CONCERN-FIRST GUIDE
Skin Concern Guide
You've used a $100 serum for three months. But looking in the mirror, no difference. "Would an even more expensive one work?"
Serum price and effectiveness don't necessarily correlate. Here's why, from a formulation perspective.
Four components: raw materials (10-20%), packaging (15-25%), marketing (30-50%), distribution (20-30%).
Only about $10-20 of a $100 serum goes to what's inside. The rest covers designer bottles, celebrity endorsements, and retail real estate.
Reason 1: Active ingredient concentration too low — Niacinamide shows results at 2-5%, but can be listed at 0.1%.
Reason 2: Doesn't match your concern — Many "anti-aging" serums focus on peptides, but your skin might need barrier repair first.
Reason 3: Unrealistic expectations — Cosmetics primarily act on the stratum corneum. At least 2-3 months of consistent use is needed.
1. Look at "how much" not just "what" — Choose brands that disclose concentrations.
2. Identify your specific concern — Dryness? Loss of firmness? Dullness? Each requires different ingredients.
3. Judge by formulation, not price — What matters is whether ingredients your skin needs are at effective concentrations.
We believe every consumer deserves the information to judge by substance, not by price tag.
KAIAN develops evidence-based skincare products.
Feel free to reach out with questions about ingredients and formulations.
