[poll results] What's Your Primary Consideration When Designing a Lab Experiment?

female caucasian chemist studing samples in lab under microscope
Image by StockPhotoPro at Adobe Stock

We mentioned last week that years ago, Johann Wiechers, Ph.D., wrote, "We all know how data are 'massaged,' not only in the cosmetic industry but everywhere. You and I will always aim to portray ourselves or our data in the best possible way. But you pass the line when you make things up or deny things when asked."

He added, "I have sufficient evidence of our industry not telling 'the other side of the coin,' but no evidence whatsoever of consistently abandoning the rules of science to lead to the desired outcome." 

With this reminder of the potential for scientific bias, C&T asked cosmetic scientists how they design lab experiments: to minimize variables for clearer results, replicate real-world conditions or maximize data collection and insights. Here's what you said.

Results

  • Minimizing variables for clearer results 44%
  • Replicating real-world conditions 36%
  • Maximizing data collection and insights 20%

Thank you for participating - be sure to check back on Tuesdays for our latest poll!

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