What to expect from our review process
Each product is examined at the level of its full INCI list, not just the hero botanicals on the front label. We flag questionable preservatives, undisclosed fragrance components, and dilution tricks that make a formula look more concentrated than it is.
We apply every product for at least two weeks, noting how it sits under sunscreen, whether it pills with other layers, and how long the finish actually lasts. A cream can look elegant in a jar and still fail on a humid morning.
Eco-certified logos are verified directly with the issuing body where possible. We also compare what the certification actually covers - organic farming, packaging, or just a percentage of natural origin - so you know what the badge really promises.
We separate naturally derived essential oils from synthetic fragrance blends and note which ones are common contact allergens. For reactive skin, this distinction often matters more than the word "natural" on the bottle.
Glass jars and aluminium tubes are not automatically better. We look at whether the cap is recyclable, whether the pump can be separated, and whether the brand offers refills. The full lifecycle of the package counts, not just the first impression.
Every review ends with a plain-language conclusion: what the product does well, where it falls short, and who should skip it. We do not use star ratings alone, because a rich balm can be excellent for dry skin and useless for oily skin at the same time.
From first ingredient check to final verdict, each review follows a fixed sequence so you know exactly what was tested and why.
Our editorial team reads every message and usually replies within two working days. If you are checking a specific product batch or want to suggest a brand for analysis, mention the product name and the INCI list if you have it. For routine advice, tell us your skin type and any products that have caused reactions before.
Every product we publish goes through the same sequence: sourcing, testing, lab-style ingredient checks, and a written verdict. The steps below show what happens between your first question and the final article.
You send us the product name, batch code, and the ingredient list as printed. We also ask about your skin type and the concern you want to address, so the review starts from a real context.
We cross-check every component against the ECOCERT and COSMOS reference lists, flagging preservatives, fragrance allergens, and any plant extracts that commonly irritate sensitive skin.
A two-week patch test on volunteers with reactive skin, followed by a controlled application study. We measure spreadability, absorption time, and residue left on the skin surface.
We verify the supplier chain, check whether the packaging is recyclable or refillable, and compare the brand's sustainability claims against the actual materials used.
The final review scores the formula on transparency, efficacy, and skin compatibility. We publish the full ingredient breakdown alongside the verdict, so you can judge the evidence yourself.
If the brand reformulates or a reader reports a reaction, we update the review with a dated note. This keeps the archive honest and prevents outdated conclusions from lingering.