Monday, August 13, 2012

How to read a cosmetic label

We all know how important it us to read the labels on the food we eat and fluids we drink, but what about our cosmetics? 

Whether our product is a make up, cleanser or sunscreen, it is important as consumer to know exactly what we are placing on out skin. The FDA  requires certain information on each label including ingredient and warnings. Sometimes it can get a little confusing as to what exactly you are looking at!

1. Product Identity
2. Net Contents
3. Product Ingredients
4. Directions for use
5. Origin of product
6. Manufacturer information
7. *Not a FDA requirement, denotes how long the product is stable once opened
8. *Not a FDA requirement, denotes compliance with European recycling standards
9. Warnings

For the Krew, it is very important that we read and understand what ingredients are in our products prior to recommending to our patients. Ingredients are listed in order of concentration, so the first ingredient is the one with the highest percentage in the product. Also, the full ingredient name will be listed. For instance, if the   Product claims to have "Retinol" in it and the ingredient listed in "retinol palmitate" the skin's response may not be what was originally intended.

Remember to read and understand what ingredients are in your products before you ever apply anything to your skin!

-Diane



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