Ingredients
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Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
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Dimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient that forms a smooth, protective layer on your skin. It helps lock in moisture, creates a soft feel, and is commonly used in moisturizers and primers to improve product texture and skin hydration.
Benefits
- Improves skin hydration by creating a moisture-barrier layer
- Provides a smooth, silky feel to products and on skin
- Well-tolerated by sensitive and atopic (eczema-prone) skin
- Non-greasy alternative to heavier oils
Science: Clinical studies demonstrate dimethicone is safe and well-tolerated in children with atopic dermatitis from 12 months of age. Research shows moisturizers containing dimethicone effectively improve skin hydration in mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis patients over 14 days.
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Butylene glycol is a humectant—a type of ingredient that draws water into the skin and helps it stay hydrated. It's a small, lightweight molecule commonly used in moisturizers to improve hydration without leaving a heavy feel on the skin.
Benefits
- Increases skin hydration and moisture retention
- Lightweight and absorbs quickly
- Helps other active ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively
Science: Research demonstrates that butylene glycol, when combined with other humectants (like glycerin and hyaluronic acid) and occlusive ingredients in moisturizers, significantly improves skin hydration in both healthy skin and compromised skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. It is recognized as a safe, effective humectant in dermatological formulations.
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Glycerin is a naturally derived humectant—a ingredient that draws moisture from the air into your skin. It's one of the most widely used and well-studied moisturizing agents in skincare, helping skin feel softer and more hydrated.
Benefits
- Attracts and retains moisture in the skin
- Improves skin hydration and softness
- Helps strengthen skin barrier function
- Suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded glycerin is safe as used in cosmetics across all concentrations. Research shows glycerin effectively improves skin hydration and is well-tolerated with minimal irritation risk. It is also referenced in clinical guidelines for managing inflammatory skin conditions and maintaining skin integrity.
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Sodium hyaluronate is the salt form of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in your skin that acts like a moisture magnet. In skincare products, it absorbs water from the environment and binds it to your skin, helping to hydrate and plump the skin's surface.
Benefits
- Delivers intense hydration to the skin
- Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines by improving skin moisture
- Supports skin barrier function
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and oily skin
Potential concerns
- In very dry climates with low humidity, it may draw moisture from deeper skin layers if not sealed with an occlusive product
- Rare allergic reactions are possible but extremely uncommon
Science: While the provided research focuses on intra-articular injections for joint health (showing good safety and efficacy), hyaluronic acid and its salt form are well-established in dermatology for topical hydration. The molecule's safety profile is well-documented across decades of use in medical and cosmetic applications, with severe adverse reactions being extremely rare.
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Citric acid is a naturally occurring organic acid commonly used in skincare products as an exfoliant and pH balancer. It belongs to a group of ingredients called alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that help remove dead skin cells from the surface.
Benefits
- Gentle exfoliation to improve skin texture and appearance
- Helps reduce the appearance of keratosis and acne
- Balances product pH to maintain skin compatibility
Potential concerns
- Can cause irritation, redness, or sensitivity in some users, especially with prolonged or frequent use
- May increase sun sensitivity — sunscreen use is recommended when using AHA products
- Not suitable for very sensitive or compromised skin without caution
Science: Citric acid is an established AHA used in cosmetics for superficial peeling and skin appearance improvement, though research emphasizes that caution should be exercised due to potential adverse reactions. It is widely produced industrially and well-established in skincare formulations.
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Potassium sorbate is a preservative used in skincare products to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria, helping extend shelf life. It's a salt derived from sorbic acid and is commonly used as a gentler alternative to stronger chemical preservatives.
Benefits
- Prevents microbial contamination and mold growth
- Generally considered milder than some other preservatives like benzalkonium chloride
- Allows products to remain effective longer without refrigeration
Potential concerns
- May cause irritation or allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
- Not suitable for preservative-free formulations
- Limited effectiveness against some bacteria compared to stronger preservatives
Science: Clinical research suggests potassium sorbate is less damaging to delicate tissues than benzalkonium chloride, making it a preferred alternative preservative in sensitive applications like eye products. However, peer-reviewed safety data specific to topical skincare use in the general population is limited.
