A clinical trial compiles data to support efficacy claims by gathering a sample group of people to use the product and participate in scientific measurements. These tests assess changes in the skin’s hydration, water loss, elasticity, color, and more.

A study may also include before and after photography, as well as visual or tactile evaluations.

The terms “Clinical Trial” and “Clinical Study” are often used interchangeably in the skincare and over the counter (OTC) product world, for example, for acne, dandruff, eczema, or psoriasis treatments.

Note: Validated Claim Support does not conduct new drug research, or the riskier Phase I or Phase II drug trials often mentioned in the news. We primarily test skincare, makeup, and personal care products that are already marketed or have passed safety testing.

There are several great reasons to join a study:

• Your participation contributes to valuable scientific insights for future products.
• You get the chance to try new products and may see improvements in your skin.
• You’ll be fairly compensated for your time and feedback.

Yes.

You will be notified about studies you're qualified for, and participation is always voluntary.
You can’t necessarily hand-pick any study, but you'll never be placed in one you're not interested in.

You may be asked to test a range of topical products like moisturizers, lotions, creams, serums, masks, makeup, and more.

VCS also conducts studies on consumer devices, including those for hair regrowth, personal lubricants, and hair removal tools. We frequently test products within similar safety risk categories.

Yes.

We consider the safety of our panelists our number one priority. All products go through safety screening before being included in studies and irritation testing (where applicable).

Bioinstrumentation refers to the use of small, non-invasive probes that rest gently on the skin to measure changes like hydration or firmness. They feel similar to a fingertip touch and are no more invasive than a surface thermometer.

All instruments will be explained in full during the consent process.

Facial photographs taken at registration are for internal use only and will remain completely confidential. These will never be used for marketing unless you give explicit written consent.

In some cases, our sponsor companies may want to view photos of potential participants before placing a study. In such instances, VCS may share facial images—but not your medical or personal data.

VCS also conducts before and after photography for marketing purposes, but these are completely optional. If a study includes this type of photography, you’ll be asked to sign a photo release. Opting out will never count against you.

If you choose to opt-in, you may also receive additional compensation.

A few key requirements:

• Arrive at the lab with a clean, bare face—no makeup or leftover product from the day before.
• Be prepared to sit quietly in a rotating chair while the photographer captures 5–10 photos from multiple angles.
• Follow the photographer’s instructions closely for positioning and facial expression.

That depends on your schedule. Studies include pre-scheduled visits that are shared with you in advance, and most visits take 45 minutes or less. We do our best to accommodate each participant’s availability.

VCS is fully HIPAA compliant and has partnered with The Compliancy Group to ensure we maintain the highest level of protection for our panelists. Our database is maintained through a third-party system, DataCapt. Every staff member at VCS, whether on the clinical staff or admin, has full HIPAA training prior to beginning work.

Any personal and/or medical information that is obtained in relation to your participation in a study will be kept confidential by Validated Claim Support. Our records are uniquely coded to protect your identity. Apart from medical emergencies and adverse events, full HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) and FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) privacy measures will be in effect. Your information will only be shared internally on a secure server or with an IRB (Institutional Review Board), and consulting physician as necessary on a given study. Sponsors will not have access to any of your personal information such as your name, medical history, etc.

Additionally, VCS will use the medical information in its database so that VCS may be able to contact you to participate in more studies in the future. Thus, your authorization to VCS to utilize the medical data information you’ve given has no end date. You got the right to have this authorization revoked so long as VCS hasn’t already used or relied on the information you gave for a study. At your written request, VCS will not contact you for future studies.

Only employees who have signed a confidentiality agreement are allowed to access the database. VCS doesn’t sell the identifying information in the database. Even if you take back your consent to participate in this study the Use of Personal Information authorization will remain in effect. VCS will maintain your information on a secure server and will not disclose it outside of the conditions noted above.

Your health is our top priority. If you're feeling unwell, please call us right away at 201-331-9300, Prompt 0.

Yes!
We’re always running referral programs, which change depending on the season and current studies. It's especially exciting when our Product Insiders refer friends and family—we love growing our community through trusted referrals!

Right now, you’ll earn a $25 gift card for every friend you refer who completes their first study. And once you’ve referred 5 or more, you’ll be eligible for our exclusive Super Recruiter Program with additional perks and rewards.

For the most up-to-date referral promotions, text our Recruitment Team at 551-284-0239.

Your most sensitive information is handled with care and protected at every stage of the process.