The base of most cosmetic formulations, acting as a solvent for other ingredients.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Humectant
Vegetable Glycerin
A humectant that draws moisture from the air to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and soft.
Usually helps with
Dry, normal, and combination skin
Emollient
Sesame (Sesamum Indicum) Oil
A nourishing oil rich in fatty acids and antioxidants that replenishes hydration and improves skin barrier function.
Usually helps with
Dry, normal, and mature skin
Watch for
Can be comedogenic for some acne-prone individuals.
Botanical Extract
Manjistha (Rubia Cordifolia)
An Ayurvedic herb known for its detoxifying and brightening properties, supporting a clearer complexion.
Usually helps with
Dull, uneven tone, and congested skin
Emollient/Thickener
Cetearyl Alcohol
A fatty alcohol that softens and smooths the skin, also used to thicken formulations.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emulsifier
Cetearyl Glucoside
A gentle emulsifier derived from plant sugars, helping to blend oil and water components.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emulsifier/Emollient
Glyceryl Stearate
An emulsifier that helps create a stable product and also acts as an emollient to soften skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Emulsifier/Emollient
Cetearyl Olivate
Derived from olive oil, it helps to emulsify and moisturize the skin.
Usually helps with
Dry and normal skin
Emulsifier
Sorbitan Olivate
Another emulsifier derived from olive oil, working with Cetearyl Olivate to create a stable, creamy texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Preservative
Dehydoacetic Acid
A broad-spectrum preservative that helps prevent microbial growth in the product.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be a mild irritant for some very sensitive individuals.
Preservative/Solvent
Benzyl Alcohol
A preservative and solvent that can also impart a mild fragrance. It can be a potential allergen for some.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Potential allergen and irritant for sensitive skin.
Thickener/Film Former
Acacia Senegal Gum
A natural gum used to thicken formulations and create a smooth feel on the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A common thickening agent derived from fermented sugar, used to improve product texture.
Usually helps with
All skin types
A form of Vitamin E, it acts as an antioxidant to protect the skin from free radical damage.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Fragrance/Soothing Agent
Rose Essential Oil (Rosa Damascena)
Provides a natural rose scent and has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. However, essential oils can be sensitizing for some.
Usually helps with
Normal, dry, and mature skin
Watch for
Potential irritant or allergen for sensitive skin.
Preservative
Sodium Benzoate
A common preservative used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can potentially interact with Vitamin C to form benzene, though unlikely in rinse-off products.