Lesson 4, Activity II.    Who, and what, should you believe? 

         Evaluating the science behind the advertisements. 
 


Summary: In-class survey to rate the believability of cosmetic claims and information sources.

Class discussion about evaluating scientific articles followed by student evaluations of advertising claims and development of strategies to investigate them through reliable sources. 


Activity Objectives:

1. Students will develop critical evaluation skills about the science underlying personal care product claims in advertising.
2. Sources of science information will be identified and evaluated for credibility.
 


Materials & Preparation:

Optional:   Ask students to bring in a personal care product advertisement (from a magazine or the internet).

      Copy S4(II).1,  Evaluating scientific information, a handout for each student

      S4(II).2,  Who, and what, should you believe - a worksheet for each student

Copy a product description for each student. 

There are nine product descriptions provided, S4(II).3-.11, therefore 3-4 of each could be made available (total of 27-36) if students do not bring in advertisements.

      Create overheads: TG 4(II).1 (2 pages), Do you believe…, and with some facts…

                       TG 4(II).3,  Claim sources

                       TG 4(II).4,  Believability scale

                       TG 4(II).5,  Evaluation components

                       TG 4(II).6,  PubMed website 


Information Sources

Engagement: Do you believe everything you hear or read? 

      Would you believe:    (Take a raised-hand survey for each question.)      OH TG4(II).1 pg 1

            That a lip gloss that can help you lose weight?

            That powdered yogurt can prevent wrinkles and condition your hair?

            That a brush with copper bristles can prevent dandruff?

            That grapes are the source of anti-aging compounds? 


      Why don’t you believe it?  What would convince you?

      What if you were told that there is some truth behind the statements?      OH TG4(II).1 pg 2

      Would that change your opinion?        (Background facts for teacher)   TG4(II).2 


      How important is knowing the source of the statement?    

      For example: “A lip gloss can help you lose weight.”

      What if that statement came from:           OH TG4(II).3

1. The American Medical Association.
2. Jenny Craig  (weight management company)
3. L’Oreal  (international cosmetic company)
4. Community health nurse

      How does your belief in the statement change? 


      The source of information is, and should be, an important factor in our evaluation of

      cosmetic product claims in advertisements. One needs to balance the information from

scientific research, scientific reviews, popular articles and real-life experiences in order to come as close to the underlying truth as possible.

        

            As a class, have students suggest and rate information sources on

       a “believability scale”.           OH TG4(II).4

            (Rate student sources as well as sources on list provided)       TG4(II).4 p. 2 


      Evaluating the source of your information is just one part of making an informed

      decision about a product.  Important considerations are:       OH TG 4(II).5

1. Who is the source of the information?           with key, p.2
2. Is there proven science behind the claims?

(More exploration of this topic below)

3. What facts are you missing?
4. Determine the value of the product:  benefits vs. risks vs. cost
 


Evaluating the Science

      Claims about how (“mechanism of action”) a product effects health, skin, or hair should

      be supported by scientific research or medical facts.  Scientific reports should 

      follow accepted scientific principles, including peer review and publication.  


      There are criteria that should be used when evaluating scientific information: S4(II).1

            Interest    Hypothesis  Results   handout

            Author and publisher  Procedure 


      (See the NWABR website: www.nwabr.org/studentbiotech/resources/evaluating.html, R4(II).1)

      (See How to Interpret Skin Care Research Data:  www.smartskincare.com, R4(II).2) 


      An important source for finding published, peer reviewed, scientific research is

      PubMed:    http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?db=pubmed      OH TG 4(II).6 


        “PubMed is a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine that includes over 17

      million citations from MEDLINE and other life science journals for biomedical articles

      back to the 1950s. PubMed includes links to full text articles and other related resources.”  


      You can search for articles by subject, author, or journal.  In some cases, you will be able

      to get a copy of the complete article, in other cases, you have access only to the

      abstract.   


Information Source Evaluation

      Each of you now have the opportunity to practice your critical thinking and research

      skills by evaluating the claims in personal care product advertisements.

      Students should complete the worksheet, “Who, and what, should you believe?”

      Worksheet results could be discussed in small groups.   S4(II).2

      (See additional reference for O-Glow blush, R4(II).3) 
 


1.  In-class.  Students can work as individuals or in small groups.  Each student or group will

      evaluate a personal care product advertisement that they brought in or they can use one of

      the nine product advertisements provided.                 S4(II).3-11

            Each student should receive a worksheet      S4(II).2

      Invite students to think critically about the claims and statements in the advertisements and

  (1) identify science-based claims, (2) develop search terms to find information that is needed to evaluate the statements for scientific accuracy and product value, and (3) identify authoritative, reliable sources for that information.

                                                               Sample search terms TG4(II).8 


2. Homework: Internet Research Project.  Students can be asked to follow up on the in-class activity by using their search terms to identify and justify “reliable” and “less reliable” resources from an internet search. 


3.  Variations:

a.  Have students find similar products and compare prices, ingredients, and claims.

b.  Have students bring in an abstract from PubMed about scientific research related to the science behind the product that they researched. 


Regulating Advertisements

      Do you think any of the ads were deceptive?

            (The O-Glow ad definitely was.)

      Who do you think regulates internet advertising?

            The Federal Trade Commission is responsible for setting the rules for  TG4(II).7

      preventing unfair and deceptive ads and practices.  The same rules that apply to

      advertising, marketing, and sales in TV, radio, telephone and print, apply online. 


For businesses and consumers with advertising complaints, the National Advertising Division of the Better Business Bureau offers an evaluation and arbitration process.  It isn’t cheap but it is fast and most advertisers will abide by their decision even though the agency doesn’t have any specific legal authority. 


Optional Homework:

      Complete the internet research questions for the cosmetic advertisements.       S 4(II).2 pg 2 
 


Resources (yellow pages):

      NWABR Evaluation guide for scientific articles R 4(II).1

      Interpreting Research     R 4(II).2

      O-Glow experiment     R 4(II).3

 


Do you believe … 
 


1.  A lip gloss can help you lose weight.  Yes  No Maybe 
 


2.  Powdered yogurt can prevent wrinkles

     and condition your hair.     Yes  No Maybe 
 


3.  A brush with copper bristles can

     prevent dandruff.      Yes  No Maybe 
 


4.  Grapes are the source of anti-aging

     compounds.       Yes  No Maybe 
 
 
 


If you were told that

there was some scientific fact behind the claim,

would that change your opinion? 
 


 


Do you believe … 
 


1.  A lip gloss can help you lose weight.  Yes  No Maybe 


      Certain flavors have been shown to curb the appetite. 
 


2.  Powdered yogurt can prevent wrinkles

     and condition your hair.     Yes  No Maybe 


      Proteins can condition hair.  Yogurt has many

      proteins. 
 


3.  A brush with copper bristles can

     prevent dandruff.      Yes  No Maybe 


      Metal ions are used in anti-dandruff shampoos. 
 


