Cosmetic ingredient labels can be confusing, but understanding them is key to making informed choices about your skincare and beauty products. At Regenori, we believe in transparency and helping you understand what goes into our products.
How to Read Cosmetic Labels
Ingredient Order
Ingredients are listed by concentration:
- Highest First - Ingredients in descending order of amount
- Below 1% - Can be listed in any order
- Active Ingredients - May be listed separately
Understanding Names
- INCI Names - International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients
- Common Names - Sometimes listed in parentheses
- Chemical Names - Scientific terminology
- Trade Names - Branded ingredient names
Common Cosmetic Ingredients Explained
Humectants (Hydrating)
Attract and retain moisture:
- Hyaluronic Acid - Excellent water retention
- Glycerin - Common, effective humectant
- Propylene Glycol - Moisturizing and preservative
- Sorbitol - Natural humectant
Emollients (Moisturizing)
Soften and smooth skin:
- Ceramides - Restore skin barrier
- Jojoba Oil - Mimics skin's natural oils
- Shea Butter - Rich emollient
- Dimethicone - Silky texture, barrier protection
Emulsifiers
Help water and oil mix:
- Lecithin - Natural emulsifier
- Polysorbates - Common synthetic emulsifiers
- Glyceryl Stearate - Natural-derived emulsifier
- Cetearyl Alcohol - Emulsifying and thickening
Preservatives
Prevent bacterial growth:
- Parabens - Effective, controversial
- Phenoxyethanol - Common alternative
- Benzyl Alcohol - Natural preservative
- Potassium Sorbate - Food-grade preservative
Active Ingredients
Provide specific benefits:
- Retinoids - Anti-aging, acne treatment
- Vitamin C - Brightening, antioxidant
- Niacinamide - Barrier support, oil control
- Peptides - Skin repair and anti-aging
Sunscreen Actives
UV protection:
- Zinc Oxide - Physical blocker, broad spectrum
- Titanium Dioxide - Physical blocker
- Avobenzone - Chemical blocker, UVA
- Octinoxate - Chemical blocker, UVB
Ingredient Categories to Understand
Natural vs. Synthetic
- Natural - Derived from natural sources
- Natural-Identical - Synthesized but identical to natural
- Synthetic - Lab-created
- Hybrid - Combination approaches
Organic Ingredients
- Certified Organic - Meets organic standards
- USDA Organic - Official certification
- Organic Content - Percentage of organic ingredients
- Organic Claims - Marketing vs. certification
Ingredients by Function
For Dry Skin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Ceramides
- Glycerin
- Natural oils (jojoba, argan)
For Oily Skin
- Salicylic acid
- Niacinamide
- Clay
- Oil-free formulations
For Sensitive Skin
- Fragrance-free
- Minimal ingredient lists
- Soothing ingredients (aloe, chamomile)
- No harsh actives
For Anti-Aging
- Retinoids/retinol
- Peptides
- Vitamin C
- Growth factors
Ingredients to Avoid (If Sensitive)
Common Irritants
- Fragrances - Can cause reactions
- Alcohol - Can be drying
- Essential Oils - Can irritate sensitive skin
- Harsh Surfactants - Can strip natural oils
Controversial Ingredients
- Parabens - Safety debated
- Sulfates - Can be drying
- Formaldehyde - Preservative concerns
- Phthalates - Plasticizer concerns
Reading Between the Lines
Marketing Claims
- "Natural" - Not always certified
- "Organic" - Check certification
- "Hypoallergenic" - No standard definition
- "Dermatologist Tested" - Varies in meaning
Understanding Concentrations
- Active Ingredients - Usually 1-10%
- Preservatives - Usually under 1%
- Fragrance - Often less than 1%
- Key Actives - May be listed prominently
Regenori's Ingredient Philosophy
We're committed to:
- Transparency - Clear ingredient labeling
- Quality - High-grade ingredients
- Safety - Thoroughly tested
- Efficacy - Effective formulations
- Education - Helping customers understand
Making Informed Choices
When choosing products:
- Know Your Skin - Understand your needs
- Read Labels - Check ingredient lists
- Research - Learn about ingredients
- Patch Test - Test before full use
- Quality Matters - Choose reputable brands
Common Misconceptions
Myth: Natural = Safe
Reality: Natural ingredients can still cause reactions
Myth: Chemical = Bad
Reality: Everything is chemicals, even natural substances
Myth: More Ingredients = Better
Reality: Simpler formulations are often better
Myth: Expensive = Effective
Reality: Price doesn't guarantee results
Conclusion
Understanding cosmetic ingredients empowers you to make informed choices about your skincare and beauty products. At Regenori, we believe in transparency and providing the information you need to choose products that work for your skin.
Explore our cosmetic products or contact us with questions about ingredients.