Browse Beauty Ingredients
Find product dupes by active ingredients, clean labels, and skin benefits.
Humectant
DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE
DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE is a salt derived from glycyrrhizin, which is extracted from licorice root. It serves as a humectant, helping to attract and retain moisture in the skin, and as a skin-conditioning agent, promoting a smoother and more hydrated appearance. Formulators may add this ingredient to enhance the moisture content of formulations and improve the overall feel of the product on the skin, making it particularly beneficial in products aimed at soothing or hydrating the skin.
Buffering Agent
TROMETHAMINE
TROMETHAMINE is a multifunctional ingredient commonly used in cosmetics for its buffering properties, which help to maintain the pH balance of formulations. This is important for ensuring the stability and effectiveness of various cosmetic products. Additionally, TROMETHAMINE can contribute to fragrance, enhancing the sensory experience of the product. Formulators may choose to add this ingredient to optimize product performance and improve user satisfaction, while also adhering to regulatory guidelines due to its classification as a restricted cosmetic ingredient.
Emollient Skin Conditioner
CETYL ALCOHOL
CETYL ALCOHOL is a fatty alcohol commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its multifunctional properties. It acts as a skin-conditioning emollient, providing a smooth and soft feel to the skin. Additionally, it serves as a surfactant and emulsifier, helping to stabilize mixtures of oil and water, which is essential for creating creams and lotions. Its ability to boost foam also makes it useful in cleansing products. Formulators may add CETYL ALCOHOL to enhance the texture, stability, and overall sensory experience of a product, while also contributing to its opacifying properties, which can improve the aesthetic appeal of formulations.
Chelating Agent
SODIUM PHYTATE
Sodium Phytate is a chelating agent derived from phytic acid, which is commonly found in plant seeds. Its primary function in cosmetics is to bind metal ions, helping to stabilize formulations and enhance the efficacy of other ingredients. By sequestering metal ions, Sodium Phytate can prevent undesirable reactions that may affect the product's performance or shelf life. Additionally, it is utilized in oral care products for its ability to reduce mineral buildup and enhance the overall effectiveness of the formulation. Formulators may add Sodium Phytate to improve product stability and ensure a more consistent experience for the user.
Emollient
Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil
SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS SEED OIL is primarily known for its functions as a skin-conditioning emollient and hair-conditioning agent. As a skin-conditioning emollient, it helps to improve the texture and hydration of the skin by forming a barrier that reduces water loss, making it beneficial in cosmetic formulations aimed at enhancing skin softness and smoothness. Additionally, its hair-conditioning properties can help improve the manageability and appearance of hair, contributing to a healthier look. Formulators may add this ingredient to provide moisturizing benefits and enhance the overall feel of the product on both skin and hair.
Emulsifying Surfactant
POLYSORBATE 20
POLYSORBATE 20 is a non-ionic surfactant commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its emulsifying and cleansing properties. It helps to blend oil and water-based ingredients, allowing for a stable and uniform product texture. Additionally, as a cleansing agent, it aids in the removal of dirt and impurities from the skin. Formulators may add POLYSORBATE 20 to enhance the overall feel and performance of a product, ensuring that it effectively delivers its intended benefits while maintaining a pleasant application experience.
Antimicrobial
CHLORPHENESIN
CHLORPHENESIN is an antimicrobial and preservative agent commonly used in cosmetic formulations. Its primary function is to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, thereby helping to extend the shelf life of products and maintain their safety for consumer use. Formulators may add CHLORPHENESIN to prevent contamination and degradation of formulations, ensuring that they remain effective and safe throughout their intended lifespan. Due to its antimicrobial properties, it is particularly valuable in products that are prone to microbial growth, such as creams and lotions.
Chelating Agent
TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE
TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE is a chelating agent commonly used in cosmetic formulations. Its primary function is to bind metal ions, which can help to stabilize products and enhance their efficacy by preventing the degradation of active ingredients that may occur in the presence of these metals. Formulators may add this ingredient to improve the overall stability and performance of a product, ensuring that it maintains its intended qualities over time.
Skin Conditioner
ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE
ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE, commonly known as aloe vera juice, is derived from the leaves of the aloe vera plant. It is primarily used in cosmetics for its skin-conditioning properties, helping to soothe and hydrate the skin. This ingredient is often added to formulations due to its ability to provide a cooling effect and enhance the moisture content of the skin, making it a popular choice in products aimed at improving skin texture and comfort.