4.  Grapes are the source of anti-aging

     compounds.       Yes  No Maybe 


      Grapes do contain antioxidants and antioxidants

      can suppress free-radicals which can damage skin.

 


A Few Facts – A Few Remaining Concerns 


1.  A lip gloss can help you lose weight.  


FACT:  A research study by The Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation found that certain flavors sprinkled and eaten on food helped people lose weight.

      http://www.scienceofsmell.com/scienceofsmell/index.cfm?action=completedsprinkles 


HOWEVER:      It is unclear whether the study (above) was published in a peer reviewed journal.

      The scientist-inventor admits that it takes mental and physical commitment to lose weight

      with the lip gloss. (http://www.omegatechlabs.com/NYPost.htm. Viewed 8-7-07)

 
 


2.  Powdered yogurt can prevent wrinkles and condition your hair.     

FACT:  Amino acids from any protein (not just those from yogurt) can smooth the cuticle of the hair and help prevent tangling.

 


HOWEVER:      It is unclear whether the proteins/amino acids from yogurt or milk can get to the dermis and have an effect on collagen.  Stimulating growth of collagen would help reduce wrinkles.

 
 


3.  A brush with copper bristles can prevent dandruff.  

 


FACT:  Metal salts, like zinc pyrithione, are active ingredients in anti-dandruff shampoos such as Head & Shoulders.  Copper ions have been shown to have the same effect but they

      are much less effective.  (Comp Immunol Microbial Infect Dis 22(2):93-102. 1999.)

 


HOWEVER:      There would be too little contact of the bristles with the scalp for the copper ions to have an effect.  Brushing your hair from your scalp outward with steady, firm strokes will carry oil from your scalp, where it can cause dandruff, along the hair strands, which need the oil. (http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/understanding-dandruff-treatment)

4. Grapes are the source of anti-aging compounds.      
    
   

FACT:  Grapes contain polyphenols which are potent antioxidants.  Antioxidants neutralize

      oxygen free-radicals that can be produced in the skin by UV rays from the sun.

      Sun-damaged skin contributes to a skin “aging” appearance.

 


HOWEVER:      One must consider how well the antioxidants penetrate the outer layers of the skin in order to have an effect on the living skin cells of the epidermis and the collagen layer.

 

 
 
 
 
 


Do you believe …

 
 


A lip gloss can help you lose weight.

 
 
 


If the source was:       Do you believe?

 
 


      The American Medical Association    Yes  No Maybe

 


      Jenny Craig  (weight management company)  Yes  No Maybe

 


      L’Oreal  (international cosmetic manufacturer)  Yes  No Maybe

 


      Community health nurse     Yes  No Maybe

 
 
 
 


Cosmetic Product Information Sources

 


List (and number) information sources and

position them (by number) on the “believability scale” below.

 
 


  “Unbelievable”                 “Very Believable”

               
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Cosmetic Product Information Sources

 


List (and number) information sources and

position them (by number) on the “believability scale” below.

 
 


  “Unbelievable”                 “Very Believable”

               
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


      1. An independent MD or scientist

      2. MD or scientist who helped with the development of the product

      3.  MD or scientist whose expertise is in another field of study

 


      4. An FDA spokesperson

      5. Spokesperson for professional society

      (e.g.,  American Academy of Dermatology  www.aad.org

                  American Society of Dermatology,  www.asd.org

                  American Dermatological Association, www.amer-derm-assn.org

                  American Medical Association, www.ama-assn.org)

      6. Spokesperson for a voluntary health organization

            (e.g.,  American Cancer Society)

      7. Someone representing the cosmetic industry

            (e.g.,  Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association)

 


      8. The product’s manufacturer

      9. A salesperson for the product

      10. A salon stylist

      11. A satisfied customer

      12. A newspaper journalist

      13. Your best friend

 


      14.   Daily city newspaper

      15.  Wikipedia

      16. Product information on container and packaging

 
 
 

 


Components of a Product Advertisement Evaluation

 
 


1.  Identify who is making the statements and evaluate their credibility

     

 
 
 
 
 
 
 


2.  Determine if there is any science to support the claims

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


3.  Identify missing facts

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


4.  Determine the value of the product

 
 
 
 

 
 


Components of a Product Advertisement Evaluation

 


1.  Identify who is making the statements and evaluate their credibility

     Does the person have the education or substantiated expertise in the area of the claim?

      Does the person or organization have anything to gain by making the product successful?

         “Gain” may be in the form of monetary compensation or reputation

Does the person or organization represent, or lobby for, a specific subset of people?  (the cosmetic industry, government regulatory agencies, health or environmental advocates)

 
 


2.  Determine if there is any science to support the claims

      Learn the facts (biology and chemistry) about the ingredients

      Have scientific studies been done?

            Were the studies published?  Can you find them in PubMed?

            Were they peer reviewed? (evaluated by other scientists in the field)

            Were the results repeatable in studies by other scientists?

            How do you evaluate a scientific study?

Just because an ingredient has certain properties, do they apply when the ingredient is used on the skin?

            How much of the ingredient gets into the skin?  To which part of the skin?

            Does the ingredient get broken down (metabolized)?  How fast?

            Does the ingredient evaporate?

      Just because an ingredient is found in the body, that doesn’t make it toxic

 
 


3.  Identify missing facts

      What are the functions of all of the ingredients?

      What information are you not able to find?

      Who could you contact to obtain needed information?

 
 


4.  Determine the value of the product

      Benefits vs. risks vs. price

      Compare the cost and ingredients of similar products

 
 
 


http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?db=pubmed  Viewed 7-30-07

 


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Who’s regulating internet advertising ?

 
 


The Federal Trade Commission  (FTC)

 


http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/buspubs/dotcom/index.shtml

 
 


1.  The same laws that apply to advertising, marketing, and sales in other medias (TV, radio, telephone and print) apply online.

 


2.  FTC Act prohibits “unfair and deceptive acts or practices”.

 


3.  FTC “rules” prohibit specific acts or practices that would be unfair or deceptive.  FTC “guides” provide examples and directions on how to avoid unfair or deceptive practices.

 


4.  “Disclosures” that are required to prevent deception—or to provide consumers material information about a transaction—must be presented "clearly and conspicuously." 

Rules for placement, proximity, and hyperlinks are spelled out so consumers will notice and understand the disclosures.

 


5. The FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection provides a form for customers to file a complaint against a company or organization.

      https://rn.ftc.gov/pls/dod/wsolcq$.startup?Z_ORG_CODE=PU01

 


The FTC does not resolve individual consumer problems but it can lead to or help in an investigation of fraud.

 
 


COMPLAINTS:

 


National Advertising Division (NAD) of the Better Business Bureau

 


http://us.bbb.org/WWWRoot/SitePage.aspx?site=113&id=329d3893-8c3d-4bed-834f-249ab63ec63b

 


Consumers and businesses use the NAD to voice their concerns about potentially misleading national advertising claims.  The advertising may be placed on broadcast or cable television, in radio, magazines and newspapers, on the Internet or commercial on-line services, or provided direct to the home or office. Product performance claims, superiority claims against competitive products and all kinds of scientific and technical claims in national advertising are the types of cases accepted by the NAD.

