Core Viewpoint - The ongoing disputes regarding cosmetic ingredient content reflect a marketing battle driven by single-ingredient concept marketing [5] Group 1: Disputes and Detection Challenges - Recent controversies have arisen over the ingredient content in cosmetics, with brands like Han Shu and Ke Fu Mei facing scrutiny in 2025 due to differing detection results from various institutions [2] - The complexity of cosmetic formulations leads to varying detection results, influenced by the matrix of ingredients and the methods used for testing [6] - The lack of standardized testing methods contributes to discrepancies in results, with some institutions using inappropriate methods that amplify result deviations [6] Group 2: Consumer Trust and Understanding - Consumers are left confused by conflicting information, raising questions about the precision of ingredient content detection and the significance of small variations in ingredient amounts [3][11] - The rise of ingredient-conscious consumers has prompted brands to disclose more product information, making detection results a key factor in assessing product value [12][13] Group 3: Scientific and Regulatory Insights - The detection of active ingredients like peptides and proteins faces challenges due to their low concentrations and susceptibility to degradation during testing [7] - Current effective detection technologies, such as LC-MS/MS, provide high sensitivity and specificity, enabling accurate measurement of active ingredients [9] - The establishment of credible group standards requires a diverse range of stakeholders, including hospitals, research institutions, and regulatory bodies, to ensure transparency and inclusivity [16] Group 4: Recommendations for Industry Development - The industry should shift towards a foundation of skin science and evidence-based medicine, moving away from a focus solely on ingredient content [17] - Collaboration among regulatory bodies, research institutions, and companies is essential to integrate evidence-based logic into industry standards and practices [17]

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing disputes regarding cosmetic ingredient content highlight the complexities of ingredient testing and the challenges consumers face in discerning accurate information [1][2][3] Group 1: Disputes and Testing Challenges - Different testing institutions yield varying results for the same cosmetic ingredient, leading to consumer confusion and mistrust [2][4] - The complexity of cosmetic formulations, which often contain numerous ingredients, complicates the accuracy of testing results [4][5] - The lack of standardized testing methods contributes to discrepancies in results, as different institutions may use varying techniques and protocols [4][5][6] Group 2: Consumer Guidance and Industry Practices - Consumers are advised to prioritize testing institutions with recognized qualifications, such as CMA and CNAS, and to be cautious of unqualified third-party tests [7] - The impact of ingredient content variations can be significant, especially for active ingredients present in low concentrations, where small differences can affect efficacy [8][9] - The rise of ingredient-focused consumers has prompted brands to disclose more product information, making testing results a critical factor in product valuation [9][10] Group 3: Industry Development and Recommendations - The cosmetic industry is encouraged to adopt a foundation based on skin science and evidence-based practices to address the ongoing disputes and improve consumer communication [11][12][13] - Establishing a unified standard for ingredient testing that incorporates evidence-based data and involves diverse stakeholders is essential for enhancing credibility [12][13] - The industry must shift focus from mere ingredient content to the actual effects of ingredients on skin, ensuring that product efficacy and safety are prioritized [13]