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Skincare ingredient glossary

Discover all the skincare chemicals in your favorite products by browsing our dictionary, which includes reliable insights from dermatologists, cosmetic chemists, and others.


Find an ingredient by its first letter:
A

Allantoin

The comfrey plant, which is indigenous to temperate climes of Asia and Europe, yields allantoin, also known as aluminum dihydroxy allantoinate.

Amala Oil

Amla is an extract made from the revered Ayurvedic plant known as Indian Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica).

Apricot Kernel Oil

Oil from apricot kernels It is suitable for all skin types, has a light golden color, and has no smell. It is an excellent source of bioactive substances including phytosterols and tocopherols.

Astaxanthin

The easiest way to describe Astaxanthin is as a powerful antioxidant that is extremely beneficial to the skin. Astaxanthin is an antioxidant that may be applied directly to the skin.

Alcohol Denat

It is an alcohol that contains any sort of denaturant (or chemical agents that transform regular alcohol into volatile alcohol), making it uncomfortable to taste or consume. This alcohol is also referred to as denatured alcohol.

Amino Acids

Amino Acids play a part in almost all of the biological activities that take place in our bodies. They are the building blocks that make up proteins. Which specific protein they make and how it works depend on the order in which they join.

Arbutin

You might be shocked to learn that arbutin is included in many of your current skincare products, particularly skin-brightening ones. While Arbutin is often found in beauty serums, it is also a key component of water creams and nighttime masks.

Avocado Oil

You guessed it—an avocado—is the source of Avocado Oil. So let's discuss essential nutrition. Avocado is incredibly high in fiber, has very little sugar, and has all the cofactors for our required multivitamins (potassium, sodium, magnesium, vitamins A, C, and K, folic acid, vitamin B6, and niacin).

Almond Oil

Almond Oil has anti-inflammatory and immunity-boosting characteristics that make it a great wintertime supplement. It also has heart-healthy features that lower blood cholesterol.

Amoxicillin

Usually used as a second-line treatment for acne, it is most frequently used to treat urinary tract infections and upper respiratory tract infections.

Argan Oil

Argan oil is a kind of plant oil that is obtained from the kernels of the fruit pit of the Moroccan argan tree, also known as Argania spinosa. Cold pressing is the customary method for extracting oil, which involves applying mechanical pressure with little to no added heat.

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid that aids in skin exfoliation and is naturally produced by yeast, however it can also be obtained from other sources.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a naturally occurring substance renowned for its calming effects. It may be found in products including creams, moisturizers, gels, and masks and is available in powder, liquid, and gel form.

Antioxidants

Oxidative stress, also known as free radical damage, is reversed and prevented by Antioxidants. Any of the following can cause free radicals and environmental harm: sunlight, pollution, poisons, tobacco, and stress. By "scavenging" these free electrons, antioxidants prevent damage from occurring and aid in the healing of already existing damage.

Argireline

Stops the muscular contraction that causes wrinkles. Along with reducing fine lines and enhancing collagen's ability to function, Argireline also boosts collagen synthesis and function.

Azulene

The steam distillation of chamomile, yarrow, or blue tansy flowers yields Azulene, a natural botanical oil with anti-inflammatory effects.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid

A class of acid molecules known as Alpha-hydroxy Acids is most frequently produced from plant-based materials. There are many different kinds, but the most popular ones are glycolic (produced from sugarcane), lactic (derived from sour milk), citric (derived from lemons), and malic (derived from apples).

Apple Cider Vinegar

The fermentation process is used to create Apple Cider Vinegar, often known as ACV. It is liquid and is often administered topically as a toner, however it may also be used as a spot treatment.

Ascorbyl Glucoside

As an antioxidant, Ascorbyl Glucoside gets along with a wide range of substances, although it may get along particularly well with the vitamin B compound niacinamide.
B

Baobab

Baobab has a myriad of benefits—as you'll see below—but is most notable for its moisturizing properties.

Benzoyl Peroxide

“Benzoyl peroxide is an organic acid in the peroxide family that has been used to treat acne for more than sixty years”

Biotin

The water-soluble B vitamin Biotin, commonly known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H (interesting fact: the "H" stands for Haar and Haut, the German terms for hair and skin), is not stored by the body.

Butylene Glycol

A water-soluble organic alcohol made from petroleum, Butylene Glycol. It is used in several skincare products including cleansers, moisturizers, and masks, as well as in cosmetics and haircare items, and is available in liquid form for cosmetic applications.

Baking Soda

Baking soda, sometimes referred to as sodium bicarbonate, is a chemical substance having alkalinizing characteristics that is formally categorized as a salt.

