INCI
What is INCI?
INCI stands for International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients. It is the internationally standardised system for naming cosmetic ingredients, used on product labels to identify the ingredients contained in a cosmetic product. Under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, cosmetic products placed on the EU market must list all ingredients on the label using their INCI names, in descending order of weight at the time of incorporation.
Why It Matters
INCI naming provides a consistent and internationally recognised language for cosmetic ingredient labelling. By requiring INCI names on product labels, the EU Cosmetics Regulation ensures that consumers, healthcare professionals, and competent authorities can identify exactly what a product contains, regardless of the brand name used for a particular ingredient or the language of the country where the product is sold.
For consumers with allergies or sensitivities, INCI labelling is an important safety tool. For manufacturers and Responsible Persons, using incorrect, incomplete, or non-standard ingredient names on a cosmetic product label is a breach of the EU Cosmetics Regulation and can result in the product being considered non-compliant.
For cosmetic brands, formulators, and ecommerce sellers, ensuring that ingredient lists are correctly compiled using accurate INCI names is a fundamental labelling obligation under EU cosmetics law.
Key Requirements
Who Is Required to Use INCI Names?
INCI labelling requirements apply to the Responsible Person for every cosmetic product placed on the EU market. This applies to:
- All cosmetic products placed on the EU market regardless of product type or distribution channel
- Products sold through any channel, including physical retail and online marketplaces
This requirement applies under:
- Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 — EU Cosmetics Regulation, Article 19
INCI names must be listed on the product label in descending order of weight at the time of incorporation. Ingredients present at a concentration of 1% or less may be listed in any order after those present at more than 1%.
Responsibilities Relating to INCI Labelling
While specific obligations depend on the role in the supply chain, responsibilities commonly include:
- Ensuring all ingredients in the cosmetic product are listed on the label using their correct INCI names
- Listing ingredients in descending order of weight at the time of incorporation
- Ensuring colorants are listed by their Colour Index number where applicable
- Keeping the ingredient list accurate and up to date whenever the product formulation changes
- Ensuring INCI names used are current and consistent with the latest version of the INCI dictionary
INCI and the Product Information File
The ingredient list using INCI names forms part of the product’s overall labelling compliance and is closely linked to the Product Information File. The full qualitative and quantitative composition of the product, including INCI names and concentrations, must be documented in the PIF and forms a key input into the Cosmetic Product Safety Report. Accurate INCI documentation is therefore important not only for labelling compliance but for the integrity of the safety assessment.
Need EU cosmetics compliance support?
Euverify provides Responsible Person services for cosmetic brands and manufacturers placing products on the EU market under the EU Cosmetics Regulation. Our team supports CPNP notification, product information file management, regulatory communication, and ongoing compliance management.
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