What's inside
What's inside
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Lactis Proteinum Extract
Skin ConditioningDipropylene Glycol
HumectantHydrogenated Polydecene
EmollientCapric Acid
CleansingCaprylic/Capric Triglyceride
MaskingGlycerin
HumectantGlyceryl Stearate
EmollientPentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate
EmollientNiacinamide
SmoothingCyclohexasiloxane
EmollientCetyl Alcohol
EmollientPolyglyceryl-6 Distearate
EmulsifyingWater
Skin ConditioningDicaprylyl Ether
EmollientVinyldimethicone
Asiaticoside
AntioxidantMadecassic Acid
Skin ConditioningBoric Acid
AntimicrobialMadecassoside
AntioxidantPolypeptide-1
Skin ConditioningHydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
HumectantMelaleuca Viminalis Extract
Inula Racemosa Root Extract
Skin ConditioningPalau White Clay Extract
HumectantMacadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil
EmollientDonkey Oil
EmollientHydrogenated Lecithin
EmulsifyingSodium Hyaluronate
HumectantPolyglyceryl-10 Laurate
Skin ConditioningStearyl Alcohol
EmollientBeeswax
Emulsion StabilisingXylitylglucoside
Humectant2-Hydroxyethyl Acrylate
Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer
Emulsion StabilisingJojoba Esters
EmollientAnhydroxylitol
HumectantPolyglyceryl-3 Beeswax
Emulsifying1,2-Hexanediol
Skin ConditioningHydroxyacetophenone
AntioxidantXylitol
HumectantMethylpropanediol
SolventPropanediol
SolventGlucose
HumectantXanthan Gum
EmulsifyingEthoxydiglycol
HumectantDisodium Azelate
Adenosine
Skin ConditioningSorbitan Isostearate
EmulsifyingEthylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningSodium Laurate
CleansingCyclodextrin
AbsorbentLauric Acid
CleansingSodium Polyacrylate
AbsorbentPvp
Emulsion StabilisingPvm/Ma Copolymer
Emulsion StabilisingOctyldodecanol
EmollientGlycolide
HumectantCaffeine
Skin ConditioningC12-13 Alketh-9
EmulsifyingCollagen Amino Acids
MoisturisingCeramide EOP
Skin ConditioningResveratrol
AntioxidantArginine
MaskingGlycol
HumectantEctoin
Skin ConditioningTaurine
BufferingHydrolyzed Elastin
EmollientRetinol
Skin ConditioningMaltodextrin
AbsorbentPhytosphingosine
Skin ConditioningSucrose Stearate
EmollientSodium Dna
Skin ConditioningCyanocobalamin
Skin ConditioningGlycine
BufferingGlutamic Acid
HumectantHelianthus Annuus Seed
Skin ConditioningPolyglycerin-3
HumectantTocopherol
AntioxidantArtemisia Vulgaris Extract
Skin ConditioningVanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
Skin ConditioningOlea Europaea Fruit Oil
MaskingOrange Roughy Oil
Skin ConditioningCitrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil
MaskingLavandula Angustifolia Oil
MaskingCitrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil
MaskingRosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil
MaskingFruit Fly Larva Oil
EmollientCurcuma Aromatica Root Oil
Skin ConditioningAbies Balsamea Bark Oil
MaskingRosa Centifolia Flower Oil
MaskingMarmot Oil
Rosa Damascena Flower Oil
MaskingPelargonium Graveolens Oil
MaskingMyroxylon Pereirae Resin
MaskingLinalool
PerfumingLimonene
PerfumingPinus Mugo Leaf Oil
MaskingLactis Proteinum Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Capric Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Niacinamide, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cetyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Water, Dicaprylyl Ether, Vinyldimethicone, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Boric Acid, Madecassoside, Polypeptide-1, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Melaleuca Viminalis Extract, Inula Racemosa Root Extract, Palau White Clay Extract, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Donkey Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Stearyl Alcohol, Beeswax, Xylitylglucoside, 2-Hydroxyethyl Acrylate, Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Crosspolymer, Jojoba Esters, Anhydroxylitol, Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Xylitol, Methylpropanediol, Propanediol, Glucose, Xanthan Gum, Ethoxydiglycol, Disodium Azelate, Adenosine, Sorbitan Isostearate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Laurate, Cyclodextrin, Lauric Acid, Sodium Polyacrylate, Pvp, Pvm/Ma Copolymer, Octyldodecanol, Glycolide, Caffeine, C12-13 Alketh-9, Collagen Amino Acids, Ceramide EOP, Resveratrol, Arginine, Glycol, Ectoin, Taurine, Hydrolyzed Elastin, Retinol, Maltodextrin, Phytosphingosine, Sucrose Stearate, Sodium Dna, Cyanocobalamin, Glycine, Glutamic Acid, Helianthus Annuus Seed, Polyglycerin-3, Tocopherol, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil, Orange Roughy Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Fruit Fly Larva Oil, Curcuma Aromatica Root Oil, Abies Balsamea Bark Oil, Rosa Centifolia Flower Oil, Marmot Oil, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Oil, Myroxylon Pereirae Resin, Linalool, Limonene, Pinus Mugo Leaf Oil
