The base of many cosmetic formulations.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emollient
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
A lightweight, plant-derived emollient that helps soften and smooth the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emollient
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Rich in linoleic acid, it helps to support the skin barrier and retain moisture.
Usually helps with
Dry, normal skin
Watch for
May be comedogenic for some acne-prone individuals
A synthetic emollient that provides a smooth, non-greasy feel.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emollient
Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate
An emollient that helps to condition the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A plant-derived emollient that gives a light, dry feel.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emollient
Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, it moisturizes and nourishes the skin.
Usually helps with
Dry, normal skin
Watch for
Can be heavy for very oily skin
Mimics the skin's natural sebum, providing moisture and improving texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Antioxidant
Tocopheryl Acetate
A form of Vitamin E that helps protect the skin from environmental damage.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Rarely, can cause irritation in sensitive individuals
A fatty acid derivative that helps to condition and soften the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A lightweight emollient that helps spread the product.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emulsifier
Glyceryl Stearate
Helps to mix oil and water components, while also acting as an emollient.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Preservative
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
A natural preservative derived from fermented radish root.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A mineral that provides shimmer and can enhance skin's natural radiance.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Ethical sourcing concerns for some consumers
Colorant
Titanium Dioxide (CI77891)
A mineral pigment used for color and as a physical sunscreen filter.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can sometimes leave a white cast
A powerful humectant that draws moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially dry
Preservative
Lactobacillus
A probiotic ingredient that can help support the skin's microbiome.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Soothing Agent
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf
Soothes and calms the skin, providing hydration and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially sensitive and irritated
Thickener
Acacia Senegal Gum
A natural gum used to thicken formulations and provide a smooth texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A common thickening agent that helps stabilize emulsions.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Botanical Extract
Viola Tricolor Extract
Known for its soothing and antioxidant properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A component of chamomile, it has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially sensitive
Brightening Agent
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
Helps to soothe skin and fade dark spots, promoting a more even tone.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially those with hyperpigmentation
Dramatically increases skin hydration by drawing moisture from the air.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially dry and dehydrated
Watch for
Can feel sticky in very humid conditions
Emollient
Glycosphingolipids
Lipids that help maintain the skin's barrier function and hydration.
Usually helps with
Dry, mature skin
Help to reinforce the skin's natural barrier and improve moisture retention.
Usually helps with
Dry, normal skin
Emollient
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract
Provides moisturizing and conditioning benefits.
Usually helps with
Dry skin
Watch for
Can be comedogenic for acne-prone skin
Soothing Agent
Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract
Known for its skin-soothing and regenerative properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Antioxidant
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
A stable and effective form of Vitamin C that brightens and protects against free radicals.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially dull or uneven tone
Watch for
Can cause mild tingling initially
Colorant
Iron Oxide (CI77492)
Mineral pigments used to provide color and opacity.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Colorant
Iron Oxide (CI77491)
Mineral pigments used to provide color and opacity.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Colorant
Iron Oxide (CI77499)
Mineral pigments used to provide color and opacity.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Used to control the opacity and color of pigments.
Usually helps with
All skin types