Selling wellness products online isn’t just about having high-quality items—it’s also about how you describe them. A product description can be the difference between gaining a loyal customer or attracting the wrong kind of attention from regulators, payment processors, and marketplaces. Writing compliant descriptions not only protects your business but also builds trust with shoppers who want clarity and transparency.
Why Compliance in Descriptions Matters
For wellness sellers, words carry weight. Using the wrong phrases can turn a simple product listing into a liability. Payment providers and regulators often scan websites for risky claims. If they find prohibited language, your store could face penalties, account freezes, or even removal from platforms.
The goal: write descriptions that inform and sell without making promises you can’t legally keep.
Key Elements of a Compliant Product Description
1. Stick to the Facts
Focus on what the product is, not what it does.
- ✅ Say: “This tincture contains 500mg of hemp extract per bottle.”
- ❌ Avoid: “This tincture reduces stress and cures insomnia.”
Shoppers want accurate information. Clear labeling builds credibility and keeps you safe.
2. Highlight Quality and Transparency
You can talk about the integrity of your product without making health claims.
- ✅ “Lab-tested for purity and potency”
- ✅ “Made with organically grown ingredients”
- ✅ “COA available on product page”
These details boost consumer confidence without crossing into medical territory.
3. Use Lifestyle, Not Medical, Language
Instead of promising results, focus on customer experience and usage context.
- ✅ “Perfect for adding to your evening routine”
- ✅ “Popular among customers who prefer plant-based options”
- ❌ Avoid phrases like “treats pain” or “clinically proven.”
4. Keep It Honest
Overstatements and exaggerations can hurt both compliance and reputation. If your product is flavored, say so. If it’s fragrance-free, mention that. Never suggest your product can do more than it actually can.
5. Include the Essentials
Every compliant product description should cover:
- Product name and category (tincture, capsule, topical, etc.)
- Ingredients (including active compounds)
- Serving size and packaging details
- Any legal restrictions (such as age requirements or state shipping limitations)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Medical claims: “treats anxiety,” “cures arthritis,” “lowers blood pressure”
- ❌ Vague wellness claims: “supports the immune system,” “boosts vitality”
- ❌ Unverified comparisons: “the strongest on the market,” “clinically tested” (unless you can show proof)
- ❌ Overlooking local rules: Some states have specific labeling and wording restrictions
Final Thoughts
Writing a compliant product description is about balance—clear, engaging, and transparent without overstepping legal boundaries. The safest approach is to educate, not medicate. Focus on product details, quality assurances, and lifestyle positioning.
By doing so, you’ll not only keep regulators and payment processors on your side but also earn the trust of your customers.
And remember: WAAVE helps you build compliant product descriptions that protect your brand and ensure business continuity.
