How we research skincare

Last updated November 11, 2026

Short version: we compare products by what their makers publish, check those claims against dermatology sources, and tell you who each product suits and who should skip it. We haven’t tested these products on our own skin, and we don’t give ratings.

Step 1: read the label, from the source

• We open the brand’s own product page and copy the active ingredient, its stated percentage, the base (water, oil, silicone), the full ingredient list (INCI), the directions and the brand’s own cautions.
• For sunscreens we use the Drug Facts panel the brand publishes: active filters and percentages, SPF and whether it is labeled water resistant.
• If a brand doesn’t publish a percentage, the page says “not disclosed”. We never estimate one.
• Prices are the brand’s own list price on the check date, with sale prices labeled. Where a brand doesn’t sell direct, we say “check current price”.

Step 2: check the claims against dermatology sources

Health and usage guidance comes only from:

• the American Academy of Dermatology (aad.org) public guidance;
• the FDA (sunscreen rules, cosmetic labeling such as “hypoallergenic” and fragrance);
• the National Eczema Association for its Seal of Acceptance;
• peer-reviewed studies, read on PubMed, cited with authors, journal, year and what was actually measured (number of people, weeks, concentration).

We cite only pages we opened and read for that page. Brand-funded studies are described as such when the abstract says so, and a small or short study is called small or short.

Step 3: match it to skin types

Skin-type fit comes from the ingredient list and the brand’s own directions: for example, a water-free squalane base, added fragrance or denatured alcohol, petrolatum, or a high-strength start. We explain the reasoning so you can disagree with it.

Step 4: say who should skip it

Every page names who should skip each product (for example, retinoids during pregnancy, per the AAD) and offers a cheaper option when it does the same job.

What we never do

• Claim we tested a product, publish star ratings, or write fake reviews or quotes.
• Say a cosmetic treats, cures or heals a skin condition.
• Let a commission choose a pick. Products with no affiliate program are included on the same terms.

Keeping pages current

Every page shows when the ingredient lists were checked, when prices were checked and when it was last updated. Brands reformulate, so always read the carton in your hand. Spotted something out of date? See the corrections policy.