Water
Skin ConditioningDipropylene Glycol
Humectant2,3-Butanediol
HumectantHydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin)
EmollientCaprylic/Capric Triglyceride
MaskingNiacinamide
SmoothingIsodecyl Neopentanoate
EmollientGlyceryl Stearate
EmollientPolyglyceryl-6 Distearate
EmulsifyingCetearyl Alcohol
EmollientVinyldimethicone
Dicaprylyl Ether
EmollientCandelilla/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 Esters
Emulsifying1,2-Hexanediol
Skin ConditioningSodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate
Emulsion StabilisingPanthenol
Skin ConditioningPolyglyceryl-10 Laurate
Skin ConditioningGlycerin
HumectantSodium Stearoyl Glutamate
CleansingHydroxyacetophenone
AntioxidantMadecassic Acid
Skin ConditioningAsiaticoside
AntioxidantAsiatic Acid
Skin ConditioningAllantoin
Skin ConditioningEthylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningCitrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil
MaskingButylene Glycol
HumectantXanthan Gum
EmulsifyingDisodium EDTA
Adenosine
Skin ConditioningCitrus Nobilis Peel Oil
MaskingHydrogenated Lecithin
EmulsifyingLavandula Angustifolia Oil
MaskingCyclodextrin
AbsorbentCandida Bombicola/Glucose/Methyl Rapeseedate Ferment
AntimicrobialCentella Asiatica Extract
CleansingFicus Carica Fruit Extract
HumectantJojoba Esters
EmollientCitrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil
MaskingSodium Laurate
CleansingOlea Europaea Fruit Oil
MaskingLitsea Cubeba Fruit Oil
MaskingEthoxydiglycol
HumectantXylitylglucoside
HumectantMalt Extract
Skin ProtectingRosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil
MaskingCitrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil
MaskingHelianthus Annuus Seed Wax
Skin ConditioningAnhydroxylitol
HumectantLauric Acid
CleansingCeramide NP
Skin ConditioningXylitol
HumectantCentella Asiatica Leaf Extract
Skin ConditioningCaffeine
Skin ConditioningArginine
MaskingCitrus Grandis Peel Oil
MaskingCopaifera Officinalis Resin
MaskingJuniperus Virginiana Oil
MaskingCedrus Atlantica Bark Oil
MaskingOctyldodecanol
EmollientMacadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil
EmollientTocopherol
AntioxidantPelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil
MaskingGlycolipids
Skin ConditioningPolyglycerin-3
HumectantC12-13 Alketh-9
EmulsifyingSodium Hyaluronate
HumectantCyanocobalamin
Skin ConditioningMadecassoside
AntioxidantSucrose Distearate
EmollientHydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
HumectantGlycine Soja Oil
EmollientJasminum Officinale Oil
MaskingPalmitic Acid
EmollientMaltodextrin
AbsorbentLepidium Meyenii Root Extract
Skin ConditioningPropanediol
SolventAscorbyl Palmitate
AntioxidantStearic Acid
CleansingMyrtus Communis Oil
MaskingArtemisia Absinthium Extract
Skin ConditioningRose Flower Oil
MaskingCentella Asiatica Oil
AntimicrobialVanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract
Skin ConditioningRetinol
Skin ConditioningFerula Galbaniflua Resin Oil
AntimicrobialPhytosterols
Skin ConditioningResveratrol
AntioxidantCimicifuga Racemosa Root Extract
AntimicrobialSilybum Marianum Extract
Skin ConditioningTaurine
BufferingHydrolyzed Centella Asiatica Extract
AntioxidantPhytosphingosine
Skin ConditioningCollagen Amino Acids
MoisturisingSalix Alba Bark Extract
AstringentOriganum Vulgare Leaf Extract
Skin ConditioningChamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract
Skin ConditioningLaminaria Japonica Extract
Skin ProtectingAloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
EmollientDioscorea Japonica Root Extract
Skin ConditioningUlmus Davidiana Root Extract
Skin ConditioningViola Mandshurica Flower Extract
AntioxidantMyristic Acid
CleansingArachidic Acid
CleansingCinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract
MaskingPortulaca Oleracea Extract
Skin ConditioningScutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract
AstringentLactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract
Skin ConditioningSodium Dna
