Kiehl's Since 1851 Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser vs Lancôme Clarifique Pore Refining Cleanser

Aqua, commonly known as water, serves primarily as a solvent in cosmetic formulations. It is the most abundant ingredient in many products and is essential for dissolving other ingredients, facilitating their application and absorption on the skin. Formulators often add Aqua to create a suitable texture and consistency, ensuring that products are easy to spread and apply. Additionally, water can help to hydrate the skin, making it a vital component in many moisturizing formulations.

Glycerin, also known as Glycerine, is a naturally occurring compound that serves primarily as a humectant in cosmetic formulations. This means it has the ability to attract moisture from the environment and bind it to the skin, helping to maintain hydration levels. Due to its effective moisturizing properties, formulators often include Glycerin in products to enhance skin softness and elasticity, making it a popular choice in various skincare and cosmetic formulations.

Phenoxyethanol is a widely used cosmetic ingredient recognized for its role as a preservative. It helps to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast in cosmetic formulations, thereby extending the shelf life of products and ensuring their safety for consumers. Formulators may add Phenoxyethanol to protect the integrity of the product and maintain its effectiveness over time, especially in water-based formulations where microbial growth is a concern.

PEG-14M is a cosmetic ingredient that serves multiple functions, including binding, emulsion-stabilising, and viscosity-controlling. As a binding agent, it helps to hold ingredients together, ensuring a uniform texture in formulations. Its emulsion-stabilising properties are crucial for maintaining the stability of mixtures that contain both oil and water, preventing separation and enhancing the overall performance of the product. Additionally, PEG-14M contributes to viscosity control, which can influence the thickness and flow of a formulation, making it easier to apply and enhancing the sensory experience. Formulators may add PEG-14M to achieve these functional benefits, ensuring that the final product meets desired performance and aesthetic criteria.

Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its exfoliating properties. It helps to gently remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, promoting a smoother and clearer complexion. Additionally, Salicylic Acid is known for its ability to penetrate pores, making it effective in addressing concerns related to acne and oily skin. Formulators may incorporate Salicylic Acid into products to enhance skin texture and clarity, as well as to provide a mild exfoliating effect. However, it is important to note that Salicylic Acid can be a potential irritant for some individuals, so careful consideration is necessary when formulating products with this ingredient.

Sodium Hydroxide is a highly alkaline compound commonly used in cosmetics primarily as a pH adjuster. It helps to modify the acidity or alkalinity of formulations, ensuring that products maintain a stable and effective pH level for skin compatibility. Formulators may add Sodium Hydroxide to enhance the performance of other ingredients, improve product stability, and ensure that the overall formulation meets the desired specifications for safety and efficacy.

MYRISTIC ACID is a fatty acid commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its various functions. It serves as a surfactant, helping to cleanse the skin by breaking down oils and dirt, making it easier to wash away. Additionally, MYRISTIC ACID can act as a perfuming agent, contributing to the fragrance profile of products. Its opacifying properties allow formulators to create a more visually appealing texture in creams and lotions by providing a milky appearance. Due to its multifunctional nature, MYRISTIC ACID is a versatile ingredient that formulators may include to enhance both the sensory experience and the efficacy of their products.

PALMITIC ACID is a fatty acid commonly found in both plant and animal fats. In cosmetics, it serves primarily as a skin-conditioning emollient, helping to soften and smooth the skin. Additionally, it functions as a surfactant-emulsifying agent, which aids in blending oil and water components in formulations, enhancing texture and stability. Formulators may add PALMITIC ACID to improve the overall feel of a product on the skin and to ensure a consistent and effective application, making it a versatile ingredient in various cosmetic formulations.