Ingredients
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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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Caprylyl glycol is a preservative and skin-conditioning ingredient derived from coconut oil. It helps prevent bacterial and mold growth in skincare products while also providing mild hydrating and humectant benefits to the skin.
Benefits
- Helps preserve product freshness and prevent contamination
- Provides gentle humectant properties to help retain skin moisture
- Often used as a gentler alternative to traditional preservatives
Potential concerns
- Rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis have been reported in sensitive individuals
- May cause irritation in those with known sensitivity to glycols
Science: A 200-subject repeat patch test study found no delayed hypersensitivity reactions to caprylyl glycol at typical use concentrations. However, isolated case reports of allergic contact dermatitis exist, suggesting it can act as an allergen in susceptible individuals. It is widely used in infant and sensitive-skin formulations as a preservative alternative.
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Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent that binds to metals and minerals in skincare formulations, helping to preserve product stability and extend shelf life. It's used in small amounts (typically under 2%) to prevent unwanted chemical reactions that could degrade the formula.
Benefits
- Stabilizes cosmetic formulations by binding trace metals
- Extends product shelf life and maintains efficacy
- Allows other skincare ingredients to work more effectively
Potential concerns
- May increase skin penetration of other ingredients by chelating calcium in the skin barrier—only a concern if combined with potentially harmful substances
- Not absorbed through skin in normal use, but inhalation from sprays was identified as a theoretical concern in safety assessments
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel confirmed safety in 2023 based on standard use concentrations. Clinical studies show no skin absorption; however, it can affect how other chemicals penetrate the skin, so formulators must account for this when combining with other actives.
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Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a synthetic polymer derived from polyvinyl acetate. In skincare, it's primarily used as a film-forming agent that creates a thin, breathable layer on the skin to improve product texture, adhesion, and delivery of active ingredients.
Benefits
- Creates a smooth, non-sticky finish on skin
- Improves product adhesion and wear time
- Supports controlled release of active skincare ingredients
- Biodegradable and generally well-tolerated by skin
Science: Research demonstrates PVA's effectiveness as a biocompatible polymer matrix for transdermal delivery systems and wound care applications. Its ability to dissolve rapidly on skin and form stable films makes it suitable for both therapeutic skincare delivery and cosmetic formulations, with no reported safety concerns in topical use.
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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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Propylene glycol is a lightweight humectant and solvent commonly used in skincare formulations. It helps draw moisture into the skin and improves the texture and spreadability of products.
Benefits
- Hydrates skin by attracting and retaining moisture
- Enhances product texture and makes formulas easier to apply
- Helps active ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively
- Improves stability and shelf life of formulations
Potential concerns
- May cause contact dermatitis or irritation in sensitive individuals
- Can occasionally trigger allergic reactions in susceptible people
- High concentrations may feel sticky or heavy on some skin types
Science: Research confirms propylene glycol acts as a penetration enhancer in topical formulations, improving skin uptake of active ingredients. The ingredient is widely studied and considered safe at typical cosmetic concentrations, though individual sensitivity varies.
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Linalool is a naturally occurring fragrant compound found in lavender and other plants, commonly used in skincare products for its pleasant scent. It's a volatile component of essential oils and plant extracts that contributes to the aromatic profile of formulations.
Benefits
- Provides natural fragrance to skincare products
- Derived from plants traditionally associated with calming and relaxation properties
- Part of essential oil blends used in aromatherapy applications
Potential concerns
- May cause skin irritation or allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
- Can oxidize when exposed to air, potentially creating irritant byproducts
- Lavender extracts containing linalool have estrogenic and antiandrogenic properties — topical application near the breast should be avoided
Science: Lavender, which contains linalool as a major compound, is recognized as generally safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, limited peer-reviewed safety data exists specifically for linalool in topical skincare formulations, and individual sensitivity varies. Caution is warranted for prolonged or concentrated use, particularly in sensitive populations.
