Tips on Evaluating Product Ingredient Lists

When evaluating ingredient lists, I use a common rule of thumb which says to look for the active ingredients to be in the top half.

It would be helpful if cosmetic companies would disclose, not just the ingredients in descending order of predominance by weight as required, but also the amount of each ingredient so that one could calculate its concentration in the formulation.

For example, if the first ingredient is water (as it usually is), the formula could be anywhere from 20 to 98% H20.
At 98%, even if the water were followed by the best sun protection, peptides, retinoids and moisturizers available, the product would be a waste of money.

Realistically, reputable cosmeceutical companies have nothing to gain by creating products which consumers will buy only once and then be left with a bad feeling about the company. The companies walk a fine line between producing products that have a small incremental benefit (over those of the competition) while keeping their costs down and profits up.

Of course there are exceptions to consider when evaluating an ingredient list. Some ingredients can be effective in small proportions. The lists as currently required are helpful and important, but not very definitive. When in doubt, I fall back on the reputation and track record of the brand.

[If you’re still confused about selecting the best products for YOUR skin, please send Jean a personal note.]

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