NAD settles disputes more quickly (within 60 days) and at less cost than litigation.  Advertisers usually voluntarily adhere to its decisions. There is a filing fee of $2,500 (members) or $6,000 (non-members). 
Sample search terms and internet information sources

for cosmetic advertisements in

Lesson 4, Activity II.

 


PROMISE Lip Gloss

 


Search Terms:

      Natural appetite suppressants  Oils:  Castor, coconut, Evening Primrose, jojoba

      Fragrances – weight loss  Transdermal

            Functional fragrances  Vitamin E

            Aromatherapy

       

More Reliable Information Sources

http://worldshealthiestfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=dailytip&dbid=240

http://www.realsimple.com/realsimple/content/clean/0,21770,1590505,00.html

http://www.naha.org/   (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy)

http://www.berkeleywellness.com/html/ds/dsEveningPrimrose.php

      Information on Evening Primrose and Vitamin E as dietary supplements

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/evening-primrose-oil/NS_patient-Primrose

      Information on Evening Primrose

http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/herbaldrugs/101080.shtml

http://www.scienceofsmell.com/scienceofsmell/index.cfm?action=research

 


Less Reliable Information Sources

Any company sponsored website

http://www.hoodiapatchtrial.com

      /index.asp?s=yahoohoodptrial&OVRAW=natural%20appetite%20suppressants&OVKEY=natural%20appetite%20suppressants&OVMTC=standard&OVADID=983128021&OVKWID=6842688521

 
 


Yogurtene Balance Powder

 


Search Terms

      Yogurt ingredients   Hair - conditioner

      Skin - moisturizing yogurt   bacteria

            Bacteria    Chicory extract

      pH     Inulin prebiotics

            Collagen

            Wrinkles

 


More Reliable Information Sources 

http://www.foodsci.uoguelph.ca/dairyedu/yogurt.html

http://www.smartskincare.com/aging/

http://www.smartskincare.com/skinbiology/skinbiology_collagen.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inulin

http://dlg.myweb.uga.edu/Microbial%20Flora%20of%20Skin.html

 


Less Reliable Information Sources

http://www.beautyexclusive.com/koyovemocr.html

http://www.herballuxuries.com/skinsph.htm

http://www.ph-ion.com/ppc/prebiotic.htm

http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=food_coach&id=5719561

 


Bioelements PROBOTIX Anti-Aging Serum

 


      Search Terms

            Probiotics   Skin – microflora

            Aging     Wrinkles

            Bifidus     Aging

            Lactose and milk protein Immune system 

 


Goody Hairbrush

 


      Search Terms

            Copper –  Fungicide  Dandruff

                      Antibacterial  Itching

 


O-Glow Blush

 


      Search Terms

            Blush    Antioxidants –  Marine plankton

            Skin – microcirculation    Pomegranate seed oil

            Lycium barbarum fruit extract   Vitamin C 

 


Hawaiian Tropic Tan Lotion

 


      Search Terms

            Tyrosine   Antioxidants –  Vitamin A

            Riboflavin     Vitamin E

            Skin tanning   Tanning bed

 
 


BioTan Sunless Tanning Gel

 


      Search Terms

            DHA (dihydroxyacetone) Walnut extract

            Tyrosine   Erythrulose

            Melanin – cuttle fish ink Exfoliation

            Skin tanning

 


VinoSource Cream

 


      Search Terms

            Wrinkles   Antioxidant

            Grapeseed polyphenols  Moisturizing

            Resveratrol

 


Smiley Perfume

 


      Search Terms

            Micro-nutrient   Phenylethylamine 

            Theobromine   Mood – pleasure/happy

 
 


Evaluating Scientific Information

http://www.nwabr.org/studentbiotech/resources/evaluating.html

 


      Be aware of 'pseudoscience' ('false-science'). Pseudoscientists make claims that may appear scientific, but don't follow scientific principles. Distinguishing between science and pseudoscience can be difficult. When trying to discern whether something is scientific, check the following:

 


Criteria to evaluate	Questions that need answered	Signals of Pseudoscience
Interest	Who is funding the research? Who may profit from it?	Bias because of profit or prestige.
Author & Publisher	Who conducted the research? Where was it done? Where was it published?	Unknown researchers, connected to an unknown laboratory. Published by an unknown or nonscientific publication.
Hypothesis	Is it testable? Is it capable of being falsified?	Often pseudoscience can't be proved wrong because it can't be tested independently by other scientists.
Procedure	Are experiments repeatable? Have they been repeated? Are specific, well defined predictions made? Are appropriate controls used? Was the test group large enough? Were enough trials done?	The claim is difficult or impossible to test by others. Pseudoscientists make vague statements. Is there a group to compare results to? Relies on unproven claims like case histories, or personal testimonials.
Results	Were the results statistically significant? Is logic used to establish causation? New findings are viewed with skepticism. Are new ideas critically reviewed?	Would the result occur many times or is it a one time occurrence? There could be different causes for the claim. The claim is too good to be true. The claim has not been reviewed by others.

 


  Who, and what, should you believe?

 


NAME ___________________________________ Period _____________ Date ____________

 


This is your opportunity to critically review and evaluate cosmetic advertising claims.  Find an advertisement for a personal care product of interest to you or use an ad provided in class to complete this worksheet.

 


PRODUCT NAME:

 


MANUFACTURER:  

 


QUANTITY and COST (if available): 

 


List up to 3 major science-based claims from the product label or advertisement.

Based on your opinion, circle B (Believable), US (Unsure), or U (Unbelievable) for each of the claims you identify below.

 


B  US  U   1.

 


B  US  U   2.

 


B  US  U   3.

___________________________________________________________________________

 


How much would you pay for this product? ________________

 


Finding reliable sources of information regarding the scientific basis of claims

 


1.  Identify scientific/medical topics (“search terms”) you would research to support, or refute, the claims above. 

 


Search Term 1: ________________________ Search Term 2: ______________________

 


Search Term 3:  ________________________  Search Term 4: ______________________

 


2.  List general types of information sources (for example, “newspapers”, not “Seattle PI”)

(Use additional paper, if necessary, to complete this assignment.)

 


Give two “reliable” types of information sources and why you consider them reliable.

 
 
 
 


Give two “less reliable” types of information sources and why you consider them less reliable.

 
 


Who, and what, should you believe? – page 2

 


HOMEWORK:

 


1.  Select 2 of your search terms to research.

 


2.  Use an internet search engine to identify scientifically reliable and less reliable sources of information related to your search terms. 

(Use additional paper, if necessary, to complete this assignment.)

 


Example: 

Search Term: ___________________________________

 


      (a.)  Give two “reliable” websites and why you consider them reliable.

      (b.)  Give two “less reliable” websites and why you consider them less reliable.

