Labels, INCI and packaging

Creating a great formula is only half the battle. Once the product is ready, you also need to know how to label, present, and package it properly – especially if you’re going to sell it or give it away professionally.

In this part, we go over the basics of label design, INCI declarations, and packaging choices .

🧴 What must be on the label?

According to the EU Cosmetics Regulation, the label (or packaging) must contain:

• Product name and function (if not clear)

• Net weight or volume (e.g. 50 ml or 30 g)

• Shelf life (PAO symbol or best before date)

• Manufacturer's name and address

• Batch number

• INCI ingredients in descending order

• Any warning phrases

It is also common to include symbols for recycling, vegan labeling or natural content – ​​although these are not mandatory.

🧪 What is INCI and how do you write it?

INCI stands for International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients . It is an international system for how cosmetic ingredients should be printed on a label.

📌 Some basic rules:

• Always use Latin for plant-based substances (e.g. Butyrospermum Parkii Butter for shea butter).

• Use chemical name for synthetic substances (e.g. Tocopherol for vitamin E).

• Ingredients are listed in descending order of quantity , except for those under 1% which can be listed in any order.

Example of a simple INCI list:

Ricinus Communis Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil, Candelilla Cera, Mica, Tocopherol, Aroma

📦 Choose the right packaging for the right product

Different products require different types of packaging:

💡 Also consider durability and protection – especially for light- or heat-sensitive ingredients.

🖋️ Design that strengthens your brand

It's important that the product looks professional – even if it's DIY.
Good tip:

• Use consistent colors and fonts

• Choose a label size that fits the packaging

• Keep the design clean, readable, and clear

If you are going to sell your products: make sure your labels meet the requirements of cosmetics legislation – even for small-scale sales.

Want to create your own labels? Programs like Canva , Maestro Label Designer , or apps like Labeler in Shopify are popular tools.

📖 Next week we continue with Part 27: DIY natural face wash – a simple and gentle recipe guide on how to make a natural facial cleanser.