Methodology and limitations

Ingredient comparisons

The original analysis used hierarchical clustering to discover broad groups of ingredient-similar products. The current recommendation layer compares each selected product directly with eligible candidates, rejecting incompatible product formats before scoring formula, active, functional, and ingredient-order overlap.

The displayed weighted match score is a model score scaled to a percentage for readability. It is not the literal percentage of identical ingredients and should not be interpreted as a probability of equivalent performance.

Ingredient lists do not reveal every formulation detail. Similarity does not prove equal concentration, stability, delivery system, texture, clinical performance, safety, or tolerability.

Price and value

When package volume is recoverable for both products, value is compared using Canadian dollars per 100 mL. A candidate must have a lower normalized unit price to qualify as better value. When either package size is missing, Dupefindr may show a clearly labelled, lower-confidence package-price comparison instead; that is not a per-mL savings claim.

Normalization and review

Product names and ingredient aliases are standardized before comparison. Recommendations are limited to the strongest candidates and labelled Strong, Promising, or Exploratory. These tiers describe model evidence, not clinical equivalence or the probability that a product will work for a particular person.

Independence and commercial disclosures

Any future affiliate relationship, sponsorship, or paid brand analysis will be disclosed and kept separate from recommendation quality. A higher commission must never improve a product's similarity ranking.

Research, not medical advice

Dupefindr supports product research and does not diagnose conditions or replace professional medical guidance. People with allergies, persistent irritation, or medical concerns should consult a qualified professional and verify current product information.