it’s important to note that this assessment assumes all ingredients are used in effective quantities. In skincare formulas, ingredient lists are in weight order, but this doesn’t tell us everything about the concentrations of each ingredient. A product may list a beneficial ingredient, but if it’s not present in a high enough concentration, it may not provide the claimed benefits.

Remember, always do your research when it comes to skincare products. Look for evidence supporting the claims made, such as clinical trials or scientific studies. Be skeptical of vague or exaggerated claims, and remember that everyone’s skin is different – what works for one person may not work for another. Always patch test new products to ensure they don’t cause irritation or an allergic reaction.

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.