Ingredients
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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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This is a thickening and stabilizing agent that helps give skincare products their texture and consistency. It works by absorbing water and forming a gel-like network, making products feel smooth and creamy on the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
Benefits
- Creates smooth, pleasant product texture
- Helps stabilize emulsions and prevent separation
- Allows for lightweight formulations that don't feel heavy
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. It is widely used in cosmetics and generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies including the CosIng database and is approved for use in the EU and US.
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Triethanolamine (TEA) is a pH adjusting agent and surfactant used in cosmetics to balance acidity and help mix oil and water-based ingredients. It's been used in skincare and makeup formulations for decades to improve product stability and texture.
Benefits
- Neutralizes acidic ingredients to achieve optimal skin pH
- Helps create stable, uniform product textures
- Allows better mixing of different ingredient types
Potential concerns
- May cause skin irritation or sensitization in sensitive individuals
- Can form potentially harmful nitrosamines when combined with certain preservatives
- Classified as a potential carcinogen in some recent literature reviews, though regulatory bodies consider it safe at approved concentrations
Science: A 2013 expert panel safety assessment by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review concluded TEA is safe as used in cosmetics. However, a 2023 analysis of commercial products identified TEA and its derivatives as potential carcinogens present in most facial makeup cosmetics tested, highlighting the need for longer-term safety studies on cumulative exposure.
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Pentylene glycol is a lightweight humectant—a ingredient that draws water into the skin to improve hydration and texture. It's commonly used in serums, sunscreens, and moisturizers as a preservative booster and skin-conditioning agent.
Benefits
- Improves skin hydration by attracting moisture
- Lightweight feel, absorbs quickly without heaviness
- Helps preserve product stability and extends shelf life
Potential concerns
- Rare contact allergy reported in sensitive individuals
- Emerging evidence suggests it may be an uncommon cosmetic allergen—if you have sensitive or reactive skin, patch test first
Science: Safety studies show a high margin of safety at standard use levels (87–671 in adults), with minimal skin penetration due to the ingredient's volatility. However, recent dermatological reports flag pentylene glycol as an emerging contact allergen in some individuals, warranting attention for those with sensitive skin.
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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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Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
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This is a silicone-based polymer that forms a lightweight, flexible film on the skin. It's created by cross-linking dimethicone (a common silicone) with vinyl dimethicone, making it more stable and long-lasting than regular silicone oils. It helps products glide smoothly and creates a silky texture.
Benefits
- Smooths skin texture and blurs fine lines temporarily
- Creates a silky, non-greasy feel
- Improves product spreadability and wear time
- Provides a light, breathable barrier
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. Cross-linked silicone polymers are widely used in cosmetics and are generally recognized as safe by regulatory agencies including the FDA and EU. They are non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and rarely cause sensitization.
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Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
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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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Alcohol Denat is denatured ethanol (regular alcohol) that has been made undrinkable by adding bitter-tasting substances. It's used in skincare products as a solvent and preservative to help dissolve other ingredients and extend shelf life.
Benefits
- Helps dissolve and blend skincare ingredients together
- Provides preservative function to prevent microbial growth
- Gives products a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
Potential concerns
- Can be drying or irritating to sensitive skin with repeated use
- May cause stinging if applied to broken skin or open wounds
- High concentrations may trigger irritation in those with sensitive or reactive skin
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that Alcohol Denat and its various forms are safe as used in cosmetics. Denaturants added to prevent accidental ingestion (such as Denatonium Benzoate) show low systemic absorption and minimal irritation at typical skincare concentrations.
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Tetrasodium EDTA is a chelating agent that binds to minerals (like calcium and magnesium) in skincare formulations. It's used to improve product stability, preserve texture, and prevent unwanted chemical reactions that can degrade the formula over time.
Benefits
- Stabilizes skincare formulations and extends shelf life
- Prevents discoloration and separation in products
- Helps other active ingredients work more effectively
Potential concerns
- May increase skin penetration of other ingredients—formulators should carefully assess what it's combined with
- Not absorbed through intact skin, but inhalation from sprays should be avoided
- Generally safe at typical use levels (under 2%), but not intended for ingestion
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel confirmed tetrasodium EDTA is safe in cosmetic formulations at standard concentrations (typically under 2%), based on studies showing no skin absorption and systemic exposure well below toxic thresholds. The main consideration is that it can enhance penetration of other ingredients, so product formulation matters.
