The skincare industry can often be a confusing place for consumers. With a plethora of products available, each boasting a range of health claims, it can be difficult to discern which products are genuinely beneficial and which are simply marketing ploys. Manufacturers often make grandiose claims about their skincare products, some of which may not always be truthful or can be greatly exaggerated.

It is therefore crucial for consumers to exercise 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 critically analyze the claims made about a product, and compare them to the ingredients used within the product. This can help establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing a product from The Ordinary, a popular skincare brand known for its transparency and affordability. The product in question is their ‘Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan’ gel moisturizer. We will be examining the main claims made about this product, and comparing them to the ingredients used, to perform a truth assessment.

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

Claim #1: The Product Provides All-Day Hydration

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan is a lightweight gel moisturizer that provides all-day hydration after one application.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The ingredients list includes several known humectants, which are substances that draw moisture into the skin. These include Beta-Glucan, Glycerin, and Sodium Hyaluronate. These ingredients are known to provide long-lasting hydration to the skin, supporting the claim of all-day hydration.

Claim #2: The Product Fortifies the Skin’s Natural Barrier

The Ordinary’s Website States: “With a blend of natural moisturizing factors, beta glucan, and ceramides, it also fortifies the skin’s natural barrier.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Beta-Glucan and Phospholipids, which are known to strengthen the skin’s barrier. Beta-Glucan has been shown to stimulate collagen production, which can help fortify the skin’s natural barrier. Phospholipids are a type of lipid that is a major component of all cell membranes, including skin cells. They help to seal in moisture and protect the skin from environmental damage, thereby strengthening the skin’s barrier.

Claim #3: The Product is Ideal for All Skin Types, Including Sensitive Skin

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin, its non-greasy formula is particularly beneficial for those with oily and combination skin.”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: The product contains ingredients that are generally well-tolerated by all skin types, such as Glycerin and Sodium Hyaluronate. However, skin reactions can be highly individual, and what works well for one person may not work well for another. Therefore, while the product is likely suitable for most skin types, it may not be ideal for everyone, particularly those with specific skin sensitivities or allergies.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 8/10

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

The product’s claims of providing all-day hydration and fortifying the skin’s natural barrier are supported by the presence of known effective ingredients such as Beta-Glucan, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, and Phospholipids. These ingredients are known for their hydrating and skin barrier strengthening properties, making these claims highly likely to be true.

However, the claim that the product is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin, is more subjective. While the ingredients are generally well-tolerated, individual skin reactions can vary greatly. Therefore, it’s always advisable to patch test any new skincare product before full application, particularly for those with sensitive skin or known allergies.

It’s also important to note that this assessment assumes all ingredients are used in effective quantities. In skincare formulas, ingredient lists are ordered by weight, but this doesn’t necessarily reflect the concentration of each ingredient. A product may contain a high amount of a less effective ingredient and a lower amount of a more effective one. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to do some research into the key ingredients and their typical effective concentrations.

Remember, not all skincare claims are created equal. Be skeptical of claims that sound too good to be true, such as “miracle cures” or “instant results.” Real skincare takes time and consistent use. Also, be mindful of marketing terms like “natural” or “organic,” which don’t always mean the product is safer or more effective. Always do your research, read reviews, and consult with a dermatologist if needed.

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.