The skincare industry can often be a confusing place for consumers. With countless products on the market, each boasting a myriad of health claims, it can be difficult to discern which products are genuinely beneficial and which are simply marketing hype. Manufacturers often make bold 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.

Given this, it is crucial to perform 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 assess whether they can truly deliver the promised results.

In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Niacinamide 20% Treatment by Paula’s Choice. This product has been making waves in the skincare industry, with the brand making several claims about its benefits. We will be examining these claims in detail, comparing them to the ingredients used in the product, and performing a truth assessment to establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

So, without further ado, let’s look at the main claims being made about the Niacinamide 20% Treatment and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Improves the Look of Enlarged, Stretched Pores

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a smart, multifaceted ingredient that uniquely penetrates skin’s surface to help improve the look of enlarged, stretched pores.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a well-researched skincare ingredient. It has been proven to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores by boosting skin’s elasticity and barrier function. It does this by increasing the production of ceramides, which are lipids that help maintain the skin’s protective barrier. When this barrier is strong, skin is less likely to lose moisture and become dehydrated – a condition that can lead to enlarged pores. Therefore, the claim that this product can improve the look of enlarged, stretched pores is true.

Claim #2: The Product Normalizes Pore Function

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “It normalizes pore function…”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Niacinamide has been shown to regulate oil production in the skin, which is a key function of pores. Overproduction of oil can lead to clogged pores and breakouts, while underproduction can result in dry, flaky skin. By helping to normalize oil production, niacinamide can indeed help to normalize pore function.

Claim #3: The Product Protects from Further Stretching When Exposed to Damaging UV Light

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “…and protects from further stretching when exposed to damaging UV light…”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: While niacinamide does not directly protect skin from UV damage like a sunscreen would, it can help to repair the damage caused by UV exposure. This includes damage to the skin’s elasticity, which can lead to enlarged, stretched pores. However, it’s important to note that niacinamide should not be used as a replacement for sunscreen. Therefore, the claim that the product protects from further stretching when exposed to UV light is possibly true, but it’s not a substitute for proper sun protection.

Claim #4: The Product Results in a Dramatically Smoother, Younger-Looking Complexion

Paula’s Choice’s Website States: “…for a dramatically smoother, younger-looking complexion.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Niacinamide has been shown to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, contributing to a smoother, younger-looking complexion. Additionally, other ingredients in the product such as glycerin and panthenol are known for their moisturizing properties, which can also improve skin texture and give the skin a plump, youthful appearance. Therefore, the claim that the product results in a dramatically smoother, younger-looking complexion is true.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 8/10

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

The product’s claims are largely backed by scientific research, particularly those related to the benefits of niacinamide. This ingredient has been proven to improve the look of enlarged pores, normalize pore function, and contribute to a smoother, younger-looking complexion. However, the claim that the product protects from further stretching when exposed to UV light is only partially true. While niacinamide can help repair UV damage, it does not provide direct sun protection and should not be used as a substitute for sunscreen.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of skincare ingredients often depends on their concentration in the product. While ingredient lists are ordered by weight, they don’t reveal the exact percentages of each ingredient. Therefore, even if a product contains a beneficial ingredient like niacinamide, it may not be present in a high enough concentration to provide the claimed benefits.

Users should also be mindful of potential skin sensitivities or allergies. Even ingredients that are generally considered safe and beneficial can cause reactions in some individuals. It’s always a good idea to patch test a new product before applying it to your entire face.

Remember, not all skincare claims are created equal. Be skeptical of claims that sound too good to be true, and always do your own research. Look for products with scientifically-backed ingredients, and don’t be swayed by fancy marketing language or exaggerated promises. Your skin will thank you!

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.