The base of most skincare products, dissolving ingredients.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Humectant
Pentylene Glycol
A solvent and humectant that helps to hydrate the skin and improve the texture of formulations.
Usually helps with
Dry, normal skin
Watch for
Can be a mild irritant for some sensitive skin types.
A versatile ingredient known for improving skin barrier function, reducing inflammation, and minimizing the appearance of pores and uneven tone.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially oily, acne-prone, and mature skin
Watch for
Can cause temporary flushing or redness in some individuals, especially at higher concentrations.
A non-ionic surfactant used in micellar water to attract and lift away impurities and makeup without stripping the skin's natural oils.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated, but some may find it slightly drying.
Surfactant
Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside
A mild, plant-derived surfactant that helps to cleanse the skin effectively while being gentle.
Usually helps with
All skin types, including sensitive
A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the air into the skin, keeping it hydrated and supple.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially dry and dehydrated
Emulsifier
PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides
An emulsifier that helps to blend oil and water, aiding in the removal of makeup and impurities.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be comedogenic for some acne-prone individuals.
Active
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate
A postbiotic ingredient derived from fermented bacteria, known for its skin-conditioning and barrier-supporting properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types, especially those concerned with barrier health
Watch for
Generally safe, but potential for irritation in highly sensitive individuals.
Preservative
Potassium Sorbate
A common preservative used to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in cosmetic products.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be a mild skin irritant for some individuals.
A thickening agent used to create gel-like textures in skincare products.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Fragrance
Parfum (Fragrance)
Adds a pleasant scent to the product. However, fragrance can be a common cause of skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Watch for
Potential for irritation, redness, and allergic reactions, especially for sensitive skin.
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) used to adjust the pH of the product. Can also have mild exfoliating properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types (at low concentrations)
Watch for
Can cause irritation or increased sun sensitivity, especially at higher concentrations or on sensitive skin.
pH Adjuster
Sodium Hydroxide
Used to adjust the pH of the product to a skin-friendly level.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be irritating in high concentrations, but is safe when used to adjust pH.
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin, improves hydration, and can help with skin tone and texture.
Usually helps with
Dry, normal, mature skin
Watch for
Can cause irritation, redness, and increased sun sensitivity, especially for sensitive skin or at higher concentrations.
Viscosity Adjuster
Sodium Chloride
Common salt, used here to adjust the viscosity of the product.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Preservative
Phenylpropanol
A preservative that helps to prevent microbial growth in cosmetic products.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Can be a skin irritant for some individuals.
Skin Conditioning Agent
Levulinic Acid
A plant-derived ingredient that can help to condition and soothe the skin.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.
Skin Conditioning Agent
Sodium Levulinate
The sodium salt of levulinic acid, used for its skin-conditioning properties.
Usually helps with
All skin types
Watch for
Generally well-tolerated.