One of the best ways to understand what we are applying to our hair is to be able to correctly interpret the labeling of our cosmetics, today we are going to explain a little bit how to do it in a simple way.
What is a cosmetic?
Before we start talking about the labeling of cosmetic products, let's define exactly what we mean by cosmetic.
According to Royal Decree 1599/1977, a cosmetic is any substance or preparation intended to be put in contact with various superficial parts of the human body, with the teeth or with the oral mucous membranes, for the exclusive purpose of cleaning, perfuming, modifying their appearance, and/or correcting body odors, and/or protecting them or keeping them in good condition.
How are cosmetics labeled?
To ensure correct information to consumers and good product safety, it is necessary to add different elements to the label of a product.
Ingredients
To identify all the ingredients used in cosmetics anywhere in the world, a common international denomination has been established, known as INCI.
*INCI stands for International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredients.
The ingredients are arranged in descending order, taking into account their concentration in the formula. That is to say, we find in first place those ingredients that are found in greater quantity. We can see that in most cosmetics water is the main ingredient, so it is common to find "Aqua" in the first place.
English or Latin?
All the ingredients of cosmetic products must be mentioned in English or Latin. In English we find the chemical substances, both synthetic and natural. And in Latin we find the direct derivatives of plants.
Precautions
This section of the labeling is especially relevant, since it helps us to identify the measures that we must take for a good use of the product. We must always read them and act with caution and care with all our cosmetics.
Directions for use
Normally most cosmetics include in their labeling the correct directions for use, in order to ensure a correct use of the product itself.
Iconography
At the bottom of our packaging, we can find small symbols.
These small drawings are designed to help us understand certain technical aspects of the product, such as that we are dealing with a vegan product, that it is made from recycled materials and that it has not been tested on animals.
Shelf life after opening
Cosmetics also expire, which is why the maximum shelf life of a product after opening must be mentioned on the product label.
This period is usually indicated by the PAO (Period After Opening), a symbol of an open jar with a number followed by the letter M (months).
*Ej: 12 M means that we have 12 months to use our cosmetic from opening.
Nominal content
Containers containing more than 5 grams/milliliters must indicate their nominal content in weight or volume.
Manufacturing batch number
The batch number is a designation, which may be numerical or alphabetical, that identifies a set of identical products sharing certain production characteristics.
This reference allows us to identify the specific production batch and to check for any incidents.
Shelf life
GOA ORGANICS packages include just below the batch number, a numerical date. This date indicates the maximum time we can keep the cosmetic in good condition as long as the package is not opened.
Now that you know how to correctly interpret the labeling of your cosmetics, do not hesitate to test your knowledge and try to discover a little better what exactly you are applying to your hair and how to get the best benefits from it.