Skin ConditioningLimonene
PerfumingLinalool
PerfumingCitral
PerfumingWater, Dipropylene Glycol, 2,3-Butanediol, Hydrogenated Poly(C6-14 Olefin), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Niacinamide, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Vinyldimethicone, Dicaprylyl Ether, Candelilla/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 Esters, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Panthenol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Glycerin, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Allantoin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil, Butylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Adenosine, Citrus Nobilis Peel Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Cyclodextrin, Candida Bombicola/Glucose/Methyl Rapeseedate Ferment, Centella Asiatica Extract, Ficus Carica Fruit Extract, Jojoba Esters, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil, Sodium Laurate, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil, Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, Ethoxydiglycol, Xylitylglucoside, Malt Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Wax, Anhydroxylitol, Lauric Acid, Ceramide NP, Xylitol, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Caffeine, Arginine, Citrus Grandis Peel Oil, Copaifera Officinalis Resin, Juniperus Virginiana Oil, Cedrus Atlantica Bark Oil, Octyldodecanol, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Glycolipids, Polyglycerin-3, C12-13 Alketh-9, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cyanocobalamin, Madecassoside, Sucrose Distearate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Glycine Soja Oil, Jasminum Officinale Oil, Palmitic Acid, Maltodextrin, Lepidium Meyenii Root Extract, Propanediol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Stearic Acid, Myrtus Communis Oil, Artemisia Absinthium Extract, Rose Flower Oil, Centella Asiatica Oil, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Retinol, Ferula Galbaniflua Resin Oil, Phytosterols, Resveratrol, Cimicifuga Racemosa Root Extract, Silybum Marianum Extract, Taurine, Hydrolyzed Centella Asiatica Extract, Phytosphingosine, Collagen Amino Acids, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Viola Mandshurica Flower Extract, Myristic Acid, Arachidic Acid, Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Sodium Dna, Limonene, Linalool, Citral
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic liquid and another multi-functional powerhouse.Â
It is a:
- Humectant, drawing moisture into the skin
- Emollient, helping to soften skin
- Solvent, dispersing and stabilizing formulas
- Preservative booster, enhancing the antimicrobial activity of other preservativesÂ
Adenosine is in every living organism. It is one of four components in nucleic acids that helps store our DNA.
Adenosine has many benefits when used. These benefits include hydrating the skin, smoothing skin, and reducing wrinkles. Once applied, adenosine increases collagen production. It also helps with improving firmness and tissue repair.
Studies have found adenosine may also help with wound healing.
In skincare products, Adenosine is usually derived from yeast.
Learn more about AdenosineThis ingredient is created from dehydrating xylitol in acidic conditions. Xylitol is a famous sugar and humectant.
Much like its predecessor, anhydroxylitol is a humectant. Humectants attract and hold water to moisturize the skin.
This ingredient is most commonly found in a popular trio called Aquaxyl. Aquaxyl is made up of anhydroxylitol (24 - 34%), xylitylglucoside (35 - 50%), and xylitol (5 - 15%).
According to a manufacturer, Aquaxyl is known for a 3-D hydration concept and an anti-dehydration shield to reinforce the outer layer of skin.
This ingredient is often derived from plants such as wood and sugarcane.
Learn more about AnhydroxylitolArginine is an amino acid that is important for human development. Your body uses is it to produce hair keratin and skin collagen.
As a cosmetic ingredient, Arginine has antioxidant properties and can also help repair damaged skin. This ingredient is derived either synthetically or from animals.
Arginine isn't fungal acne safe when used in the presence of other lipids (fats, fatty acids, oils, esters, etc). Oils and fats occur naturally within the skin, so take caution when using Arginine if you're prone to fungal acne.
