Ingredients
-
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.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Sodium hyaluronate is the salt form of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in your skin that acts like a moisture magnet. In skincare products, it absorbs water from the environment and binds it to your skin, helping to hydrate and plump the skin's surface.
Benefits
- Delivers intense hydration to the skin
- Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines by improving skin moisture
- Supports skin barrier function
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and oily skin
Potential concerns
- In very dry climates with low humidity, it may draw moisture from deeper skin layers if not sealed with an occlusive product
- Rare allergic reactions are possible but extremely uncommon
Science: While the provided research focuses on intra-articular injections for joint health (showing good safety and efficacy), hyaluronic acid and its salt form are well-established in dermatology for topical hydration. The molecule's safety profile is well-documented across decades of use in medical and cosmetic applications, with severe adverse reactions being extremely rare.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
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.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
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.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that prevents bacteria, yeast, and mold from growing in skincare products, helping them stay fresh and safe to use. It has been used safely in cosmetics for decades and is effective at very low concentrations.
Benefits
- Prevents microbial contamination and product spoilage
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria and yeast
- Minimal impact on beneficial skin bacteria when used at approved levels
Potential concerns
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
- May cause irritation if used in products at concentrations above 1%
Science: The European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety considers phenoxyethanol safe for all consumers, including children, at concentrations up to 1%. Adverse effects observed in animal studies required exposure levels approximately 200 times higher than those in cosmetic products, and it is classified as one of the most well-tolerated preservatives in cosmetics.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate is a chelating agent, which means it binds to trace metals in cosmetic formulas to keep products stable and prevent discoloration or degradation. It's used in small amounts primarily to maintain product quality rather than directly benefit your skin.
Benefits
- Extends product shelf life
- Prevents oxidation and discoloration
- Improves formula stability
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. It is approved for cosmetic use under EU and US regulations as a chelating agent and is considered safe at the low concentrations used in skincare formulations.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
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.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Niacinamide is an active form of vitamin B3 that works within your skin's cells to strengthen the barrier, reduce inflammation, and regulate oil production. It's a water-soluble ingredient that's been shown to have multiple benefits across different skin concerns, from sensitivity to aging.
Benefits
- Reduces redness and calms irritation
- Minimizes pore appearance and controls excess oil
- Supports skin barrier function and hydration
- Brightens skin tone and evens complexion
- Has anti-aging properties and protects against environmental damage
Science: Niacinamide is well-tolerated and safe across diverse skin types with strong clinical evidence supporting its use for acne, dermatitis, and general skin health. Research shows it works by regulating inflammation at the cellular level and protecting skin barrier integrity, with proven efficacy in concentrations commonly found in cosmetic products.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
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.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
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.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
-
Phytosphingosine is a naturally-derived lipid (fatty substance) that helps strengthen your skin's protective barrier. It works by replenishing the lipids that keep skin moisturized and resilient, while also helping to calm inflammation and reduce acne-causing bacteria.
Benefits
- Supports skin barrier function and hydration
- Reduces inflammation and redness
- Helps control acne-prone skin with antimicrobial properties
Science: Research indicates phytosphingosine has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may accelerate acne recovery when used in topical formulations. It appears particularly useful in products designed to restore skin barrier health in conditions like eczema and acne-prone skin.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Triethyl Citrate is a clear liquid derived from citric acid that acts as a plasticizer and preservative in skincare formulations. It helps keep products flexible and stable while extending shelf life.
Benefits
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Extends product stability and shelf life
- Helps preserve formulation integrity
Potential concerns
- Emerging research suggests potential neurotoxic concerns at high environmental exposure levels, though current cosmetic-use concentrations are considered safe by regulatory bodies
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (2023) confirmed safety at typical cosmetic concentrations and use levels. However, a 2025 molecular study identified potential interactions with proteins related to cell health and inflammation, warranting further investigation into long-term safety—though this represents theoretical risk rather than documented harm in cosmetic use.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Carbomer is a thickening agent and stabilizer that gives skincare products their gel-like texture. It helps create a smooth, spreadable consistency and can hold active ingredients in place on the skin for better absorption.
