The INCI Name is a systematic designation employed worldwide to identify cosmetic ingredients. Developed, reviewed, and assigned by the International Nomenclature Committee (INC), the INCI Name is officially published in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook by the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) and is available through the wINCI online database. It is important to note that the INCI Name, while widely recognized, does not imply legal approval or safety certification of the ingredient for cosmetic use.
What is an INCI Name?
An INCI (International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient) Name provides a uniform and scientific method for identifying cosmetic ingredients. This nomenclature system overcomes language barriers by ensuring that manufacturers, regulators, and consumers refer to the same ingredient using a single, standardized name. However, having an INCI Name does not mean that the ingredient has been approved for use in cosmetic products or that its safety has been verified.
INCI Name Application Process
For manufacturers and formulators looking to have their ingredients recognized by the INCI system, the application process is clearly defined:
• Eligibility: Applications are categorized into different ingredient types, including biotechnology products, chemical compounds (inorganic and organic), and polymers or silicone-based substances. The PCPC system outlines eight specific ingredient types, ensuring detailed and tailored application requirements.
• Required Documentation: Applicants must provide comprehensive data, which typically includes the ingredient’s trade name, molecular formula, CAS number, structural formula, Latin name, and additional details such as ingredient composition, intended use, manufacturing process, and purity levels.
• Submission and Review: Applications are submitted on the PCPC website. The review process typically takes between 3-6 months, with results and draft monograph details provided about one month after the INC meeting (scheduled in February, April, June, September, and November) concludes.
• Revision Process: If an applicant disagrees with the initial INCI assignment, further documentation can be submitted for reconsideration during the next INC meeting.
How to Apply for an INCI Name？
The application process for obtaining an INCI Name is systematic and requires detailed documentation:
- Collection of Information: Applicants must gather comprehensive data including the ingredient’s trade name, molecular formula, CAS number, structural formula, Latin name, composition, intended use, production process, and purity information.
- Online Submission: Applications are submitted through the PCPC website. The submission must be made 6-8 weeks before one of the scheduled INC meetings (typically held in February, April, June, September, and November).
- Review Process: The review and assignment process generally takes about 3-6 months. Preliminary results and a draft monograph are provided approximately one month after the meeting.
- Revisions and Appeals: If an applicant disputes the assigned INCI Name, additional documentation can be submitted at the next INC meeting for reconsideration.
INCI Naming Rules
The proposed INCI Name must adhere to the INCI Nomenclature Convention, which is updated annually by the INC. The naming rules are categorized into:
- General Guidelines: Emphasizing simple chemical descriptors based on ingredient composition and purity without factoring in the production process (except for peptide ingredients).
- Specific Guidelines: Tailoring names for distinct categories such as botanical extracts, fermentation products, peptides, minerals, and more.
- Additional Rules: Defining specific terminology (for instance, using the term “Esylate” for ethanesulfonate) to maintain consistency.
FAQ
How long does the INCI name application process usually take?
The application process generally takes between 3 to 6 months, with final results typically communicated about one month after the relevant INC meeting.
Can an INCI name be revised or appealed if there is a disagreement?
Yes, if an applicant disagrees with the assigned INCI name, they can submit additional documentation and explanations for reconsideration during subsequent INC meetings.
Is an INCI Name a guarantee of ingredient safety or regulatory approval?
No, an INCI Name is a standardized nomenclature for identifying cosmetic ingredients. It does not imply that the ingredient is approved for use or that it has been deemed safe by regulatory authorities.
Conclusion
The INCI Name system is a fundamental aspect of global cosmetic ingredient regulation. It provides clarity and consistency for ingredient labeling and helps ensure a standardized approach in a competitive market. Manufacturers, formulators, and regulatory bodies benefit from applying a scientifically sound and internationally recognized name when registering or updating cosmetic ingredients.
By understanding and utilizing the INCI Name process, companies can navigate complex regulatory landscapes more effectively while ensuring transparency and compliance. Adopting the INCI nomenclature also enhances product credibility across international markets, making it an invaluable tool in the cosmetics industry.
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