Today, choosing cosmetic products isn't just a matter of brand or scent, but rather of composition, quality, and sustainability . We often buy products without really knowing what they contain, and this can affect both our skin and the environment.
To make informed decisions , it's essential to learn how to read cosmetic labels , identify harmful ingredients , and understand the organic certifications that guarantee a product's safety and ethics. In this guide, we explain how to interpret the INCI and what to avoid when purchasing beauty products. 🌿✨
1. What is the INCI and why is it important?
The INCI ( International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients ) is the international system that regulates the nomenclature of ingredients in cosmetic products. On all labels, ingredients are listed in descending order according to their concentration in the formula.
🔍 Key points for reading the INCI:
✅ The first ingredients are the ones that are present in the greatest proportion , so if a beneficial active ingredient appears at the end, its presence is minimal.
✅ Natural ingredients are usually in Latin , while synthetic ingredients appear in English or with chemical names.
✅ Water (Aqua) is commonly the first ingredient in many formulas.
💡 Example of an INCI in a natural moisturizer:
Aqua, Prunus Avium (Cherry) Extract, Glycerin, Bakuchiol, Hyaluronic Acid, Inulin, Xanthan Gum, Parfum (Natural Fragrance), Citric Acid.
2. Ingredients You Should Avoid in Your Cosmetics
Many conventional products contain toxic or potentially harmful ingredients that can cause allergies, hormonal disruptions, or environmental impact. Here are some of the most problematic:
❌ 1. Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, etc.)
🔹 Why avoid them? They are preservatives with a potential impact on the endocrine system.
❌ 2. Silicones (Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane)
🔹 Why avoid them? They can clog pores and are harmful to the environment.
❌ 3. Sulfates (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate - SLS, Sodium Laureth Sulfate - SLES)
🔹 Why avoid them? They are harsh foaming agents that can dry out your skin and scalp.
❌ 4. Synthetic Fragrances (Parfum, Fragrance)
🔹 Why avoid them? They may contain phthalates and other irritating chemicals.
❌ 5. Mineral Oils and Petroleum Derivatives (Petrolatum, Paraffinum Liquidum, Mineral Oil)
🔹 Why avoid them? They are petroleum derivatives that can create an artificial barrier on the skin.
❌ 6. Chemical UV Filters (Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Homosalate)
🔹 Why avoid them? They are hormone disruptors and harmful to coral reefs.
3. Natural Ingredients that Benefit Your Skin
If you want to opt for healthier and more sustainable cosmetics , look for ingredients like these on the label:
🌿 Fruit and plant extracts → (Example: Prunus Avium Extract - Cherry Extract ).
🌿 Vegetable and essential oils → (Example: Argania Spinosa Oil - Argan Oil ).
🌿 Plant-based hyaluronic acid → Deep hydration without harsh chemicals.
🌿 Bakuchiol → Natural alternative to retinol without irritation.
🌿 Inulin → Natural prebiotic that balances the skin microbiota.
💡 Tip: If a brand claims to be “natural,” but its INCI is full of synthetic ingredients, be wary.
4. Cosmetic Certifications: Which Ones Guarantee a Safe Product?
To make sure a product is truly natural, organic, or cruelty-free , check to see if it has any of these certifications:
✅ COSMOS Organic 🌱 → Guarantees a high percentage of natural and organic ingredients.
✅ ECOCERT 🍃 → Certifies natural and environmentally friendly products.
✅ Vegan & Cruelty-Free (PETA, Leaping Bunny) 🐰 → Indicates that the product has not been tested on animals and does not contain ingredients of animal origin.
✅ NATRUE 🌿 → Guarantees cosmetics without harsh chemicals or petroleum derivatives.
💡 Recommendation: If a product claims to be “100% natural” but doesn’t have any certifications, check its INCI to verify this.
5. How to Choose the Best Cosmetic for You?
Now that you know how to read labels and recognize ingredients , follow these steps to make better decisions when purchasing cosmetics:
🔹 Always read the INCI before purchasing.
🔹 Avoid toxic ingredients and look for formulas with natural active ingredients.
🔹 Check certifications to ensure quality and sustainability.
🔹 Research the brand and its commitment to responsible cosmetics.
If you're looking for safe, natural, and effective products, at Be Cherry Cosmetics we use ingredients like cherry extract, bakuchiol, plant-based hyaluronic acid, and inulin , without harmful chemicals. 🍒✨
👉 Discover our natural cosmetics line here: https://www.becherrycosmetics.com/es/pages/main-store
Conclusion: Conscious Beauty Starts at the Label
Knowing how to read cosmetic labels is key to caring for your skin safely and sustainably. Learning to identify harmful ingredients , choosing natural active ingredients , and trusting organic certifications will allow you to make healthier choices for your skin and the planet. 🌍✨
💚 Would you like to learn more about natural cosmetics? Follow us for more tips and advice!
