• Home
  • About Me
  • Beauty
    • Beauty Tips
    • My Favorites
    • New Collections
    • Other Beauty Stuff
    • Reviews
    • Skincare
    • Subscription Boxes
    • Fashion Flash
  • Lifestyle
    • Big Questions
    • Blogging Tips
    • Books & Movies
    • Decor
    • Fashion
    • Fitness
    • Food
    • Health
    • Life
    • Other Stuff
    • Travel
  • Empowered Women
  • Partnerships
  • MY LINKS
  • Bloglovin
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

the makeup obsessed mom blog

Midlife beauty, health tips, skincare reviews and advice for women over 40

Beauty Tips, Skincare

How to Decipher Skincare Packaging Jargon

February 22, 2019

We all want to buy effective skincare products that live up to their labels. It’s easy to stand in a store and look like a deer in the headlights while sorting through the hundreds of products available. I know that I often wonder what some of the wording really means. I’m here today with Dr. Shah who helps us decipher skincare packaging jargon so we can all get a better understanding of the products that we choose to purchase.

skincare packaging jargon

stock photo by Degimages

Dr. Shah shares common marketing jargon phrases used to mislead consumers.

  1. A Product that claims “Patented Technology”

“Patents are not necessarily a foolproof sign that something is groundbreaking or effective,” explains Dr. Shah. “Marketers use this language to convey innovation and superiority that their product might not necessarily have over its competitors,” he says. Patents are sometimes authorized through technicality instead of breakthrough meaning any new combination of ingredients, methods or production process can be patented as long as it is new. 

  1. “Maximum strength”

This is a term used often by skin cleansers and moisturizers. “It’s a relative term and the consumer doesn’t really know what it is relevant to. It’s language that entices the shopper to make the purchase without really telling them how it accomplishes ‘maximum strength’ results,” says the Denver Plastic Surgeon.

  1. “Clinical strength”

From painkillers to hydrating serums, companies love to bill their products as having “clinical strength.” Dr. Shah says consumers should practice healthy skepticism with such claims. “A product that claims it has clinical strength, in many cases, could have been tested by the doctors developing it. If you think about it you can’t really pinpoint what that phrase means because it is relative and we have no context as to what the company considers clinical strength,” says Shah. The perception, explains Dr. Shah, is that the product is better because the world clinical makes it sound more credible.

  1. “For All Skin Types”

“This is a difficult promise to deliver on,” says Shah who has practiced his specialty for 14 years. “Not all skin is the same. If someone has an allergy to an ingredient or some form of dermatitis they really should speak to their doctor about what products are best to include in their regiment instead of blindly trusting a label,” he says.  

  1. “FDA Approved”

The FDA has different protocols for skincare products that make cosmetic claims as opposed to those that make more medical claims such as promising to increase production of collagen in the skin. Since that is a body function the FDA treats those differently than normal skincare products. However the FDA just stipulates that the product being sold is safe to use in the manner in which it is directed to be used “FDA approval is not credential that shows the superiority of results,” says Dr. Shah. The plastic surgeon recommends that you not be sold on the sole factor of an FDA approval.

  1. “Anti-Aging, Revitalizing, or Age Defying”

We’ve all seen these on the labels of some cream or serum or advertised in a commercial where beautiful models and actresses are displayed in all of their airbrushed and well-lit perfection. “These terms are somewhat misleading in that they give the perception of an unrealistic turning back of the clock,” says Dr. Shah. To many consumers viewing an advertisement, it might seem like buy and using that product will help them look like an ageless actress and that is not accurate.” Aging gracefully and maintaining a more youthful look has a lot to do with nutrition, exercise, genes, consistent skin care, stress levels, and cosmetic procedures when necessary. But according to Shah, people cannot cling onto just one aspect in order to look their best and no one product will reverse the clock.

  1. Medical-Looking Packaging

Be wary of bottles that look like test tubes, labels or packages that include a medical or first aid cross, or feature type that looks like Rx suggesting that it’s a prescription-strength formula even though it’s sold over the counter.