Benzyl Alcohol

The aromatic alcohol is most well known by the term Benzyl Alcohol, although it also goes by the names benzene methanol and phenylcarbinol. It is made from fruit, typically cranberries and apricots, and is presented as a translucent liquid with a faintly pleasant aroma.

Bio Oil

Customers who use Bio-skincare Oil's oil are aware that the formulation is largely focused on reducing the visibility of scars and stretch marks. Quite amazingly, it could also work the same magic on acne scars on your face or any other fragile skin.

Bakuchiol

However, employing Bakuchiol from the plant is a relatively new technique. Some compounds from the plant are being used to treat disorders like vitiligo.

Beta Glucan

In yeast, bacteria, fungus, seaweed, and cereals like oats, Beta-Glucans, sometimes written as -glucans, are polysaccharides (multiple sugars, starch, and cellulose bound together). Therefore, you can consume them through food or extract them and use them topically.

Black Cumin Seed Oil

Other emollients, oils, and/or moisturizing substances such shea butter, ceramides, beeswax, and hyaluronic acid are frequently mixed with black cumin seed oil among other components.

Bentonite Clay

The Montmorillon area of France was the Bentonite Clay's original source, and it has been used there for generations as a skin-care product. However, the name "bentonite" now refers to the clay's main source.

Bhringraj Oil

Because of its tiny blossoms, the False Daisy plant, also known as Eclipta alba, is used to make bhringraj oil. The sunflower family includes Eclipta alba, which is cultivated in humid, tropical regions like India.

Borage Seed Oil

The seeds of the Borago officinalis, or more simply, a native plant of the Mediterranean, are used to make borage seed oil. Although the entire plant can be used medicinally, the oil is only produced from the seeds.
C

CBD Oil

Both hemp (Cannabis sativa) and marijuana (Cannabis sativa indica) plants, which are both members of the cannabis family, are used to make CBD Oil, which stands for cannabidiol.

Caviar Extract

Caviar Extract enhances the overall texture of the skin, offers UV protection, stops the elastin from breaking down, stimulates the formation of collagen, and lessens inflammation.

Charcoal

Burning carbon-based materials produces Charcoal, which makes sense if you've ever handled the chalky, sooty stuff. Activated charcoal has undergone processing to increase its surface area for adsorption.

Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal Oatmeal is ground oats that has been mixed with a liquid for improved skin absorption and application. Colloidal oatmeal has been shown in studies to have cleansing, moisturizing, calming, and anti-inflammatory properties.

CBD

Hemp and marijuana include the chemical component CBD, which occurs naturally in cannabis plants.

Carrier Oils

Aromatherapists utilize a Carrier Oil when making skincare products using essential oils since essential oils are too concentrated to use directly on the skin and might irritate it.

Chebula

Chebula, an Ayurvedic herb for anti-aging, is popular in skincare.

Cone Snail Venom

This artificial component relaxes face muscles to instantly smooth lines and replicates the effects of cone snail venom.

Caffeine

The Skin Benefits of Caffeine Include Reduces puffiness, dissolves fat, lessens cellulite, contains antioxidants, and aids in the creation of collagen.

Carrot

An essential oil with antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects is Carrot seed oil.

Chia Seed Oil

You guessed it: Chia Seed Oil, which is more precisely known as salvia hispanica seed oil, is derived from the chia plant's seeds.

Copper Peptides

Copper Peptides are widely recognized in the skincare industry. By encouraging collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycan (think HAs), and better antioxidant activity, they promote skin's firmness, smoothness, and decrease of fine lines and wrinkles.

Calamine Lotion

Calamine locustm treats minor skin ailments like insect bites, sunburn, and poison ivy's itching and irritation.

Castor Oil

Castor Oil, which is extracted from the seeds of the tropical Ricinus communis plant, is thicker and more goopy than argan or coconut oil, and this may make it a more potent replenisher for skin and hair.

Citric Acid

Citrus fruits including lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits as well as other fruits like berries are sources of the alpha-hydroxy acid known as Citric Acid, which is used as a preservative.

CoQ10

Each and every cell in the human body has coenzyme Q10. A coenzyme, which is typically smaller than the enzymes, is a chemical that improves or is required for the functioning of enzymes. CoQ10 is essential for cells to produce energy.

Camellia Extract

The leaves of the Camellia oleifera plant, a member of the tea family and a particular variety of green tea that is indigenous to Asia, particularly southern China, are used to make Camellia oleifera leaf extract.

Cephalexin

A range of bacterial diseases, including skin infections and infected post-operative wounds, are typically treated with Cephalexin.

Cocamidopropyl-Betaine

Because it is made from coconuts, Cocamidopropyl Betaine lathers readily and leaves the skin feeling moisturized.

Cyclopentasiloxane

Products have a velvety feel thanks to Cyclopentasiloxane, which also locks in moisture and dissolves bulkier components.

