Ingredients
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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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Tocopheryl acetate is a stable form of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect skin from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. It's commonly used in skincare products because it's more shelf-stable than other vitamin E forms and may help support the skin's natural barrier function.
Benefits
- Antioxidant protection against environmental damage
- Supports skin barrier health
- Stable ingredient with good shelf life in formulations
Science: Tocopheryl acetate is a well-established vitamin E ester that the body converts to free vitamin E for use. Research shows it functions as a lipid-soluble antioxidant; one recent study found it contributed to a moisturizer's beneficial effects on skin microbiota balance in atopic dermatitis models, though more direct clinical evidence on topical efficacy is limited.
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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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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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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.
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Sodium chloride is common table salt, used in skincare products as a texture modifier, preservative, and to help balance formulations. In small amounts, it's generally well-tolerated by skin.
Benefits
- Helps preserve product stability
- Can enhance skin hydration when used in appropriate concentrations
- Improves product texture and consistency
Potential concerns
- High concentrations may irritate sensitive or compromised skin
- Excessive topical salt exposure can potentially disrupt skin barrier function
- May cause dryness or tightness in some individuals
Science: Sodium chloride is a naturally occurring electrolyte essential to skin physiology. Research indicates the skin actively regulates sodium levels through complex mechanisms involving the endothelium, immune cells, and lymphatics; however, peer-reviewed data specifically addressing topical sodium chloride in cosmetic formulations at typical use levels is limited.
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Panthenol is a lightweight humectant derived from pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) that draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain hydration. It also supports the skin barrier and can help soothe irritation, making it a popular choice in products designed for sensitive or compromised skin.
Benefits
- Hydrates and moisturizes the skin
- Helps calm and soothe irritated or sensitive skin
- Supports skin barrier function and repair
- Lightweight and non-greasy
Science: Panthenol is one of the few ingredients in sensitive skin formulations with clinical evidence specifically tested on volunteers with sensitive skin. Research confirms it reduces skin inflammation and supports barrier function, though comprehensive clinical studies on this ingredient remain limited compared to some alternatives.
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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.
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2-Hexanediol is a humectant and preservative booster commonly used in skincare products to help retain moisture and extend shelf life. It works by drawing water into the skin while also enhancing the effectiveness of other preservatives, allowing brands to use lower amounts of traditional preservatives.
Benefits
- Hydrates and moisturizes skin by drawing in water
- Helps preserve products with lower preservative levels
- Works synergistically with other skincare ingredients like niacinamide
Potential concerns
- May cause cell viability concerns at concentrations above 1.0% in laboratory studies
- Limited real-world safety data in humans at typical skincare concentrations (usually 2-5%)
- Potential environmental concern if released into water systems
Science: While 2-hexanediol is widely used as a preservative substitute for parabens, recent cytotoxicity studies raise questions about safety at concentrations commonly found in skincare products (>2%). However, these findings are from laboratory cell studies and may not directly translate to human skin application. Further human safety studies are needed to confirm real-world risk.
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Stearic acid is a naturally occurring fatty acid commonly derived from plant or animal sources. In skincare products, it functions as an emollient and emulsifier, helping to soften skin, improve product texture, and stabilize formulations by allowing oil and water to mix together.
Benefits
- Softens and moisturizes skin by forming a protective barrier
- Improves product texture and stability
- Helps other active ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively
Potential concerns
- May cause mild irritation or sensitivity in people with very sensitive skin
- Can leave a slight waxy residue if used in high concentrations
Science: Research indicates stearic acid acts as a permeation enhancer, potentially improving how active ingredients cross the skin barrier. It is well-established in cosmetic formulation design and has a strong safety history in topical 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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Xanthan gum is a natural thickener derived from fermented bacteria that helps give skincare products a smooth, gel-like texture. It stabilizes formulas and prevents ingredients from separating, while also helping products spread evenly on skin.
Benefits
- Creates smooth, pleasant texture
- Stabilizes emulsions and prevents separation
- Improves product spreadability and application
Science: Xanthan gum is an FDA-approved, anionic polysaccharide with a long history of safe use across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries since 1969. Its performance as a thickener and stabilizer is well-established in scientific literature, with no notable skin irritation concerns reported.
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Gluconolactone is a gentle exfoliating acid that belongs to the polyhydroxy acid (PHA) family. It works by removing dead skin cells from the surface and is known for being less irritating than stronger acids, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Benefits
- Gentle exfoliation that removes dead skin cells
- Increases skin hydration and strengthens the skin barrier
- Reduces sebum production and helps balance oily skin
- May help reduce inflammation and support skin with sensitivity or irritation
Potential concerns
- May cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness when first introduced, especially in sensitive skin
- Can increase sun sensitivity — sunscreen is recommended during use
Science: Recent research shows gluconolactone effectively improves skin hydration, reduces sebum, and strengthens the skin barrier when used in chemical peels. Emerging evidence suggests it may have immune-regulating properties that could help calm inflammatory skin conditions, though this research is still in early stages.
