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- Derma Score
- Rating explained
Rating explained
Transparent rating
A clear grade from A+ to C
The Derma Score label is based on a rigorous assessment of the substances contained in a product, according to their endocrine-disrupting, CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic), irritant or allergenic potential. This analysis is performed by independent toxicologists using the complete quantitative composition provided by the manufacturer.
Skin tolerance
Allergens and irritants
All substances present below threshold values
One minor exceedance allowed (≤ 2× the threshold)
Up to 3 minor exceedances OR between 2× and 3× the threshold
More than 3 exceedances OR at least one significant exceedance (> 3× the threshold)
CMR and endocrine disruptors
No substance detected
Possible presence, but below threshold values
Possible presence, but below threshold values
Exceedance of any threshold value OR substance with no threshold value
Additional criteria
All substances present below threshold values
One minor exceedance allowed (≤ 2× the threshold)
Up to 3 minor exceedances OR between 2× and 3× the threshold
More than 3 exceedances OR at least one significant exceedance (> 3× the threshold)
Allergènes & Irritants
Allergens and irritants
Maximum 8 allergenic substances, all below threshold
Skin tolerance
Allergens and irritants
No allergenic substance for early-childhood products. No exceedance of threshold values
Maximum 8 allergenic substances, all below threshold limits + 1 minor exceedance allowed (≤ 2× the limit)
Up to 3 minor exceedances or between 2× and 3× the threshold
More than 3 exceedances or at least one significant exceedance (> 3× the threshold)
CMR and endocrine disruptors
No CMR
Possible presence but below threshold values
Possible presence but below threshold values
Exceedance of a threshold value OR substance without a threshold value
Criteria
Our 3 criteria
Endocrine disruptors
Endocrine disruptors or substances classified as extremely concerning (SVHC), according to the European list or AGEC law, weigh heavily in the rating:
- If their concentration exceeds toxicological thresholds, the rating will be B or C.
- Even below regulatory limits, their mere presence prevents an A+ rating.
CMR substances
Carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic substances (CMR) are subject to strict rules:
- Their presence automatically excludes the A+ rating.
- If a product contains a CMR substance above safety thresholds, it is immediately rated C.
Irritants and allergens
Each substance is compared with recognised exposure limits.
- To obtain A+, all substances must remain below critical thresholds.
- A+ is awarded if the number of label-listed allergens does not exceed 8, and their concentrations stay within the established limits.
- If a threshold is exceeded, the rating decreases progressively from A+ to C.
Early childhood
Derma Score Baby
Baby skin is particularly fragile and sensitive. For this reason, Derma Score Baby applies much stricter rules than other product categories.
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No allergens for an A+
No labelable allergens may be present in the formula, and other allergens must be below concentration thresholds.
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Adjusted exposure scenario
The assessment uses strict exposure scenarios specifically designed for infants.
This requirement guarantees parents complete transparency regarding products designed for their little ones.
Rigorous evaluation
A precautionary logic
The final grade, from A+ to C, results from a synthesis of these criteria.
A product can never obtain A+ if it contains an endocrine disruptor or a CMR substance, even when compliant with the strictest international limits.
Ratings
Interpretation of ratings
The A+ score corresponds to a very high level of requirements in the Derma Score framework.
It reflects, under normal conditions of use and based on the data provided by the manufacturer :
- A very low level of exposure to certain substances classified as “sensitising” in the reference framework, and
- The absence of substances which, although legally authorised, are identified as concerning by certain recognised health authorities or international scientific agencies (such as ECHA, SCCS, or EPA) due to their potential CMR or endocrine-disrupting properties.
The number of substances classified as “sensitising” in the reference framework is less than or equal to eight (8). Their concentrations must remain below the fixed threshold limits.
The thresholds considered in the Derma Score reference framework are based on a toxicological assessment of cutaneous exposure levels, taking into account data from international scientific literature, including certain reference limits used in cosmetic regulations when relevant, without being limited to them.
Indicative rating assigned according to the Derma Score label reference framework. This rating does not in any way replace the applicable European regulatory obligations.
The A score corresponds to a high level of requirements in the Derma Score framework.
It reflects, under normal conditions of use and based on the data provided by the manufacturer :
- A low level of exposure to certain substances classified as “sensitising” in the reference framework, and
- The possible presence of substances, legally authorised but considered of concern by certain recognised health authorities or international scientific agencies (such as ECHA, SCCS, or EPA), whose concentrations do not exceed the threshold limits set by the framework.
The product may contain a number of substances classified as “sensitising” according to the reference framework, fewer than, equal to, or greater than eight (8), and some of these may slightly exceed the exposure thresholds defined in the framework (between 1 and 2 times the limit value).
The thresholds considered in the Derma Score reference framework are based on a toxicological assessment of cutaneous exposure levels, taking into account data from international scientific literature, including certain reference limits used in cosmetic regulations when relevant, without being limited to them.
Indicative rating assigned according to the Derma Score label reference framework. This rating does not in any way replace the applicable European regulatory obligations.
The B score corresponds to a composition considered generally well-controlled with regard to the Derma Score framework criteria, but which may warrant particular attention, especially for more sensitive users or in cases of frequent use.
It reflects, under normal conditions of use and based on the data provided by the manufacturer, a moderate level of exposure to certain substances identified in the formula.
The B score may result either from a moderate exceedance of the exposure thresholds defined in the framework (between 2 and 3 times the fixed limit value) or from a combination of several level-A criteria that, when considered together, shift the overall score to a B rating.
Indicative rating assigned according to the Derma Score label reference framework. This rating does not in any way replace the applicable European regulatory obligations.
The C score highlights a formulation that remains compliant with current regulations, but whose certain characteristics may justify enhanced information for consumers according to the Derma Score framework — particularly for those wishing to adopt a more precautionary approach.
It reflects, under normal conditions of use and based on the data provided by the manufacturer, a high level of exposure (more than 3 times the limit value) to one or more substances identified in the formula.
The C rating may be assigned due to the presence of a CMR substance, authorised under European regulations but with an estimated exposure value exceeding the framework limit, and/or due to a combination of several level-B criteria, resulting in the overall threshold being exceeded.
Indicative rating assigned according to the Derma Score label reference framework. This rating does not in any way replace the applicable European regulatory obligations.
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Scientific precautions
Limits and precautions
The Derma Score rating is an indicative assessment based on the best available scientific data.
It does not replace European regulatory obligations and cannot guarantee total absence of risk for every individual, as reactions also depend on usage conditions and each person’s sensitivity.