Skin for Science

I've embarked on a new adventure as a human guinea pig for a facial cleanser study. Have you ever "participated" in one of these? Well, I hadn't and thought it would be interesting. Since I studied marketing, there's a good chance I'll soon be working for a firm that would render me unable to do one of these, and I really wanted to be on this side of the lab bench before I get to the office.



My first impression: I am disheartened that the study "assistants" have no idea what half the things in my current skincare regime are. (OK, granted, half my product labels are in Sanskrit, but really you've never heard of Coconut oil or MAC?)

First encounter: The cleanser smells and feels like dish detergent. I am wrecking my skin for science? Oh, I'm scared.

Wash-rinse-repeat offender: Its not so bad. I wash my face in a bathroom with a 2-way mirror, then an adorable old Chinese guy then prods me with this thing that resembles the old Star Trek tri-corder. cool. I go home and basically just do what I do, just without my beloved Cetaphil.

The honeymoon is OVER: week 2; OMG. My face has turned into lizard skin. I have also confirmed my suspicions about the scent. Its the exact same one that AMC movie theatre has in the ladies washroom hand soap. Oh, I feel cheap! Help!

Beauty school dropout?: The staff have noticed my discomfort and asked if I still want to participate. Yes, I will suck it up for science. My boyfriend has agreed to put up with lizard-face IF I put the proceeds toward a fabulous party for his birthday. Done and DONE. Don't threaten ME with a good time.

Show me the money!: Cetaphil, I love you so. I miss you and I promise never, ever to cheat on you again...even if they are paying me.