The INC is charged with the responsibility of designating INCI names. INCI names are uniform, systematic names internationally recognized to identify cosmetic ingredients. In the United States and many countries around the world, INCI names are referenced by regulation for ingredient labeling cosmetic products. As part of the process of coining INCI names, the INC oversees the continued development of the INCI nomenclature system and assures the integrity of the information related to INCI names that is published in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook.

Members of the INC convene approximately five times a year for two-day sessions to review applications for new INCI names and petitions for INCI name changes. Applications are addressed in date order, and INCI names are designated on a consensus basis in accordance with the conventions developed since the nomenclature effort was initiated in the 1970s. The INC also participates in web-based conferencing to review monograph development for INCI names. Additionally, the INC responds to other matters related to The Dictionary, nomenclature development and international nomenclature harmonization.