If your goal is to create research-backed claims for your products, it’s likely that you don’t need to invest in a long-term complicated clinical trial. Instead, there are faster, less cumbersome options that will create the health claims you’re after without breaking the bank. Today, we’ll overview some of the basic clinical study designs that are appropriate for many brands.
Beyond Randomized-Controlled Trials:
Another popular option for clinical research of this type is the cross-over study. Cross-over studies work by exposing two groups of participants to the same treatments but in different sequences. For instance, an AB/BA model might work by having group 1 use skincare item A for a month, and then skincare product B for another month. Group 2 will instead use skincare product B first and then A.
These can be a more cost-effective study option, as they allow for a smaller overall participant pool than a traditional single or double-blind study might require.
Single group studies:
One form of study design that is often overlooked is known as single-group studies. Here, your clinical trial will only have one group. This group is the intervention group. While you are not comparing your product to a control group (i.e. a pure control with no product or a placebo group), you can still measure if your product works. For example, you can use blood tests, skin grading, or validated questionnaires (whatever fits the needs of your clinical trial) to get the results and data you need. Especially if the goal of your study is to create claims, single-group studies are usually sufficient.
Which study is right for my brand?
In order to decide on a study design, it’s best to discuss all of your options with your research team. Your research team can either be in-house or outsourced. You should talk to different CROs to see which ones fit your needs and your budget. In these conversations, bring up your interest in discussing all of the different types of trials and study designs available to you, and get a few opinions on what will work best for your study and your budget.
The options discussed here are a great start but they are not an exhaustive list -- and all clinical trial designs will come with their own benefits, challenges, and price points.
Our team of experts will gladly walk you through the process, and if you decide to trust us with your research, we’ll make sure to find a study design that suits your needs. What’s more -- we’ll guide you through the whole trial process and handle everything from study design, all the way through to completion.
Want to create your own clinical trial?
Citruslabs provides a simple and affordable way to prove that your products actually work. At Citruslabs, we design a clinical trial that is right for you and your budget, so that you can start sharing research-backed product claims without spending a fortune. We offer the cohesive planning and management required to conduct successful clinical trials, from start to finish. Ready to get started? Let's talk! You can contact us here.