Learn more about ArginineAsiaticoside comes from the super popular skin-soothing ingredient, Centella asiatica. It is one of four active compounds found in the extract of Centella Asiatica.
Asiaticoside is an antioxidant and helps with wound healing. It has been shown to increase antioxidant activity during the wound healing process.
Caffeine is most associated with coffee, tea, and cacao. In skincare, it helps with calming inflammation and is rich in antioxidants.
While caffeine is used to treat cellulite and and dark circles, further studies are needed to prove this. It has been believed to help with these skin conditions due to its ability to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow.
Some studies are looking into caffeine's ability to protect against UV rays.
Learn more about CaffeineThis ingredient is an emollient, solvent, and texture enhancer. It is considered a skin-softener by helping the skin prevent moisture loss.
It helps thicken a product's formula and makes it easier to spread by dissolving clumping compounds.
Caprylic Triglyceride is made by combining glycerin with coconut oil, forming a clear liquid.
While there is an assumption Caprylic Triglyceride can clog pores due to it being derived from coconut oil, there is no research supporting this.
Learn more about Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideCitrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil is the oil from the bergamot orange. It is native to Italy.
This ingredient is used to add fragrance to products. It contains limonene, linalool, and linalyl acetate.
The term 'fragrance' is not regulated in many countries. In many cases, it is up to the brand to define this term. For instance, many brands choose to label themselves as "fragrance-free" because they are not using synthetic fragrances. However, their products may still contain ingredients such as essential oils that are considered a fragrance.
When used topically, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil is a photosensitizer due to its furanocoumarins. Photosensitizers make the skin and eyes much more sensitive to sunlight. Photosensitizers are linked to skin cancer.
However, more cosmetics using Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil are removing the furanocoumarins.
Bergamot oil was also found to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Learn more about Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit OilCitrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil is oil from the peel of an orange fruit.
Limonene and linalool make up the majority of oils from citrus peels. Limonene has a "citrus" fragrance. Citrus peels also contain flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Citrus peel is also a rich source of flavonoids. Flavonoids are natural antioxidants and help protect your skin against damage. Flavonoids are a group of compounds naturally found in vegetables and fruits.
The term 'fragrance' is not regulated in many countries. In many cases, it is up to the brand to define this term. For instance, many brands choose to label themselves as "fragrance-free" because they are not using synthetic fragrances. However, their products may still contain ingredients such as essential oils that are considered a fragrance.
Learn more about Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel OilCollagen amino acids are naturally found in the outermost layer of your skin.Your body uses amino acids to build collagen and elastin.
Due to their tiny size, amino acids are able to be absorbed into the skin. They mostly play a role in keeping your skin hydrated and reinforcing your NMF (natural moisturizing factors).
Cyanocobalamin is the manufactured version of vitamin B12. It has skin soothing, antioxidant, and barrier protecting properties. Topical cyanocobalamin is used to treat skin irritation and atopic dermatitis.
Cyclodextrins are ring-shaped sugar molecules made from starch. It is used to stabilize, protect, and slowly release active ingredients.
This ingredient can help prevent oxidation, reduce irritation from strong actives, and make certain ingredients absorb better once applied.
Once applied to your skin, enzymes gradually break down the cyclodextrin "ring"; this releases the active ingredient in a controlled way.
Learn more about CyclodextrinDicaprylyl Ether is created from caprylic acid. It is a texture-enhancer and emollient.
As an emollient, Dicaprylyl Ether is non-comedogenic. It helps soften and smooth the skin by creating a barrier on top. This barrier helps trap moisture in, helping to hydrate the skin.
Dicaprylyl Ether gives a non-greasy feel and better spreadability to products.
Learn more about Dicaprylyl EtherDipropylene Glycol is a synthetically created humectant, stabilizer, and solvent.
This ingredient helps:
Dipropylene glycol is technically an alcohol, but it belongs to the glycol family (often considered part of the ‘good’ alcohols). This means it is hydrating and gentle on skin unlike drying solvent alcohols like denatured alcohol.
As a masking agent, Dipropylene Glycol can be used to cover the smell of other ingredients. However, it does not have a scent.
Studies show Dipropylene Glycol is considered safe to use in skincare.
Learn more about Dipropylene GlycolEthoxydiglycol is a synthetic solvent.
