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 miraculous results and transformative effects. However, these claims are not always truthful and can be greatly exaggerated.

It is therefore crucial for consumers to exercise due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Blindly accepting the claims made about products can lead to disappointment and wasted money. It is important to critically analyze the ingredients used in these products and compare them to the claims being made. This can help to establish whether or not the product will truly live up to its promises.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream by Cerave. We will be examining the claims made about this product and comparing them to the ingredients used within the product. This will allow us to perform a truth assessment and determine whether or not this product can truly deliver on its promises.

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

Claim #1: The Product Moisturizes Dry Skin

CeraVe’s Website States: “CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream moisturizes dry skin…”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains several ingredients known for their moisturizing properties. Glycerin, a humectant, attracts water to the skin and helps keep it hydrated. Petrolatum, also known as petroleum jelly, is an occlusive that forms a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss. Shea butter is an emollient that softens and smooths the skin. Ceramides are lipids that help form the skin’s barrier and help skin retain moisture. All these ingredients work together to moisturize dry skin.

Claim #2: The Product Provides Fast-Acting, Long-Lasting, Temporary Relief from Itching

CeraVe’s Website States: “…formulated with 1% pramoxine hydrochloride to provide fast-acting, long-lasting, temporary relief from itching…”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Pramoxine hydrochloride is a topical anesthetic that works by numbing the skin. It is commonly used to relieve itching and pain caused by minor skin irritations, insect bites, and rashes. As the active ingredient in this product, it is responsible for the claimed fast-acting, long-lasting, temporary relief from itching.

Claim #3: The Product Helps Restore Skin’s Protective Barrier

CeraVe’s Website States: “…our itch relief cream is formulated with 3 essential ceramides that work together to lock in skins moisture and help restore your skin’s protective barrier.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Ceramides are lipids (fats) that are naturally present in the skin and play a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s barrier function. They help the skin retain moisture and protect it from external aggressors. The product contains three types of ceramides (Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP), which can help replenish the skin’s natural ceramides and restore its protective barrier.

Claim #4: The Product Is Suitable for All Skin Types

CeraVe’s Website States: “Suitable for all skin types.”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: While the product is formulated with ingredients that are generally well-tolerated and beneficial for various skin types, individual reactions can vary. Some people may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients. For example, cetyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol, while generally safe and beneficial for most people, can cause irritation in those with a sensitivity to fatty alcohols. Therefore, while the product may be suitable for many, it may not be suitable for all.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 8/10

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

The product’s claims of moisturizing dry skin, providing fast-acting, long-lasting, temporary relief from itching, and helping restore the skin’s protective barrier are all backed by the ingredients used in the formula. The ingredients are known for their moisturizing, soothing, and barrier-restoring properties, which aligns with the product’s claims. However, the claim that the product is suitable for all skin types is somewhat subjective, as individual reactions to skincare products can vary greatly. Some people may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients, even those that are generally well-tolerated.

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 in the formula, and the last ingredient listed is the least abundant. However, this doesn’t tell us everything about the concentration of each ingredient. For example, an ingredient may be listed towards the end of the ingredient list, but still be used in a concentration that’s effective for its intended purpose.

Remember, not all skincare claims are created equal. Some claims may be grossly exaggerated or completely false. To identify these, look for claims that seem too good to be true, such as a product that promises to completely eliminate wrinkles or acne overnight. Also, be skeptical of products that claim to be a “miracle cure” for all skin types and conditions. Everyone’s skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Always do your research and consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional if you’re unsure.

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.