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Tin Oxide is a mineral powder used in cosmetics primarily as a colorant and opacifying agent to create a smooth, matte finish in powders and foundations. It's an inert mineral that sits on top of the skin rather than being absorbed.
Benefits
- Provides opacity and coverage in powder formulations
- Creates a matte or satin finish
- Inert and unlikely to cause irritation in topical skincare use
Potential concerns
- Inhalation of powder particles should be avoided; inhaling tin oxide dust in industrial settings has been linked to lung concerns, though cosmetic powder use is a different exposure route
- No significant skin or eye irritation reported in normal cosmetic use
Science: The available research focuses on occupational inhalation hazards in industrial manufacturing rather than cosmetic use on skin. Tin oxide is poorly soluble and remains on the skin surface, making systemic absorption unlikely from topical application. Limited peer-reviewed data specifically addresses safety in finished skincare products.
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Magnesium aluminum silicate is a naturally occurring clay mineral that works as a thickener and absorbent in skincare products. It helps create a smooth texture, absorb excess oil, and can be used as a delivery system for other active ingredients.
Benefits
- Absorbs excess oil and sebum from skin
- Creates a smooth, even texture in formulations
- Can help support skin delivery systems for other beneficial ingredients
- Generally well-tolerated with a long history of use in cosmetics
Potential concerns
- May cause dryness if overused, particularly on already dry skin types
- Potential for skin irritation in sensitive individuals, though generally mild
Science: Scientific literature indicates magnesium aluminum silicate clays have antimicrobial properties, support wound healing, and can protect against UV damage. These minerals are increasingly used in topical skincare systems and are considered safe excipients with minimal toxicological concerns for cosmetic application.
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Glycereth-26 is a humectant derived from glycerin that helps skin retain moisture. It also functions as a texture modifier in formulations, making products feel lighter and easier to spread.
Benefits
- Hydrates and moisturizes skin
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Skin-conditioning agent
Potential concerns
- May cause irritation in sensitive individuals if formula is not properly balanced
Science: A 2025 Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety review assessed glycerin ethoxylates (the ingredient class containing Glycereth-26) and concluded they are safe in cosmetics at current usage levels when formulated to be non-irritating. No significant safety concerns were identified.
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Sodium dehydroacetate is a synthetic preservative used in skincare products to prevent bacterial and fungal growth, extending shelf life. It's a salt form of dehydroacetic acid and is widely used across cosmetics, foods, and personal care items.
Benefits
- Prevents microbial contamination and product spoilage
- Extends product shelf life without refrigeration
- Allows formulations to remain stable over time
Potential concerns
- May cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
- Limited data on long-term skin effects in humans at cosmetic concentrations
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Panel has deemed sodium dehydroacetate safe as used in cosmetics (most recent affirmation in 2024). However, animal studies show it can affect cellular respiration at high concentrations; human skincare studies at approved usage levels are limited. Rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis have been documented.
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Eau is the French word for water, the primary solvent used in most skincare products. It serves as the base ingredient that helps dissolve and deliver active components to your skin.
Science: The provided research articles do not contain relevant data about water as a skincare ingredient. Water is universally recognized as safe and essential for skincare formulations.
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Lavandula Hybrida Oil is an essential oil derived from a hybrid lavender plant, commonly known as lavandin. It's used in skincare for its aromatic and potential soothing properties, and it may help fragrance and preserve formulations.
Benefits
- Calming aroma that may reduce perceived stress
- Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties typical of lavender oils
- May help soothe minor skin irritation
Potential concerns
- Can cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive skin
- May increase sun sensitivity in some individuals
- Essential oils are potent and can cause contact dermatitis if not properly diluted
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available specifically for Lavandula Hybrida Oil. General lavender essential oils show antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory potential in some studies, but hybrid lavandin varieties have less research. Undiluted essential oils carry higher irritation risk than standardized extracts.