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Sodium benzoate is a preservative used in skincare products to prevent bacterial and fungal growth, extending shelf life. It's a salt derived from benzoic acid and is one of the most widely used preservatives in cosmetics, skincare, and food products.
Benefits
- Prevents microbial contamination and extends product shelf life
- Generally effective at low concentrations (0.1-0.5%)
- Approved for cosmetic use by major regulatory bodies
Potential concerns
- Can cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals; identified as an allergen in medical hand cleansers
- Recent research suggests long-term oral intake may affect bone health and increase osteoporosis risk, though topical skincare exposure is minimal
Science: Sodium benzoate is well-established as a safe preservative in cosmetics at typical use levels. However, emerging research indicates that chronic systemic intake may interfere with bone metabolism through the FGF2/p38/RUNX2 pathway. For topical skincare use, the exposure and absorption are minimal compared to dietary intake, but individuals with known sensitivities should avoid it.
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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.
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Aspartic acid is a naturally occurring amino acid that plays a structural role in skin proteins and the extracellular matrix. In skincare products, it may be used to support skin firmness and resilience, though its primary function is typically as a pH buffer or humectant rather than an active anti-aging ingredient.
Benefits
- Supports skin structure as a building block for proteins
- May help maintain skin hydration as a humectant
- Functions as a pH buffer in formulations
Science: Research indicates aspartic acid undergoes racemization (structural change) during skin aging and elastic fiber degradation, suggesting it plays a role in maintaining skin elasticity over time. However, peer-reviewed evidence for aspartic acid as a standalone active skincare ingredient is limited; most studies focus on its structural role in aging rather than its topical application benefits.
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Alanine is a simple amino acid—a building block of proteins—used in skincare products to support skin hydration and provide conditioning benefits. It helps maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier and is generally used in small concentrations as part of formulation systems.
Benefits
- Supports skin hydration and moisture retention
- Helps condition and soften skin texture
- May contribute to the skin's natural amino acid profile
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available specifically for alanine in topical skincare applications. Alanine is a naturally occurring, non-essential amino acid that is well-tolerated by skin and widely recognized as safe in cosmetic formulations.
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Glycine is a simple amino acid that serves as a building block for collagen, the protein responsible for skin structure and elasticity. In skincare, it helps support skin firmness and may contribute to anti-aging benefits when used as part of collagen-based formulations.
Benefits
- Supports collagen production and skin structure
- May help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Contributes to skin firmness and elasticity
Science: Research indicates that glycine, as a key amino acid in marine collagen supplements, plays a role in combating skin aging by supporting collagen integrity and minimizing oxidative stress. However, most anti-aging benefits are demonstrated when glycine is consumed as part of collagen peptides rather than applied topically alone.
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Serine is a naturally occurring amino acid that your skin produces on its own. In skincare products, it helps support the skin's natural moisture barrier and may contribute to overall skin hydration and structure.
Benefits
- Supports skin hydration and moisture retention
- Helps maintain skin barrier function
- May improve skin texture and smoothness
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient in cosmetic skincare applications. Serine is a fundamental amino acid involved in skin biology, but the provided research focuses on disease mechanisms (fibrosis and pemphigus) rather than cosmetic benefits in healthy skin.
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Valine is an amino acid—one of the building blocks your body uses to make proteins. In skincare products, it's included to help support skin structure and barrier function, though it's present in very small amounts compared to what you get from food.
Benefits
- May support skin barrier integrity
- Provides amino acid building blocks for skin proteins
- Generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin
Science: Valine is a standard amino acid with an established safety record in cosmetics. The provided research focuses on prion disease diagnosis using valine polymorphisms as a genetic marker, which is unrelated to skincare efficacy. Limited direct evidence exists on valine's topical skincare benefits in peer-reviewed literature.
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Isoleucine is an amino acid (a building block of proteins) that occurs naturally in the body and in foods. In skincare, it's included in formulations for its potential role in supporting skin structure and resilience, though it's typically present in small amounts.
