A common solvent that helps deliver other ingredients.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A humectant that also has preservative properties.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
An Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin's surface, improving texture and tone.
Usually helps with
Exfoliation, brightening
Watch for
Can cause sensitivity, especially when combined with other actives.
A larger molecule AHA that exfoliates more gently than lactic acid, good for sensitive skin.
Usually helps with
Gentle exfoliation, brightening
Watch for
Can still cause sensitivity in some individuals.
A Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that penetrates pores to exfoliate and can help with breakouts.
Usually helps with
Pore clearing, exfoliation
Watch for
Can be drying; best used with caution if skin is already dry or sensitive.
pH Adjuster
Sodium Hydroxide
Used to adjust the pH of the formula to be effective and safe for skin.
Usually helps with
Formula stability
Watch for
Generally safe in small concentrations.
Known for its vasoconstrictive properties, caffeine can help reduce puffiness and temporarily tighten the skin.
Usually helps with
Depuffing, dark circles
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Antioxidant
Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract
Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, it helps to hydrate and protect the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration, antioxidant protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Soothing Agent
Centella Asiatica Extract
Known for its calming and healing properties, it helps to soothe irritated skin.
Usually helps with
Soothing, calming
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Soothing Agent
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Soothes and hydrates the skin, with anti-inflammatory properties.
Usually helps with
Soothing, hydration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Soothes, protects, and promotes skin healing.
Usually helps with
Soothing, healing
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Antioxidant
Hydroxyacetophenone
A synthetic antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A moisturizing ingredient that helps retain water in the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emulsifier
Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate
A gentle emulsifier used to blend oil and water ingredients.
Usually helps with
Formula texture
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A humectant that enhances the absorption of other ingredients and provides hydration.
Usually helps with
Hydration, ingredient penetration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Preservative Booster
Ethylhexylglycerin
A skin-conditioning agent that also enhances the effectiveness of preservatives.
Usually helps with
Preservation, skin conditioning
Watch for
Can be a mild irritant for some.
A soothing ingredient that can help improve the appearance of wrinkles.
Usually helps with
Soothing, anti-aging
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Humectant
Hydroxyethyl Urea
A derivative of urea that provides excellent hydration.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
pH Adjuster
Sodium Citrate
Used to adjust the pH of the formula.
Usually helps with
Formula stability
Watch for
Generally safe in small concentrations.
Chelating Agent
Sodium Phytate
Helps to improve the stability of the formula by binding to metal ions.
Usually helps with
Formula stability
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
An AHA that can also be used to adjust the pH of the formula.
Usually helps with
pH adjustment, mild exfoliation
Watch for
Can cause irritation at higher concentrations.
An amino acid that helps to moisturize and condition the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration, skin conditioning
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Soothing Agent
Beta-Glucan
A humectant and soothing agent that helps to hydrate and calm the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration, soothing
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Exfoliant
Capryloyl Salicylic Acid
A lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) that is oil-soluble and provides exfoliation, similar to salicylic acid but often considered gentler.
Usually helps with
Exfoliation, pore clearing
Watch for
Can cause sensitivity and dryness.
An enzyme that aids in exfoliation by breaking down dead skin cells.
Usually helps with
Exfoliation
Watch for
Can cause irritation for sensitive skin.
A form of Vitamin E that acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radical damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.