 


3.  Use PubMed to find a scientific article related to one of your search terms.  Provide a print-out of the article’s citation information and its abstract..

      http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?db=pubmed

 
 


http://www.omegatechlabs.com/index.htm   Viewed 7-27-07

Lip Product:     PROMISE Lip Gloss

 


      From Omega Tech Labs, LLC – a technology development company

            Personal Care Products & Innovative Chemistry

 


Omega Naturals are an all-natural blend of botanical plants and extracts that have been used for centuries by people around the world.  These special synergistic blends have been carefully chosen and tested to achieve the desired result as described for each product.  These products are highly effective and functional.  They are intended for adult use.  A doctor should be consulted if a person has any question about if they should be using these products.

 

   

PROMISE 
Helps Curb Appetite For Sweets and Large Meals

 

Appetite Suppressant to help with weight loss

Effective Weight Management

 
Contains: Oils of: Castor, Coconut, Spearmint, Jojoba, Evening Primrose, Sweet Orange, Grapefruit, Lime Ginger Root, Yerba Mate, Vitamin E.

The 8 ml container comes with an easy-to-use applicator. The container easily fits in a pocket or purse.  One container lasts about a month.  The price is $9.98.  The Omega Naturals products are trademarked and patent-pending.

Easy To Use Applicator.  Use often throughout the day… Apply liberally to your lips!

All Natural - Treats Various Ailments - Soothing Lip Treatment - Freshens Breath - Safe & Effective

 

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.  These products are not intended to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any disease.

 


PRODUCT:  Yogurtene Balance Powder

 


                  A spray dried version of yogurt

                  Rebalances the body’s natural pH balance

                  Retains skin moisture and protects the collagen lattice in the skin

                  Keeps skin firm, preventing wrinkles

                  Successful hair conditioner

                  Antibacterial care for skin and scalp

 
Breaking News on Cosmetics Formulation & Packaging - Europe

http://www.cosmeticsdesign-europe.com/news/ng.asp?n=77094&m=2CDE605&c=mmuzaowdybqbquj     

Viewed 7-27-07

 


Givaudan creates spray on yoghurt skin care product 
By Louise Prance 


05/06/2007 - Givaudan is the latest manufacturer to harness the powers of the food industry in a cosmetic formulation, with the release of a new skin product in a spray - on yoghurt format. 
 
The Swiss flavours and fragrance manufacturer is launching a new spray dried yoghurt powder, Yogurtene Balance Powder, that is claimed to rebalance the body's natural PH balance.  
 
Targeting the growing trend for food-based cosmetics, the company has used a chicory extract to create the powder - a formulation that is said to benefit from the moisturising qualities that yogurt has for the skin.  
 
With the spoonable probiotic yoghurt market alone estimated by Euromonitor International to be worth US$1.6bn (€1.25bn) at retail in 2005, Givaudan is set to capitalise on a booming market and also make further footholds into the skin care market.  
 
Yoghurt has long been considered a beneficial ingredient for skincare applications, promoted as relieving and hydrating dry skin, but tends to be used in a dehydrated powder form. 
 
Givaudan is targeting the booming anti-wrinkle market with the topical formula, as it is said to retain the skin's moisture whilst also protecting the collagen lattice in the skin. This is said to help keep the skin firm, in turn protecting against wrinkles.   
 
According to the company the Yogurtene formula not only has nutritional benefits for the skin, but also acts as a successful hair conditioner. 
 
Givaudan used Inulin prebiotic within the formula, as it is said to encourage the growth of protective and neutral bacteria therefore allowing for effective antibacterial care for the skin and scalp without the negative side effects that are often associated with agents. 
 
The French food group Danone started the trend for functional yogurts late last year with the announcement that they were to branch out into 'beauty foods', launching an edible yogurt that is said to benefit skin health from the inside out.  
 
The detoxifying qualities of the yogurt helped Danone branch out into a market sector that is quickly growing in size, and is more commonly dominated by niche brands and products - such as a bronzing water introduced in France last year by Microfluid Biotechnolog. 
 
However, the crossover between cosmetic companies and the use of ingredients normally taken orally is increasing, with Kline and Company estimating that the 'cosmeceuticals' market now stands at $1bn on a global basis.

 


http://www.bioelements.com/jsp/product.jsp?id=2902  

Viewed July 16, 2007

 


Bioelements PROBOTIX ANTI-AGING SERUM     Product Description       • Intensive overnight treatment    • Contains a blend of probiotic actives immersed in nourishing milk proteins to help prevent wrinkles and loss of firmness    • Creates an environment within the skin that allows it to regain its natural microflora balance and become more age-resistant    • Clinical testing on topical probiotics shows that it helps strengthen skin, enabling it to resist aging at every stage of the process - from early to mature    No artificial colorants  No synthetic fragrance  Not tested on animals.    How To Use:    Every night, apply a thin layer over entire face and neck. Follow with a Bioelements Moisturizer or Sleepwear Overnight Rejuvenation Creme.    Companion Products:    Any Bioelements Moisturizer, Sleepwear or Oil Control Sleepwear     Active Ingredients    BIFIDUS FERMENT LYSATE - Cell compounds derived from natural bifidus cultures (also found in yogurt and dietary supplements) lab-engineered to treat the skin. Strengthens the immune system and balances the skin's microflora.     LACTOSE & MILK PROTEINS - Stimulates skin cell functions, calms sensitive and irritated skin, softens skin.

Please Note: 
 
This item is only available at select salons and spas.  





Item # Size PR216 1 oz.

 
 

 


http://www.goody.com/Products/Collections/Styling_Therapy/Styling_Therapy/Styling_Therapy.aspx   

http://www.goody.com/swf/Collections/Styling_Therapy_Collection/FLash/index.aspx

Viewed 7-27-07

 
 
 


GOODY

 


Styling Therapy:  reduce+dandruff oval brush

 


Introducing Styling Therapy from Goody –

      simple care for troubled hair in a brush.

 


Flaking out?  Fight back with the healing properties of copper.

 


Nasty weather, excessive styling products and blow drying can all leave you scratching your head.  Now there’s another tool to help you in the fight against flakes – one that’s fast and easy to handle.

 


Copper:  Stops the itching, flaking and static

Copper:  Kills 88% of the bacteria and fungi that causes dandruff

Ball tipped bristles gently massage your scalp.

 


Infused with copper, a natural fungicide, ball-tipped bristles nestled in a flexible cushion pad gently massage your scalp and hair reducing excessive oil and dandruff.

 


http://www.smashbox.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/products.detail/categoryID/137fc320-d41a-4cf2-bdfe-88a95c6bd446/productID/b942dfae-cc4c-46a0-be1e-b8e126d3c1d2

Viewed 7-27-07

 
 


 

O-Glow

Top-seller!  

