Skincare University

The "○○ included" trick—why trace amounts aren’t a lie

LEVEL 2
The Truth About Ingredient Labels

LEVEL 2 The Truth About Ingredient Labels

"Contains Human Stem Cell Culture Supernatant." "Contains Retinol." "Contains Ceramide." When you see these claims, do you assume these are the star ingredients formulated at high concentrations?

In fact, there is no legally mandated minimum concentration required to use the word "contains." Even 0.0001% is enough to claim "contains". It is not a lie -- but whether it is effective is an entirely different question.

Common "Contains" Tricks

Displaying it prominently on the front to make it appear as the primary ingredient. Using proprietary names to create an impression of exclusivity. Adding trace amounts of expensive ingredients to convey a premium image.

Contains XX! (Large text on the front of the package) Actual concentration 0.0001% Contains = present ≠ present at effective concentration

How to Tell the Difference

Where does the ingredient appear in the full ingredient list (before or after the 1% line)? Does the brand disclose the formulation concentration? Does it provide specific evidence of efficacy?

"Contains" and "contains at an effective concentration" are entirely different things.

KAIAN develops skincare products based on scientific evidence.
Feel free to ask questions about ingredients and formulations.

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