1. What the nemi Score is
The nemi Score rates a product's ingredients against publicly available safety information. Products with the same ingredient list always get the same score. AI does not assign scores (it is used to write ingredient explanations — see our AI usage section).
A score does not guarantee or deny that a product is "safe" or "dangerous." It is a reference guide based on public information. The specific criteria behind the calculation are proprietary and not disclosed.
1.1 The score and your skin fit
The nemi Score is the same for every user. In the app, that score is the foundation for a personalized skin-fit read shown on each product, based on the skin type (normal, dry, oily, combination) and concerns you set. This skin-fit read does not change the underlying score. It simply tailors how to interpret the same product for your skin. Setting a skin profile is optional; the score and ingredient data work without it.
2. What it draws on
We don't rely on any single source. Ratings combine several kinds of public information: cosmetic regulations from around the world, international toxicology and chemical-safety assessments, dermatology research, and international ingredient-naming standards. All of it is publicly available.
3. What we can't score
In these cases we either show no score or add a note:
- Quasi-drugs (medicated cosmetics): full ingredient lists aren't required and don't have to be in concentration order, so we don't produce a score.
- Ingredients with little research: where public data is thin, we say so and treat them conservatively.
- Products with many undisclosed ingredients: when a lot is hidden (e.g. fragrance), we flag that the rating is less reliable.
4. How similar products are chosen
The "similar products" on a product page are picked by ingredient-profile similarity within the same category — not by score. No commercial factors (partners, ads) play any part.
5. Independence from affiliate links
Purchase links on product pages are affiliate links, but that relationship has no effect on scores or ingredient ratings. See our affiliate disclosure.
6. Limitations and disclaimer
- A score is a snapshot of public information at a point in time. When a brand reformulates, there may be a lag before it's reflected.
- This is not a medical service. Scores and explanations are not a substitute for a dermatologist or pharmacist. For skin problems, pregnancy or breastfeeding, or known allergies, always consult a medical professional.
- Skin and sensitivity differ from person to person. An ingredient generally considered safe may still cause a reaction for some people.
7. Reporting errors and inquiries
If you find an error in a score or ingredient, or have questions about how we evaluate, use the in-app "Report issue" flow or email support@nemi.beauty.