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 film-forming polymer that creates a lightweight, invisible layer on your skin. It's commonly used in serums, gels, and lightweight formulas to improve texture, provide a smooth feel, and help other ingredients adhere to the skin.
Benefits
- Creates a smooth, even skin texture
- Helps bind formula ingredients together
- Provides a light, non-greasy finish
Science: A 2024 safety assessment by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel evaluated 30 vinylpyrrolidone polymers and determined that this ingredient, as used in cosmetics, is safe under current practices and concentrations. The polymer was not flagged for skin irritation or safety concerns in cosmetic applications.
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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.
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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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Potassium sorbate is a preservative used in skincare products to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria, helping extend shelf life. It's a salt derived from sorbic acid and is commonly used as a gentler alternative to stronger chemical preservatives.
Benefits
- Prevents microbial contamination and mold growth
- Generally considered milder than some other preservatives like benzalkonium chloride
- Allows products to remain effective longer without refrigeration
Potential concerns
- May cause irritation or allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
- Not suitable for preservative-free formulations
- Limited effectiveness against some bacteria compared to stronger preservatives
Science: Clinical research suggests potassium sorbate is less damaging to delicate tissues than benzalkonium chloride, making it a preferred alternative preservative in sensitive applications like eye products. However, peer-reviewed safety data specific to topical skincare use in the general population is limited.
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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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Polyisobutene is a synthetic polymer used as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent in moisturizers and creams. It forms a protective layer on the skin that helps lock in moisture and improve texture.
Benefits
- Reduces water loss from skin (by up to 33% in studies)
- Improves skin hydration and moisturization
- Enhances skin texture and smoothness
- Long-lasting moisturizing effect
- Pleasant, non-greasy feel on skin
Science: Clinical research shows hydrogenated polyisobutene significantly increases skin moisture content and reduces transepidermal water loss, with effects maintained for at least 6 hours. It performed 5-10% better than comparable emollient esters in moisturization studies, suggesting strong efficacy with minimal irritation potential.
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Glycolic acid is a naturally derived chemical exfoliant (alpha hydroxy acid) that gently dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells to the surface, helping to remove them and reveal fresher skin underneath. It's one of the smallest and most penetrating AHAs, making it effective for improving skin texture, tone, and clarity.
Benefits
- Exfoliates dead skin cells to improve skin texture and brightness
- Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone
- Can be used as an adjuvant treatment for dark spots and melasma
- Generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects when used properly
Potential concerns
- Can cause irritation, redness, or sensitivity, especially in higher concentrations or with frequent use
- May increase sun sensitivity — daily SPF 30+ is essential
- Not suitable for very sensitive or compromised skin barriers without gradual introduction
- Can cause dryness or stinging in some individuals
Science: Research confirms glycolic acid is an effective adjuvant therapy for melasma and other skin concerns with minimal adverse effects. Cosmetic dermatologists recognize it as a well-established, evidence-backed skincare ingredient, though it works best when introduced gradually and combined with sun protection.
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Polysorbate 20 is a mild emulsifier and solubilizer commonly used in skincare products to help mix oil and water-based ingredients together and keep them stable. It's also used to help dissolve fragrance and active ingredients evenly throughout a formula.
Benefits
- Helps create stable, smooth textures by blending incompatible ingredients
- Improves product consistency and shelf life
- Allows even distribution of active ingredients and fragrance
Potential concerns
- May cause irritation or allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin
- Can occasionally strip skin's natural oils if used in high concentrations
- Some individuals report sensitivity to polysorbates, though this is relatively uncommon
Science: The provided study examined polysorbate 20 as a formulation component in a clinical cancer treatment (vidutolimod), not as a cosmetic ingredient. Limited peer-reviewed data exists specifically evaluating polysorbate 20 safety in topical skincare; however, it is widely used globally and recognized as safe by major regulatory bodies (FDA, EU) at typical cosmetic concentrations (typically under 5%).
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Analysis not yet available for this ingredient.
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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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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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Sorbitan Isostearate is an emulsifier made from sorbitol (a natural sugar alcohol) and isostearic acid (a fatty acid). It helps blend oil and water-based ingredients together in skincare products, creating a smooth, stable texture.
Benefits
- Stabilizes product formulations by helping oil and water mix
- Creates smooth, pleasant texture in lotions and creams
- Generally well-tolerated in most skincare products
Potential concerns
- May cause mild to moderate skin irritation in sensitive individuals
- Rarely can trigger allergic contact dermatitis (less than 1% of people with contact sensitivity)
- Animal studies showed moderate irritation potential; use lower concentrations if sensitivity occurs
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded this ingredient is safe for cosmetic use under current practices (typically under 10% concentration). Clinical studies show it is generally a mild irritant and non-sensitizing in most users, though some individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation.
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Titanium dioxide is a white mineral powder that sits on top of your skin to physically block and scatter ultraviolet (UV) rays before they can cause damage. It's commonly used as the active ingredient in mineral or physical sunscreens.
Benefits
- Provides broad-spectrum UV protection (UVA and UVB)
- Less likely to irritate sensitive skin compared to chemical sunscreen filters
- Starts protecting immediately upon application without needing to absorb into skin
Potential concerns
- Can leave a white or chalky cast on skin, especially in higher concentrations or on darker skin tones
- May feel heavy or thick in formulations
- In powder form, inhalation of particles has raised occupational safety concerns, though skincare use is considered safe
Science: Titanium dioxide is approved as a safe sunscreen active ingredient by the FDA and is considered non-irritating and photostable. The EU and regulatory bodies have confirmed safety for cosmetic use; concerns about nanoparticle penetration have been largely addressed by evidence showing minimal skin penetration of typical formulation sizes.