Emollient Skin Conditioner
Cholesterol
CHOLESTEROL is a versatile ingredient commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its multiple functions. As a skin-conditioning emollient, it helps to improve the skin's texture and hydration by forming a barrier that reduces moisture loss. Additionally, it serves as a surfactant-emulsifying agent, which aids in blending oil and water components in a formulation, ensuring a stable and uniform product. Its role as a light-stabilizer can help protect other ingredients from degradation due to light exposure, while its viscosity-controlling properties assist in achieving the desired thickness and consistency of the product. These functions make CHOLESTEROL a valuable component in creating effective and stable cosmetic formulations.
Humectant
SODIUM ACETYLATED HYALURONATE
SODIUM ACETYLATED HYALURONATE is a derivative of hyaluronic acid, known for its exceptional ability to retain moisture. As a humectant, it attracts and binds water to the skin, helping to maintain hydration levels and improve skin texture. Formulators may add this ingredient to cosmetic products to enhance their moisturizing properties, providing a plump and supple appearance to the skin. Its unique structure allows for better penetration and efficacy compared to standard hyaluronic acid, making it a valuable addition in formulations aimed at hydration and skin health.
Humectant
TREHALOSE
TREHALOSE is a naturally occurring disaccharide sugar that is often utilized in cosmetic formulations for its humectant and moisturising properties. It has the ability to attract and retain moisture, helping to keep the skin hydrated and supple. Formulators may add TREHALOSE to products to enhance skin hydration, improve texture, and provide a protective barrier against environmental stressors. Its unique structure allows it to stabilize proteins and cellular structures, making it a valuable ingredient in formulations aimed at maintaining skin health.
Viscosity Controller
AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE / VP COPOLYMER
AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/VP COPOLYMER is a synthetic polymer commonly used in cosmetic formulations primarily for its viscosity-controlling properties. It helps to thicken products, providing a desirable texture and stability, which can enhance the overall sensory experience of the formulation. Formulators may add this ingredient to achieve specific rheological characteristics, ensuring that the product applies smoothly and evenly on the skin. Its ability to modify the flow and consistency of formulations makes it a valuable component in a variety of cosmetic products.
Solvent
METHYLPROPANEDIOL
METHYLPROPANEDIOL is a synthetic compound commonly used in cosmetic formulations primarily as a solvent. Its ability to dissolve other ingredients makes it valuable for enhancing the texture and application of products. Formulators may add METHYLPROPANEDIOL to improve the overall feel of a formulation and to help deliver active ingredients more effectively. Additionally, it can contribute to the stability of the product by preventing separation of components, thereby ensuring a uniform consistency throughout the product's shelf life.
Antimicrobial
CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT
CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, derived from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, is a popular ingredient in cosmetics known for its multifaceted benefits. It exhibits antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals. Additionally, it serves as an astringent and skin-conditioning agent, providing a soothing and moisturizing effect while enhancing the overall texture of the skin. Formulators may include this extract not only for its functional benefits but also for its ability to act as a natural fragrance and its potential protective qualities against UV radiation.
Absorbent
SODIUM POLYACRYLATE
SODIUM POLYACRYLATE is a synthetic polymer commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its versatile properties. It functions as an absorbent, binding agent, and skin-conditioning emollient, making it effective in enhancing the texture and feel of products. Additionally, it serves as an emulsion stabilizer, film-forming agent, and viscosity controller, which helps maintain the desired consistency and stability of formulations. Formulators may add SODIUM POLYACRYLATE to improve the overall performance of products, ensuring they apply smoothly and provide a pleasant sensory experience.
Antistatic
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Cocamidopropyl Betaine is an ingredient classified as a surfactant. Surfactants are compounds that can reduce surface tension between two substances, which can enhance the mixing and dispersing of ingredients in a formulation. This property is particularly useful in cosmetic products, as it can help improve the overall texture and performance of the formulation, allowing for better application and distribution on the skin or hair.
Humectant
Propylene Glycol
Propylene Glycol is a synthetic compound commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products. It functions primarily as a solvent, helping to dissolve other ingredients and enhance their effectiveness in formulations. Additionally, it acts as a humectant, attracting moisture to the skin and helping to maintain hydration levels. Formulators may add Propylene Glycol to improve the texture and feel of products, ensuring they spread easily and absorb well into the skin.