Capric Triglyceride

Capric Triglycerides, also known as caprylic triglycerides, are fatty acids produced by combining glycerin with a portion of coconut oil or palm kernel oil.

Ceramides

Ceramides repair and rebuild the skin's natural protective layer to keep moisture in, lessen the appearance of aging, and guard against environmental harm.

Cocoa Butter

The main benefits of Coconut Oil are hydrates, soothes dry skin, and fights aging.

Cypress Oil

Cypress oil is an astringent and has antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial effects.

Caprylyl Glycol

Caprylyl Glycol draws water to the skin and retains it there, but it also resembles a preservative and may help keep other substances fresh longer by acting as a preservative.

Cetearyl Alcohol

A waxy molecule called Cetearyl Alcohol can be made in a laboratory or is naturally obtained from plants like palm or coconut oil.

Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil contains lauric acid, which may have antibacterial characteristics that might help decrease inflammation and kill microorganisms on the skin. In addition, linoleic acid, an unsaturated omega-6 fatty acid, is abundant in coconut oil.

Carbomer

While Carbomers are white, fluffy powders, they are widely utilized as gels in a range of skin, hair, nail, and makeup treatments, as well as dentifrices.

Chamomile

Since ancient times, people have used the plant Chamomile to encourage sleep, reduce stress, and treat stomach problems. It also works as a natural remedy for nausea and indigestion.

Collagen

Because Collagen is the most significant structural protein in your skin, it's sometimes referred to as the body's scaffolding.
M

Madecassoside

It lessens free radicals, stops inflammation, and hydrates the skin better.

Malic Acid

Malic Acid increases cell turnover and exfoliates dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin, making the skin seem brighter and more uniform while also assisting in the maintenance of unclogged pores.

Marula Oil

It locks in moisture, softens skin, protects against free radicals, reduces inflammation, and has mild antimicrobial qualities.

Moringa Oil

It lessens wrinkles and fine lines, enhances the skin's general look, and calms inflammation.

Magnesium

Magnesium may lessen acne, soothe rosacea and sensitive skin, and enhance the general look of the skin when used in skincare.

Mandelic Acid

Mandelic acids are beneficial to the skin because they work to relax the bonds that hold affected surface skin cells (known as desmosomes) together, allowing the cells to naturally shed and resulting in a more youthful-looking complexion.

Meadowfoam

Meadowfoam Seed Oil softens skin and locks in moisture.

Murumuru Butter

Murumuru Butter is gentle for delicate skin, extremely hydrating, and anti-inflammatory.

Magnesium Aluminum Silicate

It is only employed in formulation processes, serving as an emulsion stabilizer, absorbent, and product thickener.

Manuka Honey

Due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, it promotes wound healing. It also attracts moisture to the skin and helps calm sensitive skin diseases including eczema and psoriasis.

Methylparaben

It develops antibacterial formulations, protects components, and stops the formation of fungus.

Muslin

It decreases irritation, thoroughly cleanses, and softly exfoliates.

Marshmallow Root Extract

Marshmallow Root Extract reduces inflammation, reduces redness, and aids with moisture retention.

Mineral Oil

Mineral oil increases the function of the skin barrier, softens the skin, and seals moisture into the skin.
P

Panthenol

It moisturizes and makes the skin softer, smoother, and more supple by binding to and holding water in the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory qualities and is engaged in promoting the growth of cells necessary for wound healing and reestablishing the skin barrier's functionality.

Phytic Acid

Although it could have a slight exfoliating effect, its antioxidant effects make it a popular ingredient in skincare products.

Pomegranates

Pomegranates detoxify the skin, promote skin regeneration, and offer UV protection.

Propylene Glycol

Propylene Glycol draws moisture to the skin and holds it there.

Parabens

Preservatives called Parabens are added to personal care products to extend their shelf lives by preventing the growth of germs and fungi.

Phytosphingosine

The main benefits of Phytosphingosine are Skin barrier support, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial.

Prickly Pear Oil

Anti-inflammatory, barrier-boosting and hydrating are the most important benefits of Prickly Pear Oil.

Propylparabens

By limiting the development of germs, parabens of all kinds contribute to the improvement of the safety and shelf life of cosmetic products.

Peppermint Oil

It has calming and cooling effects that might aid with mild skin irritations and regulates oil output.

Placenta

Placenta creams are topical serums that nourish, fight inflammation, and protect the skin from damage.

Probioitics

Probiotics reduce inflammation both inside and externally, improve skin barrier function, and provide defense against dangerous environmental contaminants.

Purslane Extract

It is anti-aging, soothes skin, reduces redness, helps skin maintain moisture.

Petroleum Jelly

It locks in moisture, calms wounds and abrasions, and speeds up the recovery time.

