Navigating the world of skincare and cosmetics can be daunting, but understanding how to read a cosmetic label is a crucial step in making informed choices. By law, all skincare and cosmetic products must display key information, including the ingredients they contain. Here's how to decode those labels like a pro.
Understanding INCI: The Language of Ingredients
Ingredients are listed using the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) system. This ensures consistency and easy identification across products. Natural ingredients are specified in Latin, such as Simmondsia Chinensis (jojoba oil), often followed by the common name in brackets. Synthetic ingredients are listed by their INCI or chemical name, like Paraffinum.
Order of Ingredients: What It Means
Ingredients are listed in order of weight, from highest to lowest concentration. Those at the top of the list make up the majority of the product. You'll often find water (aqua) as a key component, especially in large-scale manufacturing, where stability is crucial to avoid batch variations. Products with plant oils are more concentrated and can be more effective.
Allergens and Natural Ingredients
Labels must specify any known allergens. Many natural essential oils contain allergens, noted separately from the main ingredient on the INCI list. An asterisk often indicates they are from natural sources. Examples include *citral, limonene, and linalool.
Shelf Life and Safety Symbols
Labels also indicate a "Best before the end of" date for products with a lifespan of fewer than 30 months or a "Period after opening" time for those lasting longer. If a product is flammable, like nail varnish, a flame symbol will be present.
By understanding these elements, you'll be better equipped to choose skincare products that align with your needs and values. For more detailed information about the ingredients we use and their benefits, visit our Ingredients Page.