Other Skin Conditioner
POLYGLYCERYL-10 LAURATE
POLYGLYCERYL-10 LAURATE is a naturally derived ingredient commonly used in cosmetics for its skin-conditioning and emulsifying properties. It functions as a surfactant, helping to blend water and oil components in formulations, which can enhance the texture and stability of the product. Additionally, it provides moisturizing benefits, contributing to the overall feel of the formulation on the skin. Formulators may add POLYGLYCERYL-10 LAURATE to improve product performance, ensuring a smooth application and effective delivery of other active ingredients.
Bulking Agent
BETA-GLUCAN
BETA-GLUCAN is a naturally occurring polysaccharide that is commonly derived from yeast, oats, or mushrooms. It is primarily used in cosmetics for its bulking and skin-conditioning properties. Formulators may add BETA-GLUCAN to enhance the texture and feel of products, as well as to provide moisturizing benefits to the skin. Its ability to form a protective barrier can help improve skin hydration and overall appearance, making it a valuable ingredient in various formulations.
Exfoliant
Salicylic Acid
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.
Antistatic
SODIUM PCA
SODIUM PCA is a naturally occurring component of human skin that plays a crucial role in maintaining moisture levels. It functions primarily as a humectant, attracting water to the skin and helping to keep it hydrated. Additionally, SODIUM PCA has skin-conditioning and hair-conditioning properties, making it beneficial for improving the texture and feel of both skin and hair. Formulators may add SODIUM PCA to cosmetic products to enhance moisture retention and provide a smoother, softer appearance, contributing to overall product efficacy.
Humectant
GLUCOSE
GLUCOSE is a simple sugar that serves primarily as a humectant in cosmetic formulations. As a humectant, it attracts moisture from the environment and helps to retain it within the skin, contributing to hydration and a plump appearance. Formulators may add GLUCOSE to products to enhance their moisturizing properties, making them more effective in providing hydration to the skin. Its ability to bind water makes it a valuable ingredient in various skincare products aimed at improving skin texture and overall moisture levels.
Skin Conditioner
HYDROLYZED SODIUM HYALURONATE
HYDROLYZED SODIUM HYALURONATE is a derivative of sodium hyaluronate that has been broken down into smaller molecules through hydrolysis. This process enhances its ability to penetrate the skin, making it an effective skin-conditioning agent. In cosmetic formulations, it is often included for its ability to help maintain skin hydration and improve overall skin texture by attracting and retaining moisture. Formulators may add this ingredient to enhance the moisturizing properties of a product, contributing to a smoother and more supple appearance of the skin.
Antistatic
LECITHIN
LECITHIN is a natural phospholipid that serves multiple functions in cosmetic formulations. It acts as an emollient, providing skin-conditioning benefits by helping to maintain moisture and improve the skin's texture. Additionally, LECITHIN functions as a surfactant and emulsifier, aiding in the blending of oil and water-based ingredients, which enhances the stability and performance of formulations. Its antistatic properties also help reduce static cling, making it a valuable ingredient in various cosmetic products. Formulators may add LECITHIN to improve the overall sensory experience and efficacy of their products.
Deodorant
GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE
GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE is a multifunctional ingredient commonly used in cosmetics for its properties as a deodorant, skin-conditioning emollient, and surfactant-emulsifying agent. It helps to enhance the texture and feel of formulations, providing a smooth application while also contributing to the stability of emulsions. Formulators may add GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE to improve the overall sensory experience of a product, as well as to support skin hydration and comfort.
Emulsifying Surfactant
SORBITAN OLIVATE
SORBITAN OLIVATE is a naturally derived emulsifier and surfactant, commonly used in cosmetic formulations to help blend oil and water components effectively. It is derived from olive oil and sorbitol, making it a popular choice for formulators seeking more natural ingredients. This ingredient functions primarily to stabilize emulsions, ensuring that products maintain a consistent texture and performance over time. Formulators may add SORBITAN OLIVATE to enhance the sensory feel of products, providing a smooth and luxurious application. Its emulsifying properties allow for the creation of creams, lotions, and other formulations that require a stable mixture of hydrophilic and lipophilic substances. Additionally, its natural origin appeals to consumers looking for cleaner beauty products.
Emulsifying Surfactant
SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE
SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE is a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier commonly used in cosmetic formulations. It helps to stabilize and blend oil and water phases, creating a uniform texture in products such as creams and lotions. By reducing surface tension, it enhances the spreadability of formulations on the skin, making it a valuable ingredient for improving the overall feel and application of cosmetic products. Formulators may add SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE to achieve a desirable consistency and to ensure that ingredients remain evenly distributed throughout the product, contributing to its efficacy and user experience.
