In recent years, we have learned to read food labels, but when it comes to cosmetics, too many people still rely only on the packaging, the aesthetics of the packaging, or advertising promises. Yet, everything we apply to our face and body comes into direct contact with our body. Knowing the INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) is the first step towards conscious skincare.
What is INCI and why is it important?
INCI is the list of ingredients contained in a cosmetic product, mandatory by law, and written in a standardized language (Latin for botanical and vegetable ingredients, English for chemical molecules).
For example:
- Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice: aloe vera juice
- Glyceryl Stearate: emulsifier derived from vegetable or animal oils
- Parfum: unspecified mixture of perfumes, often synthetic
Non-random order
Ingredients are listed in descending order of concentration. If, for example, your favorite rose oil is at the bottom of the list, after silicones and synthetic preservatives, perhaps it is not the main ingredient in your formulation.
What to avoid, especially if you love organic
Mamata is committed to offering only clean and transparent skincare. Here are some ingredients you will NEVER find in our products:
- Silicones: give a velvety touch but create an occlusive barrier
- Parabens: controversial preservatives due to potential endocrine effects
- Synthetic emulsifiers derived from petroleum
The "good" ingredients to look for
In a well-formulated INCI, you will often find:
- Vegetable oils and butters (e.g., Shea Butter)
- Natural extracts (e.g., Salicornia Herbacea extract)
- Dermocompatible active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C
The label doesn't lie. You just need to learn how to read it.
Reading the INCI is an act of awareness: it gives you control over what you apply to your skin, helps you make choices consistent with your values (such as cruelty-free or vegan), and above all, allows you to avoid ingredients that your skin does not tolerate or desire.
At Mamata, every formula is designed to be clear, effective, and clean, inside and out, and yes, you can check it yourself.
