A chemical sunscreen agent that absorbs UVA radiation. It's generally considered safe and effective.
Usually helps with
Sun protection
Watch for
Can degrade in the presence of UV light if not properly formulated with stabilizers.
A silicone that provides a smooth, silky feel and helps to occlude the skin, preventing moisture loss. It's non-comedogenic for most people.
Usually helps with
Smoothing skin, moisture retention
Watch for
Some individuals may prefer to avoid silicones.
UV Filter
Butyloctyl Salicylate
A chemical sunscreen agent that absorbs UVB radiation and helps to enhance the efficacy of other sunscreen filters.
Usually helps with
Sun protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A versatile ingredient that draws moisture to the skin and helps other ingredients penetrate.
Usually helps with
Hydration, improving texture
Watch for
Generally safe, but can be an irritant in high concentrations for very sensitive skin.
A synthetic polymer that helps to create a smooth film on the skin, potentially aiding in UV protection and product texture.
Usually helps with
Texture enhancement, film formation
Watch for
Limited data on long-term effects or potential for irritation.
Emollient
Cetyl Ricinoleate
Derived from castor oil, it acts as an emollient, softening and smoothing the skin.
Usually helps with
Softening skin, improving texture
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
An emulsifier that helps to blend oil and water components in a formula. It can sometimes be a source of irritation for sensitive skin.
Usually helps with
Stabilizing emulsions
Watch for
Potential for irritation in sensitive individuals.
Another emulsifier used to create stable formulations. Similar to Steareth-21, it can be a mild irritant for some.
Usually helps with
Stabilizing emulsions
Watch for
Potential for irritation in sensitive individuals.
Emollient
Di-C12-15 Alkyl Fumarate
An emollient ester that helps to soften and smooth the skin, improving the product's spreadability.
Usually helps with
Skin softening, texture improvement
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emollient
Caprylic/Capric/Myristic/Stearic Triglyceride
A blend of fatty acids that provides excellent emollience and helps to replenish the skin's natural lipid barrier.
Usually helps with
Moisturizing, barrier support
Watch for
Derived from plant sources, generally well-tolerated.
A silicone that provides a smooth, non-greasy feel and can help to improve the texture of the skin.
Usually helps with
Smoothness, texture enhancement
Watch for
Some individuals prefer to avoid silicones.
Antioxidant
Psidium Guajava (Guava) Fruit Extract
Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, it helps protect the skin from free radical damage and can brighten the complexion.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection, brightening
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Soothing Agent
Gentiana Lutea (Gentian) Root Extract
Traditionally used for its soothing properties, though it can be an irritant for some sensitive skin types.
Usually helps with
Soothing (potentially)
Watch for
Potential for irritation in sensitive skin.
Antioxidant
Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract
A source of resveratrol, a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection, anti-aging
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A fatty alcohol that acts as an emollient and thickener, helping to soften and smooth the skin.
Usually helps with
Softening skin, improving texture
Watch for
Generally non-irritating.
Antioxidant
Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Extract\Extrait D'Orge
Contains antioxidants and soothing compounds that can help protect and calm the skin.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection, soothing
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Antioxidant
Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract
A type of seaweed extract known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect the skin from UV damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Antioxidant
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract
Rich in antioxidants, it helps protect the skin from free radical damage and has some antimicrobial properties.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Can be a mild irritant for very sensitive skin.
Antioxidant
Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract
Contains vitamins and antioxidants that help nourish and protect the skin.
Usually helps with
Nourishing, antioxidant protection
Watch for
Contains gluten, not suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Antioxidant
Artemia Extract
A marine-derived ingredient rich in DNA and RNA, known for its antioxidant and skin-energizing properties. Its effectiveness can vary.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection, skin vitality
Watch for
Some concerns about sustainability and potential for irritation.
Antioxidant
Fumaria Officinalis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
Contains compounds with antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from environmental damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A stimulant that can help reduce puffiness and redness, and offers antioxidant benefits.
Usually helps with
Reducing puffiness, antioxidant protection
Watch for
Can be a mild irritant for some.
Humectant
Pentylene Glycol
A skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster that also helps to hydrate the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration, preservative enhancement
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Antioxidant
Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract
Contains Vitamin C and antioxidants, but can also be phototoxic and irritating, especially in higher concentrations or with sun exposure.