  1. Botanical

Dr. Shah explains that “An actual botanic is technically an ingredient that is derived from a plant. But, again, “botanical” may be used in advertising to refer to something that is synthetic but acts similar to a plant-based ingredient.”

botanical skincare

stock photo by paulynn

  1. Instant Results

Keep in mind that “instant results” aren’t the same as “long-term results.” Meaning, you may use a product that gives you instant moisture or has a quick-acting firming effect, but those results may fade after a few hours and require reapplication. Dr. Shah’s final advice: “Check a product to make sure it specifies whether its “instant” effects are long lasting or short term.”

  1.  Firming

What you think it means: Proven to make skin look tauter.

What it really means: Essentially nothing. “There is no objective way to measure firming,” says Dr. Shah “When a brand says their product has been shown to firm your skin, that claim can only be based on very subjective consumer perception.”

 

About the Expert:

Dr. Manish Shah M.D., F.A.C.S. is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He is well-trained in all areas of aesthetic surgery. Dr. Shah’s aim is to obtain a natural appearing transformation that complements the real you. His practice is in Denver, Colorado.

 

Pin
Tweet
Share

5 Comments

« A Microdermabrasion Device for Home Use
The Sunday Beauty Spotlight – February 24, 2019 »

RELATED POSTS

  • skincare tips for radiant skin over 40Radiant Skin: The Best Techniques for a Timeless Glow
  • compounded skincare productsCompounded Skincare and Supplements
  • beginners guide to skin cyclingWhat is Skin Cycling and Should You Try It?
  • retylane silk for lip linesGetting Rid of Lip Lines

Comments

  1. Hannah Lagdameo says

    February 27, 2019 at 1:22 am

    We really have to be meticulous when it comes to the products we use for our skin. This is very helpful, thank you very much for sharing this.

    Reply
    • Stacie says

      February 27, 2019 at 1:21 pm

      Very true! Knowing what the language of packaging is talking about is even more important nowadays. Stacie xo
      Stacie recently posted…Empowered Women – Volume 1My Profile

      Reply
  2. Kathy Davis says

    February 28, 2019 at 9:18 pm

    Thanks for this information. I never even thought about some of these claims.

    Reply
    • Stacie says

      March 1, 2019 at 11:36 am

      You’re welcome! Shopping for skincare can feel so overwhelming, so hopefully this post helps. Stacie xo
      Stacie recently posted…Empowered Women – Volume 1My Profile

      Reply
  3. Kyra Rodriguez says

    March 5, 2019 at 2:38 am

    I have a very sensitive skin, so I always look for the best/right skin care for me. Anyway, thanks for sharing this!
    Kyra Rodriguez recently posted…8 Health Benefits of Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10 | Healthier Heart and Energy BoosterMy Profile

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CommentLuv badgeShow more posts

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Stacie Hamilton midlife beauty blogger

Thanks for visiting my site! I'm Stacie and I'm a Dallas based beauty and lifestyle blogger, Mom and Grandma. You could say that I'm slightly obsessed with beauty products, especially skincare. I'm living my best life one day at a time while leading with kindness.

LET’S GET SOCIAL

  • Bloglovin
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING?

Be sure to check these out!

Amazon favorites makeupobsessedmom shop

ARCHIVES

CATEGORIES

  • CONTACT
  • MY LINKS
  • PRIVACY POLICY
  • DISCLOSURE
Patience is a virtue… I patiently waited (and s Patience is a virtue…

I patiently waited (and stalked) the website and brick and mortar stores until I finally found these cute (and extremely comfortable) suede sandals in my size. 🎉

They’re the perfect pairing with my new Lysse New York outfit! I’m feeling like I should be going somewhere warm and fun now.

