2,001

Let’s start with this magic – and quite significant number. VRAI COSMETICS bans 2,001 ingredients. No ifs, ands or buts. I am a hard “no” on 2,001.

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s talk about how I categorize ingredients that I DO use.

Each ingredient is categorized as USED WITHOUT EXCEPTIONS or USED WITH EXCEPTIONS. Let’s take two examples: Aloe Vera Leaf Juice and Phenoxyethanol. Aloe Vera Leaf Juice is used without exceptions, meaning I would use it in any product in which I valued its properties and contribution. Conversely, I reserve the use of Phenoxyethanol as a mild preservative for mascara, in place of parabens. (It is important to put a mild preservative in mascara – a product used in close proximity to our precious eyes.) I would NOT use this ingredient in high concentration in a leave-on skin product, such as moisturizer. It is safe for use in mascara – a product applied to lash hairs, which do not transfer into the blood stream. Hence, without exceptions or with exceptions.

You may review each ingredient in the Intelligence section, so you understand the what, when, and why – what it is, when it is used in a formulation, and why. While most brands begrudgingly disclose as little information as possible, VRAI COSMETICS and VRAI IQ stand by the philosophy In Truth, Intelligence. The whole truth, and nothing but the truth. You deserve to know the truth. We all do.