There are an overwhelming number of anti-aging products on the market today, and unfortunately many of them can’t deliver on the promises they make. Thankfully, avoiding these scams isn’t as hard as it might seem—all it takes is a little common sense and a skeptical frame of mind. Here are a few tips that will keep you from getting duped by dishonest anti-aging products.
Read reviews.
While it’s never a good idea to believe everything you read on the Internet, looking at product reviews may be able to help you determine what works and what doesn’t. Instead of focusing on specific responses, look for trends among consumers—are the reviews mostly positive or mostly negative? Are there any particular aspects of the product that keep getting mentioned? Finding a product with multiple good reviews doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll have success with it, but it can be a good way to get an initial feel.
Try it before you buy it.
If possible, always try a sample before making any big purchases. If a company is confident enough to let you try its anti-aging product before you buy it, it shows that the company at least has some confidence in its effectiveness. Additionally, samples will let you see how your skin reacts—so you won’t end up with a huge bill and a product you’re allergic to.
Trust your gut.
It may cliché, but if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. No one is surprised to learn that there are companies out there looking to scam unsuspecting customers, especially in the cosmetics business, so use some common sense when checking out anti-aging products. Anything offering a quick fix or outrageously great results should be treated with suspicion.
Consider the context.
Where you hear about a product can sometimes be just as important in determining its effectiveness as the claims its company is making. You should rightfully be more suspicious of an anti-aging “miracle cure” advertised in a late-night infomercial than one being studied in a dermatology magazine. When considering a purchase, take some time to think about where your information is coming from.