Solvents are used to keep ingredients together in a product. They can help dissolve ingredients to stable bases or help evenly distribute ingredients throughout the product.
Ethoxydiglycol also helps deliver other key ingredients into the skin.
Learn more about EthoxydiglycolEthylhexylglycerin (we can't pronounce this either) is commonly used as a preservative and skin softener. It is derived from glyceryl.
You might see Ethylhexylglycerin often paired with other preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. Ethylhexylglycerin has been found to increase the effectiveness of these other preservatives.
Glycerin is already naturally found in your skin. It helps moisturize and protect your skin.
A study from 2016 found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
As a humectant, it helps the skin stay hydrated by pulling moisture to your skin. The low molecular weight of glycerin allows it to pull moisture into the deeper layers of your skin.
Hydrated skin improves your skin barrier; Your skin barrier helps protect against irritants and bacteria.
Glycerin has also been found to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Due to these properties, glycerin is often used in wound and burn treatments.
In cosmetics, glycerin is usually derived from plants such as soybean or palm. However, it can also be sourced from animals, such as tallow or animal fat.
This ingredient is organic, colorless, odorless, and non-toxic.
Glycerin is the name for this ingredient in American English. British English uses Glycerol/Glycerine.
Learn more about GlycerinGlyceryl Stearate is a mix of glycerin and stearic acid.
It is used to stabilize the mixing of water and oil ingredients. By preventing these ingredients from separating, it can help elongate shelf life. It can also help thicken the product's texture.
As an emollient, it helps soften skin and supports barrier-replenishing ingredients.
In cosmetics, Glyceryl Stearate is often made from vegetable oils or synthetically produced.
This ingredient may not be fungal-acne safe
Fun fact: The human body also creates Glyceryl Stearate naturally.
Learn more about Glyceryl StearateHydrogenated Lecithin is created from the hydrogenation of lecithin (a group of phospholipids). Hydrogenation is a chemical reaction between hydrogen and another element.
This ingredient is an emollient and emulsifier. As an emollient, it helps soften skin by trapping moisture within. As an emulsifier, it prevents oil and water ingredients from separating.
Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid is a form of hyaluronic acid. It is created by the hydrolysis of hyaluronic acid with a high molecular weight. Once created, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid has a low molecular weight.
Low molecular weight HA has been shown to hydrate and increase elasticity of the skin. Increasing elasticity is also associated with reduction of wrinkle depth.
One study found topical low molecular weight hyaluronic acid may be considered for the treatment of rosacea in the adult population. However, we always recommend speaking with a professional about your skin concerns.
Hyaluronic acids are a humectant. This means they draw moisture from the air. Hyaluronic acids help moisturize, soothe, and protect the skin.
Read more about other common forms of hyaluronic acid:
Learn more about Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic AcidHydroxyacetophenone is antioxidant with skin conditioning and soothing properties. It also boosts the efficiency of preservatives.
This ingredient is not irritating or sensitizing.
Jojoba Esters is a wax created from Jojoba oil. It is an emollient and film-forming ingredient. In bead form, it is an exfoliator.
This ingredient has high oxidative stability, meaning it doesn't break down when exposed to oxygen.
Its similarity to our skin's natural oils makes it a great emollient. Emollients help soften and soothe our skin by creating a barrier on top. This barrier helps trap moisture in, keeping skin hydrated.
It is created using either the hydrogenation or transesterification processes on jojoba oil.
Learn more about Jojoba EstersLauric Acid is a fatty acid or lipid. About half of fatty acids in coconut oil is lauric acid.
This ingredient helps hydrate and sooth skin. As a humectant, it helps trap moisture. It also aids in cleaning and enhancing the texture of products.
Lauric acid may not be Malassezia folliculitis, or fungal acne, safe.
Learn more about Lauric AcidLavandula Angustifolia Oil is more commonly known as lavender essential oil. It is considered a fragrancing ingredient.
Lavender imparts a famous scent. While the smell is lovely, this ingredient and may sensitize skin in topical products. This is because about 85% of the oil is made up of linalool and linalyl acetate.
When exposed to air, these two compounds become strong allergens. This ingredient exhibits cytotoxicity at low concentrations; amounts of 0.25% have been shown to damage skin cells.
A study from Japan found this ingredient caused lavender sensitivity after widespread exposure.
