The primary solvent in cosmetic formulations.
Usually helps with
Hydration
A fatty acid that helps to lift dirt and oil from the skin, contributing to the cleansing action. Can be stripping in high concentrations.
Usually helps with
Cleansing
Watch for
Potential for dryness if not balanced
Attracts water to the skin, helping to maintain hydration during and after cleansing.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Helps to mix oil and water, aiding in the removal of impurities and contributing to a creamy texture.
Usually helps with
Cleansing, Texture
pH Adjuster
Potassium Hydroxide
Used to neutralize the fatty acids and create a stable lather. Can be irritating in high concentrations.
Usually helps with
Formulation stability
Watch for
Potential for irritation
Another fatty acid that contributes to the foaming and cleansing properties of the product.
Usually helps with
Cleansing, Lather
Watch for
Potential for dryness
A hydrating ingredient that also helps to improve the texture of the product.
Usually helps with
Hydration, Texture
Fragrance
Parfum (Fragrance)
Adds a scent to the product. Can be a potential irritant for sensitive skin.
Usually helps with
Sensory experience
Watch for
Potential for irritation, allergies
Surfactant
Lauryl Glucoside
A mild, plant-derived surfactant that creates foam and helps to cleanse the skin gently.
Usually helps with
Gentle cleansing, Lather
Surfactant
Sodium Lauryl Glucose Carboxylate
A mild cleansing agent derived from glucose and fatty acids, contributing to gentle lather and cleansing.
Usually helps with
Gentle cleansing, Lather
Soothing Agent
Nymphaea Alba Root Extract
Known for its calming and soothing properties, helping to reduce redness and irritation.
Usually helps with
Soothing, Calming
Soothing Agent
Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water
Cornflower water is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for sensitive skin.
Usually helps with
Soothing, Calming
Soothing Agent
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
A derivative of licorice root, it has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to calm the skin.
Usually helps with
Soothing, Anti-inflammatory
A multi-tasking ingredient that helps improve skin barrier function, reduce inflammation, and minimize the appearance of pores.
Usually helps with
Barrier support, Pores, Redness
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated, but some may experience mild flushing initially
Emollient
Arachidyl Alcohol
A fatty alcohol that helps to soften and smooth the skin, acting as an emollient.
Usually helps with
Softening, Smoothing
Thickener
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Stearoxy Ether
A cellulose derivative used to thicken the product and improve its texture.
Usually helps with
Texture, Stability
Another fatty alcohol that provides emollient properties, helping to condition the skin.
Usually helps with
Emollience, Conditioning
Preservative
Chlorphenesin
A preservative used to prevent microbial growth in the product. Can be a skin irritant for some.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Potential for skin irritation
Emulsifier
Arachidyl Glucoside
A mild, plant-derived emulsifier that helps to stabilize the formula.
Usually helps with
Emulsification, Stability
pH Adjuster
Sodium Hydroxide
Used to adjust the pH of the product. Can be irritating in high concentrations.
Usually helps with
Formulation stability
Watch for
Potential for irritation
Preservative
Sodium Benzoate
A common preservative that helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. Can be irritating for sensitive skin.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Potential for irritation
Preservative
Potassium Sorbate
Another preservative used to inhibit the growth of mold and yeast. Can cause skin reactions in some individuals.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Potential for skin reactions
Used to adjust the pH of the product, often to make it more acidic. Can provide mild exfoliation at higher concentrations.
Usually helps with
pH adjustment
Watch for
Potential for irritation at high concentrations
Chelating Agent
Tetrasodium EDTA
Helps to improve the stability and performance of the product by binding to metal ions. Concerns exist about its environmental impact.
Usually helps with
Product stability
Watch for
Environmental concerns
Conditioning Agent
Polyquaternium-7
A conditioning agent that can help to smooth the skin and hair. Can build up on the skin over time.
Usually helps with
Conditioning
Watch for
Potential for buildup