What Your Labels Really Mean

Skincare Labels Decoded: What Are They Really Saying?

Ever picked up a skincare product and thought, What does ‘clinically tested’ even mean? You’re not alone. Brands love using buzzwords, but not all of them actually mean something. Let’s break down the most common skincare terms—so you know exactly what you’re getting.

‘Dermatologist-Tested’
✔ Means a dermatologist was involved in testing the product.
Doesn’t mean it’s safe for all skin types (it could still be irritating).

‘Non-Comedogenic’
✔ Means it’s less likely to clog pores.
Not a guarantee you won’t break out—everyone’s skin is different!

‘Hypoallergenic’
✔ Designed to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
Not regulated, so it doesn’t mean it's 100% allergy-free.

‘Fragrance-Free’ vs. ‘Unscented’
✔ Fragrance-free = No added fragrance.
Unscented = May still contain masking fragrances to cover up natural smells.

‘Clinically Proven’
✔ Means the product was tested in a study and showed results.
The quality of the study matters—was it independent or funded by the brand?

Read Beyond the Marketing

The best way to know if a product is right for you? Check the ingredients list, not just the front label. Because smart skincare starts with knowing what’s really in your products.