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.
Phenyl Trimethicone is a silicone-based ingredient that creates a smooth, invisible coating on skin and hair. It's primarily used to enhance shine, improve texture, and create a polished appearance while providing a lightweight, non-greasy feel.
Benefits
Enhances skin and hair shine and luster
Smooths surface texture for a polished look
Lightweight and non-greasy feel
Long-lasting coverage that resists wear and moisture
Potential concerns
May not be suitable for acne-prone skin if used in occlusive products, as silicones can trap bacteria and sebum
Buildup possible with repeated use if not properly cleansed
Not ideal for those seeking fully natural skincare
Science: Research confirms phenyl trimethicone effectively reduces hair surface irregularities and enhances visible shine, with instrumental measurements correlating well with consumer perception. Safety profile is generally favorable for cosmetic use, though long-term skin studies are limited.
Allantoin is a naturally derived compound that helps calm and soothe irritated skin. It works by promoting healing and reducing inflammation, making it a popular choice in products designed for sensitive or reactive skin.
Benefits
Reduces skin inflammation and irritation
Supports the skin barrier function
Promotes gentle healing of compromised skin
Well-tolerated by sensitive skin types
Science: Allantoin ranks among the top three most-used active ingredients in pharmacy-grade sensitive skin products, alongside niacinamide and oat extract. Scientific evidence supports its anti-inflammatory mechanism and barrier-supporting action, though clinical studies specifically testing it on sensitive skin volunteers remain limited.
Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate is an emulsifier that helps blend oil and water-based ingredients together in skincare formulas. It's particularly useful in sunscreen and moisturizer products to create stable, smooth textures.
Benefits
Stabilizes emulsions for longer shelf life
Helps control how quickly active ingredients like sunscreens are absorbed into skin
Creates smooth, even product texture
Science: Research shows this emulsifier can modulate skin permeation of sunscreen actives, potentially reducing unwanted absorption when used in formulations—a desirable safety feature. It has an established safety profile in cosmetic use.
Isohexadecane is a lightweight synthetic oil used in skincare formulations to improve texture, spreadability, and how products feel on skin. It helps emulsions stay stable and gives products a smooth, non-greasy finish.
Benefits
Creates a smooth, lightweight texture that spreads easily on skin
Helps skincare products absorb without a heavy or greasy feel
Improves product stability in emulsions
Science: Research shows isohexadecane is used in oil-in-water emulsions to enhance spreadability and skin feel. Studies confirm it functions effectively as an emollient ingredient, though it has slightly higher instability in nano-emulsion systems compared to linear-chain oils with similar carbon numbers.
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone is a silicone-based emulsifier and conditioning agent that helps blend water and oil-based ingredients together in skincare products. It creates a smooth texture and helps products spread easily across the skin while providing a silky feel.
Benefits
Improves product texture and spreadability
Helps stabilize formulations by mixing incompatible ingredients
Provides a smooth, non-greasy skin feel
Potential concerns
Rare but documented cases of allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
May cause irritation in people with silicone sensitivities
Science: A 2018 case study documented allergic contact dermatitis from this ingredient in a deodorant product, indicating it can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, though such cases appear uncommon in the general population.
Shea butter is a natural fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, native to Africa. In skincare, it works as a moisturizer and conditioning agent, helping to soften and protect the skin by forming a protective barrier.
Benefits
Deep moisturizing and hydration
Skin conditioning and softening
May help reduce appearance of dry patches
Potential concerns
May cause sensitization in some individuals—formulations should be tested for non-sensitizing properties
Quality varies depending on processing; impurities in poorly processed shea butter could be a concern
Science: A 2024 safety assessment by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that shea-derived ingredients are safe at current concentrations and practices of use when formulated to be non-sensitizing. The Panel noted that formulators should be aware of similar constituents in other botanical ingredients to avoid hazardous levels when combined, and should use good manufacturing practices to limit impurities.
Witch hazel is a plant extract made from the leaves and bark of the North American witch hazel shrub. It's commonly used in skincare as a gentle astringent and toner that may help reduce excess oil and tighten pores, particularly in formulas designed for oily or acne-prone skin.
Benefits
May help reduce excess oil and shine
Mild astringent properties that can make skin feel tighter
Traditionally used to soothe minor skin irritation
Potential concerns
Can be drying or irritating if overused, especially on sensitive skin
Alcohol content in some formulations may cause irritation or dryness
May cause mild stinging or sensitivity in individuals with reactive skin
Science: Witch hazel contains tannins that are thought to contribute to its astringent properties. Limited peer-reviewed data is available to confirm efficacy for specific skincare benefits, though it has a long history of traditional use in skincare.
Mineral spring water is purified water sourced from natural springs, often containing trace minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica. In skincare products, it serves as a hydrating base and solvent that helps deliver other active ingredients to your skin while providing light moisture.
Benefits
Hydration
Gentle base ingredient
May contain trace minerals
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. Mineral spring water is generally recognized as safe for topical use; the mineral content varies by source but is typically present in small amounts with minimal bioavailability.
