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.
Propanediol is a lightweight humectant—a molecule that draws water into the skin to keep it hydrated. It's also used in cosmetic formulations as a solvent and preservative booster, helping products stay stable and feel smooth on the skin.
Benefits
Hydrates and moisturizes the skin
Improves product texture and spreadability
Helps preserve formulations naturally
Science: Propanediol can be produced through bio-based fermentation (from glycerol using microorganisms), making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical synthesis. It is widely recognized as safe in cosmetic and food applications, with established use as both a humectant and preservative enhancer.
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.
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.
Inulin is a natural carbohydrate (fiber) extracted from plants like chicory and Jerusalem artichoke. In skincare, it acts as a humectant and prebiotic that may help support skin hydration and the skin's natural microbiome balance.
Benefits
Humectant properties that help skin retain moisture
Prebiotic activity that may support beneficial skin bacteria
Can encapsulate and stabilize other active ingredients for better delivery
Science: Inulin has GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status and is well-established in food and pharmaceutical applications. The research cited focuses primarily on its role as a delivery system for bioactive compounds and prebiotic effects in gut health; direct evidence for topical skincare benefits is limited.
Citrus Junos Fruit Extract is derived from yuzu, an East Asian citrus fruit rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. It's used in skincare to brighten the complexion, protect against environmental damage, and provide a refreshing citrus scent.
Benefits
Antioxidant protection from vitamin C content
Brightening and radiance-boosting
May help even out skin tone
Potential concerns
Potential photosensitivity if used in high concentrations before sun exposure
Citrus extracts can irritate sensitive or compromised skin barriers
May cause irritation in those with citrus allergies
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. General knowledge of citrus extracts suggests antioxidant potential from natural vitamin C and flavonoids, though stability and efficacy in cosmetic formulations vary by extraction and preservation method.
