REGIONAL EFFECT TEST

Regional Effect Test: Evaluating the Performance and Efficacy of Cosmetic Products on Specific Body Areas

A Regional Effect Test is a test conducted to evaluate the performance and efficacy of cosmetic products, especially those targeting effects such as regional slimming, cellulite reduction, firming, and tightening, on specific areas of the body. These tests generally focus on areas where regional fat accumulation and cellulite problems are common, such as the hips, thighs, legs, abdomen, and arms.

What are the Aims of a Regional Effect Test?

• Verify Product Efficacy: To scientifically prove whether the product provides the claimed effects such as regional slimming, firming, and cellulite reduction.

• Measure Changes in the Target Area: To objectively measure changes in parameters such as fat tissue, skin firmness, skin smoothness, and cellulite appearance in the area where the product is applied.

• Evaluate Product Performance: To determine the effectiveness of the product in the application area and to evaluate its performance compared to competitors.

• Understand Consumer Perception: To understand consumers' satisfaction level and their perception of the product after use (usually through questionnaires).

• Safety Assessment: To observe whether the product causes any side effects or adverse reactions in regional application.
  
  

How is a Regional Effect Test Conducted?

Regional effect tests are generally carried out within a protocol that includes both instrumental measurements and subjective evaluations (questionnaire). A typical regional effect test includes the following steps:

• Subject Selection: Volunteers who are suitable for the target audience of the product to be tested and meet certain criteria (age, gender, body mass index, cellulite grade, etc.) are selected. Groups of 25-30 subjects are generally preferred.

• Baseline Assessment: The areas of the subjects to be tested (hips, thighs, legs, abdomen, arms, etc.) are examined, and relevant parameters (circumference measurements, skin firmness, cellulite appearance, etc.) are measured and recorded using instrumental devices. High-resolution photographs can also be taken.

• Product Application: Subjects regularly apply the product to the target areas according to the instructions for use for a specified period (usually 4-8 weeks).

• Interim Evaluations: Interim evaluations are made at certain intervals during the test period (for example, in the 2nd and 4th weeks). In these evaluations, both instrumental measurements are repeated and subjects' opinions about the product are collected.

• Final Evaluation: At the end of the test period, final measurements are taken, and subjects are asked to complete a questionnaire that evaluates their overall satisfaction level and perceptions of the product.

• Data Analysis and Reporting: All data obtained (measurements, photographs, questionnaire results) are analyzed using statistical methods, and the results are presented in a detailed report.

Instrumental Measurement Methods Used in Regional Effect Tests:

• Circumference Measurements: Circumference measurements of the target areas are taken (in cm) using a measuring tape.
  
  

• Skin Firmness Measurement: Skin elasticity and firmness are measured using devices such as the Cutometer.
  
  

• Ultrasonography: Can be used to evaluate the thickness and structure of fat tissue.
  
  

• 3D Imaging Systems: Devices such as Vectra 3D and Antera 3D can be used to analyze changes in body contour and skin surface in three dimensions.
  
  

• Cellulite Grading: The severity and appearance of cellulite are evaluated using the Nürnberger-Müller Scale or with the help of devices like the Visioline.
  
  

• Objective Image Analysis: Parameters such as cellulite appearance, skin roughness, and orange peel effect can be analyzed from high-resolution photographs.