Usually helps with
Brightening (potential)
Watch for
Phototoxicity, potential for irritation.
Antioxidant
Hydrolyzed Rice Extract
Contains peptides and amino acids that can help hydrate and protect the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration, antioxidant protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Antioxidant
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
Rich in proanthocyanidins, a potent antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Antioxidant
Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Extract
Contains antioxidants and peptides that can help protect and nourish the skin.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection, nourishment
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emulsifier
Lauryl Peg-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone
A silicone-based emulsifier that helps to create stable formulations. Can be a concern for those avoiding silicones.
Usually helps with
Emulsion stability
Antioxidant
Thermus Thermophillus Ferment
A heat-resistant enzyme derived from bacteria found in deep-sea hydrothermal vents. It's known for its antioxidant and DNA-repairing properties.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection, DNA repair
Watch for
Some debate about its efficacy and potential for irritation.
A fatty alcohol that acts as an emollient and thickener, providing a smooth texture.
Usually helps with
Skin softening, texture improvement
Watch for
Generally non-irritating.
Film Former
Acrylic Acid/Vp Crosspolymer
A synthetic polymer used to form a film on the skin, providing structure and potentially improving water resistance.
Usually helps with
Film formation, texture
Watch for
Can contribute to a tightening sensation for some.
Film Former
Triacontanyl Pvp
A synthetic polymer that forms a film on the skin, helping to bind ingredients and provide a smooth finish.
Usually helps with
Film formation, texture
Watch for
Can be a concern for those avoiding synthetic polymers.
A classic humectant that draws water into the skin, keeping it hydrated and soft.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Can feel sticky in high concentrations or humid environments.
Emollient
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
An emollient that provides a light, non-greasy feel and helps to solubilize UV filters.
Usually helps with
Emollience, texture
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
An essential fatty acid that helps to strengthen the skin's barrier function and improve hydration.
Usually helps with
Barrier support, hydration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A skin-identical lipid that helps to reinforce the skin's barrier and improve moisture retention.
Usually helps with
Barrier repair, hydration
Watch for
Sustainably sourced from plants or lanolin.
A highly stable and effective emollient that mimics the skin's natural sebum, providing excellent hydration without greasiness.
Usually helps with
Hydration, softening skin
Watch for
Sustainably sourced from olives or sugarcane.
A component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF), it helps to attract and retain moisture.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A solvent and humectant that improves skin hydration and acts as a preservative booster.
Usually helps with
Hydration, preservative enhancement
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A powerful humectant that helps to bind water to the skin, improving hydration and barrier function. Can also act as a mild exfoliant at higher concentrations.
Usually helps with
Hydration, barrier support
Watch for
Can cause stinging in concentrations above 10%.
Emollient
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
A derivative of coconut oil and glycerin, it's an excellent emollient that replenishes skin lipids and improves texture.
Usually helps with
Moisturizing, barrier support
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emollient
Dipropylene Glycol Dibenzoate
An emollient that provides a smooth feel and helps to improve the spreadability of the product.
Usually helps with
Skin softening, texture improvement
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Antioxidant
Tocopheryl Acetate
A stable form of Vitamin E, it acts as an antioxidant to protect the skin from free radical damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Can be a mild irritant for some.
Thickener
Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer
A synthetic polymer used as a thickener and emulsifier. It forms a flexible film on the skin.
Usually helps with
Texture, emulsion stability
Watch for
Can be a concern for those avoiding synthetic polymers.
Antioxidant
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate
A fat-soluble form of Vitamin C that offers antioxidant protection and can help brighten the skin.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection, brightening
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Humectant
Sodium Hyaluronate
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, it attracts and retains moisture, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Usually helps with
Hydration, plumping
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A naturally occurring amino acid with potent antioxidant properties that helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A light emollient that provides a smooth, non-greasy feel and helps to improve product spreadability.
Usually helps with
Emollience, texture
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emollient
Ppg-15 Stearyl Ether Benzoate
A synthetic emollient that can improve product texture and spreadability. Some concerns exist regarding its potential for irritation.
Usually helps with
Texture enhancement
Watch for
Potential for irritation.
