Rector Advisor, Vice Dean, and Faculty Member - Istanbul Kent University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Departmant of Pharmocology
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
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"Understanding the abbreviations on cosmetic labels helps you make informed choices about ingredients, product safety, and effectiveness for your skin."
On this page:
WHAT DO THE ABBREVIATIONS ON COSMETIC LABELS MEAN?
| Abbreviation | Meaning | Description |
| INCI | International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients | System that lists ingredients with scientific international names. |
| PAO | Period After Opening | Time to use after opening (e.g., 12M = 12 months). |
| SPF | Sun Protection Factor | Indicates UVB protection factor (e.g., SPF 30). |
| UVA | Ultraviolet A Protection | Provides protection against UVA rays; usually symbolized in a circle. |
| PEG | Polyethylene Glycol | Used as a carrier and solvent; may irritate sensitive skin. |
| SLS/SLES | Sodium Lauryl / Laureth Sulfate | Foaming agents; may dry or irritate sensitive skin. |
| EDTA | Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid | Stabilizes metal ions in the formula; acts as a preservative. |
| pH | Potential of Hydrogen | Indicates acidity/alkalinity level; typically 4.5-6.5 is preferred for skin. |
| NPA | Natural Products Association | International certificate indicating natural ingredients. |
| ECOCERT | Ecological and Organic Cosmetic Certification | Certification for organic and eco-friendly products. |
| EWG | Environmental Working Group | Rates ingredient safety; lower score is safer. |
| CRUELTY-FREE | Not tested on animals | Usually represented with a rabbit symbol. |
Assoc. Prof. Muhammet Emin Çam
Rector Advisor, Vice Dean, and Faculty Member - Istanbul Kent University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Departmant of Pharmocology
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
Visiting Researcher&Lecturer - University College London, Mechanical Engineering and Faculty of Medicine, UK
Visiting Lecturer - University of Aveiro, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Portugal