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Butyloctyl Salicylate is a conditioning agent derived from salicylic acid (the same compound used in acne treatments). In skincare products, it works as a skin and hair conditioning ingredient, helping to soften and smooth the skin's surface at typical use levels of 0.5–5%.
Benefits
- Conditions and softens skin
- Improves skin texture and smoothness
- Lightweight conditioning without heavy residue
Potential concerns
- May cause irritation or sensitization in formulations that are not properly balanced
- Some salicylates are absorbed through the skin; long-term effects of topical absorption are not extensively documented
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (2025) concluded that Butyloctyl Salicylate is safe in cosmetics at current use levels when formulated to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing. The ingredient has low acute toxicity via dermal exposure, though around 10% of applied salicylates may remain in the skin.
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Methylpropanediol is a lightweight humectant and preservative booster commonly used in skincare formulations. It helps products stay stable while drawing moisture into the skin, making it useful in serums, moisturizers, and other hydrating products.
Benefits
- Humectant that helps skin retain moisture
- Enhances the preservative system in formulations
- Light texture that absorbs easily without greasiness
Science: Research confirms methylpropanediol functions effectively as a polyol solvent in cosmetic formulations and is recognized as a safe alternative preservative booster. The ingredient has been validated in quality control testing of commercial skincare products with good safety margins.
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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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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.
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Hydroxyacetophenone is a naturally derived compound with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It's used in skincare products to help protect skin from environmental stress and maintain product freshness.
Benefits
- Antioxidant protection against free radicals
- Antimicrobial and antiseptic properties
- May help preserve product stability
Science: Research shows hydroxyacetophenone has demonstrated antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiseptic activities in cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. However, peer-reviewed data specifically evaluating its safety profile and efficacy in topical skincare products for consumers is limited.
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Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule found in your skin that acts like a sponge, holding water to keep skin hydrated and plump. In skincare products, it helps improve skin moisture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and support overall skin texture and firmness.
Benefits
- Boosts skin hydration and moisture retention
- Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Supports skin firmness and elasticity
- Well-tolerated and safe for most skin types
- May enhance effects of other anti-aging treatments
Science: Multiple clinical studies confirm hyaluronic acid is highly effective and well-tolerated for improving skin hydration and signs of aging. Research shows it works as an effective standalone treatment and also enhances results when combined with other anti-aging procedures, with benefits sustained over extended use periods.
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Phytic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in plant-based foods like seeds and grains. In skincare, it's used to strengthen the skin barrier and support overall skin health.
Benefits
- Helps improve skin barrier function and reduce water loss from the skin
- May support skin microbiota balance, which is important for healthy skin
- Antioxidant properties that protect skin from environmental damage
Potential concerns
- May reduce absorption of certain minerals (calcium, iron, zinc) if ingested in large amounts, though topical application has minimal systemic effect
- Limited consumer safety data available for typical skincare concentrations
Science: Recent research in murine (mouse) models of atopic dermatitis shows phytic acid improves skin barrier function and modulates beneficial skin microbiota. However, most human safety and efficacy data remain limited, and results from animal studies don't always translate directly to human skin.
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Boron Nitride is a mineral powder that acts as a slip modifier, giving products a smooth, silky feel when applied to skin. It has a crystalline structure similar to talc and is commonly used in powders and eyeshadows to improve texture and blendability.
Benefits
- Improves product spreadability and smooth application
- Enhances the silky, luxurious feel of powders and makeup
- Helps reduce friction and creasing in eyeshadows and face powders
Science: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded boron nitride is safe as used in cosmetics, with the highest reported concentration at 25% in eyeshadows. No safety concerns were identified in available chemistry, animal, or clinical data. Boron nitride used in cosmetics is not in nanoparticle form, avoiding potential nanoparticle-related risks.
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Ceteareth-20 is a gentle emulsifier derived from natural plant oils and coconut. It helps bind water and oil together in creams and lotions, creating a smooth, stable texture that absorbs well into skin.
Benefits
- Creates stable, smooth-textured formulations
- Helps products absorb evenly into skin
- Allows active ingredients to penetrate effectively
Science: Research shows that emulsifier choice, including ceteareth-20-containing systems, significantly affects how active ingredients like sunscreens penetrate and absorb into skin. The ingredient has a well-established safety profile in cosmetics and is widely used in dermatological formulations.
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Polyacrylate-13 is a synthetic polymer used as a thickener and stabilizer in skincare formulas. It helps create a smooth texture and prevents ingredients from separating over time.
Benefits
- Creates smooth, even product texture
- Improves formula stability
- Helps products spread evenly on skin
Science: Limited peer-reviewed data available for this ingredient. It is approved for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies (EU, FDA) and is generally considered safe as a cosmetic thickening agent with low skin penetration.
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Silanetriol is a silicone-based conditioning agent that helps protect and strengthen hair fibers. It works by forming a protective layer on the hair surface to reduce damage and improve texture, particularly in products designed for chemically treated hair.
Benefits
- Reduces protein loss from chemically treated hair
- Improves hair combability and manageability
- Helps protect hair during coloring or straightening treatments
- Strengthens hair and reduces breakage
Science: Research shows silanetriol (often used with panthenol and other conditioning agents) significantly reduces protein loss and improves combability in hair treated with oxidative dyes and chemical straighteners. Studies indicate it provides measurable protective benefits when incorporated into hair treatment formulations, though most research focuses on hair care rather than skincare applications.
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