A chemical filter that provides broad-spectrum UVA protection. It can be prone to photodegradation if not stabilized.
Usually helps with
UVA protection
Watch for
Needs stabilization to maintain efficacy.
A chemical filter that absorbs UVB rays. It is effective but can be a concern for some due to potential endocrine disruption.
Usually helps with
UVB protection
Watch for
Potential for skin sensitivity or hormonal concerns for some users.
A chemical filter that absorbs UVB rays. It is often used to enhance the efficacy of other filters.
Usually helps with
UVB protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
A chemical filter that absorbs UVB and some UVA rays. It also helps stabilize other filters like Avobenzone. Can be a skin irritant for some.
Usually helps with
UVB protection, filter stabilization
Watch for
Potential for skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
The base solvent for the formulation.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Draws moisture into the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and plump.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Absorbent/Texture Enhancer
Silica
Helps to absorb excess oil and provides a smooth, matte finish.
Usually helps with
Oil control, matte finish
Emollient/Occlusive
Dimethicone
A silicone that provides a smooth feel and helps to create a barrier on the skin.
Usually helps with
Smoothness, skin barrier
Watch for
Some prefer to avoid silicones.
A form of Vitamin E that helps protect the skin from free radical damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Soothing Agent
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
Known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
Usually helps with
Soothing skin
Antioxidant
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract
Rich in antioxidants, it helps protect skin from environmental stressors.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Antioxidant/Soothing Agent
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract
A potent antioxidant that also offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection, soothing
Antioxidant/Soothing Agent
Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract
Similar to Camellia Sinensis, providing antioxidant and soothing benefits.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection, soothing
Antioxidant
Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract
Contains antioxidants that help protect the skin.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Antioxidant
Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract
Rich in antioxidants to help defend against environmental damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Soothing Agent
Avena Sativa (Oat) Bran Extract
Known for its soothing and anti-irritant properties, beneficial for sensitive skin.
Usually helps with
Soothing skin
Antioxidant
Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract
A powerful antioxidant that helps protect skin from oxidative stress.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Antioxidant
Lycium Barbarum (Goji) Fruit Extract
Contains antioxidants that help protect the skin from environmental damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Emulsifier/Skin Conditioning Agent
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Helps to blend oil and water components and can condition the skin.
Usually helps with
Emulsifying, skin conditioning
UV Filter (Mineral)
Titanium Dioxide
A mineral UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection. Often used in combination with chemical filters.
Usually helps with
Broad-spectrum UV protection
Watch for
Can sometimes leave a white cast if not formulated properly, but generally well-tolerated.
Texture Enhancer
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
A silicone-based ingredient that improves texture and provides a smooth feel.
Usually helps with
Smooth texture, mattifying
Watch for
Some prefer to avoid silicones.
UV Filter Stabilizer
Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate
A photostabilizer that helps protect other UV filters from degrading in sunlight.
Usually helps with
UV filter stability
Emulsifier/Thickener
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
Helps to stabilize the emulsion and thicken the product.
Usually helps with
Product texture
Thickener/Stabilizer
Xanthan Gum
A common thickening agent that also helps stabilize the formula.
Usually helps with
Product texture
Used to thicken the product and improve its texture.
Usually helps with
Product texture
Preservative
Benzyl Alcohol
A preservative that can also act as a solvent. It can be a potential allergen for some individuals.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Potential for skin sensitivity or allergic reactions.
Preservative
Sodium Benzoate
A common preservative used to prevent microbial growth. Can be irritating for some.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Potential for skin sensitivity.
Preservative
Potassium Sorbate
A preservative that inhibits the growth of mold and yeast. Can be a mild irritant.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Potential for mild skin irritation.
Preservative
Phenoxyethanol
A widely used preservative. While effective, it can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Potential for skin irritation or allergic reactions.