Active basis
The concentration basis used to calculate how much functional material is present in a powder, solution or blend.
B2B cosmetic ingredient glossary
The language behind
a clearer RFQ.
Short definitions for the terms formulation, QA and procurement teams use when evaluating cosmetic raw materials.
Assay
A quantitative test used to determine the amount or strength of a specified component in the material.
Batch / lot
A defined quantity produced under a specific manufacturing record and identified by a unique code.
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A document reporting results or conformity for a specific batch against named tests or limits.
Cosmetic active ingredient
A raw material selected to support a cosmetic function, appearance benefit or formulation story in a finished personal-care product.
Grade
A defined commercial version of a material with its own composition, concentration, specification and intended-use context.
INCI
International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient name used to identify cosmetic ingredients in industry and finished-product labeling contexts.
MOQ
Minimum order quantity accepted for a commercial purchase.
Representative sample
A sample intended to reflect a commercial grade; its connection to the future production lot should be confirmed.
Retest period
The period after which a stored raw material should be retested to confirm it still meets specification.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
A hazard-communication and handling document covering classification, storage, exposure controls, transport and disposal.
Specification
The agreed set of tests, limits and requirements used to define acceptance of a material grade.
Stability testing
Evaluation of physical, chemical and microbiological behavior over time under defined conditions and in the intended packaging.
Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
A product document describing technical identity, typical properties, applications, processing and storage guidance.
Topical cosmetic use
Use in a product applied to external body surfaces for cosmetic purposes, distinct from injection, ingestion or therapeutic use.
Use level
The amount of a supplied grade added to a finished formula; it must be interpreted together with the grade's active concentration.