Benefits
- May support skin barrier function as part of amino acid profiles
- Potential antioxidant properties when combined with other botanical compounds
- Could contribute to skin firmness and elasticity through protein synthesis support
Science: Recent research identifies isoleucine as one of several salivary metabolites with potential relevance to skin health screening, and it appears as a minor component in botanical extracts studied for UV photoaging protection. However, direct evidence for isoleucine's independent efficacy in topical skincare products is limited.
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Proline is an amino acid that serves as a building block for collagen, the protein responsible for skin firmness and structure. Your body uses proline (along with vitamin C) to create and repair collagen in the skin, which naturally declines with age.
Benefits
- Supports collagen production and skin structure
- May improve skin firmness and elasticity
- Helps with skin repair and wound healing
Science: Proline is an essential amino acid in collagen synthesis; vitamin C-dependent hydroxylation of proline is a critical step in forming stable collagen. Limited direct human studies exist on topical proline alone, though it is recognized as a key structural component in skin biology and collagen formation.
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Threonine is an amino acid that your body cannot produce on its own, so it must come from diet or skincare products. In skincare, it functions as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent, helping to attract and retain moisture in the skin.
Benefits
- Helps maintain skin hydration and moisture balance
- Supports skin barrier function as a natural amino acid
- May improve skin texture and softness
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for threonine as a direct skincare ingredient. The provided research focuses on threonine as part of BRAF protein kinase pathways in melanoma treatment and fibrosis research, which are not relevant to topical cosmetic use. Threonine is generally recognized as safe in skincare applications.
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Histidine is an amino acid that plays a key role in maintaining your skin's natural moisture barrier. In skincare, it supports the production of natural moisturizing factor (NMF)—compounds that help your skin retain water and stay hydrated.
Benefits
- Supports skin hydration and moisture retention
- Helps strengthen the skin barrier
- May provide antioxidant protection through carnosine production
Science: Histidine is a naturally occurring amino acid essential for human health. Research shows it is a precursor to filaggrin breakdown products that form the skin's natural moisturizing factor, a critical component of skin hydration and barrier function.
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Phenylalanine is an amino acid that, in its modified form (undecylenoyl phenylalanine), is used in skincare to help reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone, particularly melasma. It works by interfering with melanin production in the skin.
Benefits
- May help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation
- Potential support for melasma treatment as an adjuvant therapy
- Generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects
Science: Limited clinical evidence exists for topical phenylalanine derivatives in melasma treatment. A 2022 systematic review identified 2% undecylenoyl phenylalanine as a topical agent with less robust evidence compared to gold-standard treatments like hydroquinone and triple combination therapy, though no severe adverse effects were reported.
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Glutamic acid is a naturally occurring amino acid that functions as a humectant in skincare, helping to draw moisture into the skin and support its natural hydration barrier. It's often used in the form of poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA), a biodegradable biopolymer derived from bacterial fermentation that enhances the moisturizing properties of skincare formulas.
Benefits
- Humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin
- Supports skin hydration and barrier function
- Biodegradable and generally well-tolerated by most skin types
Science: Poly-γ-glutamic acid is a well-documented, biodegradable biopolymer with good biocompatibility and non-toxic profile, widely used in cosmetic formulations. Research confirms it is safe and effective for moisture-binding applications in skincare.
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Arginine is a naturally occurring amino acid that is a building block of proteins found in skin. In skincare products, it's used to support skin hydration and may help improve skin barrier function and elasticity.
Benefits
- Supports natural skin hydration
- Helps maintain skin barrier health
- May improve skin firmness and elasticity
Science: Arginine is a naturally occurring amino acid in human skin with a strong safety profile. Research shows it is a normal metabolite excreted by skin and is used in clinical diagnostics, indicating its natural presence and compatibility with skin biology.
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Sodium lactate is a salt derived from lactic acid that acts as a humectant and pH buffer in skincare products. It helps draw moisture into the skin and maintain the product's stability.
