The base for many cosmetic formulations.
Usually helps with
Hydration
A common and effective humectant that draws moisture to the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration
A stable, plant-derived emollient that mimics skin's natural oils, providing hydration and improving skin barrier function.
Usually helps with
Dryness, hydration
A plant-derived emollient that provides a light, non-greasy feel.
Usually helps with
Softening skin
Watch for
Can be comedogenic for some
Emulsifier
Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate
An emulsifier derived from castor oil, helping to blend oil and water ingredients.
Usually helps with
Formulation stability
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
A humectant and solvent that helps improve product texture and hydration.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Can be irritating in high concentrations
Emollient
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
A stable oil that closely resembles the skin's natural sebum, offering excellent moisturization without greasiness.
Usually helps with
Moisturizing, balancing
A plant-derived humectant that enhances skin hydration and improves the feel of the product.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
A hydrocarbon emollient that provides a smooth feel but can be occlusive.
Usually helps with
Creating a smooth feel
Watch for
Can be pore-clogging for acne-prone skin
A solvent and humectant that also has antimicrobial properties.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Can be irritating in high concentrations
Emollient
Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil
Rich in fatty acids, it helps to moisturize and soothe the skin.
Usually helps with
Dryness, soothing
Emulsifier
Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-6 Esters
An emulsifier derived from olive oil, helping to stabilize the formula.
Usually helps with
Formulation stability
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
Emollient
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil
A lightweight oil rich in antioxidants, known for its moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties.
Usually helps with
Moisturizing, antioxidant
Emollient
Rosa Canina Fruit Oil
Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, it helps to nourish and improve skin texture.
Usually helps with
Nourishing, texture improvement
Emulsifier
Polyglyceryl-6 Pentaoleate
An emulsifier that helps to create a stable and pleasant texture.
Usually helps with
Formulation stability
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
Humectant
Sodium Hyaluronate
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, it attracts and retains moisture, plumping the skin.
Usually helps with
Hydration, plumping
Antioxidant
Tocopheryl Acetate
A stable form of Vitamin E, it provides antioxidant protection and helps condition the skin.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Skin Brightener
Evodia Rutaecarpa Fruit Extract
A botanical extract known for its potential to visibly brighten the skin and improve radiance.
Usually helps with
Dullness, radiance
Watch for
Limited research on efficacy and potential irritation
Antioxidant
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil
Contains antioxidant properties and can have a stimulating effect. Can be a potential irritant for some.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant
Watch for
Potential for irritation or allergic reactions
Emollient
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil
A rich emollient that helps to moisturize and soften the skin.
Usually helps with
Moisturizing, softening
Emollient
Hydrogenated Castor Oil
A hydrogenated form of castor oil, used as an emollient and emulsifier.
Usually helps with
Moisturizing
Antioxidant
Hydroxyacetophenone
A synthetic antioxidant that helps protect the formula and skin.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated
Viscosity Adjuster
Sodium Chloride
Used to adjust the thickness of the product.
Usually helps with
Texture
Viscosity Adjuster
Disteardimonium Hectorite
A clay mineral used to thicken and stabilize emulsions.
Usually helps with
Texture
Solvent
Propylene Carbonate
A solvent that can help improve the texture and spreadability of the product. Can be a mild irritant.
Usually helps with
Texture
Watch for
Potential for mild irritation
Used to control the opacity and color of the product.
A mineral that adds shimmer and color to the product.
Usually helps with
Glow, color
Colorant
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
A white mineral pigment used for color and opacity.
Colorant
Iron Oxides (CI 77491)
Mineral pigments used to provide color.