In here, what is it? Why is it essential for your cosmetics?

In this case, what, in the world of cosmetics, you may have already noticed a complex list of ingredients on the labels of your favorite products.

These mysterious codes are in fact an essential part of the beauty care industry: INCI.

If you've ever wondered what this term means and why it's crucial to know it, you're in the right place!

In this article, we will explain in detail what the INCI is and why it is so important to understand it to take care of your skin and hair.

What's In here?

INCI means « International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients », which translates into French by « International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients ».

It is a standardized system for naming ingredients used in cosmetic products around the world.

This standard makes the composition of products more accessible and understandable to consumers, regardless of their language.

What is the structure of the Inci?

INCI follows a well-defined structure for each cosmetic ingredient. Each name has several parts:

1. Prefix: It indicates the botanical or chemical name of the ingredient.
2. Radical: It is a descriptive part that provides additional information on the composition or function of the ingredient.
3. Suffix: It refers to the category of ingredient, indicating whether it is an acid, a surfactant, an emollient, etc.

What's the prefix here?

The prefix in INCI is the first element of the cosmetic ingredient name and usually indicates the botanical or chemical name of the substance used.

It is often the scientific name of the plant where the ingredient comes from. The part extracted from the plant.

However, in the case of synthetic ingredients, the prefix may be a chemical name or code number.

It is essential to understand that the prefix does not always provide detailed information about the source or quality of the ingredient. It is mainly used to uniquely identify it in the INCI list.

Examples of prefixes:

• « Aloe Barbados » : It is a plant known for its soothing and moisturizing properties. Daloes gel is used in skin and hair care products.
• « Rosa Damascena » : It represents Damascus rose, a variety of roses commonly used for its aromatic properties in perfumery and care products.
• « Brassica campestris » is the botanical name of the rapeseed plant. INCI uses this prefix to uniquely identify rapeseed oil in the cosmetic ingredient list.

Radical.

It is the part of the INCI name that follows the prefix, and provides additional information on the composition or function of the ingredient.

Radicals may describe the type of acid, diester, polymer, derivative or other important characteristics of the ingredient.

Examples of radicals:

• « Acid » This radical indicates the presence of an acid in the ingredient, for example « Salicylic Acid » (salicylic acid), known for its exfoliating and anti-acne properties.
• « Oil » : Radical « Oil » usually represents oil extracted from a plant or other type of ingredient, such as « Olea Europaea Oil » (olive oil).
• « Glycol » This radical is commonly used to designate glycols used as moisturizing and emollient agents, for example « Propylene Glycol ».
• « Extract » : Radical « Extract » indicates that the ingredient is a substance extracted from a plant or natural source. For example, « Camellia Sinensis Extract » (green tea extract).
• « Sodium » This radical means that oil has been transformed into soap. Sodium rapsedate means that it contains rapeseed oil converted into glycerin and soap.

It is important to note that some ingredients may combine several prefixes and radicals, which may make their INCI name more complex.

However, by understanding these basic elements, you will be better equipped to decipher labels and identify key ingredients in your cosmetic products.

Keep in mind that INCIs do not always provide information about the source (natural or synthetic) of the ingredients or their quality, but they nevertheless provide an essential basis for understanding the composition of the products you use.

Why is it essential to understand the Here?

Understanding INCI is a valuable skill for consumers concerned with their health and well-being. The following are some of the reasons why familiarization with these codes is essential:

1. Transparency of ingredients : L的INCI offers full transparency on the components of a cosmetic product. This allows you to know exactly what ingredients you apply to your skin or hair.

2. Avoid allergens : By knowing INCI, you can identify the ingredients to which you are allergic and thus avoid products that may cause adverse reactions.

3. Choose suitable products : By deciphering the INCI, you can select products that specifically meet your beauty care needs and preferences.

4. Avoid controversial ingredients : The INCI allows you to identify certain controversial or potentially harmful ingredients, such as parabens or sulphates, and to avoid them consciously.

5. Making responsible choices : By understanding the ingredients used in cosmetic products, you can make more responsible choices for your health and the environment.

The Inci to avoid in your cosmetics, what is it?

It is important to note that cosmetic ingredients may be very diverse and their safety or hazard often depends on their concentration in the product. But also their combination with other ingredients.

