We’ve all seen skincare products with “dermatologist-tested” and “dermatologist-approved” written on the packaging. But, what do they mean, and do they carry any weight? Both terms mean different things. However, it’s important to keep in mind that neither label is regulated or has a formal legal definition. Below, you can learn more about what both labels mean, and how you can choose the right skincare products for you.
What Does Dermatologist-Tested Mean?
If a product has “dermatologist-tested” written on the packaging, that means it was tested for skin tone, skin sensitivity, safety, or some other quality. It doesn’t mean that the product met a specific standard for the feature it was tested for — it just means that it was tested. If you’re considering a product that was “dermatologist-tested,” you can reach out to the brand for more information about the testing process.
What Does Dermatologist-Approved Mean?
A “dermatologist-approved” skincare product is a product that a doctor or group of doctors would recommend to their patients and consumers. Although dermatologist-approved is considered more meaningful than dermatologist-tested, that doesn’t mean that an approved product is a good choice for all consumers. It just means that one or more doctors gave their opinion of the product. Again, you can reach out to the brand for more information about the product’s approval.
Which Should You Choose?
Experts aren’t fully convinced that either term gives consumers any information about a product. Both terms are non-specific. They don’t clarify what feature was tested or the circumstances of a product’s approval. These terms mostly exist to give credibility to the brand and its products. Whether a product says “dermatologist-tested” or “dermatologist-approved,” ask your dermatologist for advice. They can provide more information about what’s safe and effective for your skin type.
Learn More About Skin Care with GentleCure
At the end of the day, your dermatologist is your trusted source of information when it comes to taking care of your skin. Choosing the right skincare products, such as sunscreen, and completing regular skin cancer screenings through your dermatologist can help keep your skin healthier for longer. Contact us online or call us to speak with our skin cancer information specialists if you have questions.