Lavender essential oil has some antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the cons of this ingredient may outweight the pros.
More research is needed to confirm lavender essential oil's effects when used in aromatherapy.
Lavandula Angustifolia is known as the English Lavender and famous for creating purple fields in Provence, France.
Learn more about Lavandula Angustifolia OilLimonene is a fragrance that adds scent and taste to a formulation.
It's found in the peel oil of citrus fruits and other plants such as lavender and eucalyptus. The scent of limonene is generally described as "sweet citrus".
Limonene acts as an antioxidant, meaning it helps neutralize free radicals.
When exposed to air, oxidized limonene may sensitize the skin. Because of this, limonene is often avoided by people with sensitive skin.
The term 'fragrance' is not regulated in many countries. In many cases, it is up to the brand to define this term. For instance, many brands choose to label themselves as "fragrance-free" because they are not using synthetic fragrances. However, their products may still contain ingredients such as essential oils that are considered a fragrance.
Learn more about LimoneneLinalool is a fragrance and helps add scent to products. It's derived from common plants such as cinnamon, mint, citrus, and lavender.
Like Limonene, this ingredient oxidizes when exposed to air. Oxidized linalool can cause allergies and skin sensitivity.
This ingredient has a scent that is floral, spicy tropical, and citrus-like.
Learn more about LinaloolMacadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil is the fixed oil obtained from Macadamia nut.
Macadamia seed oil is rich in fatty acids, including oleic acid (45-75%), palmitoleic acid (7-33%), and palmitic acid (6-12%). They also contain various B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.
Palmitoleic acid has been shown to help soothe inflammation and promote wound healing. It is also naturally found in the fat of our skin.
Macadamia seed oil may not be malassezia folliculitis, or fungal-acne, safe.
Learn more about Macadamia Ternifolia Seed OilMadecassic Acid is a major component of Centella Asiatica Extract. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
It is a triterpenoid, meaning it naturally acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants protect your skin against damage from environmental factors such as pollution and UV.
Studies show Madecassic Acid helps soothe the skin due to its ability to block inflammation pathways.
Learn more about Madecassic AcidMadecassoside comes from the super popular skin-soothing ingredient, Centella asiatica. It is one of four active compounds found in the extract of Centella Asiatica.
Madecassoside has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties. It contains fatty acids, amino acids, beta-carotene, and phytochemicals.
One study found using Madecassoside with ascorbic acid helped reduce the signs of aging and improved skin hydration.
Learn more about MadecassosideMaltodextrin is a polysaccharide. It is derived from starch such as rice, corn, wheat, or potato starch.
In food, Maltodextrin is used to improve the texture and thicken a product. Due to its structure, it can help create a gel texture. As an emulsion stabilizer, it helps keep the ingredients in a product together.
As a polysaccharide, Maltodextrin has moisturizing properties. Polysaccharides are a type of carbohydrate. The top layer of skin uses polysaccharides to retain water, keeping the skin hydrated.
Maltodextrin is water soluble and has a sweet taste.
Learn more about MaltodextrinNiacinamide is a multitasking form of vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, reduces pores and dark spots, regulates oil, and improves signs of aging.
And the best part? It's gentle and well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive and reactive skin.
You might have heard of "niacin flush", or the reddening of skin that causes itchiness. Niacinamide has not been found to cause this.
In very rare cases, some individuals may not be able to tolerate niacinamide at all or experience an allergic reaction to it.
If you are experiencing flaking, irritation, and dryness with this ingredient, be sure to double check all your products as this ingredient can be found in all categories of skincare.
When incorporating niacinamide into your routine, look out for concentration amounts. Typically, 5% niacinamide provides benefits such as fading dark spots. However, if you have sensitive skin, it is better to begin with a smaller concentration.
When you apply niacinamide to your skin, your body converts it into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD). NAD is an essential coenzyme that is already found in your cells as "fuel" and powers countless biological processes.
In your skin, NAD helps repair cell damage, produce new healthy cells, support collagen production, strengthen the skin barrier, and fight environmental stressors (like UV and pollution).
Our natural NAD levels start to decline with age, leading to slower skin repair, visible aging, and a weaker skin barrier. By providing your skin niacinamide, you're recharging your skin's NAD levels. This leads to stronger, healthier, and younger looking skin.
