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 which products will truly deliver on their promises. Manufacturers often make grandiose claims about their skincare products, and while some may hold true, others can be greatly exaggerated or even misleading.

As consumers, it is crucial to perform due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Taking claims about products at face value may leave consumers out-of-pocket and underwhelmed. It is important to consider not only the claims made about a product but also the ingredients used within the product. This can provide a more accurate assessment of whether or not the product will live up to its claims.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Hydrating Facial Cleanser by Cerave. We will be examining the claims made about this product, comparing them to the ingredients used, and performing a truth assessment to establish whether or not this product really will live up to its claims.

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

Claim #1: The Product Cleanses and Refreshes the Skin

Cerave’s Website States: “Designed to cleanse and refresh the skin without over-stripping it or leaving it feeling tight and dry.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The ingredients list includes Aqua/Water/Eau, which is a basic solvent used in many skincare products for its cleansing properties. Glycerin is a humectant that attracts water to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and refreshed. Cetearyl Alcohol and Stearyl Alcohol are fatty alcohols that can help cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils, preventing the skin from feeling tight and dry. Therefore, based on these ingredients, this claim is true.

Claim #2: The Product Helps Restore Skin’s Natural Barrier

Cerave’s Website States: “Helps restore your skin’s natural barrier, helping to keep moisture in and harmful elements out.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, and Ceramide EOP, which are lipids that naturally occur in the skin and play a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s barrier function. They help to lock in moisture and protect the skin from environmental stressors. Sodium Hyaluronate, a form of Hyaluronic Acid, is also known for its ability to retain moisture, further supporting the skin’s barrier. Therefore, this claim is true.

Claim #3: The Product Maintains Skin’s Moisture Balance

Cerave’s Website States: “Essential for maintaining skin’s moisture balance.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Glycerin, a powerful humectant, is present in the formula, which can attract and hold onto water, helping to maintain skin’s moisture balance. Sodium Hyaluronate also has a high capacity for holding water, further contributing to maintaining the skin’s moisture balance. Therefore, this claim is true.

Claim #4: The Product Gives Skin a Smooth, Plump Texture

Cerave’s Website States: “Helps give skin a smooth, plump texture.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Sodium Hyaluronate is known for its ability to plump the skin by attracting and holding onto water. Glycerin also helps to smooth the skin by providing hydration. The ceramides in the formula can also contribute to a smoother skin texture by reinforcing the skin’s barrier and maintaining its hydration levels. Therefore, this claim is true.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 10/10

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

The product’s claims are backed by the presence of key ingredients that are known to perform the functions stated. For instance, the presence of Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate, which are known for their hydrating properties, supports the claim of maintaining skin’s moisture balance. Similarly, the presence of Ceramides, which are crucial for skin’s barrier function, supports the claim of restoring skin’s natural barrier.

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, meaning the first ingredient listed is the most abundant and the last is the least. However, this doesn’t tell us the exact concentration of each ingredient, and some ingredients can be effective even in small quantities. Therefore, while the presence of an ingredient supports a claim, it doesn’t guarantee it.

Remember, not all skincare claims are created equal. Some may be grossly exaggerated or outright false. A good rule of thumb is to be skeptical of claims that sound too good to be true. Look for evidence to support the claims, such as scientific studies or the presence of key ingredients. Also, keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different, and what works for one person may 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.