Specific Solutions
Translation of Cosmetics & Skincare Product Descriptions
— By Airui Translation
Translating cosmetics and skincare product content is not just about language — it’s about regulatory compliance, scientific accuracy, brand tone, and market appeal.
Whether you’re exporting, launching on global e-commerce platforms, or registering for overseas markets, a high-quality translation can make or break your product’s legibility, legality, and desirability.
Below is Airui Translation’s comprehensive guide to cosmetics translation — tailored for beauty brands, OEM/ODM manufacturers, compliance consultants, and global distributors.
I. What Needs to Be Translated?
Common items include:
Product labels (Ingredients, Directions, Net Weight)
Packaging text (outer box, bottle, jar)
User manuals or inserts
INCI ingredient list
Marketing copy / Brand story / Taglines
Registration documents for international markets (e.g., EU CPNP, US FDA, GCC)
Safety documentation / Certificates / SDS abstracts
These translations are typically used for:
Product listings on global platforms (Amazon, Shopee, Tmall Global)
Export and customs documentation
Packaging for OEM/ODM manufacturing
Overseas product registration and audits
II. Key Challenges in Translation
✅ 1. Scientific Terminology Must Be Accurate
Ingredient names and cosmetic effects must follow industry-standard terms.
Chinese Term | English Equivalent |
---|---|
烟酰胺 | Niacinamide |
玻尿酸 | Hyaluronic Acid |
舒缓修复 | Soothing & Repairing |
敏感肌适用 | Suitable for Sensitive Skin |
二次清洁 | Secondary Cleansing |
水油平衡 | Oil–Water Balance |
❗ Incorrect terms may cause confusion or violate local advertising rules.
✅ 2. Tone = Science + Sales
Skincare translations must balance clinical clarity with brand voice.
Too technical, and users don’t connect. Too promotional, and your product may be flagged.
Bad example: “This cream magically removes all wrinkles in 3 days.” ❌
Better: “This lightweight cream helps visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines with continued use.” ✅
✅ 3. Global Compliance Matters
Different countries and platforms have strict rules on cosmetic claims and formatting.
Avoid medical claims (e.g., “cures,” “heals DNA,” “eliminates acne”)
No absolute/false promises (“100% effective,” “instant results”)
Ingredient names must follow INCI standards
Units (ml, oz, g) must match target market labeling rules
For EU/US/Middle East: product name, claims, and layout may need localization