The skincare industry can often be a confusing and overwhelming place for consumers. With a myriad of products on the market, each boasting a plethora of health claims, it can be difficult to discern fact from fiction. Manufacturers often make grandiose claims about their skincare products, some of which can be greatly exaggerated or even misleading. This can leave consumers out-of-pocket and underwhelmed, having invested in products that do not live up to their promises.

It is therefore crucial to exercise due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Rather than taking claims about products at face value, it is important to delve deeper into the ingredients used within the product and the science behind them. This can provide a more accurate picture of what the product can truly deliver.

In this article, we will be critically analysing the Itch Relief Intensive Skin Calming Lotion by Eucerin. 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 the product really will live up to its claims.

So, let’s dive in and break down the main claims being made about this product:

Claim #1: The Product Provides Instant Itch Relief

Eucerin’s Website States: “This itch-relief lotion for sensitive dry skin is formulated with menthol to provide instant relief from the itch caused by dry skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Menthol, which is listed in the ingredients, is known for its cooling and soothing properties. It can provide instant relief from itching by numbing the skin surface. This is a common use for menthol in many skincare products, particularly those designed for itch relief.

Claim #2: The Product Strengthens the Skin

Eucerin’s Website States: “Eucerin skin calming lotion also includes Ceramides to help strengthen the skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Ceramides, which are also included in the ingredients list, are lipids that help form the skin’s barrier and help skin retain moisture. They also help the skin protect against environmental aggressors like irritants, and pollution. Without the proper ratio of ceramides, the skin’s barrier can become compromised, leading to dry, itchy, or irritated skin. Therefore, the inclusion of Ceramides can indeed help to strengthen the skin.

Claim #3: The Product is Suitable for Everyday Use on Sensitive Skin

Eucerin’s Website States: “Gentle enough for everyday use on sensitive skin.”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: The product does not contain any known harsh irritants or allergens, and it is free from fragrance, dye, and parabens, which are common irritants for sensitive skin. However, everyone’s skin is different and what works for one person may not work for another. Some people may still experience irritation or allergic reactions to ingredients that are generally considered safe and gentle. Therefore, while the product is formulated to be gentle, whether it is suitable for everyday use on sensitive skin can vary from person to person.

Claim #4: The Product is Non-Greasy and Absorbs Quickly

Eucerin’s Website States: “The non-greasy formula absorbs quickly into skin.”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: The product contains several ingredients known for their moisturizing properties without leaving a greasy residue, such as glycerin and isopropyl palmitate. However, whether a product feels greasy or absorbs quickly can be subjective and may vary depending on individual skin types and conditions. Therefore, while the product is formulated to be non-greasy and absorb quickly, individual experiences may vary.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 8/10

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

The product’s claims about providing instant itch relief and strengthening the skin are backed by the presence of menthol and ceramides in its ingredients list, respectively. Both these ingredients are known for their respective properties and are commonly used in skincare products for these purposes. Therefore, it is highly likely that the product will fulfill these roles.

However, the claims about the product being suitable for everyday use on sensitive skin and being non-greasy and quick-absorbing are more subjective and can vary from person to person. While the product is formulated to be gentle and non-greasy, individual skin types and conditions can influence how the product works for different people. Therefore, these claims are rated as ‘possibly’ true.

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. The concentration of an ingredient in a product can greatly affect its effectiveness. For example, a product might list a beneficial ingredient, but if it’s not present in a high enough concentration, it might not provide the claimed benefits.

Remember, not all skincare products work the same for everyone. It’s always a good idea to patch test a new product before fully incorporating it into your skincare routine. Be skeptical of claims that seem too good to be true, and do your own research to understand what ingredients are in a product and what they do. Always consider your own skin type and needs when choosing skincare products.

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.