What Does a Skincare Claim Actually Tell You?

Start With the Exact Words

A useful way to read a skincare claim is to ask three questions: What is being said? What does it apply to? What information supports it? A statement about the origin of one oil answers a different question from a statement about a finished formula.

In the United States, FDA explains that cosmetic labeling claims must be truthful and not misleading. FDA does not maintain a list of approved cosmetic claims or approve cosmetic labeling before products reach the market. A claim appearing on a package therefore does not indicate FDA approval.

Sources: FDA: Cosmetics Labeling Claims

TSB perspective

Follow the Claim to Its Subject

Consider an illustrative statement: “Made with organic jojoba oil.” In TSB’s review framework, the organic representation would need to be connected to the named oil and the submitted product. It would not, by itself, establish that the whole formula is certified organic.

The same approach helps with sourcing and processing language. Identify the ingredient, the supplier or producer, the relevant process, and the product to which the records relate. A certificate’s title alone is not the full explanation of its coverage.

Sources: The Skincare Bureau: Our Standards

TSB perspective

What TSB Verification Adds

The Skincare Bureau reviews documentation supporting eligible claims. Our process compares ingredient disclosure, label and packaging, applicable website claims, and supporting records. Brands must account for all eligible claims used to market the submitted product; they cannot select only one for licensing while leaving other eligible claims unaddressed.

TSB verification is limited to the claims and scope in a current Public Verification Record. It is not a product safety rating, a clinical finding, or a recommendation that a product will suit your skin. TSB offers paid review and licensing services; payment does not guarantee approval.

Sources: The Skincare Bureau: Our Standards · The Skincare Bureau: The Process

TSB perspective

When No Public Record Appears

No Public TSB Verified Record Found means the lookup did not match a current record. Participation is voluntary, and matching or catalog coverage may be incomplete. That result does not establish that a product is unsafe, that a claim is false, or that a brand lacks supporting documentation.

When a record is available, check the exact product, the claims reviewed, their scope, and the current status. Those details make the record useful.

Sources: The Skincare Bureau: How the Claim Checker Works