The base of most skincare formulations.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Humectant
Methylpropanediol
A solvent and humectant that helps ingredients penetrate the skin and provides hydration.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Watch for
Can be a penetration enhancer, so consider if using strong actives.
A common humectant and solvent that helps to improve product texture and hydration.
Usually helps with
Hydration
A classic humectant that draws moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated and soft.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Emollient
Methyl Trimethicone
A silicone that provides a smooth feel and can help with spreadability, but may not be suitable for all skin types.
Usually helps with
Smooth texture
Watch for
Some people prefer to avoid silicones.
A solvent and humectant that also has antimicrobial properties.
Usually helps with
Hydration
A form of Vitamin B5 that hydrates, soothes, and helps to repair the skin barrier.
Usually helps with
Hydration, soothing
Soothing Agent
Beta-Glucan
Soothes, hydrates, and supports skin barrier function. It's known for its calming properties.
Usually helps with
Soothing, hydration
Soothing Agent
Centella Asiatica Extract
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, it's renowned for its anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties.
Usually helps with
Soothing, redness reduction
An amino acid that helps to maintain skin hydration and can support collagen production.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Humectant
Sodium Hyaluronate
A salt form of hyaluronic acid that attracts and holds moisture, providing hydration.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Helps to regulate sebum production and has antioxidant properties.
Usually helps with
Oil control
Watch for
Can be irritating for some sensitive skin types.
Soothes, protects, and promotes skin healing and cell regeneration.
Usually helps with
Soothing, skin repair
Helps to control oil production and has anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for acne-prone skin.
Usually helps with
Oil control, acne
Watch for
Can be drying for some.
A component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor, it helps to attract and retain moisture.
Usually helps with
Hydration
Emulsifier
Hydrogenated Lecithin
A phospholipid that acts as an emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent.
Usually helps with
Skin conditioning
A natural gum used to thicken formulations and improve texture.
Usually helps with
Texture
Preservative
Ethylhexylglycerin
A preservative and skin-conditioning agent that can also boost the efficacy of other preservatives.
Usually helps with
Preservation
Watch for
Can be a mild skin irritant for some.
Thickener
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer
A synthetic polymer used to thicken formulations and provide a gel-like texture.
Usually helps with
Texture
A natural polysaccharide used as a thickening and stabilizing agent.
Usually helps with
Texture
A solvent that can also be used as a denaturant. Its use in skincare is generally low.
Usually helps with
Solvent
Watch for
Generally considered safe in low concentrations.
Chelating Agent
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate
A chelating agent that helps to stabilize the formula by binding to metal ions.
Usually helps with
Formula stability
Thickener
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
A synthetic polymer used to thicken and stabilize the formulation.
Usually helps with
Texture
Emollient
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
A silicone elastomer that provides a smooth, velvety feel and can help to mattify the skin.
Usually helps with
Smooth texture, mattifying
Watch for
Some people prefer to avoid silicones.
Soothing Agent
Guaiazulene
A derivative of chamomile known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, often giving a blue hue.
Usually helps with
Soothing, redness reduction