The base of the formulation.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Solvent
Alcohol Denat. (SD Alcohol 40-B)
Helps to deliver active ingredients and can have a drying effect. May be irritating for some.
Usually helps with
Quick drying
Watch for
Dryness, irritation
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin's surface, improving texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Usually helps with
Exfoliation, fine lines, texture
Watch for
Sensitivity, potential for irritation
pH Adjuster
Potassium Hydroxide
Used to adjust the pH of the formula.
Usually helps with
Formulation stability
Astringent
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
Can help to temporarily tighten skin and reduce oiliness, but can also be drying for some.
Usually helps with
Oil control
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates inside the pores, helping to clear congestion and reduce breakouts.
Usually helps with
Pores, breakouts, blackheads
Watch for
Potential for dryness or irritation
Helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients.
Usually helps with
Formulation stability
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps to exfoliate and brighten the skin.
Usually helps with
Exfoliation, brightening
Watch for
Potential for sensitivity
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates and hydrates, promoting cell turnover and improving skin tone.
Usually helps with
Exfoliation, hydration, tone
Watch for
Potential for sensitivity
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates and supports cell renewal.
Usually helps with
Exfoliation, cell renewal
Watch for
Potential for sensitivity
Antioxidant
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Green tea extract, rich in antioxidants that help protect the skin from free radical damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Soothing Agent
Achillea Millefolium Extract
Yarrow extract, known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Usually helps with
Soothing
Soothing Agent
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
Chamomile extract, known for its calming and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Usually helps with
Soothing, calming
Antioxidant
Soy Isoflavones
Antioxidants derived from soy that can help protect the skin.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
A humectant that draws moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated.
Usually helps with
Hydration
A mineral salt that can help with oil control and skin regeneration.
Usually helps with
Oil control, skin regeneration
A mineral salt that helps to regulate sebum production and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Usually helps with
Oil control, anti-inflammatory
Helps to stabilize the formula and can have emollient properties.
Usually helps with
Formulation stability, skin conditioning
Similar to Alcohol Denat., can be drying and potentially irritating.
Usually helps with
Quick drying
Watch for
Dryness, irritation
Helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients.
Usually helps with
Formulation stability
Chelating Agent
Disodium EDTA
Helps to improve the stability and efficacy of the product.
Usually helps with
Formulation stability
Fragrance
Fragrance (Parfum)
Adds scent to the product. Can be a potential irritant for sensitive skin.
Watch for
Sensitivity, irritation
Preservative
Phenoxyethanol
A common preservative used to prevent microbial growth.
Usually helps with
Product preservation
Watch for
Potential for irritation in high concentrations
Used as a preservative to prevent spoilage.
Usually helps with
Product preservation
Preservative
Sodium Benzoate
A preservative that helps to extend the shelf life of the product.
Usually helps with
Product preservation
Preservative
Potassium Sorbate
A preservative used to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria.
Usually helps with
Product preservation