The base of the formulation, dissolving other ingredients.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Attracts moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated and soft.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially dry
Surfactant
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
A mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut oil, used for its cleansing and foaming properties.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Can cause irritation in very sensitive individuals
A very mild, non-ionic surfactant derived from coconut oil and glucose, known for its gentle cleansing and good foaming.
Usually helps with
All skin types, including sensitive
Surfactant
Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate
A mild anionic surfactant known for its excellent cleansing ability and gentle nature, producing a creamy lather.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Can be drying for some
Surfactant
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
A mild amphoteric surfactant that enhances lather and cleansing performance while being gentle on the skin.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Watch for
Rarely, can cause allergic reactions
Surfactant
Sodium Methyl Oleoyl Taurate
A mild anionic surfactant derived from fatty acids, providing good cleansing and lather.
Usually helps with
Most skin types
Solvent/Humectant
Propanediol
A versatile ingredient that acts as a solvent and humectant, improving product texture and skin hydration.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Soothing Agent
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Soothes and hydrates the skin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially irritated or sensitive
Help to moisturize and condition the skin, improving its texture and barrier function.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emollient/Skin-Conditioning
Linoleic Acid
An essential fatty acid that helps to support the skin barrier and maintain hydration.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially dry or compromised
Emollient/Skin-Conditioning
Linolenic Acid
Another essential fatty acid that contributes to skin health and barrier function.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Surfactant
Lauryl Glucoside
A very mild, non-ionic surfactant derived from plant-based ingredients, used for gentle cleansing.
Usually helps with
All skin types, including sensitive
Antioxidant/Soothing
Cucumis Melo Cantalupensis Fruit Extract
A fruit extract that can provide antioxidant benefits and help soothe the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emollient
Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil
Also known as Marula oil, it's rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, providing moisture and nourishment.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially dry or mature
Soothing Agent
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Derived from licorice root, it has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to calm redness.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially sensitive or irritated
A form of Vitamin E that protects the skin from free radical damage.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Used to adjust the pH of the product to ensure optimal performance and stability.
Usually helps with
All skin types (in low concentrations)
Watch for
Can be irritating in high concentrations or for sensitive skin
Preservative
Phenoxyethanol
A common preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetic products.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can cause allergic reactions in some individuals
pH Adjuster
Sodium Hydroxide
Used to adjust the pH of the formula.
Usually helps with
All skin types (in low concentrations)
Watch for
Can be irritating in high concentrations
Preservative
Sodium Benzoate
A preservative that helps prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can interact with Vitamin C to form benzene, a carcinogen, though this is rare in rinse-off products.
Viscosity Adjuster
Sodium Chloride
Common salt, used here to adjust the thickness of the cleanser.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A peptide-based preservative that helps maintain product integrity.
Usually helps with
All skin types