In the fast-growing Indian skincare market of today, it is more crucial than ever to make a well-informed decision about what you put on your skin. With an increasing number of products claiming to produce miracles, it is essential to go beyond advertisements and concentrate on what really matters the ingredient list.
Here's an easy, doctor-approved guide to help you read between skincare labels and pick products that are most suitable for your requirements.
1. Understand the order of ingredients
Firstly, know that ingredients on product labels are shown in descending concentration. The front five ingredients normally constitute the bulk of the formula. In hot summers of India and high levels of pollution there, it is prudent to note whether moisturizing agents such as aloe vera, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid come early in the listing. Their concentration may not be high enough to provide noticeable benefits if they are towards the end.
2. Watch out for key actives
For the Indian scenario, popular active ingredients like Vitamin C, retinol, and glycolic acid are much preferred. But of course, what one needs to do is ascertain whether these actives are of optimal concentrations in a product. For instance, Vitamin C, when used well, should range from 10–20%. If a product lists only such names but omitting percentage amounts, it will do well to approach such product descriptions with trepidation.
3. Verify "free-from" claims carefully
Most brands label their products as "paraben-free," "sulfate-free," or "mineral oil-free." These are significant flags for sensitive skin, but it's just as crucial to check these claims by examining the complete list of ingredients. In India's hot and humid climes, light, non-comedogenic (those that do not block pores) products are best, so watch out for labels showing this, and check by ascertaining if heavy oils such as mineral oil are not found.
4. Limit exposure to fragrances and dyes
Fragrances and dyes are typical offenders for skin irritation, particularly in Indian skin types that are more melanin-dense and reactive. Chemicals such as "parfum" or "fragrance" are usually catch-all phrases for a combination of chemicals. If you have sensitive skin or eczema, use fragrance-free products.
5. Learn common Indian market terms
Indian skin care products tend to have traditional ingredients such as turmeric, sandalwood, or neem. Although these are good, one needs to check if they are scientifically formulated. Simply mentioning "natural" or "Ayurvedic" ingredients does not assure efficacy unless coupled with a good delivery system and concentration.
6. Check for trusted certifications and standards
Check for certifications such as dermatologically tested, non-comedogenic, or clinically proven but also note that all certifications are not equal. Believe established authorities and find out if the product meets Indian standards such as BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards).
Dr. Aravind Badiger, Technical Director, BDR Pharmaceuticals
Here's an easy, doctor-approved guide to help you read between skincare labels and pick products that are most suitable for your requirements.
1. Understand the order of ingredients
Firstly, know that ingredients on product labels are shown in descending concentration. The front five ingredients normally constitute the bulk of the formula. In hot summers of India and high levels of pollution there, it is prudent to note whether moisturizing agents such as aloe vera, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid come early in the listing. Their concentration may not be high enough to provide noticeable benefits if they are towards the end.
2. Watch out for key actives
For the Indian scenario, popular active ingredients like Vitamin C, retinol, and glycolic acid are much preferred. But of course, what one needs to do is ascertain whether these actives are of optimal concentrations in a product. For instance, Vitamin C, when used well, should range from 10–20%. If a product lists only such names but omitting percentage amounts, it will do well to approach such product descriptions with trepidation.
3. Verify "free-from" claims carefully
Most brands label their products as "paraben-free," "sulfate-free," or "mineral oil-free." These are significant flags for sensitive skin, but it's just as crucial to check these claims by examining the complete list of ingredients. In India's hot and humid climes, light, non-comedogenic (those that do not block pores) products are best, so watch out for labels showing this, and check by ascertaining if heavy oils such as mineral oil are not found.
4. Limit exposure to fragrances and dyes
Fragrances and dyes are typical offenders for skin irritation, particularly in Indian skin types that are more melanin-dense and reactive. Chemicals such as "parfum" or "fragrance" are usually catch-all phrases for a combination of chemicals. If you have sensitive skin or eczema, use fragrance-free products.
5. Learn common Indian market terms
Indian skin care products tend to have traditional ingredients such as turmeric, sandalwood, or neem. Although these are good, one needs to check if they are scientifically formulated. Simply mentioning "natural" or "Ayurvedic" ingredients does not assure efficacy unless coupled with a good delivery system and concentration.
6. Check for trusted certifications and standards
Check for certifications such as dermatologically tested, non-comedogenic, or clinically proven but also note that all certifications are not equal. Believe established authorities and find out if the product meets Indian standards such as BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards).
Dr. Aravind Badiger, Technical Director, BDR Pharmaceuticals
You may also like
Govt busts Pakistan's fake video claim of damage to Indian airfield
Sainsbury's shoppers 'gutted' after supermarket axes popular dessert from stores
Rory McIlroy in disbelief as painful moment captured after Truist Championship final round
India crisis talks fail as Virat Kohli confirms Test retirement before England series
Weight loss drug Mounjaro shown more effective than Wegovy, claims Pharma company