Benefits
- Creates a smooth, easy-to-apply gel texture
- Helps stabilize and thicken formulations
- Can improve how long active ingredients stay on the skin
- Allows better delivery of beneficial compounds into deeper skin layers
Potential concerns
- Can occasionally cause irritation or sensitivity in very reactive skin types
- Requires proper pH adjustment in formulations (formulators use this, not consumers)
Science: Research shows carbomer is commonly used as a gel base in advanced skincare delivery systems, including those designed for anti-inflammatory and healing treatments. Studies indicate it effectively works with active ingredients like nanoparticles and botanical extracts to improve their penetration and efficacy on skin.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Cholesterol is a naturally occurring fatty substance that is a key component of your skin's outermost barrier. In skincare products, it works alongside ceramides and fatty acids to help strengthen this barrier, keeping moisture in and irritants out.
Benefits
- Strengthens skin barrier function
- Helps retain skin hydration
- Works synergistically with ceramides and fatty acids for optimal barrier repair
Science: Cholesterol is a natural and essential component of the stratum corneum (outer skin layer), present in roughly equal amounts to ceramides and free fatty acids. Research shows that topical formulations combining cholesterol with ceramides and fatty acids in physiological ratios effectively support barrier function and can improve disturbed skin conditions.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Cetearyl alcohol is a waxy, fatty alcohol derived from vegetable or petroleum sources that acts as an emulsifier and thickener in skincare products. It helps blend oil and water-based ingredients together and gives creams and lotions their smooth, spreadable texture.
Benefits
- Stabilizes emulsions to prevent separation of oil and water
- Thickens and improves texture of creams and lotions
- Creates a smooth, non-greasy feel on skin
Potential concerns
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis reported in sensitive individuals
- May cause localized irritation or allergic reactions in patch-tested cases
Science: Cetearyl alcohol is widely used as an emulsifier in topical formulations and generally has a good safety profile. However, multiple case reports document allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals, suggesting it can act as a contact allergen in rare cases. It does not significantly penetrate skin and primarily remains in the formulation.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Ceramide NP is a naturally-derived lipid that mimics ceramides found in healthy skin. It works to repair and strengthen your skin's protective barrier, helping it retain moisture and resist irritation.
Benefits
- Restores skin barrier function and structural integrity
- Reduces trans-epidermal water loss (helps skin stay hydrated)
- Strengthens skin's natural defense against irritants and environmental stressors
Science: Recent research demonstrates that Ceramide NP effectively recovers damaged skin barrier function and can be formulated into advanced delivery systems (like ethosomes) to enhance skin absorption. Studies show it meaningfully lowers water loss while restoring epidermis structure in compromised skin.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate is a gentle, plant-derived surfactant (cleaning agent) made from coconut oil and lactic acid. It helps cleanse skin and stabilize skincare formulas while being more environmentally friendly than traditional synthetic surfactants.
Benefits
- Effective cleansing without harsh sulfates
- Environmentally sustainable alternative to petrochemical surfactants
- Works well in combination with other mild surfactants to improve product performance
Potential concerns
- May cause irritation or sensitization in some individuals if formulation is not properly buffered
- Should be formulated to non-irritating concentrations
Science: Recent 2024 safety assessment by cosmetic ingredient experts concluded this ingredient is safe in cosmetics at current use levels when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing. Research shows it has synergistic benefits when combined with other mild surfactants, improving foaming and cleansing properties.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Isopropyl myristate is a lightweight oil derived from coconut and petroleum sources. It's commonly used in skincare products as an emollient and penetration enhancer to help soften skin and improve the absorption of other ingredients.
Benefits
- Softens and smooths skin texture
- Lightweight, non-greasy feel
- Helps other active ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively
Potential concerns
- May cause irritation or sensitivity in individuals with very reactive or compromised skin barriers
- Can be comedogenic (pore-clogging) for some acne-prone individuals
- May trigger reactions in those sensitive to fragrance-free formulations that still contain this ingredient
Science: Research confirms isopropyl myristate is an effective permeation enhancer in topical formulations, improving skin penetration of active ingredients. It has a long history of safe use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, though individual sensitivity varies.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Behentrimonium Methosulfate is a conditioning agent derived from behenic acid, a fatty acid found in plant oils. It's used in hair and scalp care products to soften, detangle, and improve manageability by coating the hair shaft and reducing friction.
Benefits
- Detangling and smoothing
- Improved hair manageability
- Reduced frizz and flyaways
Potential concerns
- Potential scalp buildup with frequent use
- May weigh down fine or thin hair
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. It is approved for cosmetic use in major regulatory systems (EU, FDA) and is chemically related to well-studied quaternary ammonium conditioning agents with established safety profiles.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Ceramide AP is a naturally occurring lipid that mimics ceramides found in your skin's outer barrier. It helps restore and maintain the skin's protective layer, reducing moisture loss and supporting overall skin health.