Hair Conditioner
CERAMIDE AP
CERAMIDE AP is a type of ceramide, which is a lipid molecule naturally found in the skin and hair. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin's barrier function and hydration levels. In cosmetic formulations, CERAMIDE AP is primarily used for its skin-conditioning and hair-conditioning properties, helping to improve moisture retention and enhance the overall texture and appearance of both skin and hair. Formulators may add it to products to support the skin's natural barrier, promote softness, and provide a protective effect against environmental stressors.
Tonic
GERANIOL
GERANIOL is a naturally occurring alcohol found in various essential oils, particularly in rose and geranium oils. It is commonly used in cosmetics for its perfuming properties, imparting a pleasant floral scent to products. Additionally, GERANIOL has tonic properties, which may contribute to the overall sensory experience of a formulation. Formulators may add GERANIOL not only for its fragrance but also to enhance the product's appeal and provide a refreshing quality. However, it is important to note that GERANIOL is subject to certain restrictions in cosmetic formulations, as indicated by its classification as a 'cosing-restricted' ingredient.
Preservative
Benzyl Alcohol
BENZYL ALCOHOL is a multifunctional ingredient commonly used in cosmetics. Its primary functions include acting as a preservative, which helps to prevent microbial growth and extend the shelf life of products. Additionally, it serves as a solvent, aiding in the dissolution of other ingredients, and as a viscosity-controlling agent, which can help to achieve the desired thickness or flow of a formulation. Furthermore, BENZYL ALCOHOL is utilized for its perfuming properties, contributing to the fragrance profile of cosmetic products. Formulators may add this ingredient to enhance product stability, improve texture, and provide a pleasant scent, making it a versatile component in various formulations.
Chelating Agent
TETRASODIUM GLUTAMATE DIACETATE
TETRASODIUM GLUTAMATE DIACETATE is a chelating agent commonly used in cosmetic formulations. Its primary function is to bind metal ions, which can otherwise destabilize formulations or lead to undesirable reactions. By sequestering these metals, TETRASODIUM GLUTAMATE DIACETATE helps enhance the stability and effectiveness of the product, ensuring a more consistent performance over time. Formulators may add this ingredient to improve the overall quality and longevity of cosmetic products, particularly in water-based formulations where metal ions are more prevalent.
Emulsion Stabilizer
HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE / SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER
HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER is a synthetic polymer commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its emulsion-stabilizing and viscosity-controlling properties. By enhancing the stability of emulsions, it helps to maintain the desired texture and consistency of products, ensuring that oil and water components remain evenly mixed. Additionally, its ability to control viscosity allows formulators to achieve the desired thickness or fluidity in various formulations, contributing to the overall user experience and performance of the product.
Hair Conditioner
Phytosphingosine
Phytosphingosine is a natural lipid that is a component of the skin's barrier. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and function of the skin barrier, helping to protect against moisture loss and external irritants. Formulators may add Phytosphingosine to cosmetic products to enhance skin hydration and support the overall health of the skin, making it a valuable ingredient in formulations aimed at improving skin barrier function.
Buffering Agent
Lactic Acid
LACTIC ACID is a multifunctional ingredient commonly used in cosmetics for its properties as a buffering agent, humectant, and skin-conditioning agent. As a buffering agent, it helps to maintain the pH balance of formulations, which is essential for the stability and effectiveness of the product. Its humectant properties allow it to attract and retain moisture in the skin, contributing to hydration. Additionally, LACTIC ACID serves as a skin-conditioning agent, which can enhance the overall feel and appearance of the skin. Formulators may add LACTIC ACID to improve the texture and moisture content of their products, ensuring a more pleasant user experience.
Binding Agent
CELLULOSE GUM
CELLULOSE GUM is a natural polymer derived from cellulose, commonly used in cosmetics for its versatile functional properties. It serves multiple roles, including binding ingredients together, stabilizing emulsions, forming a film on the skin, and controlling viscosity. These functions help enhance the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations, making them more appealing and effective. Formulators may add CELLULOSE GUM to improve the overall consistency and performance of products, ensuring they meet consumer expectations for quality and usability.
