The INCI System — The Global Language of Cosmetics
INCI stands for International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients — a globally standardized naming system for cosmetic ingredients. Every licensed product must list its ingredients under their scientific Latin or English names according to this system. This allows specialists — and Wathiq users! — to read ingredients regardless of the local language on the packaging.
I read ingredient lists but understand nothing — all the names are in English and very long. Where do I start?
Rule #1: Order = Concentration
The first ingredient in the list is the highest concentration. Usually this will be water (Aqua) or an oil (like Cetearyl Alcohol). The last 5 ingredients in the list are usually below 1% concentration — this includes fragrances, preservatives, and colorants. If you see a star ingredient (like argan oil) in the second half, its concentration is symbolic.
| Position in List | Approximate Concentration | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - 3 | 70-95% | The main base of the product |
| 4 - 8 | 5-20% | Primary active ingredients |
| 9 - 15 | 1-5% | Secondary active ingredients |
| Beyond 15 | Less than 1% | Fragrances, preservatives, colorants |
Essential INCI Terms to Know
| INCI Name | What Is It? | Safety Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Aqua | Water | ✅ Completely safe |
| Glycerin | Glycerine — humectant | ✅ Safe |
| Cetearyl Alcohol | Fatty alcohol — emollient (not drying) | ✅ Safe |
| Alcohol Denat. | Denatured alcohol — drying | ⚠️ Avoid in large amounts |
| Fragrance / Parfum | Perfume — can hide dozens of substances | ⚠️ Potential allergen |
| Phenoxyethanol | Preservative — paraben alternative | 🟡 Safe at 1% |
| Sodium Lauryl Sulfate | Strong foaming cleanser | ⚠️ Irritating for sensitive skin |
| Niacinamide | Vitamin B3 — skin tone evening | ✅ Effective and safe |