It appears that the majority of consumers have little or no understanding about the true meaning of pack claims made on cosmetic products. Only terms like 'dermatologically tested' and 'systemic' are understood by more than 50% of the general population. However, other common terms like 'non-comedogenic', 'opthalmologically approved' and 'skin friendly' are understood by less than 20%.
In a survey carried out by the Clinical Sciences Department of RSSL, an independent testing laboratory based in Reading, respondents were invited to provide a definition of 20 phrases and symbols commonly found on a range of cosmetics. The results suggest that more could be done to educate consumers about the meaning of specific claims made, and how they have been substantiated. Only 4 of the 20 claims and symbols were understood, in part, by more than 50% of respondents.
RSSL assists Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical manufacturers by performing independent scientific studies to substantiate these claims. "These studies are necessary as part of satisfying ‘Product Information Pack’ claim requirements as well as protecting consumers against misleading or false claims. So it is disappointing that consumers know so little about the vast amount of work, care and scientific expertise that goes in to ensuring that the products they use are both efficacious and safe," says Valerie Hart, Head of Clinical Sciences at RSSL. "The survey also indicates that consumers understand very little about the claims on the products they are using. Any such confusion could mean some consumers will assume products might be suited to their needs when they are not, or conversely, they may purchase a product that is not claiming what they perceive it to be."