Benefits
- Humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin
- Helps maintain skin hydration and plumpness
- Gentle pH buffer that stabilizes formulations
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available specifically for topical skincare use. The provided research focuses on medical applications (intravenous use in shock treatment) and cellular mechanisms unrelated to cosmetic skincare; these do not directly inform safety or efficacy for topical skin application.
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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.
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Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
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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.
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Polysorbate 60 is an emulsifier and solubilizer derived from sorbitan and polyethylene glycol. It helps blend water and oil-based ingredients together in formulations and can assist in delivering active ingredients into the skin.
Benefits
- Helps stabilize product texture by mixing incompatible ingredients
- May improve skin penetration of certain active ingredients
- Enables creation of lightweight, uniform formulations
Science: Research shows polysorbate 60 functions effectively as a surfactant in nanoparticle delivery systems, enhancing skin penetration of topical actives. It has been used safely in pharmaceutical formulations with established stability profiles and minimal irritation potential at typical cosmetic concentrations.
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Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a lightweight oil derived from coconut that acts as an emollient and helps formulations blend smoothly. It softens skin and reduces water loss by creating an occlusive barrier on the skin's surface.
Benefits
- Improves skin hydration and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Lightweight, non-greasy feel compared to heavier oils
- Helps deliver other active ingredients deeper into the skin
- Smooth, silky texture in skincare formulations
Science: Research shows that emulsions containing 15% caprylic/capric triglyceride significantly increase skin hydration and reduce water loss in healthy subjects. The ingredient is also used as an effective carrier oil in nanoemulsions to enhance penetration of active compounds into skin.
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Niacinamide is an active form of vitamin B3 that works within your skin's cells to strengthen the barrier, reduce inflammation, and regulate oil production. It's a water-soluble ingredient that's been shown to have multiple benefits across different skin concerns, from sensitivity to aging.
Benefits
- Reduces redness and calms irritation
- Minimizes pore appearance and controls excess oil
- Supports skin barrier function and hydration
- Brightens skin tone and evens complexion
- Has anti-aging properties and protects against environmental damage
Science: Niacinamide is well-tolerated and safe across diverse skin types with strong clinical evidence supporting its use for acne, dermatitis, and general skin health. Research shows it works by regulating inflammation at the cellular level and protecting skin barrier integrity, with proven efficacy in concentrations commonly found in cosmetic products.
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Sodium Hydroxide is a strong alkaline chemical used in skincare products primarily as a pH buffer to neutralize acids and adjust the product's pH to safe levels for skin. It is not an active skincare ingredient and appears only in trace amounts in finished products.
Potential concerns
- In concentrated form, sodium hydroxide is caustic and can cause severe chemical burns; however, in cosmetic products it is diluted and pH-buffered to safe levels
- Undiluted or highly concentrated sodium hydroxide should never contact skin directly
Science: The provided research discusses sodium hydroxide only in a specialized medical context (10% solution for surgical cauterization of ingrown toenails), which is not relevant to cosmetic skincare use. In properly formulated skincare products, sodium hydroxide is used in minimal concentrations solely for pH adjustment and is considered safe by regulatory bodies including the FDA and EU.
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Polysilicone-11 is a silicone-based polymer that forms a protective layer on the skin's surface. It's used in skincare formulations primarily to create a smooth, breathable film that helps products feel pleasant and perform effectively.
Benefits
- Creates a smooth, non-greasy protective layer
- Improves product feel and spreadability
- Helps lock in moisture
Science: A 2024 safety assessment by the Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety concluded that Polysilicone-11 is safe for use in cosmetics at current concentrations and practices. The ingredient functions as a film former with established safety data supporting its use in cosmetic formulations.
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Carbomer is a thickening agent and stabilizer that gives skincare products their gel-like texture. It helps create a smooth, spreadable consistency and can hold active ingredients in place on the skin for better absorption.