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Limonene is a natural fragrance compound found in citrus oils and other plants. It's used in skincare products primarily to provide a fresh, lemon-like scent and may have mild preservative properties.
Benefits
- Provides natural fragrance
- May help preserve products
- Derived from natural plant sources
Potential concerns
- Can cause skin irritation or allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
- May oxidize over time, potentially becoming more irritating
- Inhalation of high concentrations may pose concerns; use caution with products prone to aerosolization
Science: Limonene is a widely used fragrance component in cosmetics derived from essential oils. However, research indicates that monoterpenes like limonene can exhibit hepatotoxic properties and penetrate skin readily; while cosmetic concentrations are typically low, individuals with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies should exercise caution.
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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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Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that works by gently exfoliating the skin's surface and penetrating pores to remove dead skin cells and excess oil. It's commonly used in acne treatments and can help improve skin texture and clarity.
Benefits
- Helps reduce acne breakouts by unclogging pores
- Gently exfoliates to improve skin texture
- May help fade dark spots and improve uneven skin tone when used as part of combination treatments
Potential concerns
- Can cause dryness, irritation, or sensitivity, especially with frequent use or in higher concentrations
- May increase sun sensitivity, so daily sunscreen is recommended
- Not recommended during pregnancy without consulting a healthcare provider
Science: Salicylic acid is recognized as a first-line topical acne treatment and is considered safe for most users. Research also supports its use as an adjuvant therapy for melasma and hyperpigmentation when combined with other treatments. Start with lower concentrations and introduce gradually to minimize irritation.
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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.
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Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil is a volatile essential oil extracted from eucalyptus leaves. It's used in skincare for its aromatic and potentially soothing properties, though it's typically found in small concentrations in topical formulations.
Benefits
- May provide a cooling or refreshing sensation
- Traditionally used for its antimicrobial properties
- Can add pleasant fragrance to products
Potential concerns
- High concentrations can reduce cell viability and irritate sensitive skin
- May cause irritation in individuals with sensitive or compromised skin barriers
- Volatile oils can be irritating if used undiluted or in excessive amounts
- Not recommended for use near eyes or on broken skin
Science: Research on human nasal epithelial cells shows that eucalyptus oil reduces cell metabolic activity in a dose-dependent manner, with a measured IC₅₀ of 31.55 µL. While the effect is gradual rather than immediately cytotoxic, this suggests the ingredient requires careful formulation and concentration control in skincare products to avoid irritation. More clinical data on topical skincare applications is needed.
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Sodium cocoyl isethionate (SCI) is a gentle, plant-derived cleanser made from coconut oil. It removes dirt and oil from skin while being milder than many other cleansing ingredients, making it popular in gentle facial cleansers and beauty bars.
Benefits
- Effectively cleanses without stripping skin
- Gentler on skin barrier than stronger surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate
- Well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin
- Biodegradable and derived from natural sources
Potential concerns
- Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness in sensitive individuals at higher concentrations
- May cause transient increases in water loss from skin with single exposure, though recovery is relatively quick
Science: Research confirms SCI is significantly milder than many alternative surfactants because its larger molecular structures are less likely to penetrate deep into skin layers. It has been safely used in skincare products for over 30 years, though individual sensitivity varies.
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Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from natural sources like palm oil that works as an emollient and thickening agent in skincare products. It helps create a smooth texture, improve product consistency, and soften the skin by forming a light protective layer.
Benefits
- Softens and moisturizes skin
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Helps stabilize emulsions (creams and lotions)
Potential concerns
- Very rare allergic reactions or contact sensitivity in susceptible individuals
- May cause mild irritation in products with high concentrations
Science: Cetyl alcohol has a long history of safe use in topical cosmetics with established safety data. Research indicates it forms nanostructured systems that interact well with skin and does not cause irritation or cellular toxicity in standard formulations.
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Sodium PCA is a natural humectant—a moisture-binding ingredient derived from pyrrolidone carboxylic acid—that helps skin attract and retain water. It works by drawing hydration into the outer layers of skin, making it a gentle, well-tolerated moisturizing agent.
Benefits
- Hydrates and moisturizes skin by binding water to the stratum corneum
- Helps improve skin softness and smoothness
- Well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (2019) concluded that sodium PCA is safe for use in cosmetics at current concentrations and practices. Research confirms it localizes effectively in the outer skin layer where it functions as a humectant, with no significant safety concerns identified in peer-reviewed assessments.
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Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) is a gentle cleanser and foaming agent derived from coconut oil. It's commonly used in shampoos, body washes, cleansers, and other rinse-off products to remove dirt and oil while creating lather.
