Skin care store survival guide: how to decipher the label

Let's not sugarcoat it: translating skin care jargon found on product labels can sometimes feel like taking a foreign language course. It's difficult, to put it mildly. What does all of this mean? To help decipher common words on ingredient lists and labels, we've hired board certified dermatologist and Skincare.com expert, Dr. Dandy Engelman. Read its definitions.

Hypoallergenic

Hypoallergenic means a product is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction, Engelman says. However, this is not reliable. If you have sensitive skin, check the ingredient list for common irritants that may still be in the formula.

Not comedones

“This means the formula is designed to not block pores,” says Engelman. All skin types should watch this especially if you suffer from acne as clogged pores are one of the main culprits of acne.

PH BALANCED

If you see this on a product label, it means the formula is neutral—neither acidic nor alkaline, according to Engelman. Why should you care? Great question! Our skin has an optimal pH of 5.5, slightly acidic, using pH balanced products can help avoid pH fluctuations on our skin.

PARABEN FREE

Paraben-free - the name says it all - it means that the product does not contain parabens. What are parabens you say? US Food and Drug Administration defines parabens as one of the "most commonly used preservatives in cosmetic products". They also explain that it is common for a product to use more than one paraben in combination with other types of preservatives to provide protection against microbial growth.

CHECKED BY OPHTHALMOLOGIST

"This means the product has been tested by an ophthalmologist and is unlikely to irritate the eyes and the environment." It's certainly reassuring, though - due to different skin types, needs, and concerns, as mentioned above - there's no guarantee that this promise will come true.