Active Sunscreen
Zinc Oxide - (Non-Nano)
A mineral filter that provides broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Non-nano means the particles are too large to be absorbed into the skin.
Usually helps with
Sun protection
Watch for
Can sometimes leave a white cast, though this is less common in tinted formulations.
Emollient
Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate/Dimer Dilinoleate Copolymer
A synthetic emollient that helps to soften and smooth the skin, improving texture and spreadability.
Usually helps with
Texture, emollience
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emollient
Diisostearyl Malate
A plant-derived emollient that provides a smooth, non-greasy feel and helps to condition the skin.
Usually helps with
Emollience, texture
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Derived from jojoba oil, these esters are excellent moisturizers and help to mimic the skin's natural sebum.
Usually helps with
Moisturizing, skin conditioning
Watch for
Very gentle and well-tolerated.
Emollient
Tridecyl Trimellitate
A synthetic emollient that provides a smooth, luxurious feel and helps to improve product texture.
Usually helps with
Texture, emollience
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emollient
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
A skin-conditioning agent derived from coconut oil and glycerin. It's an excellent emollient and can help to replenish the skin's surface.
Usually helps with
Moisturizing, skin conditioning
Watch for
Very gentle and non-irritating.
Emollient
Dextrin Isostearate
A derivative of dextrin and isostearic acid, used to improve texture and provide emollience.
Usually helps with
Texture, emollience
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emollient
Synthetic Beeswax
A synthetic alternative to beeswax, used to provide texture and emollience. It can help to create a protective barrier on the skin.
Usually helps with
Texture, barrier support
Watch for
Some individuals may be sensitive to synthetic waxes.
Used to absorb excess oil and improve the texture of the product, giving it a smoother feel.
Usually helps with
Texture, oil absorption
Watch for
Generally safe and non-irritating.
A component of chamomile oil, known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Usually helps with
Soothing, calming irritation
Watch for
Can be beneficial for sensitive skin.
Emollient
Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Oil
Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, this oil helps to nourish, moisturize, and protect the skin.
Usually helps with
Nourishing, antioxidant support
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated, but patch test if you have very sensitive skin.
Emollient
Mauritia Flexuosa (Buriti) Fruit Oil
A rich oil from the Amazon, high in carotenoids and fatty acids, known for its antioxidant and moisturizing properties.
Usually helps with
Intense moisture, antioxidant support
Watch for
Can be potent; patch test if prone to breakouts.
Emulsifier
Polyglyceryl-4 Diisostearate/Polyhydroxystearate/Sebacate
A multifunctional ingredient that helps to stabilize oil and water phases in formulations and acts as an emollient.
Usually helps with
Emulsification, emollience
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Preservative
Phenylpropanol
A synthetic preservative that helps to prevent microbial growth in cosmetic products.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Some individuals may experience sensitivity.
Emollient
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
A synthetic emollient that helps to condition the skin and improve the texture of the product.
Usually helps with
Emollience, texture
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A plant-derived humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Generally gentle and non-irritating.
A natural phospholipid that acts as an emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent, helping to stabilize formulations and improve skin texture.
Usually helps with
Emulsification, skin conditioning
Watch for
Generally very gentle.
A humectant that also has antimicrobial properties, helping to preserve the product and hydrate the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration, preservation
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Emulsifier
Hydrogenated Lecithin
A modified form of lecithin that acts as an emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent, improving texture and stability.
Usually helps with
Emulsification, skin conditioning
Watch for
Generally very gentle.
A resin derived from pine trees, used as a thickening agent. It can be a potential allergen for some individuals.
Usually helps with
Texture
Watch for
Potential for skin sensitivity or allergic reactions in some individuals.
Viscosity Control Agent
Calcium Sulfate
Used to control the viscosity of the product.
Usually helps with
Texture
A form of Vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties, helping to protect the skin from free radical damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Beneficial for skin health.
The base solvent for many cosmetic formulations.
Usually helps with
Formulation base
Watch for
Essential for product texture and delivery.
Viscosity Control Agent
Sodium Chloride
Common salt, used to adjust the thickness of the product.
Usually helps with
Texture
Watch for
Generally safe in cosmetic formulations.
A naturally occurring mineral that adds shimmer and color to products.
Usually helps with
Color, shimmer
Watch for
Ensure ethically sourced mica.
Colorant
Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499)
Mineral pigments used to provide color to the product.
Watch for
Safe and widely used colorants.
A synthetic red pigment used for color.
Watch for
Some synthetic colorants can cause sensitivity in very rare cases.
Colorant
Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090)
A synthetic blue pigment used for color.
Watch for
Some synthetic colorants can cause sensitivity in very rare cases.