Benefits
- Creates a smooth, easy-to-apply gel texture
- Helps stabilize and thicken formulations
- Can improve how long active ingredients stay on the skin
- Allows better delivery of beneficial compounds into deeper skin layers
Potential concerns
- Can occasionally cause irritation or sensitivity in very reactive skin types
- Requires proper pH adjustment in formulations (formulators use this, not consumers)
Science: Research shows carbomer is commonly used as a gel base in advanced skincare delivery systems, including those designed for anti-inflammatory and healing treatments. Studies indicate it effectively works with active ingredients like nanoparticles and botanical extracts to improve their penetration and efficacy on skin.
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Sodium phytate is a naturally derived ingredient that acts as a chelating agent, binding to minerals and metals on the skin's surface. In skincare, it's primarily studied for its potential brightening and clarifying properties, though research in this area remains limited.
Benefits
- May help brighten skin appearance
- Potential mild exfoliating or clarifying effect
- Naturally derived ingredient
Potential concerns
- Very limited safety data in skincare applications
- Chelating agents can potentially disrupt skin barrier minerals if used excessively
- Most research focuses on dental use rather than facial skincare
Science: Available research on sodium phytate focuses primarily on dental whitening toothpaste rather than skincare products. One 2025 clinical trial showed modest whitening effects in toothpaste formulations over 3-4 weeks, but efficacy plateaued. Peer-reviewed safety and efficacy data specifically for facial skincare use is limited.
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Shea butter is a natural fat extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree. In skincare, it works as a rich moisturizer and skin conditioning agent that helps soften and protect the skin barrier.
Benefits
- Deep moisturization and hydration
- Skin conditioning and softening
- May help improve skin texture and elasticity
Potential concerns
- May cause sensitivity or irritation in some individuals; formulations should be tested to ensure non-sensitizing properties
- Quality varies by source—impurities in poorly processed shea butter could potentially cause irritation
Science: A 2024 safety assessment by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that shea-derived ingredients are safe at current use levels and concentrations when formulated to be non-sensitizing. Formulators should monitor for impurities and be aware of cumulative botanical constituents in multi-ingredient products.
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Glyceryl stearate is a natural emulsifier and thickener derived from vegetable oils and glycerin. It helps bind water and oil together in skincare formulas, creating a smooth texture while providing mild moisturizing properties.
Benefits
- Helps create stable, smooth product textures
- Mild emollient that softens skin
- Derived from natural sources (vegetable-based)
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel confirmed in 2023 that glyceryl stearate and related glyceryl diesters are safe for cosmetic use at standard concentrations. Research indicates the ingredient has a skin-safe pH profile and demonstrates good stability in formulations.
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Cetearyl alcohol is a waxy, fatty alcohol derived from vegetable or petroleum sources that acts as an emulsifier and thickener in skincare products. It helps blend oil and water-based ingredients together and gives creams and lotions their smooth, spreadable texture.
Benefits
- Stabilizes emulsions to prevent separation of oil and water
- Thickens and improves texture of creams and lotions
- Creates a smooth, non-greasy feel on skin
Potential concerns
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis reported in sensitive individuals
- May cause localized irritation or allergic reactions in patch-tested cases
Science: Cetearyl alcohol is widely used as an emulsifier in topical formulations and generally has a good safety profile. However, multiple case reports document allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals, suggesting it can act as a contact allergen in rare cases. It does not significantly penetrate skin and primarily remains in the formulation.
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Polymethylsilsesquioxane is a silica-based powder derived from silicon that acts as a lightweight filler and texture enhancer in skincare products. It helps absorb oils, create a smooth matte finish, and improve how products feel and spread on the skin.
Benefits
- Creates a smooth, velvety texture on skin
- Helps absorb excess oil and sebum
- Provides a matte finish without a heavy feel
- Improves product spreadability and blendability
Science: Recent research confirms polymethylsilsesquioxane is a hydrophobic silica polymer with high biocompatibility, synthesized using non-toxic methods. Its safety profile aligns with established silica filler use in cosmetics, though direct dermatological safety studies in skincare formulations are limited.
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Sodium phosphate is a salt derived from phosphoric acid that acts as a pH buffer and emulsifier in skincare formulations. It helps stabilize products and maintain the right acidity level for skin compatibility.
