Start with the ingredient list
Ingredient names can be unfamiliar even when the substance is familiar. The International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients, or INCI, provides standardised names used on many cosmetic labels. A scan can translate those names into plain language and group them by likely function, such as moisturising, cleansing, preserving or UV protection.
Order is helpful but limited. Under EU rules, ingredients are listed in descending order by weight at manufacture, with ingredients under 1% allowed in any order after those over 1%. You cannot calculate an active's exact percentage from its position alone.
Read claims alongside the formula
Words such as 'natural', 'clean' and 'dermatologist tested' are not substitutes for a clear ingredient list or a product-specific study. A botanical extract can irritate someone with a fragrance allergy, while a synthetic ingredient may have a well-established safety profile. The question is what the ingredient does in this formula, at this exposure, for this person.
If your skin reacts, stop using the product and seek advice for persistent symptoms. For a known allergy, verify the full label and any declared fragrance allergens rather than relying on a marketing badge.
Why regulatory alerts need context
The EU separates prohibited substances in Annex II from restricted substances in Annex III. A restriction may depend on product category, concentration, intended use or warnings. CosIng is useful for finding ingredient information, but the European Commission says the database itself has no legal force; the regulation and its annexes determine the rule.
That is why a responsible scanner should name the jurisdiction and source of any alert. A text match alone cannot establish whether a product breaches a law, especially when the label omits concentration or the market is unknown.
Frequently asked questions
Are ingredients listed by how much is in the product?
In the EU, generally yes by weight at manufacture, with a special ordering rule for ingredients below 1%. Other jurisdictions may have different labelling rules.
Can a scanner tell me whether a product is legal everywhere?
No. Ingredient rules differ across markets and depend on product type, concentration and current law.
Does an INCI name mean an ingredient is approved?
No. The European Commission says an INCI listing in CosIng does not itself authorise use in cosmetics.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked 2026-10-08. This article is general education, not a diagnosis or individual treatment plan. Ask a qualified clinician about persistent symptoms, pregnancy or medication questions.