INCI

INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) is a system of standardised, internationally recognised names for cosmetic ingredients developed by the Personal Care Products Council and adopted by regulatory bodies in the EU, US, and many other markets. INCI names are based on Latin botanical names for plant-derived ingredients and on IUPAC chemical nomenclature or common names for synthetics. Cosmetic products sold in the EU must list all ingredients on pack using INCI names in descending order of concentration. The same system is used in the US and many other markets, making ingredient-label reading consistent across borders.

• Active ingredient An ingredient included in a formula specifically to deliver a measurable cosmetic or drug effect.