Cosmetics Ingredient Dictionary

active ingredient. The active ingredients list is the part of a cosmetic, drug, or pharmaceutical ingredient label that must adhere to specific FDA-mandated regulations. Active ingredients must be listed first on an ingredient label. The amount and exact function of each active ingredient is controlled and must be approved by the FDA. Active ingredients are considered to have a pharmacological altering effect on skin, and these effects must be documented by scientific evaluation and approved by the FDA. Active ingredients include such substances as sunscreen ingredients, skin-lightening agents, and benzoyl peroxide. See inactive ingredient.