Soothing Agent
Glycyrrhetinic Acid
Derived from licorice root, it has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Usually helps with
Soothing, anti-inflammatory
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A disaccharide that helps to retain moisture and protect skin cells from dehydration.
Usually helps with
Hydration, protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Humectant
Polyquaternium-51
A conditioning agent that forms a moisturizing film on the skin, helping to retain hydration.
Usually helps with
Moisture retention
Watch for
Can build up on the skin over time.
An emulsifier that helps to blend oil and water. It can be a source of irritation for sensitive skin.
Usually helps with
Emulsion stability
Watch for
Potential for irritation.
A phospholipid that acts as an emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent, helping to stabilize formulas and improve skin texture.
Usually helps with
Emulsion stability, skin conditioning
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emulsifier
Hydrogenated Lecithin
A modified form of lecithin that is more stable and functions as an effective emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent.
Usually helps with
Emulsion stability, skin conditioning
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
An organic acid used to adjust the pH of cosmetic products. Can be irritating in high concentrations.
Usually helps with
pH adjustment
Watch for
Potential for irritation.
Conditioning Agent
Palmitoyl Hydroxypropyltrimonium Amylopectin/Glycerin Crosspolymer
A conditioning agent that helps to improve skin hydration and texture. It's a complex synthetic polymer.
Usually helps with
Hydration, texture improvement
Watch for
Synthetic polymer.
A skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster that also helps to improve skin hydration.
Usually helps with
Hydration, preservative enhancement
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Encapsulating Agent
Cyclodextrin
A ring-shaped molecule used to encapsulate other ingredients, potentially improving their stability or delivery. Can be a mild irritant.
Usually helps with
Ingredient stabilization
Watch for
Potential for irritation.
pH Adjuster
Sodium Hydroxide
Used to adjust the pH of the product. In finished formulations, it is present in very small amounts and is considered safe.
Usually helps with
pH adjustment
Watch for
Can be corrosive in its pure form, but safe in cosmetic formulations.
Antioxidant
Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid
An antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage. It can be a mild irritant for some.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Potential for irritation.
Viscosity Adjuster
Sodium Chloride
Common salt, used here to adjust the viscosity of the product.
Usually helps with
Texture adjustment
Antioxidant
Ascorbyl Tocopheryl Maleate
A combination of Vitamin C and Vitamin E derivatives, offering enhanced antioxidant protection.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Fragrance
Fragrance (Parfum)
Adds scent to the product. Can be a common cause of skin irritation and allergic reactions for sensitive individuals.
Watch for
Potential for irritation and allergic reactions.
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) used to adjust the pH of products. Can also have mild exfoliating properties.
Usually helps with
pH adjustment, mild exfoliation
Watch for
Can increase sun sensitivity; use with caution if skin is sensitive.
Antioxidant
Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride
A complex antioxidant that helps protect against oxidative stress. Its safety and efficacy are still under research.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Limited research on long-term effects.
Antioxidant
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
A synthetic antioxidant that protects the product from degradation.
Usually helps with
Product stability
Watch for
Generally considered safe.
Chelating Agent
Disodium Edta
A chelating agent that binds to metal ions, improving product stability and efficacy. Concerns exist about its environmental impact.
Usually helps with
Product stability
Watch for
Environmental concerns; can enhance penetration of other ingredients.
A synthetic antioxidant used to prevent oxidation. Some studies have raised concerns about its potential health effects.
Usually helps with
Product stability
Watch for
Potential health concerns; can be an irritant for some.
Preservative
Sodium Dehydroacetate
A preservative that helps prevent microbial growth in cosmetic products. Can be a mild irritant for some.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Potential for irritation.
Preservative
Phenoxyethanol
A common preservative used to prevent bacterial contamination. Can be a mild irritant for some.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Potential for irritation.
Colorant
Blue 1 (Ci 42090)
A synthetic colorant used to give the product its blue hue.
Watch for
Generally safe, but some individuals may have sensitivities.
Colorant
Yellow 5 (Ci 19140)
A synthetic colorant used to give the product its yellow hue.
Watch for
Can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Colorant
Chromium Hydroxide Green (Ci 77289)
A mineral-derived colorant used to give the product its green hue.