The ingredients in a cosmetic product have become an important consideration for many consumers. Between the sometimes lengthy ingredient lists, scientific names, and the various claims on packaging, it’s not always easy to understand what a beauty product actually contains. Tools like Yuka can provide additional information about certain products, but they are no substitute for carefully reading the ingredient list. Learning to identify the main ingredients, understand their roles, and compare different formulas allows you to make more informed choices. The goal isn’t to automatically label an ingredient as good or bad, but to have more criteria to help you choose a product that meets your needs and expectations.
Understanding the information on a cosmetic product's ingredients
To analyze a beauty product, you must first look at its INCI list—that is, the international nomenclature used to identify the ingredients in cosmetics. This list allows you to identify the various substances that make up the formula, even if their names may seem difficult to understand at first glance. Ingredients are generally listed according to specific rules, making it easier to compare several similar products.
When a consumer wants to delve deeper into their analysis, they can consult the information provided by the manufacturer or use various sources to better understand the role of the ingredients. Some specialized websites, such as https://www.bonsens.co/en/, highlight formulas made with naturally derived ingredients and specify the substances they choose to exclude from their products. The brand also specifies that its formulas are designed and manufactured in France and that more than 95% of its products receive the maximum score of 100/100 on Yuka.
What factors should you look for to better understand a formula ?
The analysis of a cosmetic product can begin with identifying the major categories of ingredients. Each component has a specific function. Some serve as the base of the formula, while others contribute to the texture, preservation, fragrance, or desired properties. Understanding these roles allows us to look beyond the mere length of the ingredient list.
Identify the main ingredients
The first step is to identify the ingredients present in significant quantities in the product. They often provide an indication of the general nature of the formula. In an oil, for example, vegetable oils may make up a significant portion, whereas a soap or cream has a different composition. Some formulas also highlight a high proportion of ingredients of natural origin or from organic farming. However, this information must be considered within the overall context of the composition.
Examine the added substances
A cosmetic product may also contain ingredients intended to ensure its stability, extend its shelf life, or improve its appearance and usability. These may include, for example, preservatives, texturizing agents, fragrances, or colorants. Their presence does not automatically mean the product is unsuitable, but identifying them allows consumers to make a choice that better aligns with their preferences.
Some brands choose to formulate their products without certain ingredients that they consider controversial or that they wish to exclude from their specifications. Bon Sens, for example, states that it does not use substances such as parabens, silicones, mineral oils, or certain sulfates in its formulas. The brand also notes that some natural ingredients, such as certain essential oils, may contain allergens and influence a product’s evaluation.
Factors to consider before choosing a beauty product
Carefully reading the ingredients list becomes more useful when combined with a comparison of several products. Rather than focusing on a single element, it is better to consider all the available information to better understand the characteristics of each formula. Factors to consider include :
- The complete list of ingredients, to identify the components present in the formula
- The function of the main ingredients, particularly those that contribute to the product’s texture, scent, or shelf life
- The origin of the raw materials, when this information is provided by the manufacturer
- The possible presence of allergens, which is particularly important for people who wish to avoid certain substances
- Substances intentionally excluded from the formula, based on the brand’s criteria
Information regarding manufacturing, particularly when the place of design or production is a factor in the choice.
Available reviews, which can provide additional insight without replacing a careful reading of the ingredients list.
The intended use of the product, as needs differ for a rinse-off product, a daily skincare item, or a cosmetic applied to a specific area.
It can also be helpful to check whether the claims on the packaging match the product’s actual ingredients. A formula marketed as natural or meeting certain standards deserves, like any other, to be examined as a whole. The presence of a label, certification, or a positive rating can provide useful information, but these elements should not be considered in isolation.
Analyzing the composition of a cosmetic product allows you, above all, to better understand what you’re using. Evaluation tools like Yuka can serve as a starting point, while the INCI list and information provided by the manufacturer offer additional insights. Some people will prefer short ingredient lists, while others will look for specific ingredients, products made in France, or the absence of certain substances. The key is to compare products based on criteria that align with your own expectations and to maintain a holistic view of the ingredients.