How can we help?
We’re here to make sure FormulaLens works great for you. Browse the topics below for quick answers, or reach out directly — we’re happy to help.
Getting Started
How do I scan a product?
- Open FormulaLens and tap Analyze
- Select a product category (e.g., Moisturizer, Sunscreen, Serum)
- Take a photo of the ingredient list or choose one from your photo library
- View your color-coded ingredient breakdown
That’s it — no account, no setup, no internet connection needed.
What product categories are available?
FormulaLens supports 13 categories covering face, body, lips, hair, and makeup: Cleanser, Toner, Serum, Moisturizer, Eye Cream, Sunscreen, Mask/Pack, Body Lotion, Hand Cream, Lip Balm, Shampoo, Conditioner, and Foundation/BB.
Is FormulaLens free?
Yes — completely free. There are no in-app purchases, no subscriptions, and no ads.
Do I need the internet to use it?
No. Every feature works entirely offline.
Understanding Your Results
What do the colors mean?
Each ingredient is color-coded by its function — for example, blue for moisturizing, green for antioxidant, orange for sun protection, and purple for anti-aging. This gives you an instant visual map of what your product is designed to do.
What are “key” and “unexpected” labels?
- Key (star icon) — This ingredient directly serves the product type’s primary purpose. For example, UV filters are key in a sunscreen.
- Unexpected — This ingredient is unusual for the selected category. It’s not necessarily bad — just noteworthy. For example, an exfoliant in an eye cream would be flagged.
Can I get more detail on a specific ingredient?
Yes. Tap any ingredient to see a plain-language explanation of what it does, plus links to trusted databases (INCIDecoder, COSMILE Europe, EWG Skin Deep) for deeper research.
How do I compare products?
Scan two or more products in a session, then open the Comparison view. You’ll see which ingredients are shared, which are unique to each product, and a function distribution chart.
How do I save a scan?
Tap the save button after analyzing a product. Give it a custom label, and it will appear in your Saved tab for easy access later.
Privacy and Data
Are my photos uploaded anywhere?
No. All photo processing happens entirely on your device. Your images never leave your phone or tablet.
What data do you collect?
None. FormulaLens has no accounts, no analytics, no tracking, and no advertising. See our full Privacy Policy for details.
How do I delete my saved data?
Swipe left on any saved product to remove it. To delete all app data, simply uninstall FormulaLens from your device.
What happens if I delete the app?
Uninstalling FormulaLens permanently removes all saved product analyses from your device. Since there is no cloud backup or sync, this cannot be undone.
Permissions
Why does the app ask for camera access?
So you can photograph ingredient lists directly. This permission is optional — you can always choose a photo from your library instead.
Why does the app ask for photo library access?
So you can select an existing photo of an ingredient list. This is optional — you can use the camera instead.
Does FormulaLens access my location, microphone, or contacts?
No. The only permissions ever requested are camera and photo library. Nothing else.
Troubleshooting
The camera isn’t working
Open your device Settings → FormulaLens and confirm Camera access is turned on. If it already is, try force-closing the app and reopening it.
The scan missed some ingredients
For best results, make sure the ingredient list is:
- Well-lit with even lighting (no glare or strong shadows)
- In focus and not blurry
- Flat against a surface (flatten the label if possible)
- Large enough in the frame to read clearly
On curved bottles, try photographing one section at a time.
Some ingredients show as “unrecognized”
FormulaLens includes a comprehensive database of common cosmetic ingredients. Very new, rare, or region-specific ingredients may not yet be classified. The ingredient name will still appear — only the automatic function label is unavailable.
No ingredients were found in my photo
Make sure you’re photographing the ingredient list itself (usually on the back or bottom of the product). If the photo only shows the product name, branding, or marketing text, there won’t be ingredients to detect.
The app is crashing
Update to the latest version from the App Store and restart your device. If the problem continues, please contact us with your device model and iOS version.
Compatibility
iOS 18.0 or later · iPhone and iPad
Contact Us
Can’t find your answer? We’d genuinely like to help.
Email: bartlettbutter@gmail.com
We typically respond within 48 hours. To help us assist you quickly, please include:
- A brief description of what happened
- Your device model and iOS version (Settings → General → About)
- A screenshot, if helpful