Clinique Smart Clinical Repair AM/PM Retinoid Balm

SQUALANE is a skin-conditioning emollient that serves multiple functions in cosmetic formulations. As an emollient, it helps to soften and smooth the skin, making it feel more hydrated and supple. Additionally, SQUALANE acts as a hair-conditioning agent, which can enhance the appearance and manageability of hair. Its refatting properties allow it to replenish lipids in the skin, which can be beneficial in maintaining the skin's barrier function. Formulators may add SQUALANE to products to improve texture and provide a luxurious feel, while also contributing to overall skin and hair health.

DIISOSTEARYL MALATE is a cosmetic ingredient that serves multiple functions, primarily as a skin-conditioning emollient and surfactant-cleansing agent. As a skin-conditioning emollient, it helps to improve the skin's moisture levels and overall texture, making it feel softer and smoother. Additionally, its surfactant-cleansing properties may assist in modifying surface tension, which can be beneficial in formulations that require effective mixing or dispersing of ingredients. Formulators may add DIISOSTEARYL MALATE to enhance the sensory experience of a product while also contributing to the overall stability and performance of the formulation.

JOJOBA ESTERS are derived from the jojoba plant and are primarily used in cosmetics for their skin-conditioning and emollient properties. They help to moisturize the skin, providing a soft and smooth feel while also enhancing the overall texture of formulations. Formulators may add JOJOBA ESTERS to products to create a soothing effect on the skin, making them suitable for a variety of cosmetic applications where hydration and comfort are desired.

C10-18 TRIGLYCERIDES is a mixture of medium-chain triglycerides derived from natural sources, commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its skin-conditioning properties. It functions primarily as an emollient, helping to soften and smooth the skin by forming a barrier that reduces moisture loss. Additionally, it acts as a solvent, aiding in the dissolution of other ingredients and enhancing the overall texture of the product. Formulators may add C10-18 TRIGLYCERIDES to improve the sensory feel of formulations, providing a light, non-greasy finish while contributing to the product's moisturizing benefits.

HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED WAX, commonly known as sunflower seed wax, is a natural wax derived from the seeds of the sunflower plant. This ingredient is primarily used for its skin-conditioning properties, helping to create a protective barrier on the skin that can enhance moisture retention and improve overall skin texture. Formulators may add HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED WAX to cosmetic products to provide a smooth application, enhance product stability, and contribute to a luxurious feel on the skin, making it a valuable component in various formulations.

ORYZA SATIVA BRAN WAX, derived from the bran of rice grains, is primarily used in cosmetics for its skin-conditioning properties. This natural wax acts as an emollient, helping to soften and smooth the skin by forming a protective barrier that locks in moisture. Formulators may add ORYZA SATIVA BRAN WAX to enhance the texture and feel of products, providing a luxurious application experience while contributing to overall skin hydration and comfort.

BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII BUTTER, commonly known as shea butter, serves primarily as a skin-conditioning agent in cosmetic formulations. This ingredient is valued for its ability to enhance the skin's appearance and feel, making it a popular choice for products aimed at moisturizing and softening the skin. Additionally, it functions as a viscosity-controlling agent, which can help to adjust the thickness and texture of formulations, ensuring a desirable consistency that enhances the overall user experience. Formulators may add BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII BUTTER to improve the sensory attributes of a product while also providing conditioning benefits to the skin.

Silica, known by its INCI name 'Silica', is a naturally occurring mineral that is commonly used in cosmetic formulations. It serves primarily as an absorbent, helping to control oil and moisture levels in products, which can enhance the overall feel and finish on the skin. Additionally, Silica acts as a texture-enhancer, contributing to a smoother application and improving the sensory experience of the product. Formulators may add Silica to achieve a lightweight, non-greasy feel while also providing a matte finish, making it a versatile ingredient in various cosmetic applications.

Sodium Hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body known for its remarkable ability to retain moisture. As a humectant, it attracts and binds water to the skin, helping to maintain hydration and improve the skin's overall texture and appearance. Formulators often include Sodium Hyaluronate in cosmetic products to enhance moisture levels, promote a plump and youthful look, and provide a smooth application experience. Its lightweight nature allows for easy absorption, making it a popular choice in various skincare formulations.

Tocopherol, commonly known as Vitamin E or Alpha Tocopherol, is a fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a crucial role in protecting skin cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Its antioxidant properties help to stabilize and preserve the integrity of cosmetic formulations, thereby enhancing their shelf life and effectiveness. Formulators often include Tocopherol in products to provide additional skin benefits, such as moisturizing and soothing properties, making it a popular choice in skincare and cosmetic products.

RICINUS COMMUNIS SEED OIL, commonly known as castor oil, is derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. This oil is often used in cosmetics for its skin-conditioning properties, helping to moisturize and soften the skin. Additionally, it serves as a fragrance component, contributing to the overall scent profile of formulations. Formulators may add RICINUS COMMUNIS SEED OIL to enhance the sensory experience of a product while also providing emollient benefits, making it a versatile ingredient in various cosmetic applications.

HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL is a modified form of castor oil that has undergone hydrogenation, resulting in a thicker, more stable ingredient. It serves multiple functions in cosmetic formulations, primarily as a skin-conditioning emollient and a surfactant-emulsifying agent. This ingredient helps to enhance the texture and feel of products, providing a smooth application while also aiding in the blending of oil and water components. Formulators may add HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL to improve the overall consistency and stability of formulations, as well as to provide moisturizing benefits to the skin.

Caprylyl Glycol is a multifunctional ingredient commonly used in cosmetics for its preservative and humectant properties. As a preservative, it helps to inhibit the growth of microorganisms, thereby extending the shelf life of cosmetic products. Its humectant function allows it to attract and retain moisture in the skin, contributing to hydration and a smoother appearance. Formulators may add Caprylyl Glycol to enhance product stability and improve the overall sensory experience of the formulation.

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate is a retinoid that is sought after for its skin renewal properties. It can support collagen production and assist in minimizing the appearance of fine lines and texture irregularities, making it a popular ingredient in anti-aging products.

DIMETHYL ISOSORBIDE is a solvent commonly used in cosmetic formulations to enhance the solubility of other ingredients, allowing for a more uniform distribution within the product. It also serves as a viscosity-controlling agent, helping to achieve the desired texture and consistency of the formulation. Formulators may add DIMETHYL ISOSORBIDE to improve the overall performance of a product, ensuring that active ingredients are effectively delivered and that the product feels pleasant during application.

MICA is a naturally occurring mineral that is commonly used in cosmetics for its various functional properties. It serves as an effective colorant, providing a shimmering or pearlescent effect in formulations. Additionally, MICA acts as an opacifying agent, helping to create a more opaque appearance in products. Its bulking and anticaking properties also contribute to the texture and consistency of formulations, ensuring that powders and other products remain free-flowing and easy to apply. Formulators may choose to include MICA to enhance the aesthetic appeal and performance of their cosmetic products.