Responsible Testing + Clinical Validation
We partner with independent consumer research firms for product testing and perception studies, accredited clinical labs for before/after evaluations, and practicing estheticians for real treatment-room validation.
All Bioelements formulas undergo foundational safety and stability testing. Select formulas also undergo advanced performance and perception studies.
Foundational Safety + Stability Tests
Bioelements formulas undergo the following foundational tests
1. human repeat insult patch tests
A standard clinical safety test used to evaluate and confirm whether a product is likely to cause skin irritation or allergic sensitization with repeated use. This study is reviewed and signed off on by a dermatologist.
2. challenge testing
Evaluates the effectiveness of a formula's preservative system against pathogens over time in formulas that contain water. For formulas that are anhydrous or have low or no water, water activity testing is conducted to predict the ability for bacteria, yeast or mold growth over time.
3. pH testing
Measures how acidic or alkaline a product is to ensure it’s safe, stable, and compatible with skin. Because skin naturally sits in a slightly acidic range, pH is a critical factor in barrier health, ingredient performance, product stability and tolerance.
4. viscosity testing
Tests a formula’s resistance to flow and shear. It’s a key test for performance and consistency.
5. organoleptic testing
Evaluates whether a product looks, smells, and feels the way it should, from first use through the end of its shelf life. It’s a core pillar of quality control to ensure a formula will not degrade, separate, or change in a way that could signal instability.
Consumer Perception Studies
(some formulas)
Bioelements commissions 3rd-party consumer perception experts to conduct structured studies on specific formulas, where real users test a product and share their experiences, impressions, and results. These studies capture how a product performs from the consumer’s point of view, rather than measuring clinical or biological changes. Studies involve a defined group of recruited consumers identified by age, gender, ethnicity, skin type, and/or skin concern. Participants use a formula over a set period of time, following strict usage guidelines and completing questionnaires at set intervals.
Before + After Studies
(some formulas)
Bioelements commissions 3rd-party before and after human studies that visually document changes in the skin after using a specific product over a set period of time. These tests show visual changes such as acne clearing, wrinkle reduction, evenness of skin tone, radiance or brightness, firmness or texture. Studies involve a defined group of recruited consumers identified by age, gender, ethnicity, skin type, and/or skin concern. Participants use a formula over a period of time, following strict usage guidelines. Participants are photographed under controlled lighting and positioning standards before starting product use, at determined intervals, and at the end of the trial.
Independent Ingredient Testing
(select ingredients/formulas)
We cite independent clinical evaluations for specific formulas, and clinical in-vitro and in-vivo testing to validate the claims of ingredients. These tests are not conducted or commissioned by Bioelements – they are provided to us by the ingredient source.
1. ingredient clinical evaluations
Structured assessments that examine how a specific ingredient performs under controlled conditions. They focus on safety, tolerance, and efficacy, before or as part of formulation into a final product.
2. in-vitro testing
Laboratory testing done outside of a living organism, using cells, tissues, or biochemical systems to evaluate an ingredient’s safety, activity, or benefits, without animal testing.
3. in-vivo testing
Evaluates how an ingredient behaves in real human biological systems. In-vivo testing measures actual skin responses, such as: hydration levels, firmness or elasticity, line appearance or texture change, irritation and tolerance, pigmentation or redness changes. These outcomes are measured on real skin using specialized instruments.
4. over the counter (OTC)Â
Several Bioelements formulas are classified as over-the-counter drugs, including broad-spectrum sunscreens (Raydefense + SPF 50 Facescreen) and acne formulations (Daily Meds, Spot Defy, Stage Fight). These are formulated with active ingredients that are strictly monitored and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). As OTC products, these formulas must meet FDA-established monographs, follow strict guidelines for active ingredients and concentrations, and undergo additional testing for safety, stability, labeling and performance. All OTC packaging includes a Drug Facts box and a printed expiration date per FDA regulations.
Transparent Claims
We only make product claims that are supported by clinical testing, consumer perception studies, or published ingredient research. We avoid hype, marketing shortcuts and undefined terms that create implied claims we cannot verify. Our approach aligns with FTC substantiation standards and the FDA’s Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA), reinforcing our commitment to accuracy, transparency and consumer trust.