Consumers with sensitive skin often scrutinise product labels more closely than any other group. Even minor irritants can lead to discomfort or allergic reactions, so brands must ensure their labelling is both accurate and easy to understand. Beyond regulatory requirements, clear and honest labelling builds trust and can help products stand out in a competitive skincare market.
Be Specific with Ingredient Listings
For products targeting sensitive skin, a full and transparent ingredient list is essential. Simply claiming a product is “hypoallergenic” or “dermatologist-tested” is not enough without supporting detail.
- List all ingredients in descending order of concentration.
- Use INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) names, but consider adding plain-language translations in brackets.
- Highlight any known irritants, even in trace amounts, with cautionary language.
- Avoid vague descriptors like “fragrance” or “parfum” unless you disclose what it contains.
Consumers often look for ingredients to avoid, such as alcohol, essential oils, or preservatives like methylisothiazolinone. Providing full transparency reduces the likelihood of negative reactions and builds credibility.
Make Claims Meaningful
If you market your product as suitable for sensitive skin, the claim must be backed by evidence. That includes:
- Patch testing conducted under dermatological supervision
- Clinical trials or user studies showing tolerance among sensitive skin users
- Absence of common allergens or irritants
Misleading claims could result in legal action or product recalls if users experience adverse effects. Use conservative wording and avoid overpromising.
Comply with Labelling Regulations
In the UK, cosmetic labelling must comply with retained EU Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. For sensitive skin products, this includes:
- The function of the product (if not obvious from its presentation)
- Precautions for use (e.g. “avoid eye area” or “discontinue use if irritation occurs”)
- A batch code for traceability
- A clear best-before or period-after-opening symbol
Sensitive skin users often check expiry dates carefully. Old or degraded formulas can become irritating, even if originally well-tolerated.
Consider Design and Accessibility
Clarity and readability can make the difference between a product being used safely or causing issues. Label design should:
- Use high-contrast fonts that are large enough to read easily
- Keep layout uncluttered to allow important information to stand out
- Include braille or digital accessibility options where feasible, such as QR codes linking to product details
Sustainability and Allergens
Many consumers with sensitive skin also prefer sustainable or fragrance-free products. If using natural materials, ensure they are still low in allergens. Plant-based ingredients are not automatically safe for sensitive skin.
Be cautious when using biodegradable inks, adhesives, or packaging, as these may contain allergens. Request safety data from suppliers to ensure the entire label is skin-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Sensitive skin labelling requires careful attention to language, layout, and legal compliance. By clearly stating ingredients, avoiding allergens, and backing claims with data, brands can earn the trust of a highly selective consumer group and reduce the risk of complaints or regulatory issues.