Another name for vitamin B3 is nicotinamide. This vitamin is water-soluble and our bodies don't store it. We obtain Vitamin B3 from either food or skincare. Meat, fish, wheat, yeast, and leafy greens contain vitamin B3.
The type of niacinamide used in skincare is synthetically created.
Learn more about NiacinamideOctyldodecanol is a fatty alcohol. It is primarily used to enhance the texture of products.
As an emulsifier, Octyldodecanol helps prevent the oils and waters from separating. It also prevents ingredients from creating foam when shaken.
Octyldodecanol is created by reducing fatty acid to an alcohol.
Due to its high molecular weight, it does not get absorbed into the skin.
Learn more about OctyldodecanolOlea Europaea Fruit Oil is the fixed oil obtained from the ripe fruit of the Olive. In other words - olive oil.
The primary contents of olive oil are glycerides of the fatty acids linoleic, oleic and palmitic.
Olive oil also contains antioxidants such as Vitamin E. Antioxidants may help reduce signs of aging by fighting unstable free-radical molecules. It also contains Vitamins A (retinol), D, and K.
The squalene in olive oil makes it a great emollient. Emollients help soothe and soften your skin by trapping moisture in. This makes olive oil a great skin moisturizer.
Studies show olive oil to have antibacterial and antifungal properties in low concentrations. Another study found olive oil irritated sensitive oily skin. We always recommend speaking with a professional about using this ingredient in your routine.
Due to the fatty acid content, this ingredient may not be fungal-acne safe.
Learn more about Olea Europaea Fruit OilPhytosphingosine is a phospholipid naturally found in our skin as a building block for ceramides.. It helps moisturize, soothe, and protect skin.
Phytosphingosine contributes to your skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). The NMF is responsible for hydration, a strong barrier, and plasticity. Our NMF decreases with age. Increasing NMF leads to more healthy and hydrated skin.
Studies show products formulated with NMF ingredients help strengthen our skin's barrier. Having a healthy skin barrier reduces irritation and increases hydration. Our skin barrier is responsible for having plump and firm skin. It also helps protect our skin against infection, allergies, and inflammation.
Fun fact: Phytosphingosine is abundant in plants and fungi.
More ingredients that help boost collagen in skin:
Learn more about PhytosphingosinePolyglycerin-3 is a 3-unit glycerin polymer.
Like glycerin, this ingredient is a humectant. Humectants help hydrate your skin by drawing water to it.
Having moisturized skin helps improve the skin barrier. Your skin barrier helps protect against irritants and bacteria.
Learn more about Polyglycerin-3Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate is an ester of lauric acid and Polyglycerin-10.
Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate is a cleansing agent and emulsifier. It helps gather dirt, oil, and other pollutants to be rinsed away. As an emulsifier, it helps prevent ingredients from separating, such as oil and water.
Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate may not be fungal acne safe.
Learn more about Polyglyceryl-10 LauratePolyglyceryl-6 Distearate isn't fungal acne safe.
Propanediol is an all-star ingredient. It softens, hydrates, and smooths the skin.Â
It’s often used to:
Propanediol is not likely to cause sensitivity and considered safe to use. It is derived from corn or petroleum with a clear color and no scent.
Learn more about PropanediolResveratrol is a famous emerging antioxidant. It is a good alternative for sensitive skin types who cannot tolerate retinoids.
This antioxidant is most famous for it's anti-aging benefits. Studies show it combats the signs of aging by:
Besides anti-aging, this ingredient also helps with skin brightening and soothing.
The most effective forms of resveratrol are isobutyrate and butyrate. These have the strongest effect on increasing A1 collagen and reducing inflammation.
A note on it being a retinoid alternative:
Despite it's amazing skin benefits, it is not a replacement for retinoids. However, it is recommended for people with sensitive skin or intolerance to retinoids.
Resveratrol is naturally found in grapes, peanuts, and berries.
Learn more about ResveratrolRetinol is a gold-standard ingredient for anti-aging. It is a form of Vitamin A and belongs to the class of retinoids that also includes tretinoin.
Why is retinol famous?
It has the most scientific studies backing up its skin benefits out of all the non-prescription ingredients.
Retinol is proven to:
This is why retinol is effective at removing wrinkles, fading dark spots, treating acne, and reducing the appearance of pores.
Studies show retinol is less effective when exposed to UV. Be sure to look for appropriate packaging to keep your retinol potent (similar to Vitamin C).
