Cosmetics guide and glossary
Understanding a formula helps you make better choices. This guide covers the basics of cosmetic labeling, the most common ingredient families, and a simple way to introduce active ingredients into your routine.
Important: This information is educational and does not replace medical diagnosis or the individual recommendation of a healthcare professional. Before using any product, always consult its label, instructions for use, and precautions.
What is a cosmetic?
A cosmetic is a product intended for contact with the external parts of the body, teeth, or oral mucous membranes for purposes such as cleaning, perfuming, protecting, maintaining in good condition, or modifying appearance. It should not be presented as a treatment for a disease.
What does the pharmaceutical criterion contribute?
At Farmacia Barcelona, we combine our own formulas, dermo-cosmetic selection, and close advice. The value is not in accumulating ingredients, but in relating the formula, tolerance, time of use, and the real needs of each skin.
That's why we differentiate between verified formula information, general usage recommendations, and issues that require individual assessment.
How to read an INCI list
INCI stands for International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients. It is the system that allows identifying the ingredients of a cosmetic using a common nomenclature.
- Ingredients are generally declared in decreasing order of concentration.
- Those present in concentrations below one percent may appear in a different order.
- The position of an ingredient alone does not explain the overall effectiveness of the product.
- The complete formula, concentration, stability, packaging, and method of use also matter.
The parts of a cosmetic formula
Functional ingredients
These are the ingredients linked to the main function of the product, for example, hydrating, cleansing, exfoliating, or protecting against solar radiation. Their presence does not allow promising a specific result without knowing the formula and the evidence supporting the product.
Vehicle and texture
The vehicle gives shape to the product and determines how it is distributed on the skin or hair. It can come as a serum, cream, emulsion, gel, oil, balm, lotion, or foam.
Preservatives, stabilizers, and other components
They help maintain safety, stability, and the user experience throughout the expected shelf life. These may include preservatives, pH regulators, formula antioxidants, perfumes, or colorants.
Glossary of common ingredients
Hyaluronic acid
Humectant used to help retain water and improve the feeling of hydration. It can be found in products of different textures and molecular weights.
Niacinamide
A form of vitamin B3 present in formulas aimed at skin barrier care, visual uniformity, and skin comfort. Tolerance depends on the complete formula and concentration.
Vitamin C and derivatives
A family of antioxidant ingredients used in routines for luminosity and protection against oxidative stress. Derivatives are not equivalent to each other: their stability, concentration, and method of use vary.
Retinol and other cosmetic retinoids
Renewal active ingredients that are usually introduced progressively and preferably in the night routine. It is important to follow the product's instructions, monitor tolerance, and maintain adequate photoprotection during the day.
AHA and BHA
Alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids are used in exfoliating formulas. The appropriate frequency depends on the type of acid, its concentration, the pH of the product, and skin tolerance.
Ceramides
Lipids naturally present in the skin barrier. They are incorporated into products designed to support comfort and barrier function, especially in dry or sensitive skin.
Peptides
Short chains of amino acids used in various facial care formulas. Not all peptides perform the same function, so it is advisable to review the specific product information.
DMAE
Ingredient used in some cosmetic formulas aimed at the appearance of firmness. Claims about results must correspond to the specific formula and its documentation.
Urea
A moisturizing ingredient whose behavior depends on the concentration. It is common in body, hand, or foot products formulated for dry skin.
Panthenol, aloe vera, and bisabolol
Common ingredients in formulas that aim to provide comfort and hydration. Whether a formula is suitable for sensitive skin depends on the product as a whole, not just a single ingredient.
Sun filters
Authorized ingredients to help protect against ultraviolet radiation. The level of protection is expressed by the SPF and other labeling indications. They must be applied in sufficient quantity and reapplied according to product instructions.
How to introduce a new active ingredient
- Start with only one change to observe tolerance.
- Read the instructions for use and warnings of the specific formula.
- Increase frequency only if the skin tolerates it.
- Avoid combining several exfoliants or intensive active ingredients without clear guidance.
- If a persistent reaction appears, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Find your next step
You can explore our facial serums, facial creams, facial cleansers and toners, eye contours and sun protection.
If you don't know where to start, tell us what your skin needs. We will help you organize your routine without adding unnecessary steps.