When purchasing a cosmetic product, do you ever flip the packaging over and glance at the ingredient list? If you do, you have most likely encountered a list full of Latin and chemical terms that is difficult to decipher. This list is known as the INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients), and knowing how to read it is of great importance for becoming an informed consumer.
What Is the INCI List?
INCI is a system in which the ingredients used in cosmetic products are named according to international standards. Under European Union regulations and cosmetics legislation, every cosmetic product is required to include this list on its packaging. This means that wherever you are in the world, you can read a product's contents using the same terminology.
How to Read the INCI List
Ingredients in the INCI list are written in descending order of concentration. This means that the substances at the top of the list are present in the highest amounts in the product. The first five ingredients largely determine the character of the product. Ingredients present at below one percent may be listed in any order.
Key Rules to Keep in Mind
- Plant-based ingredients are written using their Latin botanical names. For example, "Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice" is the leaf juice of the aloe vera plant.
- Chemical compounds are indicated by their English names. Names such as "Sodium Lauryl Sulfate" or "Tocopherol" fall into this category.
- Colourants are shown using CI (Colour Index) numbers. For example, "CI 77891" refers to titanium dioxide.
- Fragrances and scents are generally listed simply as "Parfum" or "Aroma". Allergenic components must, however, be listed separately.
Regulatory Changes in 2026
Following updated European Commission cosmetics regulations, as of 2026 it has become mandatory to add the notation (nano) next to ingredients containing nanomaterials. Additionally, the list of allergenic fragrance substances has been expanded to provide consumers with more comprehensive information. Regulatory updates are proceeding in parallel alignment with these changes.
Common Ingredients and What They Mean
| INCI Name | What It Is |
|---|---|
| Aqua | Water |
| Glycerin | Humectant / moisturising agent |
| Cetearyl Alcohol | Fatty alcohol, thickening agent |
| Hyaluronic Acid | Moisturiser, water-binding agent |
| Niacinamide | Vitamin B3 derivative |
| Retinol | Vitamin A derivative |
| Tocopherol | Vitamin E |
Tips for Becoming an Informed Consumer
When choosing a product, it is very important to focus on the INCI list rather than just the packaging design or marketing claims. Check whether the active ingredients suited to your skin type appear high enough on the list. If you are allergic to any substance, always inspect the INCI list of every product before purchasing.
Remember, an expensive product does not always mean better ingredients. Many affordable products can have dermatologically highly effective formulations. What matters is being able to read the label and select the product that meets your needs.
If you have any skin concerns or are unsure which ingredients are suitable for your skin, do not hesitate to seek guidance from a dermatologist or medical aesthetics specialist. At our clinic, we guide you in recommending products tailored to your individual skin analysis. Contact us for pricing information on personalised consultations.
This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified physician for treatment decisions.