The base for most skincare formulations.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Draws moisture into the skin, keeping it hydrated and supple.
Usually helps with
Dryness, hydration
Emollient
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
A rich emollient that helps to moisturize and condition the skin, supporting the skin barrier.
Usually helps with
Dryness, barrier support
Emollient
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Known for its intense moisturizing properties, shea butter helps to soften and smooth the skin.
Usually helps with
Dryness, softening skin
Watch for
Can be heavy for some skin types
A common humectant that helps to draw moisture into the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Emollient
Propanediol Dicaprylate/Caprate
Provides a smooth feel and helps to condition the skin.
Usually helps with
Softening skin
Humectant
Pentylene Glycol
A humectant that also has some preservative properties.
Usually helps with
Hydration
A fatty alcohol that helps to soften and smooth the skin.
Usually helps with
Softening skin
Emollient
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
A light emollient that improves skin feel and spreadability.
Usually helps with
Skin feel
Emulsifier
Glyceryl Stearate
Helps to bind oil and water, creating a stable emulsion.
Usually helps with
Texture
Emulsifier
Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate
A plant-derived emulsifier that helps to create a smooth texture.
Usually helps with
Texture
Emulsifier
Cetearyl Glucoside
A gentle, plant-derived emulsifier that helps to create a stable and pleasant texture.
Usually helps with
Texture
Emollient
Cetearyl Alcohol
A fatty alcohol that softens and smooths skin, and helps to stabilize the formula.
Usually helps with
Softening skin
A humectant that helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration
A fatty alcohol that softens and smooths skin, and helps to stabilize the formula.
Usually helps with
Softening skin
Emulsifier
Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate
A gentle emulsifier that helps to create a stable and creamy texture.
Usually helps with
Texture
pH Adjuster
Sodium Citrate
Used to adjust the pH of the formula.
Usually helps with
Formula stability
Exfoliant
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract
Contains natural salicylates that can offer mild exfoliation and soothing benefits. It's a source of salicylic acid.
Usually helps with
Gentle exfoliation, soothing
Watch for
Can cause mild irritation for some
Emollient
Perilla Ocymoides Leaf/Stem Oil
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this oil helps to calm and nourish the skin.
Usually helps with
Calming skin, nourishment
A gentle AHA derived from rice, it helps to exfoliate the skin, revealing a brighter and smoother complexion.
Usually helps with
Exfoliation, brightening
Watch for
Can cause mild sensitivity if overused
A form of Vitamin E, it acts as an antioxidant to protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection