FAQ

WHAT IS A CLINICAL TRIAL / STUDY?

A clinical trial gathers data to help support efficacy claims by cosmetic brands, by gathering a sample population to use the product and participate in procedures such as bioinstrumentation to test the skin for changes in elasticity, heat, hydration, water loss, texture, and colour. A clinical trial can also include before and after photos as well as qualitative assessments, in the form of questionnaires.

IS THIS LEGITIMATE?

Totally! LSR and the clinical trials we perform are completely legitimate. We are an essential part of the research and development that goes into ensuring the efficacy and safety of the cosmetics we use.

I AM PREGNANT, CAN I PARTICIPATE?

No, you cannot participate. For safety reasons, pregnant or breastfeeding women are not permitted to participate in studies carried out at LSR.

I AM A MINOR, CAN I PARTICIPATE?

You may be eligible for some types of studies. HOWEVER, you must obtain your parents’ consent.

WHAT TYPES OF STUDIES ARE OFFERED AT LSR?

You can find all our current studies on our website.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS FOR PARTICIPATING IN A STUDY?

There are several benefits in participating in a study. First, your participation may contribute to valuable scientific knowledge for products that will be available on the market. You will have a better understanding of the condition of your skin, and perhaps learn how to improve it. You will have the opportunity to try out new products and may see an improvement in the appearance and condition of your skin. Additionally, you will be compensated for your time and opinion.

ARE THE PRODUCTS SAFE?

We consider the safety of our participants our top priority. Each product we test has been designed for consumer use and has undergone a regimen of safety testing and irritation testing (where applicable). We also receive a safety assessment form for each product we test.

DO I GET TO CHOOSE WHAT STUDIES TO PARTICIPATE IN?

You can express your interest to participate in any current study. We will let you know if you get enrolled. You will never have to participate in a study you are not interested in.

ARE APPOINTMENTS SCHEDULED EVENINGS AND/OR WEEKENDS?

Our offices are open Monday to Friday 9:00AM –3:00PM. In the unlikely event that a study will require out-of-office hours, our offices will open in the evenings or over weekends.

WHAT TYPE OF PRODUCTS WILL I TEST?

As of 2022, we only test topical cosmetic products, such as lotions, serums, oils, essences, moisturisers, make-up, cleansers, etc.

ARE THERE ANY HEALTH RISKS WHEN I PARTICIPATE IN A STUDY?

Studies carried out at LSR are the last step before the launch of products on the market. The safety of all product ingredients is an obligation that has been already verified by the product manufacturer.

It is possible that you may react and/or experience discomfort due to a tested product, especially since some studies intend to evaluate product tolerance. In this case, inform us immediately and we will determine if the product is responsible for the observed reactions. We will then proceed accordingly. The safety and well-being of participants is a priority for LSR.

CAN I PARTICIPATE IN MULTIPLE STUDIES SIMULTANEOUSLY?

We do not recommend participating in multiple studies simultaneously, even if product application sites are different. You must inform LSR if you are participating to another clinical study (medical, cosmetic, etc.) (in another testing laboratory).

HOW DO YOU PERFORM THESE TESTS?

We use small, non-invasive probes that rest gently on your skin. The probes are light and feel like the weight of your fingertip on your skin. We also use skin cameras to take detailed photographs of the test site.

I AM NOT A RESIDENT OF AUCKLAND. CAN I PARTICIPATE IN STUDIES?

To participate, it is recommended to live in the Auckland area since you must come to our office for each visit. However, LSR offers surveys / questionnaires that allow people living outside of Auckland to participate in certain tests. To enrol, please complete the online form on the web page, and tick AT HOME STUDY in the PREFERENCE option.

I HAVE A DERMATOLOGICAL CONDITION (DANDRUFFS, HAIR LOSS, PSORIASIS, ECZEMA, ACNE, etc.). CAN I STILL BECOME A PARTICIPANT?

Absolutely. During your sign-up process, indicate the type of condition that you have and any medications that you may be taking (with or without doctor prescription). This will help us to recruit you for studies based on your personal profile.

If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at trials@livingskinresearch.com