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 fact from fiction. Manufacturers often make grandiose claims about their skincare products, promising everything from anti-aging miracles to acne cures. However, these claims are not always truthful and can be greatly exaggerated.

It is therefore crucial for consumers to perform due diligence when shopping for skincare products. Taking claims about products at face value may leave consumers out-of-pocket and underwhelmed, as the product may not live up to its promises. It’s important to look beyond the marketing hype and examine the ingredients used within the product. This can provide a more accurate picture of what the product can truly deliver.

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

So, let’s delve into the main claims being made about the Ultra-Light Gel Moisturizer and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Provides Lasting Hydration

Cerave’s Website States: “provides lasting hydration with a weightless feel on skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains several ingredients known for their hydrating properties. Glycerin, a humectant, attracts moisture from the air and locks it into the skin. Sodium Hyaluronate, a form of hyaluronic acid, can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, providing deep hydration. Ceramides NP, AP, and EOP help to restore the skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss. Therefore, the claim that the product provides lasting hydration is true.

Claim #2: The Product Has a Lightweight Texture

Cerave’s Website States: “This hydrating facial gel delivers powerful moisturizing ingredients in a refreshing, lightweight texture.”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: The texture of a product is often determined by the combination of ingredients and their formulation, rather than individual ingredients. The presence of Dimethicone, a silicone-based polymer, can provide a lightweight, non-greasy feel. However, without testing the product, it’s impossible to definitively say whether the texture is indeed lightweight.

Claim #3: The Product Absorbs Quickly

Cerave’s Website States: “Its fast-absorbing, water-based formula glides onto skin easily without tugging or pulling.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Propanediol, a humectant that enhances the absorption of other ingredients. Additionally, the presence of water as the first ingredient suggests a lightweight, easily absorbed formula. Therefore, the claim that the product absorbs quickly is true.

Claim #4: The Product Leaves Skin Feeling Softer and Soothed

Cerave’s Website States: “Skin is left feeling softer, soothed, and hydrated after use.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains several ingredients known for their skin-soothing properties. Niacinamide, for instance, has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin. Ceramides help to restore the skin’s natural barrier, which can lead to softer, smoother skin. Therefore, the claim that the product leaves skin feeling softer and soothed is true.

Claim #5: The Product Layers Well Under Makeup and Sunscreen

Cerave’s Website States: “It also layers well under makeup and sunscreen.”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: The product’s ability to layer well under makeup and sunscreen is largely dependent on its texture and absorption, which, as previously mentioned, appear to be lightweight and fast-absorbing based on the ingredients. However, without testing the product in combination with makeup and sunscreen, it’s impossible to definitively say whether it layers well.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 8/10

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

The product’s claims of providing lasting hydration, quick absorption, and leaving skin feeling softer and soothed are backed by the presence of ingredients known for these properties. However, the claims of having a lightweight texture and layering well under makeup and sunscreen are more subjective and would require actual product testing to verify. Therefore, the overall truth rating is 8 out of 10, with the likelihood of the product fulfilling its roles being highly likely.

Users should be mindful that the effectiveness of skincare products is not solely determined by the ingredients but also their concentrations. While ingredient lists are in weight order, they do not disclose the exact amounts of each ingredient. Therefore, a product might contain a beneficial ingredient, but if it’s not present in an effective concentration, it may not provide the claimed benefits.

Remember, not all claims made by skincare brands are regulated, and some may be grossly exaggerated. Always do your research and look for evidence supporting the claims. Be skeptical of claims that sound too good to be true, as they often are. 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.