Ingredients
-
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that prevents bacteria, yeast, and mold from growing in skincare products, helping them stay fresh and safe to use. It has been used safely in cosmetics for decades and is effective at very low concentrations.
Benefits
- Prevents microbial contamination and product spoilage
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria and yeast
- Minimal impact on beneficial skin bacteria when used at approved levels
Potential concerns
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
- May cause irritation if used in products at concentrations above 1%
Science: The European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety considers phenoxyethanol safe for all consumers, including children, at concentrations up to 1%. Adverse effects observed in animal studies required exposure levels approximately 200 times higher than those in cosmetic products, and it is classified as one of the most well-tolerated preservatives in cosmetics.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Diisostearyl Malate is an emollient and texture-enhancing ingredient derived from malic acid and isostearyl alcohol. It's used in cosmetics to create a smooth, silky feel and improve product spreadability on skin.
Benefits
- Creates a smooth, silky texture in formulations
- Helps improve product spreadability and application
- Provides emollient properties for skin conditioning
Potential concerns
- Potential for contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals, particularly linked to trace impurities (isostearyl alcohol) rather than the ingredient itself
- May cause lip irritation in lip care products in susceptible people
Science: A 1987 case study documented contact dermatitis from this ingredient in lipstick, though the reaction was traced to specific impurities (isostearyl alcohol) present in the material rather than the pure ingredient itself. Limited additional peer-reviewed safety data is available for this ingredient.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Tocopherol is a form of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. It helps maintain skin's natural barrier function and is commonly used in skincare products to prevent premature aging and support overall skin health.
Benefits
- Protects skin from free radical damage and oxidative stress
- Supports skin barrier function and moisture retention
- May help reduce signs of aging caused by UV exposure and environmental damage
- Works as a lipid antioxidant to prevent degradation of skin oils
Science: Tocopherol (α-tocopherol) is recognized in peer-reviewed research as a key endogenous defense mechanism against oxidative stress in aging skin, particularly from UV-induced damage. Studies confirm it functions as a lipid-soluble antioxidant capable of preventing lipid peroxidation, with established efficacy in cosmetic and therapeutic applications.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Ethylhexylglycerin is a preservative and antimicrobial ingredient used to prevent bacterial growth and extend shelf life in skincare products. It's a multifunctional ingredient that helps keep formulations stable and free from contamination.
Benefits
- Prevents bacterial contamination in products
- Helps extend product shelf life
- Works synergistically with other preservatives for enhanced protection
Potential concerns
- May not be effective against all bacterial species (notably some Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains)
- Preservative-related sensitization possible in sensitive individuals, though uncommon
Science: Research shows ethylhexylglycerin has broad antimicrobial activity against many common cosmetic contaminants, though effectiveness varies by bacterial species. Studies demonstrate it can work synergistically with other preservative components to enhance biofilm inhibition.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Triethylhexanoin is a lightweight synthetic oil used in skincare products to soften and smooth the skin. It acts as an emollient and helps products glide on easily while creating a subtle protective layer on the skin's surface.
Benefits
- Smooths and softens skin texture
- Lightweight feel without heaviness
- Helps other ingredients spread evenly across skin
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. It is chemically similar to other well-established synthetic esters used in cosmetics and has a history of safe use in personal care formulations.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Silica is a mineral powder derived from silicon dioxide that's commonly used in skincare and makeup products. It works primarily as a texture enhancer and absorbent, helping to mattify skin, improve product feel, and absorb excess oil.
Benefits
- Mattifies skin and reduces shine
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Absorbs excess sebum and moisture
- Creates a smooth, refined appearance
Potential concerns
- When used as nanoparticles, potential for skin penetration remains under study
- Inhalation of silica powder (primarily occupational concern) has known health risks; topical use in cosmetics is considered lower risk
- Listed among potential carcinogenic substances in cosmetic formulations, though safe use levels and regulatory limits are established in the EU and US
Science: A 2023 review of European facial cosmetics identified silica among potential carcinogenic ingredients present in commercial products, though this reflects presence rather than proven harm at typical use concentrations. Research on silica nanoparticles suggests they are being developed for cosmetic use, but percutaneous penetration and long-term safety data remain limited. Regulatory agencies (EU, FDA) have established safe concentration limits for cosmetic use.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Synthetic wax is a man-made waxy substance created through chemical synthesis, often used in skincare to create a protective barrier on the skin. It helps products feel smooth, improves texture, and can provide a subtle matte or satin finish while locking in moisture.
Benefits
- Creates a protective barrier that helps reduce water loss from skin
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Provides a smooth, comfortable feel without a greasy residue
Potential concerns
- May feel heavy or occlusive on sensitive or acne-prone skin
- Can potentially clog pores if used in high concentrations
- May cause buildup if products aren't properly cleansed off
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. Synthetic waxes are generally recognized as safe in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies (FDA, EU), though individual formulations and concentrations affect tolerability.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Polybutene is a synthetic polymer derived from petroleum that acts as a thickener, binder, and emollient in skincare products. It helps create a smooth texture and forms a protective layer on the skin without dissolving in water.
Benefits
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Creates a protective, conditioning layer on skin
- Helps bind ingredients together in formulations
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that Polyisobutene and Hydrogenated Polyisobutene are safe as used in cosmetics based on extensive toxicity testing, including 2-year chronic studies, reproductive studies, and clinical patch tests showing no dermal irritation, sensitization, or ocular irritation. The ingredient's extremely low water solubility and high oil-water partition coefficient indicate minimal skin absorption and systemic exposure.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
-
Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
-
Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
-
Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
Edit this product
Edit Ingredients