When it comes to skincare and wellness, understanding the ingredients in your products is crucial. With so many brands using marketing terms like “clean,” “natural,” or “organic,” it can be challenging to separate fact from clever branding. Learning how to research ingredients will empower you to make informed choices about what you put on your skin and in your body. This guide will take you through a step-by-step process to research skincare and wellness ingredients like a pro, helping you cut through the noise and make the best choices for your health.
The first step in evaluating a skincare or wellness product is to carefully review its ingredient list. Every product is legally required to list ingredients in descending order of concentration. This means that the first few ingredients make up the bulk of the product, while those listed toward the end are present in smaller amounts.
Example: If a moisturiser claims to be “Aloe Vera-based,” but Aloe Vera is listed near the bottom, it may not be present in a meaningful amount.
Once you have identified ingredients you want to learn more about, turn to credible sources for research. Not all ingredient databases are created equal, so it’s important to use reliable ones that base their information on scientific research.
These databases help determine whether an ingredient is beneficial, neutral, or potentially harmful.
Example: If you come across an ingredient like “Phenoxyethanol,” you can check these databases to see its safety rating and recommended usage concentration.
Brands use buzzwords to attract customers, but many of these terms are misleading. Understanding what they truly mean can prevent you from falling for marketing gimmicks.
Decoding Popular Skincare Labels:
Example: A product labelled as “hypoallergenic” may still contain essential oils that can trigger skin sensitivities.
For those who want to go deeper, looking into peer-reviewed research is a great way to verify ingredient claims. Scientific studies can provide insights into how well an ingredient works and any potential side effects.
Where to Find Reliable Studies:
How to Interpret Studies:
Example: A study funded by a cosmetic brand claiming that their proprietary ingredient reduces wrinkles might be biased. Checking independent research on the same ingredient can give a more accurate picture.
Even if an ingredient is considered safe, it may not be suitable for your skin type. Some ingredients can cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Common Irritants to Watch Out For:
How to Test for Irritants:
Example: A “natural” moisturiser containing essential oils like lavender or citrus may still cause irritation for sensitive skin types.
Just because an ingredient is present doesn’t mean it’s effective. The concentration of active ingredients determines how beneficial they are.
Ingredient Concentration Guidelines:
Example: If a vitamin C serum lists “Ascorbic Acid” toward the end, it may not contain enough to provide brightening benefits.
Many brands use “clean beauty” claims as a marketing tactic, even if their products contain questionable ingredients. Greenwashing is when brands make misleading claims to appear more natural or eco-friendly than they actually are.
How to Spot Greenwashing:
How to Verify Claims:
Example: A shampoo brand marketing itself as “sulphate-free” may still contain other harsh detergents like Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate.
Researching skincare and wellness ingredients doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding ingredient lists, using reliable databases, decoding marketing terms, analysing scientific research, identifying irritants, checking ingredient concentrations, and being wary of greenwashing, you can make informed choices about the products you use.
Being proactive in your research ensures that you’re not just following trends but choosing skincare and wellness products that genuinely benefit your skin and health. The more informed you are, the better equipped you’ll be to navigate the ever-evolving world of beauty and wellness!