My jewelry is Melinda Maria and you can use code StacieH for 10% off your order.✨

My purse is Spartina 449. Isn’t it divine?!💗

Just say SHOP and I will send you all the outfit details, but you must be following me to receive the message (it’s an IG rule).‼️ 

P.S. I’m 5’1” and mostly wear petites, but this outfit is regular misses sizes. The pants are cropped length on most.💖

#lysse #lyssenewyork #womenover50 #whatiwear #proaging #petitefashion #mmgirls #spartina449 #midlife #melindamariajewelry
Don’t you love the feeling of buying the perfect Don’t you love the feeling of buying the perfect piece of clothing that makes you feel comfortable, confident and carefree? 

Well this pretty dress does that for me!☺️

Comment SHOP for the link to this carefree outfit with sizing details.💖

And yes, it has pockets! To be honest, the only thing I ever put in the pockets are my hands. But when a dress doesn’t have them, I don’t feel as comfortable. Anybody else feel the same?😅

#petitestyle #womenover50 #whatiwear #proaging #whatiwore #mididress #petitefashion #talbots #talbotsofficial #mytalbots #modestfashionblogger #ladiesover50 #ladiesover60 #agelessstyle #southlake #makeupobsessedmom
Happy Monday Fun Day! Wishing you a relaxing day o Happy Monday Fun Day! Wishing you a relaxing day off or a safe journey if you're traveling. 

I'm excited to share with you my latest obsession - Lysse New York! Their clothing’s won me over with its beauty, quality and comfort.

I’m petite at 5’1” and these cropped length pants fit me great, along with their tops. The brand is eco friendly using recycled materials in many of their products. Very cool!

This wide leg style is a favorite of mine. Are you a fan too?

Let me know if you want links and sizing info.💖
#lysse #LysseNewYork #whatimwearing #womenover50 #midlife #proaging #aginggracefully #petite #petitefashion #ecofriendlyproducts #beautyinspo #over50andfabulous
It’s official! Summer is here! Bring on the ear It’s official! Summer is here!

Bring on the early morning walks before the temperatures heat up, the frozen yogurt, the lazy days, lots of extra sunscreen and lip gloss, big vegetable filled salads, family time and ALL of the great sales!

Leave a comment that says SHOP and I’ll send you a link to my newsletter with all of my favorite Memorial Day weekend sales along with a link to everything from my patriotic outfit because it’s all on sale too.🇺🇸

#womenover50 #aginggracefully #petite #whatiwear #midlife #proaging #southlake #makeupobsessedmom #summersales #memorialdaysale #petitefashion #styleover50
One of my favorite jackets is the lightweight Pack One of my favorite jackets is the lightweight Pack-It Jacket. It’s a great option, especially when I’m on the go! #ad

It has adjustable elastic to cinch in the waist, a hood when I need it in the rain (this hair is a lot of work so I have to protect it)!😅

And the best part is that it can be rolled up into its zipper pouch and tossed it into my bag so I have it when I really need it! It came in handy on my boat ride yesterday!

It comes in several different colors as well as inclusive sizing, so there’s a jacket for everyone! Oh, and it makes a great gift too!

Just comment SHOP and I’ll send the link to your messages or use the link below to shop the Pack-It Jacket from @coldwatercreek 💖

https://liketk.it/5emUj

#coldwatercreek #over50fashion #petite #womenover50 #whatiwear #midlife #proaging #casualoutfits #packitjacket #travelhacks #ColdwaterCreekPartner
Looking back, I wish I had traveled more and been Looking back, I wish I had traveled more and been more adventurous in my younger years. Despite visiting many distant lands, I often did so reluctantly. However, my mindset has shifted over the past 10 years, and I now yearn to explore more of our world.

We’re currently in Jackson Hole, with upcoming trips planned for Summer and Fall, including another trip to Europe.

River cruising in Europe has been my favorite travel so far. We’ve taken 3 different river cruises and you can see some of those moments in my saved highlights.💖

Are there any cities or countries on your travel bucket list?✈️

#springtravel #bucketlisttrip #jacksonhole #grandtetons #jennylake #adventurenthusiasts #couplestrip #proaging #thisis60

© 2024 THE MAKEUP OBSESSED MOM BLOG

THEME BY ECLAIR DESIGNS
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Cookie SettingsAccept All
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT
How to understand skincare labels
 

Loading Comments...