INCI

INCI stands for International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients. It’s a standardized system to identify cosmetic ingredients with a single, consistent name.

INCI ensures that an ingredient has one universal label, making it easier for regulators, brands, and consumers to understand what’s inside a product.

INCI names may look complicated, but there’s a logic behind them:

• Latin names are often used for plant-based ingredients
• Scientific/chemical names describe synthetic or processed ingredients

Where can you check INCI names?

If you’re unsure about an ingredient, there are reliable places to verify the official INCI name:

• The CosIng database (EU database) — a comprehensive source for ingredient names, functions, and regulatory status: CosIng – Cosmetics – GROWTH – European Commission
• Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/1175: Implementing decision – EU – 2025/1175 – EN – EUR-Lex

Why is INCI Important?

• Global consistency – The same ingredient is recognized everywhere, regardless of language
• Transparency – Consumers can clearly see what they’re applying to their skin
• Regulatory compliance – Required for cosmetic labeling in many regions, including the EU & UK

INCI isn’t just for labels—it’s the common language of cosmetics, used from product development to the moment a consumer reads the packaging.

Photo source: AI ChatGPT