Free tool
Decode any skincare ingredient list
Paste a comma-separated INCI list and we'll explain every ingredient in plain English — function, comedogenicity, irritancy and category, line by line.
Paste a comma-separated ingredient list — we'll break it down for you
Why use this tool
Per-ingredient breakdown
Every line on the label gets matched to our database, with INCI synonyms collapsed into one canonical entry.
Comedogenicity & irritancy
Two science-backed 0–5 scales let you spot pore-cloggers and likely irritants before you patch-test.
Functional categories
See at a glance which ingredients are humectants, emollients, preservatives, fragrances or actives.
How it works
- 1
Paste or search
Drop a comma-separated INCI list into the box, or start typing a product or ingredient name to jump into our catalog.
- 2
Read the breakdown
Each ingredient gets a colored chip with its comedogenicity, irritancy and category — so you can scan a 30-line formula in seconds.
- 3
Dig deeper or save it
Click any ingredient for the full profile, or open the Macherre app to save shelves, scan barcodes and build routines around what works.
Example output
Illustrative preview — exact layout may vary slightly in the app.
Skincare and cosmetic labels are designed for chemists, not for the people buying the product. Macherre's free ingredient checker turns a wall of INCI names into a readable breakdown so you can tell exactly what each ingredient does, where it sits on the comedogenic and irritancy scales, and which functional category it belongs to — humectant, emollient, preservative, fragrance, and beyond.
Every match is sourced from our curated ingredient database with synonyms collapsed, so common alternate names ("Tocopherol" vs "Vitamin E", for example) still resolve to one canonical entry. Use it before you buy a new serum, when you're troubleshooting a breakout, or whenever a label looks intimidating — and dig deeper on individual ingredient pages or the Macherre app whenever you want the full story.
Frequently asked questions
Is the ingredient checker free to use?▼
Yes — the web ingredient checker is completely free, with no signup required. Sign in to the Macherre app if you want to save scans, build shelves and track products over time.
Does the checker store the ingredients I paste?▼
The checker is a stateless lookup against our database — pasted lists aren't tied to a profile and aren't stored long-term. For persistent scans and shelves, use the Macherre app after signing in.
Why don't some ingredients match?▼
Typos, very new INCI names, proprietary blends listed as a single line, or vague trade names can fail to match. Try the canonical INCI spelling, or search the ingredient dictionary directly.
Are comedogenicity ratings reliable?▼
Comedogenicity scores come from decades of patch-test literature and are useful as a starting point, but they don't account for concentration, full formulation, or your individual skin. Treat them as triage, not verdicts.
Can I check makeup, hair and body products too?▼
Absolutely. The same INCI logic applies to any cosmetic — foundation, shampoo, body lotion, lip balm, sunscreen. Just keep in mind that leave-on vs rinse-off use changes how each ingredient behaves on skin.
Is this a substitute for medical or dermatology advice?▼
No. The checker is educational — it can help you make more informed buying decisions, but it isn't a diagnosis. For allergies, eczema, persistent acne or prescription concerns, talk to a qualified clinician.
Ready to try it in the app?
Download Macherre for scans, shelves, comparisons, and routines tailored to your skin.
Sign up on the web from the same link if you prefer.