How to Read Skincare Labels: Ingredient Lists, Logos and Beyond

When shopping for skincare routine and makeup products, the quest of reading ingredient lists and understanding logos and certifications can be super complicated, often even driving us away from a formula that could be good for us. Here’s our guide to cracking beauty labels and understanding common certifications to ensure you make an informed decision when you shop next.

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If the makeup or skincare product label says:

1. Vegan: “A vegan formula means it is not sourced from animals or contain any by-product derived from an animal,” explains Dr. Madhuri Agarwal, a Mumbai-based celebrity dermatologist and founder of Yavana Aesthetics Clinic. “The most common ingredients that are sourced from animals are honey, lanolin and beeswax.”
2. Cruelty-Free: “A cruelty-free certification means that the product was not tested on animals at any stage of its development,” says Dr. Mikki Singh, director, Bodycraft Clinic and Salon. Common organization logos to spot for this are PETA, Leaping Bunny and Cruelty Free International. “Vegan and cruelty-free are two different things though often confused as one,” warns Dr. Agarwal. “The cruelty-free label can also be used when the product contains ingredients derived from animals, but the production process has not caused any harm to the animals.”
3. Paraben-Free: “Parabens are used as preservatives in products, however, are not essential since there are natural alternatives that work just as well,” says Dr. Agarwal. “There are claims that parabens can be endocrine disruptors and have carcinogenic potential which is why brands use this label and call it out [to guarantee safety].” Research is still pending to evaluate the long-term effect of parabens and if the negative claims have significant merit to them.
4. Sulphate-Free: If you’ve ever gotten your hair coloured or chemically treated, your stylist would definitely have recommended a sulphate-free shampoo, and for good reason. “Sulphates like SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) are surfactants commonly used in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes to create lather. However, sulphates can be harsh and drying, especially for sensitive skin or curly hair types,” says Dr. Singh. If your hair has been treated, it’s significantly more prone to drying and damage, meaning avoiding sulphates should be at the top of your list. “Sulphate-free products are often milder and less irritating, making them preferable for those with sensitive skin or scalp concerns.” Dr. Agarwal also warns of sulphates causing skin irritation and worsening acne, so watch out for them in your facial products as well.

Dermatologically Tested vs Dermatologist Recommended

“Dermatologically Tested refers to the fact that at least one dermatologist has tested the product for one variable. It doesn’t give any reliability to the efficacy or adverse effects of the product. On the other hand, Dermatologist Recommended can be an indication about an endorsement between the brand and a skin expert. No actual testing takes place behind the process,” explains Dr. Agarwal.

1. MADE SAFE®: MADE SAFE® is a US-based human health and ecosystem-focused product certification program. “This label means the product has been tested and found free from toxic chemicals or ingredients that could harm human health. The Made Safe® certification is based on rigorous standards, ensuring that products are safe for humans and the environment,” says Dr. Singh.
2. Unscented vs Fragrance-Free: “Fragrance free implies that the product is devoid of artificial or chemical fragrances that are added in products to give the product a signature or special aroma. However, the product may still have a natural fragrance due to its ingredients that have a natural aroma,” says Dr. Agarwal. However, Unscented doesn’t mean that the product doesn’t have any added scents. “Certain product ingredients can have an unpleasant smell. To mask this unpleasant odour, chemical fragrances are used that neutralise the unpleasant odour. Since these added fragrances have a neutral smell, it is termed as unscented.”
3. COSMOS: This certification is granted by the ECOCERT group which is present in more than 130 countries worldwide. “COSMOS (Cosmetic Organic and Natural Standard) is a globally recognised certification for organic and natural cosmetics,” says Dr. Singh. “COSMOS-certified products meet strict standards for ingredients, production processes, and environmental impact. This certification ensures the product contains ingredients that are organically farmed, sustainably sourced, and free from harmful chemicals.”
4. Halal: “For consumers seeking products permissible under Islamic law, a Halal certification ensures that cosmetics are free from ingredients derived from animals not slaughtered according to Halal principles, alcohol, and other prohibited substances,” says Dr. Singh.
5. AYUSH: This is a label you will often find on Ayurvedic product boxes across all beauty and wellness categories. “The AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) certification is given to products that align with traditional Indian medicinal practices. An AYUSH certification assures that the product uses Ayurvedic ingredients or practices, aligning with ancient, natural formulations that are believed to benefit health and well-being.”

Other Indian organisations to look out for that ensure safety and production protocols include the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). In 1991, BIS introduced Ecomark, “an eco-label awarded to products meeting specific environmental criteria. For cosmetics, this certification indicates that the product has a minimal impact on the ecosystem during its lifecycle, from production to disposal.”

Considering the exponential speed that the beauty industry is growing with today, these labels and certifications help you decide what aligns with your skin’s needs and is worth the investment. They add a layer of trust to your beauty shopping, knowing that your safety has been put first as well. In a sea of new brands popping up every single day, these help the best ones stand out. Bookmark this story for the next time you’re stocking up on makeup and skincare.