Hair Conditioner
CERAMIDE EOP
CERAMIDE EOP is a type of ceramide, a lipid molecule that plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin's barrier function and overall hydration. In cosmetics, it is primarily used for its skin-conditioning and hair-conditioning properties. Formulators often add CERAMIDE EOP to products to help restore and reinforce the skin's natural barrier, which can be beneficial for improving moisture retention and enhancing the texture of both skin and hair. Its ability to mimic natural lipids makes it a valuable ingredient for promoting a healthy appearance and feel.
Emollient Skin Conditioner
PALMITIC ACID
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.
Absorbent
MALTODEXTRIN
MALTODEXTRIN is a polysaccharide derived from starch, commonly used in cosmetic formulations for its versatile properties. It functions as an absorbent, helping to capture moisture and oil, which can enhance the texture and feel of the product. Additionally, it acts as a binding agent, ensuring that ingredients remain mixed and stable, and serves as an emulsion-stabilizer, which helps maintain the integrity of emulsions by preventing separation. Its film-forming capabilities contribute to a smooth application on the skin or hair, while also providing conditioning benefits that can improve the overall feel and appearance of the hair and skin. Formulators may add MALTODEXTRIN to enhance product performance, improve stability, and provide a desirable sensory experience.
Emulsifying Surfactant
HEXYLENE GLYCOL
HEXYLENE GLYCOL is a multifunctional ingredient commonly used in cosmetic formulations. It serves as a surfactant-emulsifying agent, helping to blend oil and water components in products, which enhances texture and stability. Additionally, it acts as a skin-conditioning agent, providing moisture and improving the feel of the product on the skin. As a solvent, HEXYLENE GLYCOL aids in dissolving other ingredients, ensuring a uniform distribution throughout the formulation. Its surfactant-cleansing properties also contribute to the removal of dirt and impurities, while its ability to function as a perfuming agent can enhance the overall sensory experience of the product. Formulators may include HEXYLENE GLYCOL to optimize product performance and sensory attributes.
Perfuming Agent
CITRONELLOL
CITRONELLOL is a naturally occurring compound found in various essential oils, particularly in citronella oil. It is primarily used in cosmetics for its perfuming properties, imparting a fresh, floral scent that enhances the overall fragrance profile of a product. Formulators may add CITRONELLOL to create appealing scents in formulations, as well as to mask undesirable odors from other ingredients. However, it is important to note that CITRONELLOL is subject to certain restrictions in cosmetic formulations due to its potential sensitizing effects, as indicated by its classification as a cosing-restricted ingredient.
Film Former
HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM HYALURONATE
HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM HYALURONATE is a modified form of hyaluronic acid that functions primarily as a film-forming agent in cosmetic formulations. Its ability to create a protective layer on the skin or hair helps to enhance moisture retention and improve texture, making it a valuable ingredient in various personal care products. Formulators may incorporate this ingredient to provide a smoother application and to help lock in hydration, contributing to a more supple and healthy appearance.
Skin Conditioner
CAFFEINE
CAFFEINE is a natural compound commonly found in coffee, tea, and various plants. In cosmetics, it serves multiple functions, primarily as a skin-conditioning agent. Its presence can enhance the texture and feel of formulations, making products more pleasant to use. Additionally, CAFFEINE is utilized for its perfuming properties, contributing to the fragrance profile of cosmetic products. Formulators may add CAFFEINE not only for its sensory benefits but also for its potential to invigorate and refresh the skin, making it a popular choice in formulations aimed at improving the overall user experience.
Humectant
SUCROSE
SUCROSE, commonly known as sugar, is a natural ingredient often used in cosmetics for its humectant properties. It helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin, contributing to hydration and overall skin conditioning. Additionally, SUCROSE can provide soothing benefits, making it a popular choice for formulations aimed at enhancing skin comfort and softness. Formulators may add SUCROSE to products to improve texture and provide a pleasant sensory experience while supporting skin health.
Emollient Skin Conditioner
CETEARYL OLIVATE
CETEARYL OLIVATE is a naturally derived ingredient that functions primarily as a skin-conditioning emollient and surfactant-emulsifying agent. It is commonly used in cosmetic formulations to enhance the texture and feel of products, providing a smooth, moisturizing effect on the skin. Additionally, it stabilizes emulsions, ensuring that oil and water components remain well mixed, which is crucial for the consistency and performance of creams and lotions. Formulators may also include CETEARYL OLIVATE for its hair-conditioning properties, as it helps to improve the manageability and softness of hair, making it a versatile ingredient in both skincare and haircare products.