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Witch hazel is a plant extract derived from the North American shrub Hamamelis virginiana. It's commonly used in skincare for its astringent properties, meaning it can help tighten skin and reduce the appearance of pores. It's a traditional ingredient found in many toners and cleansers, particularly those marketed for oily or acne-prone skin.
Benefits
- Astringent effect that may temporarily tighten pores and reduce oiliness
- Anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe irritated skin
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin when appropriately formulated
Potential concerns
- Can be drying if used excessively or on already dry skin
- Alcohol content in some witch hazel products may cause irritation or dryness for sensitive individuals
- Effects are primarily temporary; doesn't permanently shrink pores
Science: Witch hazel has been used traditionally for centuries and is generally recognized as safe by cosmetic regulators. Limited peer-reviewed data is available on its specific efficacy in modern skincare formulations, though some studies support its mild anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
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CI 77491 is a naturally occurring iron oxide pigment used to add color to skincare and cosmetic products. It's an inert mineral that sits on top of the skin and doesn't absorb into deeper layers, making it primarily a colorant rather than an active skincare ingredient.
Benefits
- Provides color to products like foundations, powders, and tinted moisturizers
- Stable and long-lasting pigment that doesn't fade easily
- Generally well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive skin
Potential concerns
- Can cause irritation in individuals with known sensitivities to iron oxides (rare)
- May accumulate on skin if not properly removed with cleansing, potentially clogging pores in acne-prone individuals
Science: Iron oxides are approved colorants in cosmetics globally (FDA, EU, etc.) and have a long safety history. Limited peer-reviewed data available specifically for this ingredient, but regulatory bodies consider it safe for topical use at approved concentrations.
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Water is the main ingredient in most skincare products, serving as a solvent that helps dissolve and deliver other active ingredients to your skin. It's essential for hydration and helps create the texture and consistency of creams, serums, and lotions.
Benefits
- Hydrates and plumps skin
- Helps deliver other ingredients into the skin
- Essential base for product formulation
Science: Water is the most studied ingredient in skincare. It is non-irritating and universally recognized as safe for topical use by regulatory bodies worldwide, including the FDA and EU cosmetics regulations.
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Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral that acts as a physical UV filter and colorant in skincare products. It sits on top of your skin to block and scatter both UVA and UVB rays, making it a key ingredient in mineral sunscreens and tinted moisturizers.
Benefits
- Provides broad-spectrum UV protection without chemical absorption
- Non-irritating option for sensitive skin and those prone to chemical sunscreen reactions
- Creates a brightening or mattifying effect on skin due to its white, reflective nature
Potential concerns
- Can leave a visible white cast on deeper skin tones
- May feel heavy or chalky if formulated poorly
- Nano-sized particles raise theoretical concerns, though topical use on intact skin is considered safe by major regulatory bodies
Science: Titanium dioxide is widely regarded as safe by the FDA, EU, and other regulators for use in cosmetics and sunscreens. Extensive safety data supports its use as a physical UV blocker; concerns about nano-particle inhalation apply primarily to manufacturing or inhaled exposure, not topical application on skin.
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Charcoal powder is a finely ground form of activated charcoal, a porous carbon material traditionally used for its absorbent properties. In skincare, it's marketed as a pore-cleansing and detoxifying ingredient, though its actual efficacy for skincare purposes is limited compared to established alternatives.
Benefits
- May help absorb excess oil and surface impurities on skin
- Gentle exfoliating texture when used in powder or mask formulations
- Generally well-tolerated by most skin types when used occasionally
Potential concerns
- Can roughen and damage skin surface with repeated use, similar to abrasive scrubs
- May disrupt the skin barrier and alter surface texture if overused
- Claims of 'detoxification' are largely marketing; skin has its own natural detox mechanisms
- No strong evidence it outperforms gentler, established skincare ingredients
Science: Research on activated charcoal in skincare is limited. Studies on dental applications show charcoal can roughen and alter surface properties, raising concerns about similar effects on facial skin. Evidence does not support superior efficacy compared to established alternatives like chemical exfoliants or proven pore-cleansing ingredients.
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