How to Read an INCI List on a Skincare Label
A plain-English guide to the ingredient list (INCI) on cosmetics: what the order means, common names and how to spot the ingredients that matter to you.
Every cosmetic product sold in the EU must list its ingredients. That list uses INCI names – the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients – so that the same ingredient has the same name in every country.
The order of ingredients
- Ingredients are listed from the highest concentration to the lowest, down to 1%.
- Below 1%, they may appear in any order.
- Aqua (water) often comes first in creams.
Common names you will meet
| INCI name | What it usually is |
|---|---|
| Aqua | Water |
| Sodium hyaluronate | A form of hyaluronic acid |
| Tocopherol | Vitamin E |
| Ascorbic acid | Vitamin C |
| Centella asiatica extract | Plant extract, often called cica |
| Snail secretion filtrate | Snail mucin |
Why the front of the pack and the INCI list may differ
Brands highlight a few star ingredients on the front. The INCI list shows the complete formula. That is why we always tell readers to check the list printed on their own pack.
Three practical habits
- Check for ingredients you know your skin reacts to.
- Look at the formula as a whole rather than a single buzzword.
- Keep the box until you have finished the jar.
Frequently asked
Does a longer list mean a better cream? Not necessarily. What matters is the whole formula and how it suits your skin.
Where do I find the list? On the outer box and often on the jar itself. For Elesse Cream, check the INCI list printed on the pack.
