top of page
Clinical trials and Research Blog
The Citruslabs blog covers all things clinical trial patient recruitment and retention as well as exciting news and developments in the medical research industry. Browse our recent posts or search for a topic you're interested in to learn more.
Search


Why Crossover Studies Deliver Clearer Results
Clinical trials are the gold standard for validating the safety and efficacy of skincare products and dietary supplements. Within this landscape, the crossover study design stands out for its unique ability to minimize variability and optimize study efficiency. In this blog post, we’ll explore what a crossover study is, how it works, and why it's particularly valuable for brands in the skincare and supplement industries. What is a Crossover Study? A crossover study is a type
Ben Brockman
2 days ago3 min read


How Dermatology Clinical Trials Prove Skincare Works
Walk down any skincare aisle, and you’ll see the same buzzwords everywhere, “clinically tested,” “proven results,” “dermatologist-approved.” But with so many products making big promises, how do you know which ones actually deliver? That’s where dermatology clinical trials come in. These behind-the-scenes studies are the real reason some products earn trust while others fade fast. They’re how brands back up their claims and how consumers can feel confident that what you’re p
Ben Brockman
4 days ago3 min read


What is eCOA in Clinical Trials?
As wellness, skincare, and supplement brands increasingly invest in clinical trials to support their product claims, one term that's gaining traction is eCOA. But what exactly is eCOA in clinical trials, and why should brands in the beauty and wellness space care? Whether you're developing a new collagen supplement, a probiotic for pets, or a clinically backed moisturizer, understanding eCOA can help you enhance trial reliability, consumer trust, and marketing transparency. W
Ben Brockman
Dec 19, 20254 min read


What Brands Need to Know About Bioavailability Testing
When it comes to health and wellness products, formulation often steals the spotlight, but here's the real question: Is your product actually doing what it promises? It’s not just about what’s in your supplement or superfood blend, it’s about what actually makes it into the bloodstream. That’s where bioavailability testing steps in as a key component. This underutilized yet powerful tool can mean the difference between a good product and a great one that delivers measurable r
Ben Brockman
Dec 5, 20253 min read


The Power of Clinical Trials for CBD Claims
The CBD industry has seen explosive growth over the past few years, with consumers turning to cannabidiol products for everything from stress relief to skincare. But with this rapid rise has come an equally rapid influx of brands, many making bold promises with little scientific backing. In a space where consumer skepticism is high and regulatory clarity is low, clinical trials for CBD products have become one of the most powerful tools for standing out. These trials, partic
Ben Brockman
Dec 3, 20254 min read


Why Contaminant Testing Matters For CPG Brands
Brands today are under more pressure than ever to back up their “clean” and “safe” claims, not just to satisfy consumer demand, but to avoid regulatory consequences. From supplements to skincare to pet health products, even trace levels of contaminants like lead, arsenic, or bacteria can effective formulations. Worse, contaminants are often invisible until a third-party lab flags them. As product recalls and warning letters become more common in the wellness space, contamina
Ben Brockman
Dec 1, 20253 min read


How Quality Testing Can Elevate Your Nutraceutical Brand
Walk down any supplement aisle or scroll through your social feed, and you’ll see it: a tidal wave of wellness products claiming to boost immunity, improve focus, support gut health, or deliver glowing skin. But how many of those claims are actually backed by data? Today’s consumers are asking smarter questions, and they’re not satisfied with vague marketing speak. They want proof. That’s where nutraceuticals quality testing comes in. In an industry with thousands of competin
Ben Brockman
Nov 28, 20253 min read


Guide to Clinical Evidence for Pet Product Claims
These days, the pet aisle is packed with products claiming to support everything from digestion to joint health. But not all pet product claims are created equal, so how can you tell what really works? That’s where clinical evidence comes in. Pet product claims, whether for calming supplements, joint support, or shiny coat formulas, must be backed by real data to earn the trust of modern pet parents. Without scientific support, claims like “supports mobility” or “boosts immun
Ben Brockman
Nov 26, 20253 min read


The Growing Importance of Prevention Trials
In the evolving landscape of wellness and functional health, prevention trials are becoming a vital piece of the puzzle. Unlike treatment trials, which assess how a product alleviates existing symptoms, prevention trials aim to answer a more proactive question: Can this product reduce the risk of a condition ever occurring? Whether you’re marketing supplements, skincare products, superfoods, or pet health formulas, prevention trials offer a scientifically grounded path to pro
Ben Brockman
Nov 24, 20253 min read


