INCI

Understanding INCI: Why It’s Essential for Identifying Botanical Ingredients in Skincare

In the skincare world, transparency is key. Consumers want to know what’s in their products and where those ingredients come from. That’s where INCI, or the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients, plays a vital role.

What is INCI?

INCI is a standardized system for naming cosmetic ingredients. Established to bring clarity and consistency, INCI names allow manufacturers, regulators, and consumers worldwide to identify exactly what ingredients are used in a product — regardless of language or country.

Why INCI Matters for Botanical Ingredients

Plants and botanicals are complex. The same plant species might be known by multiple common names, or extracts might come from different parts of the plant (like the leaf, root, or flower). INCI names provide a scientific, universal language to identify these ingredients precisely.

For example, instead of “lavender oil,” an ingredient label will list “Lavandula angustifolia oil,” which refers specifically to the botanical source. This helps consumers understand exactly what is in their skincare, avoiding confusion or mislabeling.

Enhancing Transparency and Safety

Using INCI names ensures transparency — consumers can research and verify ingredients confidently. It also supports safety, as regulators rely on INCI to monitor allergenic or restricted substances, especially in natural extracts.

Supporting Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing

INCI naming helps track ingredient origins and supports ethical sourcing initiatives. By identifying botanicals precisely, brands can commit to sustainability, fair trade, and biodiversity protection more effectively.