Benefits
- Effective cleansing without excessive harshness
- Boosts foam and lather in rinse-off products
- Helps control product thickness and texture
Potential concerns
- Can cause mild skin irritation in some people, particularly with prolonged contact
- Known allergen affecting 3–7% of the population; contact sensitization has increased over time
- Manufacturing impurities (amidoamine, dimethylaminopropylamine) may increase allergic reaction risk
- May cause eye irritation if not rinsed thoroughly
Science: Recent safety data (2024) confirms CAPB is safe at standard cosmetic concentrations (up to 30% in rinse-off products, 6% in leave-on) with a safety margin greater than 100. However, it was named Allergen of the Year in 2004 due to rising contact sensitization rates, primarily linked to manufacturing impurities rather than the ingredient itself. Most reactions are delayed allergic responses rather than immediate irritation.
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Glyceryl Stearate SE is an emulsifier and thickening agent that helps blend water and oil-based ingredients together in skincare products. It's derived from natural sources like vegetable oils and helps create smooth, stable formulations while also providing mild skin-conditioning benefits.
Benefits
- Helps stabilize and thicken skincare formulations
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Mild emollient that can soften skin
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. Glyceryl Stearate SE is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products and is considered safe by regulatory bodies including the FDA and European Commission. It has a long history of use with minimal reported adverse effects.
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Caprylhydroxamic Acid is a preservative and chelating agent used in skincare products to prevent microbial growth and extend shelf life. It's a multifunctional ingredient increasingly used as an alternative to traditional preservatives in formulas designed for sensitive skin.
Benefits
- Preserves products by preventing bacterial and microbial growth
- Chelates metal ions that can degrade product quality
- Gentler alternative to some conventional preservatives, particularly for sensitive skin formulations
Potential concerns
- May cause skin sensitization, especially when applied to damaged or compromised skin
- Requires careful formulation to minimize skin penetration and reduce irritation potential
Science: The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety concluded that Caprylhydroxamic Acid is safe at current usage levels and concentrations, but advised caution against formulations that increase skin penetration. Research shows it is used at safe levels in infant and sensitive-skin cosmetics as a preservative alternative.
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Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is a chelating agent that binds to metal ions (like calcium and iron) in skincare formulations, preventing them from causing unwanted chemical reactions or product degradation. It helps keep products stable and effective over time.
Benefits
- Stabilizes skincare formulations by controlling metal ion activity
- Helps prevent product discoloration and oxidation
- Allows products to maintain consistency and efficacy during storage
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded in 2025 that Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate is safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Research shows it functions effectively as a chelator, with strong binding capacity for metals like calcium and iron.
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Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate is a gentle, sulfate-free cleansing agent derived from coconut oil and the amino acid taurine. It removes dirt and oil from skin while being milder than traditional sulfate-based cleansers, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Benefits
- Gentle cleansing without sulfates
- Effective at removing dirt and oil
- Lower irritation potential compared to SLS/SLES
- Works well in sensitive skin formulations
Science: Research shows this amino acid-derived surfactant displays superior performance characteristics compared to sulfate alternatives, with larger stability ranges in formulations. It is widely used across personal care products including shampoos, face washes, and baby products, with validated detection methods confirming its safe use at typical concentrations.
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Hydrogenated starch hydrolysate is a sugar derivative made by breaking down and processing starch. In skincare products, it acts as a humectant and skin conditioning agent, helping to retain moisture and improve the feel of formulations.
Benefits
- Helps skin retain moisture
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Gentle humectant suitable for sensitive skin
Potential concerns
- May cause mild ocular irritation if product contacts eyes directly
- Risk appears to be minimal when properly formulated and combined with other soothing ingredients
Science: Recent research on baby bath products found that hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, when combined with panthenol and Tween-28, significantly reduced the irritation potential of surfactants in animal models. The ingredient itself showed low irritation concern, though its safety profile can be influenced by manufacturing processes and formulation combinations.
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Malic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from apples that works as a gentle chemical exfoliant. It helps remove dead skin cells from the surface and can improve skin texture and appearance.
Benefits
- Gently exfoliates dead skin cells
- May improve appearance of uneven skin tone and texture
- Can help reduce visibility of acne and keratoses
- Less irritating than stronger AHAs like glycolic acid
Potential concerns
- Can cause burning, swelling, or itching in sensitive individuals
- May increase sun sensitivity—sunscreen use recommended
- Higher concentrations carry greater risk of irritation
- Not suitable for very sensitive or compromised skin barriers
Science: Malic acid is a well-established AHA used in cosmetic formulations as a peeling agent. Research indicates that AHAs' safety profile and skin benefits are concentration-dependent; lower concentrations are gentler while higher concentrations carry increased risk of adverse reactions including irritation and potential photosensitivity concerns.
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