Benefits
- Strengthens skin barrier function
- Reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Improves skin hydration and moisture retention
- Helps repair compromised or damaged skin barriers
Science: Research confirms ceramide AP is essential for proper stratum corneum (outer skin layer) barrier function and can be effectively incorporated into skincare formulations. Studies using advanced biophysical methods have demonstrated that ceramide AP integrates properly into skin lipid structures, supporting its use as a barrier-repair ingredient.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Ceramide EOP is a plant-derived ceramide that mimics the natural lipids found in your skin's outer barrier. It helps repair and strengthen this protective layer, reducing moisture loss and keeping skin hydrated and resilient.
Benefits
- Strengthens skin barrier
- Reduces water loss and improves hydration
- Soothes dry or sensitive skin
- Helps restore skin's natural lipid balance
Science: Ceramides are well-established in skincare science as essential components of the skin barrier. While specific peer-reviewed studies on Ceramide EOP are limited, ceramides as a class are extensively documented as safe and effective for barrier repair and moisturization.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 is a synthetic polymer used as a thickener and stabilizer in skincare formulas. It helps create a smooth, gel-like texture and keeps product ingredients evenly distributed without separating.
Benefits
- Creates smooth, spreadable texture
- Stabilizes formulas and prevents separation
- Helps products feel lightweight on skin
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. As a synthetic polymer, it is generally recognized as safe for topical use and is not absorbed through the skin due to its large molecular size. It is approved for cosmetic use in major regulatory regions.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Benzoic acid is a naturally occurring preservative commonly used in skincare products to prevent bacterial and fungal growth, extending shelf life. It's a weak organic acid found in many plants and is also produced synthetically for cosmetic use.
Benefits
- Antimicrobial preservative that prevents bacterial and fungal contamination
- Helps extend product shelf life and maintain stability
- Naturally occurring compound also found in some foods
Potential concerns
- May cause skin irritation or sensitivity in some individuals, particularly on sensitive or compromised skin
- Can be a contact allergen for people with fragrance or preservative sensitivities
- Typical exposure is generally recognized as safe, but widespread use means cumulative exposure across multiple products
Science: Benzoic acid and its derivatives are widely used as preservatives in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals with established safety profiles at typical concentrations. Limited peer-reviewed data specifically addressing dermal safety in skincare formulations; most safety data derives from food additive studies and general preservative toxicology rather than cosmetic-specific clinical trials.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Cetearyl isononanoate is a lightweight emollient and texture enhancer derived from plant-based sources. It's commonly used in moisturizers, sunscreens, and other skincare products to create a smooth, non-greasy feel and improve product spreadability on skin.
Benefits
- Provides lightweight moisturization without a heavy or oily residue
- Improves texture and ease of application in formulas
- Helps products spread evenly across the skin
Potential concerns
- Documented cases of allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals, including systemic reactions in rare cases
- May be an underestimated allergen — reactions have been reported across multiple studies since 2003
- Not suitable for those with known sensitivity to this ingredient
Science: Multiple peer-reviewed case reports document allergic contact dermatitis and systemic reactions to cetearyl isononanoate in sunscreens and skincare products. One recent study suggests it may function as a carbon source for skin probiotics to support collagen production, though this research is preliminary and not yet widely validated in consumer applications.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
-
C14-22 Alcohols are a blend of fatty alcohols derived from natural plant or synthetic sources. They work as emollients and thickeners in skincare products, helping to soften skin and improve the texture and stability of creams and lotions.
Benefits
- Softens and conditions skin
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Helps stabilize emulsions in creams and lotions
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. Fatty alcohols in this carbon-chain range are generally recognized as safe and well-tolerated in cosmetic formulations, with low irritation potential.
Analyze Ingredient Further→ -
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside is a gentle, plant-derived cleansing agent made from natural sugars and fatty alcohols. It removes oil and dirt from skin without stripping away natural moisture, making it a common choice in mild cleansers and face washes.
Benefits
- Gentle cleansing without harshness
- Helps remove oil and makeup
- Less likely to disrupt skin barrier than harsher surfactants
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. It is classified as a non-ionic surfactant with a low irritation profile and is approved for use in cosmetics across major regulatory bodies including the EU and FDA.
Analyze Ingredient Further→
Edit this product
Edit Ingredients