Having an International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient (INCI) name for each ingredient is absolutely mandatory for every personal care product, allowing customers to identify the product’s content before making the purchase.
However, it can happen that you are using an ingredient that is so unique, rare or sourced in remote places that it does not have an International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients name yet.
In that case, to be able to use it in a product in Europe or the UK, it will need to be registered via the Personal Care Products Council. By going through the application process with PCPC, an ingredient will receive a unique INCI name systematically generated and internationally identified. This ensures that all products meet the high standards set by INCI cosmetics regulations.
You may choose to apply to the Personal Care Products Council on your own or we can help you through the whole process.
Either way, to align with INCI cosmetics regulations, please find below information so you can make the best decision for your needs.
To comply with INCI cosmetics regulations, read the information outlined below.
Find below the complete instructions on an INCI application.
You may find this information on the PCPC website and brochures.
Only one ingredient (or commercial product) per application can be submitted for an International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient name assignment
All required fields on the application must be filled in
Additional information can be submitted as an attachment
Maximum file size per attachment is 25 MB
Recommended file formats include .pdf, .xlsx, .doc or .docx, .jpg, .gif, .zip
Applications can be saved in progress; however, after an application is submitted, changes cannot be made other than to upload attachments when requested by the Personal Care Products Council
A non-refundable payment by credit card of €1000 per application is made upon submission
The International Nomenclature Committee (INC) meets approximately 5 times per year, generally during the months of February, April, June, September, and November. Applications included on the meeting agenda are compiled in chronological order and distributed to the INC for review 8 weeks prior to the scheduled meeting date.
After the PCPC meeting, monographs for the new ingredients are drafted and finalized. This process takes approximately 1 month. Once the monographs are completed, applicants are notified of the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients name assignment via email from the Application website.
An INCI (International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient) name provides a standard, globally recognised name for each cosmetic ingredient and is required on product labels in the EU, UK, and many other markets.
When the ingredient is used in cosmetics you shall apply for a name via the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC). Once approved, the ingredient receives a unique INCI name, making it usable in cosmetic products legally.
As of January 1st, 2024, the INCI application fee is US$1,000 per ingredient.
From submission to receiving an INCI name typically takes 3–6 months, depending on when the application is reviewed and whether more information is requested.
The International Nomenclature Committee (INC) meets about five times a year — typically in February, April, June, September, and November.
No — each application must be for a single ingredient or trade name only.
No — assigning an INCI name is purely about nomenclature. It does not imply safety approval, purity, or regulatory compliance.
No — the PCPC / INC does not guarantee confidentiality for submitted data. Requests for confidentiality are reviewed, but risk application withdrawal.
You need to provide comprehensive documentation: ingredient composition, origin/source, CAS/EC numbers, manufacturing method, etc., and you may attach supporting files (SDS, certificates, technical data).
Once the INCI name is assigned and published, the ingredient becomes part of INCI’s dictionary. But acceptance of that ingredient in regulatory lists (e.g. EU CosIng) depends on further safety, purity, and regulatory evaluation.
Don’t Hesitate to Contact Us If You Need Help to Go Through the Application Process.
Navigate UK cosmetic regulations with guidance on formula assessments, SCPN submissions, and ongoing UK Responsible Person responsibilities following Brexit.
Support your product development journey with assistance sourcing ingredients, preparing regulatory documentation, and introducing trusted manufacturing partners under NDA.
Gain clarity on potential compliance and regulatory risks before launching, acquiring, or investing in cosmetic products and ingredients through specialist assessments.
Benefit from dedicated UK and EU Responsible Person support, helping manage regulatory duties including safety documentation, product notifications, and compliant product labelling.
Access comprehensive support for EU market entry, including formula reviews, Product Information File preparation, CPNP notifications, and Responsible Person services.
Support every stage of cosmetic compliance, from formula checks and safety assessments to PIF preparation, product notifications, and Responsible Person services for EU and UK markets.
Evaluate cosmetic ingredients for regulatory compliance, safety considerations, and market suitability to support compliant product development and formulation decisions.
Launching indie beauty brands worldwide may come with a lot of various regulatory constraints. Taobé provides you with tailored regulatory advice to ensure product safety and compliance when entering global cosmetic markets.