Experience instant chemistry as your complexion is transformed from so-so to oh-so-glowing! The first intuitive blush, this clear gel reacts with your personal skin chemistry to turn cheeks the color you blush naturally, in just seconds! O-GLOW works on every skin tone, from the lightest to the darkest, to give everyone a customized flush of color. When applied, your skin's moisture activates the innovative formula producing a rosy blush that lasts all day. The unique Goji Berry-C Complex™ creates a microcirculatory, skin-energizing effect, while antioxidants like vitamin C, pomegranate seed oil and marine plankton provide additional healthy-skin benefits. O-GLOW’S revolutionary silicone-based clear gel is easy to blend; preservative and fragrance-free, and glides on smoothly for a healthy, glowing blush that's you, only prettier.

Click below to watch the magical transformation of O-GLOW on your skin tone. 
O-GLOW for medium skin  
O-GLOW for light/fair skin 
O-GLOW for deep/dark skin

$26.00

 

Tip:  On bare skin or over makeup, dab O-GLOW onto cheekbones and blend with fingertips. Watch the reaction as cheeks turn rosy, for a gorgeous blush that lasts all day!

 

O-GLOW INGREDIENTS: 

 


Cyclomethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Isononyl Isononanoate, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Punica Granatum, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Polysilicone-11, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Plankton Extract,  Red 27 (CI 45410).

 


(Provided by SMASHBOX Customer Service upon request.)

 
 
 


Additional resource:

www.thebeautybrains.com:  See skin care, 7-10-07

 
 


                                                                                    

http://www.walgreens.com/store/product.jsp?id=prod355217&CATID=100801&skuid=sku355218&V=G&ec=frgl_681784#ingredient;   Viewed July 25, 2007

 


© Copyright 2007 Walgreen Co. All rights reserved

 


View Larger Image   Product Rating	Hawaiian Tropic Tan 2 Max Deep Tanning Salon Lotion for Indoor Tanning
	View All Hawaiian Tropic Products Price: $9.99 Quantity: 8.0 oz.	FREE shipping eligible In Stock Usually ships in   3 business days. See Estimated Arrival Time Returns  Return to any Walgreens store  Return Policy

 

Description

• Tanning bed proven
• Offers no sun protection
• An intense touch of Hawaiian Tropical, exotic, natural flora, fruit, and nut extracts - specially designed for  tanning bed use
• This oil free dry lotion, absorbs quickly and helps you achieve a dramatic, deep tan of the islands
• Enriched with Tyrosine and Riboflavin to maximize your skin's natural tanning potential
• Exotic moisturizers prepare and moisturize skin for intense tanning and help to hold your tan for weeks longer
• Proven tanning bed friendly
• Contains no mineral oil      Non-greasy
• Antioxidant Vitamins A and E     Absorbs quickly
• Good for both high and low pressure beds    Hypoallergenic
• Marvelous melon fragrance     Excellent for outdoor use
• No animal testing

 

Ingredients

Water , Ethylhexyl Palmitate , Propylene Glycol , Stearic Acid , Glyceryl Stearate , PEG 100 Stearate , Aloe Barbadensis Gel , Sodium Riboflavin Phosphate , Acetyl Tyrosine , Hydrolyzed Collagen , Cetyl Alcohol , Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E Acetate , Retinyl Palmitate Vitamin A Palmitate , Phospholipids , Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter Cocoa , Polysorbate 20 , Triethanolamine , PEG-75 Lanolin , Potassium Hydroxide , Carbomer , Magnesium Aluminum Silicate , Sodium Stearate , Benzyl Alcohol , Propylparaben , Methylparaben , Fragrance , Plumeria Acutifolia Flower Extract Plumeria , Mangifera Indica Fruit Extract Mango , Psidium Guajava Fruit Extract Guava , Carica Papaya Fruit Extract Papaya , Passiflora Incarnata Fruit Extract Passion Fruit , Colocasia Antiquorum Root Extract Taro , Aleurites Moluccana Seed Extract Kukui Nut

 

Instructions: For best results, apply on all exposed areas of the skin prior to your tanning bed session

Warnings

• This product does not contain a sunscreen and does not protect against sunburn
• Repeated exposure of unprotected skin while tanning may increase the risk of skin aging, skin cancer, and other harmful effects to the skin even if you do not burn
• For external use only.   Avoid contact with eyes.   Keep out of the reach of small children.
 


http://american-healthy-living.stores.yahoo.net/cesunregel90.html.  Viewed 7-27-07




BIO-TAN SUNLESS TANNING GEL *NEW* At a Glance    Physical Description:  Bio-Tan is a glistening peach-colored, oil-free gel containing natural sugars and amino acids. The lightly moisturizing formula is free of the chemical odor associated with self-tanning and leaves the skin with a wonderful fresh scent.    Primary Benefit:  This luxurious, silky formulation represents a real advance in the creation of a sunless tan. The unique, proprietary process creates a golden color that glows from ‘within the skin’ to simulate a genuinely sun-tanned complexion.    Primary Ingredients:  DHA, tyrosine, melanin, erythrulose, walnut extract and phospholipids.    Skin Types / Conditions:  All but the most sensitive skin.    When to Use:  As desired. Features: A totally unique, self-tanning formula that mimics a genuine golden sun tan. Contains DHA (dihydroxyacetone), most often derived from sugarcane or sugar beets. This natural sugar derivative, when applied to the skin, reacts with amino acids in the skin’s surface layers to create a tan-like color. DHA is safe and has been used in self-tanning products for over 35 years. Researchers have now perfected the level of DHA to produce an authentic looking color that closely emulates a real sun-tan. Contains erythrulose, a natural sugar and self-tanning agent which acts synergistically with DHA to produce a longer lasting, even tan with an attractive sun-bronzed color. Contains melanin, naturally extracted from cuttle fish ink. Melanin is an excellent anti-oxidant and free-radical neutralizer. Contains walnut extract. Traditionally used in skin treatments because of its fungistatic and astringent properties. It also contains a natural colorant, which imparts a subtle brown tint. Contains tyrosine, an amino acid that, when combined with tanning sugars, produces a quick and uniform looking tan. The color produced is amazingly close to that of a natural sun-tan.   Benefits: Bio-Tan works at a deeper level than other self-tanning products. The unique proprietary process creates color that projects from ‘within the skin’ in a similar way that the color of a natural tan radiates from the skin’s melanin pigment. This simulates the translucent glow associated with a naturally induced suntan. The formula does not have the tell-tale chemical odor usually associated with self-tanning products. Color is smooth and even with the lively luminous look of a natural tan. There’s nothing closer to the real tan. Expect a golden glow that lasts up to three days. Can be used on all skin types. Bio-Tan Sunless Tanning Gel may be used as often as you like to create and maintain your desired depth of tan.     Directions: The secret to this natural looking tan is exfoliation. Exfoliate your skin with Cellex-C Speed Peel & Polish Gel before applying or re-applying Bio-Tan. It makes all the difference. Spread a generous amount of Bio-Tan Gel over your face and neck. Avoid eye area, eyebrows and hairline. Do not blend at this stage. Allow one minute for the product to be absorbed into the upper layers of your skin. Then, gently massage any excess gel into your skin. Use the same procedure for other areas of your body. Wear a loose, old T-shirt and baggy pants until step 6 is completed. Wash your hands with warm water and soap immediately after applying Bio-Tan. Then, using the sponge wedgie provided, apply the gel to your fingers and back of your hands if desired. Apply an oil-free moisturizer to your face—Cellex-C Sea Silk—or to your body—Body Sheen & Toning Gel—to give your skin an extra glow. If your preferred moisturizer contains oil, wait 20 minutes before applying it as it may interfere with the color development. After 3—4 hours, gently wipe your skin with a warm, damp washcloth. This will remove excess superficial color left on the surface of your skin. You will notice how the tan now reflects through your skin giving a totally natural light golden tanned appearance. If a deeper tan is desired, repeat the application of Bio-Tan. To keep your tan looking fresh and natural, exfoliate every 2—3 days with Cellex-C’s Speed Peel & Polish Gel and then reapply Bio-Tan following the same steps as before. Warning: This product does not contain a sunscreen. We suggest you use Cellex-C Sun Care SPF 30+ to protect against sunburn and premature skin aging.    Note:  (1) The sunless tan’s intensity depends on the type and thickness of the horny layer. Where the skin is very thick (at the elbows, knees, knuckles & heels) the tan will be more intense. Where the skin is thin (as on the face) the tan is much lighter. Apply a rich moisture lotion to dry, thick skin areas to prevent them turning darker that the rest of your body. Also, after application, pat these areas with a wet sponge to reduce the tanning effect. (2) Launder clothes A.S.A.P. after wearing.    Ingredients Include:  Dihydroxyacetone, erythrulose, melanin, dimethicone, phospholipids, lecithin, walnut (juglans regia) extract.    Packaging:  240 mL.      Price: $110.00          Item # S4004 Top of Form Availability: Usually ships the next business day. S4004Regular price: $110.00Sale price: $99.00 Bottom of Form