Benefits
- Helps maintain optimal pH balance in formulations
- Acts as an emulsifier to keep oil and water-based ingredients mixed
- Supports formula stability over time
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available specifically for sodium phosphate in topical skincare. The ingredient has a long history of safe use in cosmetics and pharmaceutical formulations as a buffer and stabilizer, with regulatory approval from major authorities including the FDA and EU.
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Disodium phosphate is a salt derived from phosphoric acid that functions as a pH buffer and preservative booster in skincare formulations. It helps maintain product stability and can support the preservation system in creams, lotions, and serums.
Benefits
- Stabilizes product pH to prevent degradation
- Enhances preservation effectiveness
- Helps maintain consistent product performance over time
Science: The provided studies focus on disodium phosphate primarily as a pharmaceutical salt for drug delivery (dexamethasone and combretastatin formulations) rather than cosmetic skincare applications. No safety concerns were identified in the available literature for topical use in cosmetic products.
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Sorbitan Stearate is a gentle emulsifier derived from sorbitol (a natural sugar alcohol) and stearic acid (a fatty acid). It helps blend water and oil-based ingredients together in skincare products, creating a smooth, stable texture.
Benefits
- Helps create smooth, well-blended formulations
- Mild on skin with minimal irritation potential
- Non-sensitizing for most users
Potential concerns
- May cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals
- Rare allergic reactions reported in fewer than 1% of people with contact dermatitis
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded Sorbitan Stearate is safe for cosmetic use. Clinical and animal studies showed it is generally a minimal to mild skin irritant and non-sensitizing, with no mutagenic or reproductive toxicity concerns at typical use levels (usually under 10%).
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Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a silicone-based ingredient that acts as a thickener and texture modifier in skincare products. It helps create a smooth, lightweight feel and can improve how products spread across the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
Benefits
- Creates a smooth, non-greasy texture
- Helps products glide evenly on skin
- Improves product stability and consistency
Science: Dimethicone crosspolymers are widely used in cosmetics and are generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies including the CosIng database. Limited peer-reviewed data available specifically for this ingredient, but the safety profile is supported by extensive industry use and regulatory approval.
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Titanium dioxide is a mineral powder that sits on top of your skin to physically block both UVA and UVB rays from the sun. It's one of the most commonly used active ingredients in mineral (physical) sunscreens and is also used in tinted formulations to provide visible light protection.
Benefits
- Provides broad-spectrum UV protection (UVA and UVB)
- Physical blocker that doesn't require absorption into the skin
- Generally well-tolerated and suitable for sensitive skin
- Offers additional visible light protection when used in tinted formulations, which may benefit those with melasma or other pigmentation concerns
Potential concerns
- Can leave a white or chalky cast on skin, though nanoparticle formulations minimize this
- May feel heavy or occlusive for some users
Science: Titanium dioxide is a well-established, inorganic UV filter with a strong safety profile. Unlike organic sunscreen filters, it is not systemically absorbed and does not pose the environmental concerns (such as coral bleaching) associated with chemical filters. Recent research confirms its effectiveness in both standard and visible light protection applications.
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Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is a thickening and gelling agent derived from cellulose, a natural plant material. In skincare products, it creates a smooth texture, helps bind ingredients together, and improves how products feel and spread on skin.
Benefits
- Creates a smooth, even texture in gels and creams
- Helps products spread easily without feeling heavy
- Non-ionic, meaning it works well with most other skincare ingredients
- Biocompatible and generally well-tolerated by skin
Science: HEC is documented as biocompatible, biodegradable, nontoxic, and water-soluble in peer-reviewed literature. It is widely used in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations as a gelling and thickening agent with a strong safety profile in topical applications.
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Leucine is an amino acid—a building block of proteins—that is sometimes included in skincare formulations. In topical products, it's primarily used as a skin-conditioning agent, though its direct effects on skin are limited compared to oral consumption.
Benefits
- May support skin barrier function as part of amino acid complexes
- Provides mild skin conditioning properties
Science: The provided research focuses on leucine's role in systemic nutrition and immune function (particularly in psoriasis management via diet), not topical skincare applications. Limited peer-reviewed data exists specifically demonstrating efficacy of leucine in cosmetic formulations applied to skin.
