How To Compare Skin Creams

Every skincare cream product offers something different, such as different ingredients and price points. If you're having trouble choosing which skincare product to buy, it's understandable; a quick jaunt down any skincare aisle in the store reveals dozens or even hundreds of products for sale. Don't let the choices overwhelm you. Several comparison guidelines established by skincare testers and dermatologists can help you narrow your choices and pick the cream that's best for your skin.

Step 1

Pick a single skincare concern, recommends the American Academy of Dermatology, then identify which creams come formulated to target that specific concern. For example, your concern might wrinkles or age spots. The academy warns that multi-purpose creams often don't work the most effectively, or can cause unneeded irritation.

Step 2

Read the ingredients list and make sure the skincare product has a proven active ingredient. For anti-aging, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests looking for ingredients such as beta or alpha hydroxy acids, retinoids or peptides. For simple moisturizing, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends using something with humectants such as glycerin.

Step 3

Avoid any skincare product that lists a skin irritant in its ingredients list, advises Paula Begoun, a skincare tester and author of "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me." Common irritants that you'll often see in skincare creams include alcohol, cinnamon and witch hazel, according to Begoun.

Step 4

Check the label to see whether the skincare cream has a sunscreen ingredient if you plan to wear it during the day, advises the American Academy of Dermatology. The academy states that sunscreen is the most beneficial ingredient for your skin. Begoun highlights effective sunscreen ingredients as including avobenzone, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Step 5

Compare the prices of the skincare creams only if they're equal in all other aspects. Price doesn't indicate quality or efficacy.

Tips and Warnings

When comparing creams, the American Academy of Dermatology advises consumers to shy away from trusting label promises like "all natural," "preservative free" and "clinically proven." The academy states that these claims are either false or misleading.