A common humectant that draws moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
A physical exfoliant that helps to buff away dead skin cells. The particle size and shape can vary, potentially causing irritation for some.
Usually helps with
Smoothing skin texture
Watch for
Potential for micro-tears on sensitive skin
Humectant/Solvent
Butylene Glycol
A solvent and humectant that helps to improve product texture and hydration.
Usually helps with
Texture, hydration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
Antioxidant/Soothing
Fragaria Vesca (Strawberry) Fruit Extract
Contains antioxidants and may offer mild skin-brightening properties. Also contributes to the product's scent.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant support, fragrance
Watch for
Potential for fragrance sensitivity
Emulsifier/Surfactant
PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides
An emulsifier that helps to blend oil and water, and can also act as a mild cleansing agent.
Usually helps with
Cleansing, emulsification
Watch for
Ethoxylated ingredient; generally considered safe but some prefer to avoid
Antioxidant
Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Fruit Extract
Rich in antioxidants, it helps to protect the skin and maintain a healthy appearance.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
Absorbent/Thickener
Zea Mays (Corn) Starch
Helps to absorb excess oil and can contribute to the product's texture.
Usually helps with
Oil absorption, texture
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
Emollient
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil
A lightweight oil that helps to moisturize and soften the skin.
Usually helps with
Moisturization, softening
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
Antioxidant/Fragrance
Fragaria Ananassa (Strawberry) Fruit Juice
Provides antioxidant benefits and contributes to the natural scent of the product.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant support, fragrance
Watch for
Potential for fragrance sensitivity
Cleansing Agent
Sapindus Mukorossi Peel Extract
A natural saponin-containing extract that can help with cleansing.
Usually helps with
Cleansing
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental damage.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
Fragrance
Parfum (Fragrance)
Adds a scent to the product. Can be a potential irritant for sensitive skin.
Watch for
Potential for irritation, allergies
The base solvent for the formulation.
Usually helps with
Formulation base
A thickening agent used to create gel-like textures. Can sometimes be irritating.
Usually helps with
Texture
Watch for
Potential for irritation in high concentrations
pH Adjuster
Sodium Hydroxide
Used to adjust the pH of the product to a skin-friendly level. Can be irritating in high concentrations.
Usually helps with
pH balance
Watch for
Potential for irritation if pH is not properly adjusted
A synthetic antioxidant. Concerns exist regarding its potential health effects, though it's generally considered safe in cosmetic concentrations.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Some prefer to avoid due to potential health concerns
Preservative
Potassium Sorbate
A common preservative used to prevent microbial growth.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated, but can cause skin irritation in some
Preservative
Phenoxyethanol
A widely used preservative. Concerns exist regarding potential irritation and toxicity, though typically safe in low concentrations.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Potential for irritation or allergic reactions
Fragrance/Solvent
Limonene
A common fragrance ingredient derived from citrus peels. It is a known allergen and can cause skin irritation.
Watch for
High potential for skin irritation and allergic reactions
A fragrance ingredient with a citrus scent. It is a potential allergen and irritant.
Watch for
Potential for skin irritation and allergic reactions
Preservative/Solvent
Benzyl Alcohol
Used as a preservative and solvent. Can cause allergic reactions and irritation in some individuals.
Usually helps with
Preservation, solvent
Watch for
Potential for allergic reactions and irritation
A common fragrance ingredient. It is a known allergen and can cause skin irritation.
Watch for
High potential for skin irritation and allergic reactions