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Lysine is an amino acid that serves as a building block for skin proteins. In skincare, it's primarily used for its potential to support skin barrier function and may have mild anti-inflammatory properties, though its direct topical benefits are limited compared to its derivative form (tranexamic acid).
Benefits
- Supports skin protein structure and barrier function
- May have mild anti-inflammatory effects
- Generally well-tolerated by most skin types
Science: The provided research focuses on tranexamic acid (a lysine derivative with proven anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening effects) rather than lysine itself. Direct peer-reviewed evidence for topical lysine's skincare efficacy is limited; most research highlights tranexamic acid's benefits for hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and inflammation. Lysine alone has minimal documented topical skincare effects compared to its modified forms.
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Tyrosine is an amino acid that serves as a building block for proteins in the skin. In skincare products, it's included for its role in supporting skin structure and potential antioxidant properties, though its direct cosmetic benefits remain limited in published research.
Benefits
- Supports skin protein synthesis and structural integrity
- May provide antioxidant protection
- Generally well-tolerated by most skin types
Science: The reviewed literature focuses on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (pharmaceutical compounds targeting tyrosine kinase enzymes) in treating lupus and cancer, not cosmetic-grade tyrosine as a skincare ingredient. Limited peer-reviewed data specifically addresses the efficacy or safety of tyrosine in topical skincare formulations for everyday consumers.
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Isononyl isononanoate is a lightweight synthetic oil derived from fatty acids, used in skincare products as an emollient to soften and smooth skin. It provides a silky texture without a greasy feel, making it popular in moisturizers, serums, and foundations.
Benefits
- Softens and conditions skin
- Provides lightweight moisture without heaviness
- Improves product texture and spreadability
Science: Research shows isononyl isononanoate has a very clean chemical profile with minimal volatile compounds—mainly just the ester itself and traces of isononyl alcohol from synthesis. It is well-tolerated in cosmetic formulations and considered safe for topical use.
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Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate is an emulsifier derived from plant-based glycerin and stearic acid. It helps blend water and oil-based ingredients in skincare products, creating a smooth, stable texture while also acting as a thickening agent.
Benefits
- Helps stabilize product texture
- Creates smoother application
- Allows water and oil ingredients to mix effectively
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. It is derived from generally recognized safe components (glycerin and stearic acid) and is widely used in cosmetics as a functional ingredient with no documented safety concerns in standard formulations.
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Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
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Isostearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from isostearic acid, commonly used in skincare products as an emollient and thickening agent. It helps soften skin, improve product texture, and enhance the penetration of other ingredients into the skin.
Benefits
- Softens and moisturizes skin
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Enhances skin penetration of active ingredients
- Provides mild occlusive properties
Potential concerns
- Can cause contact sensitization in some individuals, particularly at concentrations around 5% or higher
- May trigger allergic reactions or dermatitis in sensitive skin types
- Risk increases when used in occlusive formulations like antiperspirants
Science: Clinical patch testing studies identified isostearyl alcohol as a sensitizing agent in a small but notable percentage of users (approximately 4-10% in tested populations). Research also confirms its effectiveness as a skin penetration enhancer in transdermal delivery systems, which may increase both benefits and irritation risk depending on formulation and individual sensitivity.
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Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
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Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
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Ethylcellulose is a thickening and film-forming agent derived from cellulose that helps create a protective barrier on the skin and gives products a smooth texture. It's commonly used in creams and lotions to improve consistency and help active ingredients adhere to the skin.
Benefits
- Creates a protective film on skin surface
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Helps stabilize emulsions and creams
- Can be used as a carrier for active ingredients like vitamins and botanicals
Science: Research shows ethylcellulose is an effective pharmaceutical and cosmetic excipient used to encapsulate and deliver active ingredients (including sensitive compounds like paclitaxel and curcumin) without interfering with their efficacy. It has been safely used in topical formulations to support wound healing and skin regeneration properties of other active ingredients.
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Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
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