The base liquid for the formulation.
Usually helps with
Hydration
An alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin's surface, helping to improve texture and tone while also providing hydration.
Usually helps with
Exfoliation, hydration, uneven tone
Watch for
Potential for mild stinging or redness, especially when first starting.
A common humectant that draws moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and soft.
Usually helps with
Hydration
A potent AHA that penetrates deeply to remove dead skin cells, revealing brighter, smoother skin and helping to clear congestion.
Usually helps with
Exfoliation, brightening, congestion
Watch for
Can cause stinging or irritation, especially on sensitive skin or when used too frequently.
A solvent and humectant that can improve the absorption of other ingredients and provide hydration.
Usually helps with
Hydration, ingredient penetration
Astringent
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
A natural astringent that can help to tighten pores and reduce oiliness. Some formulations may contain alcohol, which can be drying.
Usually helps with
Oil control, pore appearance
Watch for
Can be drying or irritating if it contains alcohol.
A larger-molecule AHA that exfoliates more gently, making it suitable for sensitive skin types and effective at improving tone and texture.
Usually helps with
Gentle exfoliation, uneven tone, texture
Watch for
Less likely to cause irritation than glycolic acid, but still monitor for sensitivity.
pH Adjuster
Sodium Hydroxide
Used to adjust the pH of the product to ensure the acids are effective and safe for the skin.
Thickener
Acacia Senegal Gum
A natural gum used to thicken formulations and provide a smooth texture.
Usually helps with
Texture
Antioxidant
Musa Sapientum (Banana) Pulp Extract
Contains antioxidants and nutrients that can benefit the skin.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Soothing Agent
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract
Known for its soothing and hydrating properties, often used to calm the skin.
Usually helps with
Soothing, hydration
Antioxidant
Spondias Mombin Pulp Extract
A fruit extract rich in antioxidants that can help protect the skin.
Usually helps with
Antioxidant protection
Antioxidant
Mangifera Indica (Mango) Pulp Extract
Contains vitamins and antioxidants that can nourish and protect the skin.
Usually helps with
Nourishment, antioxidant protection
Chelating Agent
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
Helps to stabilize the formula by binding to metal ions.
Usually helps with
Product stability
A common thickening agent that improves the texture and stability of formulations.
Usually helps with
Texture
A skin-conditioning agent that also has preservative properties.
Usually helps with
Skin conditioning
Emollient
Glyceryl Caprylate/Caprate
An emollient that helps to soften and smooth the skin, and can also act as an emulsifier.
Usually helps with
Softening skin
Preservative
Potassium Sorbate
A common preservative used to prevent the growth of mold and yeast.
Usually helps with
Product preservation
Watch for
Generally considered safe, but can be an allergen for some.
Preservative
Sodium Benzoate
A preservative that works with potassium sorbate to prevent microbial growth.
Usually helps with
Product preservation
Watch for
Can cause skin reactions in sensitive individuals.
A preservative that helps to maintain the product's shelf life.
Usually helps with
Product preservation
Preservative
Benzyl Alcohol
A preservative that can also act as a solvent. It can be a skin irritant for some.
Usually helps with
Product preservation
Watch for
Can cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.