 
 


http://www.caudalie-usa.com/site/page/pg389-de224-pr511-pn_VINOSOURCE_Anti_wrinkle_Nourishing_Cream.html   Viewed 7-27-07

 


Size: 1.3 oz Price: $49.00 Quantity:           CAUDALIE VINOSOURCE Anti-wrinkle Nourishing Cream    Enhanced formula!  Now PARABEN FREE    This rich cream smoothes wrinkles and offers your skin exceptional anti-oxidant protection. Your complexion is free of dead cells, is effectively and lastingly moisturized and glows with renewed radiance. • Who is it for?  For all women with dry skin in search of anti-wrinkle protection. • Ingredients  grape-seed polyphenols (OPC)  Vinolevure  sea fennel  sodium hyaluronate  plant glycerine  olive squalane  grape-seed and borage oils  coriander, sweet lime, lemon, guaic wood, sweet orange, vetiver, sandalwood and lavandin...  *New ingredients • When? How?  Apply to perfectly clean face and neck day and night. • Tips from your Vinotherapist  Warm a small amount in your hand. Apply gently to face and neck until absorbed. Day and/or night cream.

 


CAUDALIE Paris Skincare harvests the beauty benefits of the grapevine through patented technology. Natural, effective methods of improving the skin's appearance to ensure your complexion mimics that of the grape: smooth, even, clear. 
 
Grape-seed polyphenols are the foundation of CAUDALIE skincare. CAUDALIE has stabilized these powerful molecules to create skincare that moisturizes, boosts the complexion's radiance, and returns a lustrous glow to the skin. 
 
CAUDALIE uses Resveratrol, the grapevine's natural defense mechanism, to visibly revitalize, smooth, and restore a radiant, youthful appearance.

 


http://www.beautyhabit.com/smiley.html

http://www.beautyhabit.com/product4313.html

 
 
 


Smiley is the first fragrance clinically proven to activate the brain’s happiness receptors. It contains micro-nutrients that activate happiness - theobromine and phenylethylamine - both natural mood elevators.     The fragrance itself has a fruity, spicy accord with bergamot and orange at the opening, and cocoa, praline and curaçao at the heart of the fragrance. The dry-down features patchouli, myrrh and musk.

 
 


Psycho-tonic perfume [strong dose] with micro-nutrients to activate happiness.
	Smiley - Eau De Parfum - 30ml    $45.00    Suggest This to a Friend! Has a fruity, spicy accord with bergamot and orange at the opening, and cocoa, praline and curaçao at the heart of the fragrance. The dry-down features patchouli, myrrh and musk.     Return to SMILEY MAIN page

 
 
 
 
 
 


http://www.nwabr.org/studentbiotech/resources/evaluating.html (Viewed 8-7-07)

 


Evaluating Scientific Information

Teacher-developed summary sheets of the information on our 'Evaluating Infromation' page. 
 
Thanks to Becky Campbell and Kirsten Dissinger, 9th grade science teachers, for sharing these classroom-ready resources with us!

Thinking Critically Worksheet 
Arguments Chart  
Evaluating Scientific Information

---

Be aware of 'pseudoscience' ('false-science'). Pseudoscientists make claims that may appear scientific, but don't follow scientific principles. Distinguishing between science and pseudoscience can be difficult. When trying to discern whether something is scientific, check the following:  
 
INTEREST 
Who is funding the research and who may profit from it? Biased organizations may give themselves neutral-sounding names. An organization will often have an interest in the outcome of a study they are funding.  
 
AUTHOR and PUBLISHER 
Who conducted the research? Where was it done? Where was it published? Look at the background of the people involved in the research, if possible. What kind of training have they had? Have they done extensive research in the field? Have they published other papers on the topic? Do others frequently cite them? Was the work conducted at an established facility, which could provide the support necessary to conduct thorough research?  
 
Scientists publish their results in peer-reviewed journals so that others in the same field can critically evaluate their work. View with suspicion any discoveries that are 'secret' or rely on 'secret formulas'. Results that have been originally published in journals such as Science, Nature, the New England Journal of Medicine, etc. will have been examined more closely, and are therefore are more reliable, than those that are directly announced to the media.  
 
HYPOTHESES 
Are hypotheses testable and capable of being falsified? Hypotheses and theories (even those which cannot be tested directly) should be able to be used to make predictions and allow the collection of evidence to test those predictions. Often pseudoscientific claims can't be proven wrong by any possible evidence. For example, there is no way to disprove the claim that only someone with special powers can sense a certain phenomenon.  
 
There is a large body of knowledge in science that is not influenced by trends in public opinion and is not likely to change. However, scientific ideas should be capable of changing should new evidence arise. In contrast, ideas in pseudoscience either stay the same (if there is an unchanging idea behind them) or change randomly (if criteria for accepting ideas and rejecting others do not exist).  
 
PROCEDURE 
1. Are experiments repeatable? Have they been repeated?  
Experimental procedures are reported so that others may repeat them. Valid results can be reproduced by others. Check to see that there has been more than one study, and that the studies support past research. One single study may produce results that other studies can't repeat. The more independent studies that exist which can support a claim, the more likely it is to be true.  
 
