When I hear television ads for skin care products that promise “younger, firmer skin in just 7 days”, I always cringe. It’s simply not possible. The only effect that can happen in just 7 days is that your skin is better moisturized. Well, the FDA has noticed this too, and recently warned L’Oreal / Lancome to alter some advertised claims about its anti-aging products, or face a suspension order.
The FDA issued a warning to L’Oreal / Lancome, about their claims that their products “boosts the activity of genes” or “stimulate cell regeneration to reconstruct skin to a denser quality”. If these were actually true, the products would have to be re-classified as “drugs” rather than “cosmetics” – and this would require specific FDA drug approval. For example, this product, Genifique, is claimed to re-activate your youthful genes, and take the skin back in time. Hogwash!“The marketing of these products with these claims evidencing these intended uses violates the act,” said the FDA.
The products listed included: Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate, Eye Concentrate, Activating Cream Serum, and Activating Night Cream, Absolue Precious Cells Advanced Regenerating and Reconstructing Cream SPF 15 Sunscreen, Eye Cream, and Night Cream.
If the company does not co-operate, the FDA has the authority to either seize the offending products nationwide, or issue an order to prevent further sales of these products.
