The primary ingredient in most skincare formulations, acting as a base for other components.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A common and effective humectant that draws moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated and soft.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially dry and dehydrated
Humectant/Solvent
Propanediol
A versatile ingredient that helps to improve product texture and enhance the penetration of other ingredients, while also providing hydration.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A multi-tasking ingredient known for its brightening, anti-inflammatory, and barrier-strengthening properties. It can help with tone, texture, and oil control.
Usually helps with
Most skin types, especially dull, uneven tone, oily, and acne-prone
Watch for
Can cause temporary flushing or redness in some individuals, especially at higher concentrations or with compromised skin barrier.
Derived from sugar beets, it's a natural humectant that helps skin retain moisture, contributing to a plump and hydrated appearance.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially dry and dehydrated
Humectant/Preservative Booster
1,2-Hexanediol
A solvent and humectant that also has antimicrobial properties, helping to preserve the product and hydrate the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be a mild skin irritant for very sensitive individuals.
Thickener/Gelling Agent
Carbomer
Used to create gel textures in skincare products, providing a smooth and spreadable consistency.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Used to neutralize acids and adjust the pH of the formulation, ensuring it is safe and effective for the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Chelating Agent
Sodium Metaphosphate
Helps to stabilize the product by binding to metal ions that can degrade the formula.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Thickener/Emulsifier
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer
A synthetic polymer used to thicken formulations and create stable emulsions, contributing to the product's texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emollient/Preservative Booster
Ethylhexylglycerin
A skin-conditioning agent that also helps to boost the effectiveness of preservatives, improving the product's shelf life.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be a mild skin irritant for very sensitive individuals.
Fragrance
Fragrance/Parfum
Adds a scent to the product. While pleasant for many, it can be a common irritant for sensitive skin.
Usually helps with
Those who enjoy fragranced products
Watch for
Potential for irritation, redness, or allergic reactions in sensitive skin types.
Antioxidant/Soothing Agent
Prunus Yedoensis Leaf Extract
Extract from cherry blossom leaves, known for its soothing and antioxidant properties, helping to calm the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially sensitive or irritated
A form of Vitamin E, it acts as an antioxidant to protect the skin from free radical damage and can also help to condition the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially aging or environmentally stressed
Formula support
Dipropylene Glycol
Included in the source ingredient list. Glass treats this as part of the supporting formula unless it overlaps with a known active, preservative, or fragrance flag.
Usually helps with
Formula completeness and routine context
Watch for
Personal sensitivity, especially if your skin is reactive or the ingredient overlaps with other products in your routine