Before-and-after images are a common marketing tool used by skincare brands to showcase the effectiveness of their products. These side-by-side comparisons often promise dramatic transformations, convincing consumers that a particular cream, serum, or treatment will deliver miraculous results. However, these images can be highly misleading due to various manipulative tactics. Below are the key reasons why consumers should be skeptical of such advertisements.
1. Variations in Lighting and Angles One of the most common ways before-and-after images are manipulated is through changes in lighting and camera angles. A dull, unflattering light in the “before” image can make skin imperfections appear more pronounced, while the “after” image is taken under bright, even lighting that smooths out the skin and makes it appear more radiant. Different angles can also alter the way facial features look, making fine lines and blemishes seem more or less noticeable.
2. Differences in Facial Expression Facial expression plays a huge role in how skin appears. Many “before” images show subjects with neutral or even frowning expressions, making wrinkles, under-eye bags, and other signs of aging more visible. In contrast, “after” images often feature subjects who are smiling or posing in a way that naturally lifts the face, making the skin look firmer and more youthful.
3. Temporary Effects and Skincare Routines Many skincare brands do not disclose the full details of their testing process. Subjects in “after” photos may have undergone multiple skincare treatments beyond the single product being advertised. Additionally, the effects shown may be temporary. Hydration, for instance, can plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines, but these results often fade quickly once the skin returns to its natural state.
4. Makeup and Retouching Some brands enhance “after” images with subtle makeup applications, such as using foundation, highlighter, or concealer to create an even complexion. Digital retouching is another deceptive practice, where blemishes, wrinkles, and redness are reduced or removed entirely using photo-editing software. This creates unrealistic expectations that no skincare product alone can fulfill.
5. Selection Bias and Misleading Timeframes Skincare brands often select only the best results to display in advertisements, ignoring cases where the product had little or no effect. Additionally, timeframes between before-and-after images can be misleading. Some images are taken weeks or months apart, allowing natural factors like better sleep, diet, or overall health improvements to influence the results.
Conclusion While some skincare products genuinely improve skin health, consumers should approach before-and-after images with skepticism. Lighting, angles, facial expressions, makeup, retouching, and selection bias all contribute to a misleading portrayal of results. The best way to evaluate a skincare product is through independent reviews, ingredient research, and realistic expectations rather than trusting carefully curated advertising images.
As such, Esoterance avoids using before and after images, and let our customer reviews speak for themselves. Remember, while a product can have immediate results, full results can take up to two months to show.