Plum Oil

In accordance with our specialists, it promotes cellular repair, sebum production, and skin turnover in addition to brightening and plumping the skin.

Progeline

It moisturizes skin, serves as a humectant, and may lessen aging symptoms.

Pycnogenol

Pycnogenol decreases age spots, promotes moisture, and avoids wrinkles.

PHA

PHA rejuvenates skin, removes dead skin cells, and lessens the appearance of skin damage.

Polyglutamic Acid

Polyglutamic Acid replaces cell hydration while moisturizing the skin and minimizing the look of pores and wrinkles.

Propanediol

Ingredients are dissolved, viscosity is reduced, and moisture is retained by propane.

Phenoxyethanol

It prolongs product shelf life, stabilizes goods, and stops bacterial development.

Polypeptides

It reduces the visibility of pores, smooths out fine wrinkles, and stimulates collagen synthesis.

Propolis

It protects the skin, relieves acne's aftereffects, and heals wounds.
S

Safflower Oil

Safflower oil is rich in nourishing antioxidants and hydrates the skin. Additionally, it contains anti-inflammatory properties and aids in wound healing.

Snail Mucin

It hydrates skin, encourages collagen synthesis, and supports skin regeneration and healing.

Sodium PCA

By drawing water to the skin and holding it there while aiding in the repair of the barrier that protects the skin, Sodium PCA hydrates the body. Additionally, it possesses anti-inflammatory qualities.

Succinic Acid

The effects of Succinic Acid are relaxing, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial. It moisturizes and has anti-aging and antioxidant protective qualities.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic Acid eliminates dead skin cells, gets rid of extra oil, and minimizes whiteheads and blackheads.

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate

Free radicals that harm the skin are neutralized by Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, which also promotes collagen synthesis, evens out skin tone, and has antibacterial properties.

Sodium Tallowate

To remove oil and debris from the skin, use Sodium Tallowate.

Sulfates

Sulfates produce lather in shampoo by removing oil, debris, and product from hair.

Sea Buckthorn Oil

It hydrates the skin, balances skin tone, and lessens the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines.

Sodium Deoxycholate

Fat is broken down by Sodium Deoxycholate. A salt called sodium deoxycholate can lyse certain cells and serve as a solubilizer.

Soybean Oil

It strengthens the moisture barrier, enhances moisture retention, and is anti-inflammatory.

Sulfur

Sulfur eliminates microorganisms, lessens sebum, and removes dead skin cells.

Sea Salt

It is rumored to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities, albeit there is little scientific evidence to support this (and even more so as it pertains to acne-specific benefits). When used appropriately, it is a natural exfoliator that might be useful for this purpose.

Sodium Hyaluronate

Sodium hyaluronate nourishes the skin, relieves dryness, lessens wrinkles, and gives it structure and volume.

Spironolactone

Spironolactone controls sebum synthesis, inhibits androgen receptors, and shortens the duration of hormonal outbreaks.

Sunflower Oil

It moisturizes, improves the skin barrier, and calms the skin.

Seaweed

Oil production is controlled by Seaweed, which also exfoliates, brightens, and hydrates dry, dull skin.

Sodium Hydroxide

Certain products, especially cleansers and leave-on exfoliants, which need the pH to be maintained within a very narrow range, benefit most from the use of Sodium Hydroxide.

Stearic Acid

It helps to preserve the skin barrier while also softening and smoothing the skin's surface. Although it is frequently utilized as an emulsifier to thicken items and enhance their texture.

Synthetic Beeswax

By forming a barrier to reduce trans-epidermal water loss, Synthetic Beeswax keeps skin hydrated. It is also widely used in formulation; it gives cosmetics like lip balms and mascaras a creamy feel.

Sea Moss

It may lessen the severity of acne and inflammation while hydrating the skin.

Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate

It removes oil, facilitates the absorption of other components into the skin, enhances the feel and texture of formulae, and aids in skin hydration.

Stearyl Alcohol

It works as an emulsifier to assist oil and water mix and give goods a smooth consistency as well as an emollient to soften the skin.

Shea Butter

Shea Butter's main advantages are hydration, antioxidant protection, and irritation relief.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate emulsifies, stimulates a thorough clean, and produces a lather.

Squalane

Squalane reduces inflammation, strengthens the skin's outer barrier, and collaborates well with active ingredients like retinol.

Silver

Before the development of antibiotics, silver was utilized to treat illnesses caused by microbes because of its extraordinary antiseptic and anti-inflammatory capabilities.

Sodium Palmate

In addition to removing oil, filth, and other impurities, it also serves as an emulsifier to keep your goods' consistency.

Stem Cells

A relatively broad category of cells that take part in tissue formation, regeneration, and renewal is referred to as "Stem Cells."