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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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Polysorbate 80 is an emulsifier that helps mix oil and water-based ingredients together in skincare products. It's a synthetic compound derived from sorbitol (a sugar alcohol) and is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products to create stable, smooth textures.
Benefits
- Enables smooth blending of oil and water ingredients
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Helps stabilize formulations
Potential concerns
- Rare but documented risk of allergic reactions or hypersensitivity in susceptible individuals, particularly those with sensitivities to polyethylene glycol (PEG) compounds
- May cause contact dermatitis or irritation in people with sensitive skin
Science: Research indicates polysorbate 80 can trigger immediate hypersensitivity reactions in some individuals, with cross-reactivity possible with related compounds like polyethylene glycols. However, such reactions are uncommon in topical skincare applications compared to intravenous pharmaceutical use. The ingredient has a long history of safe use in cosmetics when applied to skin at typical concentrations.
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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.
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Capryloyl Salicylic Acid is a skin-conditioning ingredient derived from salicylic acid, designed to be gentler and more stable than traditional salicylic acid. It's used in skincare products to help exfoliate and improve skin texture.
Benefits
- Gentle exfoliation
- Skin conditioning
- May help with texture and clarity
Potential concerns
- Potential for allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
- Incomplete safety data for cosmetic use
- May cause irritation in some users
Science: A 2024 safety assessment by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that available data are insufficient to determine this ingredient is safe under intended cosmetic use conditions. Case reports document allergic contact dermatitis reactions in some users, indicating a potential for sensitization.
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PEG-100 Stearate is an emulsifier—a ingredient that helps blend oil and water together in skincare creams and lotions. It's used to create smooth, stable textures and can help improve how well products spread on skin.
Benefits
- Helps create smooth, gel-like cream textures
- Improves physical stability of formulations
- May support skin barrier function when used in basic moisturizing formulas
Science: Research shows that formulations containing PEG-100 Stearate alongside other emulsifiers can improve skin barrier function and reduce trans-epidermal water loss, suggesting it may be suitable for compromised or sensitive skin in moisturizing products.
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This is a synthetic polymer (plastic-like molecule) used as a thickener and film-former in skincare products. It absorbs water and creates a smooth, gel-like texture, helping products feel lightweight while providing a subtle tightening sensation on the skin.
Benefits
- Creates smooth, lightweight product texture
- Helps products spread evenly on skin
- Provides subtle skin-tightening effect
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. It is approved for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies (FDA, EU) and is considered a low-risk ingredient with minimal skin penetration due to its large molecular size.
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Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
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Perlite is a naturally occurring volcanic glass that has been expanded through heating, creating a lightweight, porous material. In skincare, it is used as a gentle physical exfoliant and absorbent to help remove dead skin cells and excess oil.
Benefits
- Gentle physical exfoliation to remove dead skin cells
- Oil-absorbing properties to help mattify skin
- Low microbial activity, making it a hygienic abrasive choice
Potential concerns
- Can cause excessive dryness if used alone or too frequently
- May irritate sensitive or compromised skin due to its abrasive nature
- Particle size and morphology matter—poorly optimized formulations may cause micro-tears or uneven abrasion
Science: Research on perlite in oral care shows it can effectively remove surface stains with minimal enamel wear when properly formulated, though particle size optimization is critical. Direct skincare safety data is limited; most evidence comes from dental product studies and animal bedding research, which suggests perlite alone can cause irritation and moisture loss when not combined with other ingredients.
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Methyl methacrylate crosspolymer is a synthetic polymer used primarily as a thickening and film-forming agent in skincare formulations. It helps create texture and consistency in products while potentially supporting preservative effectiveness.
Benefits
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Creates a light film on skin
- May enhance preservative performance, allowing lower preservative levels in formulations
Potential concerns
- Limited safety data specific to skin application in published literature
- Synthetic polymer — may cause sensitivity in those with polymer sensitivities, though this is rare
Science: Research shows that methyl methacrylate crosspolymer at high concentrations (50,000 ppm) can reduce the effectiveness of common preservatives like 1,2-hexanediol against bacteria and fungi, suggesting it may interfere with preservative function rather than support it. Limited peer-reviewed data exists on direct skin safety and efficacy at typical use levels.
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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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