The base of most cosmetic formulations, used to dissolve other ingredients.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A plant-derived solvent and humectant that helps improve product texture and skin hydration.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be a skin irritant for some.
Emollient
Phenyl Trimethicone
A silicone that provides a smooth feel and can help improve product spreadability.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Some prefer to avoid silicones.
A sugar beet-derived ingredient that helps hydrate the skin and protect it from moisture loss.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A common and effective humectant that draws water into the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A versatile ingredient that can help improve skin barrier function, reduce inflammation, and minimize the appearance of pores.
Usually helps with
Most skin types, especially acne-prone and sensitive
Watch for
Can cause temporary flushing or redness in some individuals, especially at higher concentrations.
Humectant
Glyceryl Glucoside
A derivative of glycerin and glucose that helps improve skin hydration and barrier function.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Humectant
Saccharide Isomerate
A carbohydrate complex that binds to skin cells, providing long-lasting hydration and improving the skin's moisture barrier.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emollient
Vinyl Dimethicone
A silicone derivative that can provide a smooth feel and improve product texture.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Some prefer to avoid silicones.
A skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster that also offers moisturizing properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be a skin irritant for some.
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially dry and dehydrated
A silicone that can provide a smooth, silky feel and help condition the skin.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Some prefer to avoid silicones.
Preservative
Ethylhexylglycerin
A preservative and skin-conditioning agent that also has antimicrobial properties.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Can be a skin irritant for some.
A yeast-derived ingredient that can help soothe skin and has anti-aging benefits.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A polysaccharide derived from oats or yeast that can help soothe, hydrate, and support the skin barrier.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially sensitive and dry
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Film Former
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
A silicone polymer that can give products a smooth texture and a matte finish.
Usually helps with
Oily and combination skin
Watch for
Some prefer to avoid silicones.
Thickener
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer
A synthetic polymer used to thicken cosmetic formulations and improve texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A solvent and humectant that also has preservative properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be a skin irritant for some.
Thickener
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer
A synthetic polymer used to thicken cosmetic formulations and improve texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Thickener
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
A synthetic polymer used to thicken cosmetic formulations and improve texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Humectant
Pentylene Glycol
A plant-derived humectant that helps improve skin hydration and has some antimicrobial properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be a skin irritant for some.
Emulsifier
Sorbitan Isostearate
An emulsifier that helps blend oil and water ingredients, and can also act as a skin-conditioning agent.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Can cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) used to adjust the pH of formulations. Can also have mild exfoliating properties.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Can increase sun sensitivity; use with caution if you have sensitive skin.
Fragrance
Fragrance (Parfum)
Adds scent to the product. Can be a common cause of skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Watch for
Potential for irritation, redness, and allergic reactions, especially for sensitive skin.
pH Adjuster
Sodium Citrate
A salt of citric acid used to adjust the pH of formulations.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.