Reading a moisturizer label
Ingredient order, Drug Facts, and fragrance.
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Ingredient order
The FDA says cosmetic ingredients must be declared in descending order of predominance. It says color additives and ingredients present at one percent or less may be declared without regard for predominance.
Names on the list
The FDA says ingredients must be identified by the names established or adopted by regulation, and that ingredients accepted by the FDA as exempt from public disclosure may be stated as "and other ingredients."
Fragrance
The FDA says fragrance ingredients can be listed simply as "Fragrance."
When there is a Drug Facts label
If a moisturizer has an SPF claim, the FDA says the drug ingredients are listed alphabetically as "Active Ingredients," followed by the cosmetic ingredients in descending order as "Inactive Ingredients." The FDA says labels on all OTC medicines, from sunscreen to cough syrup, list information in the same order and a consistent style.
Where the list appears
The FDA says the ingredient declaration must be conspicuous so that it is likely to be read at the time of purchase, and that it may appear on any information panel of the package, such as the folding carton.
What the list cannot tell you
The list gives names in order, not amounts, and it does not tell you how a product will feel on your skin. We do not rate formulas.
FAQ
General information, not medical advice. Before you use a new skin care product on your face, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests testing it on a small spot of skin, such as the bend of your elbow, twice a day for seven to 10 days. If your skin reacts, wash the product off and do not use it again. Follow the directions and warnings on the label. See a doctor or dermatologist about a rash, a skin reaction that does not go away, or any skin condition. If you have signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as shortness of breath or trouble swallowing, call 911.
Next: hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic
Two label terms, explained.