2. Are specific, well-defined predictions made?  
Scientists use careful, precise language and make quantitative predictions if possible. Pseudoscientists

use vague and imprecise terms that can be interpreted in many different ways, such as the language used in many horoscopes.  


 
3. Are appropriate controls used?  
If a drug is being tested, for example, scientists compare an experimental group (getting the treatment) with a control group (not receiving the treatment).  
 
Controls (which should be identical to the experimental group except for the factor being tested) ensure that results are due to the drug itself and not some other factor. Test subjects should be randomly assigned to either group ('randomized'). Blind studies (subjects don't know which group they are in) and double-blind studies (neither subjects nor researchers know which group subjects are in) provide additional safeguards.  
 
4. Was a representative sample used? Was it large enough? Were enough trials done? 
Scientists use samples that represent larger groups. If only men were used in a study, claims about how the study applies to women would be suspect.  
 
Pseudoscientific or unproven claims will rely on case histories, anecdotal evidence, or personal testimonials (Jane lost 30 lbs. in two weeks with Slim-X!) While case studies might be a starting point for future research, scientists require many trials combined with statistical analysis in order to evaluate their claims. Furthermore, ethical scientists wouldn't reveal the names of people involved in tests.  
 
Sometimes, a statistical claim may be made without reference to the sample size ('3 out of 4 dentists surveyed'_but how many were surveyed?) The larger the sample size, and the longer the study lasted, the more confident scientists are about their results  
 
RESULTS 
1. Were the results statistically significant?  
'Statistical significance' measures how often a particular result would occur due to chance alone, assuming that the experiments were repeated many times. The convention is to say that results are statistically significant if there is a 5% probability or less that the results were due to chance alone.  
 
2. Are logic and statistical analysis used to help distinguish between coincidence (chance), correlation (association), and causation? 
Correlation and causation are commonly confused with each other. For example, 'people who exercise have a lower risk of heart attack' is a statement of correlation, but 'exercise lowers the risk of heart attack'' is a statement of causation.  
 
It is very hard to prove causation (that A causes B). In order to do so, one needs to show that A must always be present for B to occur, and that B will always occur when A is present ('A is both necessary and sufficient cause of B'). An example of how this can be done in science is the use of Koch's postulates for determining whether a microorganism causes a particular disease:

• The organism must be associated with every case of the disease
• A pure culture of the organism must be able to be grown outside the body
• When introduced into a healthy subject, the pure culture of the organism must cause the disease to occur.
• The organism must be recovered from the subject and cultured again.

Because of limits on time, funding, or because of ethical considerations, often the best that can be done is to evaluate a relationship using logic and laws of probability.  
 
When looking for a cause of an illness, scientists would look for large differences between people who had and did not have exposure to a suspected cause. They would check to see that those differences are present between groups that would otherwise be at similar risk for developing an illness. Scientists would also check that a logical reason for a suspected relationship exists.  
 
3. Are new ideas or results viewed critically and with skepticism?  
Scientists should ideally presume a new idea wrong until it is well supported with evidence. Pseudoscientists aren't skeptical of their own results, but are skeptical of the results of others.  


Types of Arguments and Persuasive Devices 
Certain techniques are commonly used to attempt to convince the reader of the validity of an argument. Be aware of some of these techniques when you are evaluating a source.  
 
The following types of arguments are discussed in What Science is and How it Works, by Gordon Derry:  
 
1. Straw Man 
An argument directed not at someone's actual position, but at a weaker version (the 'straw man') created by the opponent. This weaker version would seem, for example, illogical or irrelevant.  
 
2. Ad Hominem ('to the man') 
An argument directed at an individual, rather than the individual's position. The person themselves is attacked, rather than the evidence or the logic of their argument.  
 
3. False Dilemma 
Two choices are proposed, and one of these is more easily attacked. This leaves the other choice as the only obvious possibility. However, in reality there may be many other alternatives or complexities which are not addressed.  
 
4. Begging the Question 
This type of argument (also called 'circular reasoning') assumes the truth of its conclusions as part of the reasoning leading up to the conclusion.  
 
5. Slippery Slope 
An argument in which the position argued against is depicted to result in something terrible. The terrible result is then argued against, rather than the position itself.  
 
The following types of persuasive devices are described in Forests: Identifying Propaganda Techniques, by Anderson and Buggey:  
 
6. Bandwagon 
'Everyone else is doing it.' This technique takes advantage of the desire of many people to feel as though they belong to a group. The argument is that if most people believe a certain way, then the reader should also feel that way.  
 
7. Slanted Words or Phrases 
In this technique, emotionally charged or biased words are used to convince the reader of a certain position (contrast 'mature citizen' with 'old fogy').  
 
8. Scare Tactics 
This technique tries to scare the reader into siding with a particular position. The argument is evaluated on the basis of emotion (fear) rather than logic and reason.  
 
BIBLIOGRAPHY 
Aaseng, Nathan. Science vs. Pseudoscience. New York: Franklin Watts, 1994.  
 
American Cancer Society: ACS Newsstand, Interpreting the Science in Scientific Studies (1997), http://www.cancer.org/media/1mar4.html (accessed 7/5/97).  
 
Anderson, Robert, and JoAnne Buggey. Forests: Identifying Propaganda Techniques. San Diego, CA: Greenhaven Press, Inc., 1992.  
 
Arthritis: Unproven Remedies, Arthritis Foundation, Atlanta, Georgia, 1987.  
 
Derry, Gregory. What Science is and How it Works. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1999.  
 
Weiss, Noel S."Distinguishing Cause From Coincidence", Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air Magazines July 1993.  
 
Special thanks to: Cynthia McClellan, Steve Collins, Nancy Hutchison, Karen Peterson, Diane Rosman, and Dave Vannet.

http://www.smartskincare.com/smartchoices/interpreting_research.html

Viewed 8-7-07

 


How to interpret skin care research data

Under ideal circumstances, the best way to get reliable information about biological phenomena, including anti-aging skin treatments, is to read and analyze a large number of well-designed research studies. Unfortunately, many people do not have the time to dig through raw biomedical research. Others may have time but lack specialized expertise required to correctly interpret the data. In fact, even scientists specializing in different branches of the same field sometimes have difficulties in interpreting each other's work.

Still, these difficulties should not be an impenetrable obstacle between an inquisitive mind and direct access to quality research. With common sense, one can balance the information from raw research, scientific reviews, popular articles and real-life experiences in order to come as close to the underlying truth as possible. To that end, this site provides a comprehensive compilation of skin care research abstracts (http://www.smartskincare.com/resabstracts/). But first, here is a set of guidelines to help you navigate the sea of raw research data.