Misleading Claims in the Wellness Industry
You’ve seen it before, a new supplement that promises to “reset your gut in 24 hours” or a serum that claims to “erase a decade of wrinkles overnight.” These flashy statements are often wrapped in scientific-sounding language and peppered with phrases like “clinically backed” or “proven formula.” But scratch beneath the surface, and you’ll often find a different story, one of misleading claims , vague evidence, and marketing spin. In an era where consumers crave both performa
Ben Brockman
Nov 17, 20253 min read


Why Good Manufacturing Practices are The Gold Standard for Product Safety
Imagine buying a skincare serum that claims to be "all-natural," only to find out it’s contaminated with harmful bacteria. Or a dietary supplement that promises high potency but delivers inconsistent results with each bottle. These are the kinds of risks Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) aim to eliminate. GMP guidelines ensure that products (whether supplements, cosmetics, or skincare) are manufactured under strict quality control measures, reducing the chances of contaminat
Ben Brockman
Nov 12, 20254 min read


How Telehealth is Revolutionizing Decentralized Clinical Trials
Decentralized clinical trials are redefining how research is conducted, bringing participation directly to people’s homes, and breaking down the traditional barriers of location, time, and access. At the heart of this transformation is telehealth: a powerful enabler of remote communication, monitoring, and data collection. In this article, we explore how telehealth is reshaping clinical trials, highlight its benefits and challenges, and examine what the future holds for this
Ben Brockman
Nov 7, 20254 min read


How Diverse Recruitment Transforms Clinical Trials
In today’s rapidly evolving wellness and consumer health landscape, representation isn’t just a value, it’s a vital part of credible research. Creating a truly impactful clinical trial starts with the people behind the data. As consumer health brands and wellness companies aim to serve broader audiences, ensuring diversity in participant recruitment is no longer optional, it’s essential. Inclusive research leads to more accurate results, stronger product claims, and a deeper
Ben Brockman
Nov 5, 20253 min read


How Allergy Patch Testing Protects Your Brand
In an industry where consumer trust hinges on product safety and transparency, allergy patch testing has become an essential tool for skincare and cosmetic brands. Whether you're launching a new moisturizer, serum, or natural deodorant, ensuring your product is dermatologically tested can significantly impact its credibility, and its success on the market. But what exactly is allergy patch testing, and how does it differ from other forms of clinical evaluation? Let’s break it
Ben Brockman
Oct 31, 20254 min read


The Role of Clinical Research Coordinators in Research Studies
Behind every well-run clinical trial is a skilled professional ensuring each step stays on track: the clinical research coordinator. These individuals are essential to the smooth and ethical operation of trials, managing everything from participant recruitment to regulatory compliance. Whether a trial is testing a new nutritional intervention, a medical device, or any product, clinical research coordinators are the ones translating complex protocols into well-executed studies
Ben Brockman
Oct 29, 20253 min read


Best Practices for Marketing a Formula Change
Formula changes are a natural part of product innovation, whether prompted by new ingredient research, evolving customer expectations, or sustainability goals. For consumer brands, especially in the supplement, skincare, and wellness spaces, these updates are an exciting opportunity to revitalize marketing campaigns. But they must be handled carefully. In this guide, we break down best practices for ethically and effectively marketing a formula change, including how to commun
Ben Brockman
Oct 24, 20254 min read


The Importance of 3rd Party Vitamin Testing: Ensuring Quality and Safety
In the world of dietary supplements, particularly vitamins, quality and safety are of the greatest importance. With an ever-growing market flooded with various brands and products, how can consumers be sure that the vitamins they purchase are both effective and safe? This is where 3rd party vitamin testing comes into play. This blog post will dive into the significance of 3rd party vitamin testing, how it works, and why it’s crucial for both consumers and brands. What is 3rd
Ben Brockman
Oct 17, 20253 min read


How to Boost Site Engagement in Clinical Trials
Site engagement in clinical trials isn't just a buzzword, it’s the backbone of trial success. For sponsors and CROs, maintaining strong, collaborative relationships with sites is essential for maximizing patient recruitment, retention, and data quality. Now, with decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) and digital solutions on the rise, the landscape of site engagement is rapidly evolving. Let’s explore how technology and strategic collaboration can reinvent how sponsors and si
Ben Brockman
Oct 15, 20253 min read


What Is a Feasibility Study in Clinical Trials
Before you ever recruit a participant or collect a data point, there’s one critical step that sets your clinical trial up for success:...
Ben Brockman
Oct 13, 20253 min read


How Cosmetic Regulations Impact Your Products
When you swipe on lipstick or apply a soothing serum, cosmetic regulations might be the last thing on your mind. Yet, behind every beauty...
Ben Brockman
Oct 10, 20254 min read
bottom of page
