Understanding Cosmetic Ingredients: A Guide to INCI
What is INCI?
INCI stands for the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients. It's a standardized system used to list the ingredients in cosmetics, ensuring consistency across the European Union and beyond. Every cosmetic product sold in the EU must display its INCI list, usually in English or Latin.
Why Read and Analyze Cosmetic Ingredients?
Reading INCI lists empowers you to make informed choices about the products you use. It's easier than you think! Several apps, such as INCI Beauty, Cosmeticon, and Happy Rabbit, can help decipher ingredient names. Alternatively, you can learn to identify potentially harmful ingredients yourself.
Ingredients are listed in descending order of concentration, meaning the first ingredients are present in the highest amounts.
Pay close attention to auxiliary ingredients, colorants, fragrance compositions, and preservatives, as these may contain substances that could cause irritation or allergic reactions. This is especially important for those with allergies or sensitivities, or those seeking entirely natural products.
Preservatives in Natural Cosmetics
Even natural cosmetics often contain preservatives to prevent spoilage and microbial growth. Acceptable preservatives, such as Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Salicylate, and Benzyl Benzoate, are generally safe and offer antibacterial and antifungal properties, preventing the need for refrigeration.
Understanding INCI Ingredient Categories
- Base Ingredients: These are the solvents for other ingredients and appear at the beginning of the list. Common examples include fats, oils, hydrolates, or water.
- Active Ingredients: These provide the product's specific benefits, such as moisturizing or nourishing. Examples include acids, oils, proteins, vitamins, and extracts.
- Auxiliary Ingredients: This important category includes fragrances (often listed as "fragrance," "aroma," or "parfum," or a specific ingredient name), preservatives, emulsifiers, colorants, and more.
Ingredients to Avoid
While individual reactions vary, it's crucial to be aware of potentially harmful ingredients. Individuals with allergies, eczema, atopic dermatitis (AD), seborrheic dermatitis (SD), or other dermatological conditions may experience more frequent irritation or allergic reactions.
Choosing cosmetics with good INCI lists can significantly improve skin and hair health. For those with SD, consider our specialist Seborh three-product set designed to alleviate symptoms and regenerate the scalp. For those with AD, explore our high-quality Atopicin dermocosmetics range for comprehensive relief.
Conclusion
By understanding INCI lists, you can make informed choices and select products that best suit your needs. Take the time to check ingredient lists – it's a valuable step towards healthier skin and hair!
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