The base for most skincare formulations, dissolving other ingredients.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A common humectant that draws moisture to the skin, also acts as a solvent.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be irritating for very sensitive skin in high concentrations.
A highly effective humectant that draws water into the skin, keeping it hydrated and soft.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Skin-Conditioning Agent
Inositol
A carbohydrate compound that helps improve moisture levels and skin texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Pro-vitamin B5, known for its moisturizing, soothing, and skin-repairing properties.
Usually helps with
Dry, sensitive, irritated skin
Humectant
Hydroxyethyl Urea
A derivative of urea that acts as a powerful humectant, improving skin hydration.
Usually helps with
Dry, dehydrated skin
Humectant
Glyceryl Glucoside
A combination of glycerin and glucose that enhances skin hydration and barrier function.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A sugar that helps skin retain moisture and protects it from environmental stress.
Usually helps with
Dry, dehydrated skin
A sugar beet derivative that hydrates and protects the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A sugar alcohol that provides hydration and a smooth feel to the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Humectant
Saccharide Isomerate
A carbohydrate complex that binds moisture to the skin, providing long-lasting hydration.
Usually helps with
Dry, dehydrated skin
Known for its soothing, moisturizing, and skin-protecting properties.
Usually helps with
Sensitive, irritated skin
Preservative Booster
Ethylhexylglycerin
A preservative enhancer that also has emollient properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Cooling Agent
Methyl Diisopropyl Propionamide
Provides a cooling sensation to the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can cause mild irritation or tingling.
Soothing Agent
Beta-Glucan
A polysaccharide that hydrates, soothes, and supports the skin barrier.
Usually helps with
Dry, sensitive, irritated skin
Film Former
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
A silicone derivative that can provide a smooth feel and mattifying effect.
Usually helps with
Oily skin
Watch for
Some people prefer to avoid silicones.
A solvent and humectant that also has antimicrobial properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can cause mild irritation in some individuals.
Emulsifier
Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate
A gentle emulsifier used to blend oil and water.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Thickener
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
A synthetic polymer used to thicken formulations.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Some prefer to avoid synthetic polymers.
Solvent
Dipropylene Glycol
A solvent that can also act as a fragrance ingredient.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be irritating for sensitive skin.
Emulsifier
Hydrogenated Lecithin
A modified form of lecithin that helps to stabilize emulsions and condition the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emulsifier
Glyceryl Stearate
An emulsifier and emollient that helps to soften and smooth the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Used to adjust the pH of the product.
Usually helps with
All skin types
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) used to adjust pH and provide mild exfoliation.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can cause sensitivity in high concentrations or with frequent use.
Chelating Agent
Sodium Phytate
A plant-derived ingredient that helps to improve the stability of the formula.
Usually helps with
All skin types
pH Adjuster
Sodium Citrate
A salt of citric acid used to adjust pH.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Antioxidant
Hydroxyacetophenone
A synthetic antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental damage.
Usually helps with
All skin types