Identify first
Copy the exact name and look it up in CosIng. Listing provides reference information, not permission for every use. Commercial synonyms may not identify a substance reliably.
Consider the whole formula
EU lists generally follow descending weight at addition; ingredients below 1% may appear in any order after those above 1%. Position alone cannot reveal concentration. A highlighted ingredient is not the whole formula.
Compare like with like
Note intended use, texture, instructions and known exclusions. Use these together. A long list, unfamiliar name or natural origin is not an automatic verdict.
Keep a usable record
Photograph the purchased product’s list and batch number. Online ingredients may concern another version. For a known allergy, check the name provided by your professional rather than relying on an app score.
Compare two ingredient lists
Compare lists in separate columns, retaining exact names and packaging order. Mark added, removed or moved names without assigning benefits. A changed name may need nomenclature clarification; ask before concluding reformulation.
Your checklist
- Copy the exact name
- Separate function and outcome
- Read use and precautions
Frequently asked questions
Does CosIng approve products?
No. It documents ingredients rather than certifying finished products.
Do similar lists prove identical products?
No. Proportions, processes and packaging can differ.
Sources & references
- Cosmetic ingredient database · CosIng ↗European Commission · Sources consulted on 2026-10-06
- Understanding the label ↗Cosmetics Europe · Sources consulted on 2026-10-06
