Skincare is a booming industry, with countless products promising to improve the appearance and health of our skin. As consumers, it can be challenging to navigate through the sea of marketing hype and differentiate between products that actually deliver results and those that don't.
One way to evaluate skincare products is through clinical data, which provides objective measurements of a product's effectiveness. In this article, we'll explore the two most common types of clinical testing in skincare: consumer perception tests and clinical trials, and discuss how SilkiMED approached clinical testing for their products.
Consumer Perception Tests
Consumer perception tests are surveys given to participants who have been using a product for an equal amount of time. These surveys ask participants to agree or disagree with a series of statements about their experience with the product. The results are then compiled and translated into claims about what percentage of users liked how a product felt on their skin or thought their skin improved after using it.
While consumer perception surveys can provide valuable feedback, it's essential to keep in mind that the participants in the study group may have different skin types, ages, or skin conditions than yours. As a result, your experience with the product may vary.
Clinical Trials
Clinical testing, on the other hand, is performed in a clinical environment and takes scientific measurements of the skin. Studies are typically performed for 4-12 weeks, with measures and/or pictures taken at regular intervals. During the clinical trial, participants are monitored by research staff to determine the product's effectiveness. Standardized factors that can be measured in a clinical study include skin moisture levels, texture, clarity, hyperpigmentation, laxity, fine lines and wrinkles, and skin dullness and luminosity.
SilkiMED's Approach to Clinical Testing
SilkiMED used both consumer perception studies and clinical trials to test their products. They enrolled 105 people between the ages of 35-60, with representative skin tones, to determine if SilkiMED products improve skin hydration, radiance, and overall appearance within six weeks of product use.
In addition to traditional clinical trials, SilkiMED also included community members in their testing efforts. They provided a group of volunteers with a six-week supply of SilkiMED products and followed their progress via photos, videos, and surveys throughout their experience.
The Results
The results of SilkiMED's clinical studies showed that a significant percentage of participants agreed that the product left their skin feeling nourished, radiant, healthier overall, and bouncy to the touch. Specifically, 92% agreed that the product left their skin feeling nourished and radiant, 84% agreed that the product left their skin feeling healthier overall, and 82% agreed that the product made their skin feel bouncy to the touch.
The Takeaway
As consumers, it's essential to understand the different ways skincare products are tested and the results presented to you. Both consumer perception tests and clinical trials have their advantages and limitations, and it's important to consider them when evaluating skincare product claims.
SilkiMED's approach to clinical testing is comprehensive and provides robust clinical proof. By utilizing third-party-run consumer perception surveys and clinical trials, as well as including community members in their testing efforts, SilkiMED offers a more complete picture of their product's effectiveness.
In conclusion, by being a well-informed skincare consumer and understanding how products are tested and the results presented, you can make more informed decisions about which products are right for you.