The ingredients list is the most important part of the skincare label, but it can be hard to read, especially when it’s full of semi-pronounced words.
What do these words mean, and why is it so complicated?
What are we really looking at?
How are the ingredients list structured and displayed on your product?
It’s called the INCI or INCI list.
How do you know what to include and exclude from your skincare regimen?
With the best dermatologist in Bangalore, Skincell presents a quick overview of what you need to know to read and decode skincare labels.
- All about the INCI
The INCI is the global standard for declaring ingredients in cosmetic products. It is how ingredients are listed on the packaging of cosmetic products. Understanding the INCI and how it works is essential to understand the ingredients that comprise your favourite cosmetic products.
The INCI is a structured list of ingredients that follows a well-defined framework. It is a global standard that provides industry and consumers with a common understanding.
This is very useful when you are shopping for products in other countries.
INCI uses the scientific names of ingredients and the Latin names of plants.
- Order matters
The list of ingredients is in a specific order – the highest concentration first, followed by the lowest concentration. This does not apply to ingredients present in concentrations less than 1%. Ingredients do not necessarily need to be listed in that order.
It is important to note that the fact that an ingredient is not listed at the top does not mean that it is not relevant. Some ingredients work best at lower concentrations.
- Don’t be bogged down by complex-sounding ingredients
When you’re looking at an ingredient list, it can be easy to get lost in a sea of scientific jargon. But with a bit of research and practice, you’ll begin to see the big picture. Don’t be scared to be an ingredient sleuth – when you’re unsure, look it up! Still, if you have apprehension, consult the skin doctor at Skincell-the best skin clinic.
- Watch out for allergens
If your skin is sensitive or you have an allergy, it is important to check the allergens in a product. Allergens are listed at the bottom of ingredient lists and are indicated with an asterisk (*). Allergens are not necessarily harmful per se, but they should be taken into consideration. For example, natural plant oils contain naturally occurring plant allergens.
- Learn and do-little research; for INCI names
We all know that there are some ingredients that are and should be, a part of our daily skincare routine. For example, vitamin C and retinol (vitamin A) both have multiple versions and can be found in various strengths in the formulation of a product.
As consumers, it can often be difficult to determine which ingredients are best for us, and sometimes it can be a case of trial and error, as we may have an allergic reaction to a particular derivative, while someone else’s skin responds very well to the same product.
Cosmetic companies spend a significant amount of time and effort developing their messaging around products, star-active ingredients, and the outcomes they want to achieve for their consumers. Fortunately, it’s now easy to research your favourite cosmetic product online or directly contact the brand with any questions you may have.
Conclusion
Do you want to make sure you’re getting the most out of your skincare, but you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the information on the pack? We at Skincell get it, beauty product labels can be a bit overwhelming. There are so many words, and so many symbols, and don’t even get us started on ingredient lists. It’s a minefield. But don’t worry, Skincell is here to help.