However, some ingredients are of concern. Some people should avoid them because of allergic reactions or potentially harmful long-term effects.

Here is a list of INCI ingredients commonly cited as controversial, with their translation into French:

Parabens (parabens)

INCI: Methylparaben, Propylparaben
Parabens are conservatives. They are used to prevent bacterial contamination of cosmetic products. They are active in hormonal disturbances. They should be avoided because of concerns about their potential estrogenic effect.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (Laurylated Sodium Sulfate)

INCI: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Parabens are preservatives. It is used to prevent bacterial contamination of cosmetic products. They have been associated with hormonal disturbances and are often avoided due to concerns about their potential estrogenic effect.

SLS is a surfactant commonly used in foaming products such as shower gels and shampoos. It can be irritating to skin and eyes, especially in people with sensitive skin.

Formaldehyde (Formaldehyde)

INCI: Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a potent preservative and has been classified as a human carcinogen by the International Cancer Research Centre (IARC). It is prohibited in many countries for use in cosmetic products.

Phthalates (Phtalates) –

INCI: Diethyl Phthalate (DEP), Di-n-butyl Phthalate (DBP)

Phthalates are plasticizers used in softening products. It also fixes perfumes. Some phthalates have been associated with hormonal disturbances and reproductive effects.

BHA (Butylhydroxyanisole)

INCI: Butylhydroxyanisole (BHA)
BHA is a synthetic antioxidant. It is found in cosmetic products to prevent oxidation. It's a possible endocrine disruptor.

Triclosan

INCI: Triclosan
Triclosan is an antibacterial agent. It is part of the composition of certain personal hygiene products. It has been linked to environmental problems and concerns regarding the development of antibiotic resistance.

Oxybenzone (Oxybenzone)

INCI: Benzophenone-3 (Oxybenzone)
L-oxybenzone is a solar filter. It is commonly used in sunscreen products. It's a hormonal disruptor. It causes potential damage to marine ecosystems.

Silicones

INCI: Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone
Silicones are common ingredients in hair care and makeup products. Although not necessarily harmful, some people prefer to avoid them because of their synthetic nature and potential impact on the environment.

It is important to remember that each person reacts differently to cosmetic ingredients, and what may be problematic for some people will not necessarily be problematic for others.

Before avoiding a specific ingredient, it is always wise to consult a health care professional or do a skin sensitivity test to avoid any adverse reactions.

Why you only need to buy products with Inci?

It is essential to purchase cosmetic products that include an International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) for several important reasons:

• Transparency of ingredients : L It allows consumers to know precisely the ingredients in a given product.

• Avoid allergens and irritants : By reading the INCI, you can identify potentially allergenic or irritating ingredients for your skin.

• Understanding the benefits of products : L Recognizing beneficial active ingredients. you can choose products that meet your needs.

• Preventing controversial ingredients : L This gives you the opportunity to consciously avoid these ingredients and to favour safer alternatives.

• Facilitate comparison of products : With INCI you can easily compare the composition of different similar cosmetic products. You can choose the one that best suits your preferences and values, whether natural, organic or synthetic.

• Health and environmental protection : By understanding the ingredients used in cosmetic products, you are able to make more responsible decisions for your health and the environment. By choosing products with safe and environmentally friendly ingredients, you help preserve your well-being and reduce the negative impact on the planet.

• Regulatory compliance : The use of INCI is mandatory in many countries for the labelling of cosmetic products. By purchasing products with a clearly stated INCI, you ensure that the manufacturer complies with the labelling regulations, which enhances confidence in the product.

What is this In here?

Do not hesitate to ask me the composition of soaps or cosmetics when you do not understand.

You can also download my guide on the here and their translation.

You can easily find them on each product sheet of the online shop.

In conclusion, Inci is what.

An essential element that must appear on all cosmetic products you purchase.

Now, you're unstickable that » What is it? « and why it is so important to understand it, you can be more confident in your cosmetic choices.

By carefully reading the labels and deciphering the INCI codes, you can take care of your skin and hair in a more enlightened and responsible way.

The next time you look for a new cosmetic product, don't forget to take a look at the INCI to know exactly what you're buying!