We read the
studies so you
don’t have to.
Beautix started because we got tired of influencer “routines” that mixed AHAs with retinoids and called it “layering.” We’re not dermatologists. We’re ingredient nerds with pH strips and too much time on our hands.
Verified
The skincare industry spends billions convincing you that water + glycerin = “hydration technology.”
We Show Our Work
Every product review includes pH measurements, INCI analysis, and specific timeframes. “It works” means nothing without “how we tested” and “how long we tested.”
4 Weeks Minimum
Cell turnover takes 28 days. Claiming a serum “transformed” skin in a week is marketing, not dermatology. We test for the full cycle, sometimes longer for actives like retinoids.
Ingredients Over Brands
We don’t care if a brand is “clean” or “clinical.” We care if L-Ascorbic Acid is at the right pH, if Niacinamide is at 5%, and if the formula is stable enough to do anything.
How we actually
evaluate products.
We developed this protocol after realizing most reviews are written after 3 days of use. That’s not testing—that’s first impressions. Here’s what we do instead.
Initial Analysis
Day 0Before anything touches skin, we analyze the formula. Full INCI breakdown, pH measurement, cross-reference with known irritants and fungal acne triggers.
- pH strip test (target ranges vary by product)
- INCI position analysis (first 5 = base formula)
- Folliculitis trigger check
Patch Testing
Days 1-3Applied to a small area (typically behind ear or inner arm) to check for immediate reactions. Sensitizing ingredients can take 24-72 hours to manifest.
- 24-hour irritation check
- 48-hour sensitization check
- Photographed documentation
Integration Phase
Weeks 1-2Product introduced to full routine. For actives, we start at reduced frequency (every 3rd night for retinoids, for example) and increase based on tolerance.
- Layering compatibility tested
- Application notes (texture, absorption)
- Daily skin status logging
Full Evaluation
Weeks 3-8+Minimum 4 weeks of consistent use. Retinoids and anti-aging claims require 8-12 weeks. We photograph weekly under consistent lighting to track actual changes.
- Weekly progress photos
- Before/after comparison
- Long-term stability check
A Note on Affiliate Links
Transparency isn’t optional. Here’s how we operate.
Yes, we use affiliate links. When you purchase a product through our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This is how we fund testing supplies, pH strips, and the occasional backup bottle when we oxidize a Vitamin C serum.
No, affiliate relationships don’t influence our reviews. We’ve given negative reviews to products from programs that pay higher commissions. We’ve recommended products that have no affiliate program at all. The formula is what matters.
We never accept payment for reviews. Brands can’t pay for a positive write-up. They can send products for testing, but we disclose when they do, and we’ve returned plenty with a “no thank you.”
If you trust our methodology and want to support the site, using our links is appreciated. If you don’t, buy elsewhere—we’ll still give you the same information.