General guidelines

• Before reading research abstracts or articles on a particular topic, read an overview of the issue written in plain English. Many skin rejuvenation methods are discussed in Anti-Aging Treatments section of this site. For example, before reading research abstracts on laser resurfacing, read our article about it.
• There are two major types of research articles: a study report and a scientific review. A study report is essentially an account of a research study performed by the authors. A review, on the other hand, is a summary and analysis of key studies in a particular (usually narrow) field of research. In a review, the authors mainly discuss other people's studies. If written by knowledgeable and impartial researchers, reviews are useful because they allow the reader to quickly assimilate the results of multiple studies. Still, reviews are a third party interpretation of the research data and cannot fully replace reading the actual studies. In most cases you can quickly figure out if an article is a review. Many reviews contain the word "review" in the title or publication attributes. Also, if the abstract does not contain specific, quantitative experimental findings, chances are the publication is a review.  
  
• Make sure that you understand the meaning of the terms used. If you do not understand some terms, do not try to guess their meaning from the context - it is easier to get it wrong than right. In fact, some very common words take on a different meaning when used in scientific articles. For example, in a scientific paper, "significant improvement" does not necessarily mean a substantial improvement. In most cases, it only means that the observed improvement was statistically significant, i.e. not likely to have happened by chance. In statistical terms, even a 3% improvement can sometimes be considered significant as long as it has been proved to fall outside the range of random fluctuations. In real terms, however, such an improvement is not worth the time or money.  
  
• Always try to figure out the quantitative magnitude of the observed effects (such as reduction in wrinkle depth or increased skin elasticity). Determine how these effects were measured. Physical measurements, especially using several independent methods, are more credible than visual observations or self-assessments of the study participants.  
  
• Abstracts are adequate for scanning research data. However, if you come across a particularly interesting or impressive new treatment (and especially if you are seriously considering this treatment for yourself), get the full text of the research articles. Unfortunately, due to copyrighting restrictions we can only provide abstracts on this site. You can obtain the full text of research articles in medical libraries or online at such sites as medscape.com (depending on the journal, they may charge a fee per article).  
  
• Try to find several studies on your subject of interest. Only multiple studies by unrelated, independent teams can fully substantiate the treatment's effectiveness. It is best to rely on the studies performed by the teams that are not affiliated with or funded by the pharmaceutical or skin care companies. Unfortunately, such studies are harder to come by in our market driven world.  
  

 

How to determine the value and credibility of a research study

Not all scientific studies are created equal: some deserve more credence than others. To distinguish among "the good, the bad and the ugly," we recommend the following.

• Look where a study has been published. The publication source should by no means be your only criterion. However, just as newspapers, TV shows or websites, not all scientific journals are created equal. Respectable peer reviewed journals (e.g. Nature, JAMA, Lancet, etc.) tend to be more rigorous in screening out flawed studies because their reputation is their main asset. Hence the studies they publish tend to be of better quality.
• Long-term studies are more valuable than the shorter ones. Some treatments work well in the short run but quickly lose their effectiveness or even lead to long-term damage. While a short-term study is better than nothing at all, the evidence of long-term benefits and safety (12 month or longer) is far more valuable.  
  
• Studies with larger number of participants tend to be more reliable since a larger sample provides more reliable statistics.
• Studies in cell tissue culture or animal models are far less reliable that those in human subjects. In most cases, an animal or tissue culture study is an indicator of whether a human study is worthwhile, but by no means the evidence that the treatment will work in humans too.
• Studies with better controls hold more value. The golden standard of medical research is a so-called randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study. In such a study the subjects are randomly assigned to two similar groups. One group gets an active treatment and the other, a.k.a. the control group, gets a placebo (hence the term placebo-controlled). Furthermore, neither the subjects nor the administering physicians know which batch has the active substance and which is a placebo (hence double-blind). In the studies of topical skin treatments, for example, the placebo may be the base cream (i.e. inactive ingredients mixed together). Notably, many skin care studies use each subject as her own control by applying different agents (e.g. wrinkle cream vs inactive base cream) to different sides of the face. However, this tends to be less reliable because the subjects often have to apply the treatment themselves and may confuse or forget the application rules. Unfortunately, randomized double-blind placebo-controlled studies are relatively rare in skin care research because they are costly and harder to perform properly.  
  
• Studies with a thorough statistical analysis of results tend to be more reliable. Imagine that we have just finished a study and observed some effect, such as improved skin elasticity. How do we know that this is a real effect rather than a transient natural fluctuation in people's skin properties or a measurement error? Statistics to the rescue! It turns out that statistical methods allow us to estimate the probability (p) that the observed effect resulted from random fluctuations or errors rather than biological activity of the treatment. The smaller the p, the more reliable the result. You should give more credence to the studies where such probability is less than 5% (p < 0.05) or, even better, less than 1% (p < 0.01). Whenever the researches confirm their results with a rigorous statistical analysis they almost always include that value of p in the abstract of the article. Hence if the abstract does not include the value of p, chances are that such analysis has not been done (or perhaps it was, but didn't come out favorably).  
  
 


This article is by no means an exhaustive tutorial on how to interpret scientific research and distinguish between reliable evidence and junk science. In fact, a comprehensive discussion of this issue would take a sizeable book. While the first-hand analysis of research can give you an edge in your quest for the truth, it is no simple matter and should be done carefully and thoroughly. When deriving conclusions, one should take into account the limitations of both the research itself and one's expertise in interpreting it.  
www.thebeautybrains.com – 7-10-07

Why Smashbox Should Be Ashamed of O-Glow Blush

Tamara’s Intrigued: Smashbox’s O-Glow gel claims to generate a natural blushing effect by stimulating skin circulation. I’m intrigued, but the thought of intentionally inflaming my cheeks with a foreign substance strikes me as a bit weird. Does this really work? The Right Brain Blushes:

Let’s take a look, shall we? According to Smashbox: “This revolutionary silicone-based clear gel works on every skin tone and is microcirculating and skin energizing to keep cheeks naturally flushed for hours.” O-Glow does change to a pink color, but not for the reasons Smashbox gives us. We captured our evaluation of this product in the following pictures:

Picture #1 shows that O-Glow is a clear, colorless gel when it comes out of the tube.

In Picture #2 you see that when rubbed on your cheek, it does turn from colorless to a lovely shade of pink. But is a “micro-circulatory effect” really causing the color?

Picture #3 has the answer: the product changes color even when it’s applied to a piece of white paper. Since paper doesn’t have blood vessels, it’s obvious that the effect has nothing to do with the circulatory system.

So how does it change color? Could it be the Red Dye #27 that’s listed as one of the ingredients? Yep. I’ll spare you the gory chemical details but essentially the red dye is colorless when dissolved in a waterless base. When it comes in contact with moisture, the change in solubility and pH causes the dye to turn bright pink. That moisture can come from your skin, or even just the humidity in the air. So really, this product uses a dye to stain your cheeks just like any other blush.

While we appreciate the clever formulation work required to make a color changing product, we say shame on Smashbox for presenting it in such a misleading way. It’s a cool gimmick, but this product does

NOT do what they say it does.