Using retinol or any retinoids will increase sun-sensitivity in the first few months. Though studies show retinoids increase your skin's natural SPF with continuous use, it is best to always wear sunscreen and sun-protection.
We recommend speaking with a medical professional about using this ingredient during pregnancy.
Retinol may cause irritation in some people, so be sure to patch test. Experts recommend 'ramping up' retinol use: start using this ingredient once a week and work up to using it daily.
Read about Tretinoin
Learn more about RetinolRosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil is oil expressed from the leaves of the rosemary plant.
Rosemary Leaf Oil is a fragrance and helps give your product a scent. If you are sensitive to irritating fragrances, this one contains camphor. Camphor has been found to irritate skin.
This oil also contains antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. As an antioxidant, it may protect you skin against damage. This can help slow down the signs of aging.
Learn more about Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf OilSodium DNA is an emerging anti-aging ingredient.
It is created by taking deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and purifying it with sodium hydroxide.
The DNA is extracted from several different animal sources, including: calf thymus, the gonadic tissue of a male sturgeon, or herring / salmon sperm.
You have probably seen this ingredient in anti-aging skincare. But what is it?
DNA is composed of nucleotides, or chemical building blocks. Nucleotides include adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). Talk about a flashback to biology! Nucleosides are formed from these nucleotides.
The science behind Sodium DNA is based on an ingredient called Polydeoxyribonucleotide or PDRN.
PDRN are DNA fragments mainly extracted from the sperm cells of trout or salmon. Meaning, PDRN can be derived from Sodium DNA.
PDRN consists of chains of nucleotides and nucleosides mentioned above. They can range anywhere from 80 - 2000 pairs.
Studies show PDRN has the following properties:
Most of the research on PDRN has been done using injectable forms. That’s important, because PDRN is a large molecule and doesn’t absorb well through the skin. So if you’re applying it topically, the effects are likely to be much milder.
Still, topical Sodium DNA is emerging as a trendy anti-aging ingredient. It’s generally well-tolerated and offers good biocompatibility with human skin, making it a low-risk addition to most routines.
Further studies are needed to truly confirm this ingredients anti-aging ability (Remember, retinol has decades of research!).
When using this ingredient, is is best to ask a brand about the source of their Sodium DNA. You'll want to find products where the Sodium DNA is sourced from fish. Some Sodium DNA is derived from calf / cow thymus.
Needless to say, this ingredient is not vegan.
Learn more about Sodium DnaSodium Hyaluronate is hyaluronic acid's salt form. It is commonly derived from the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid.
Like hyaluronic acid, it is great at holding water and acts as a humectant. This makes it a great skin hydrating ingredient.
Sodium Hyaluronate is naturally occurring in our bodies and is mostly found in eye fluid and joints.
These are some other common types of Hyaluronic Acid:
Learn more about Sodium HyaluronateSodium Laurate is the sodium salt of lauric acid. It is a cleansing and emulsifying ingredient.
Emulsifiers help prevent ingredients such as water and oils from separating.
We don't have a description for Taurine yet.
Tocopherol (also known as Vitamin E) is a common antioxidant used to help protect the skin from free-radicals and strengthen the skin barrier. It's also fat soluble - this means our skin is great at absorbing it.
Vitamin E also helps keep your natural skin lipids healthy. Your lipid skin barrier naturally consists of lipids, ceramides, and fatty acids. Vitamin E offers extra protection for your skin’s lipid barrier, keeping your skin healthy and nourished.
Another benefit is a bit of UV protection. Vitamin E helps reduce the damage caused by UVB rays. (It should not replace your sunscreen). Combining it with Vitamin C can decrease sunburned cells and hyperpigmentation after UV exposure.
You might have noticed Vitamin E + C often paired together. This is because it is great at stabilizing Vitamin C. Using the two together helps increase the effectiveness of both ingredients.
There are often claims that Vitamin E can reduce/prevent scarring, but these claims haven't been confirmed by scientific research.
Learn more about TocopherolVanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract comes from the vanilla orchid native to central America. It is a skin-soothing ingredient.
This ingredient is skin-soothing and contains polyphenols that give it antioxidant properties.
This ingredient is not known to sensitize or irritate skin (unlike Vanilla Tahitensis). Vanilla tahitensis has shown to irritate skin in low amounts.
Learn more about Vanilla Planifolia Fruit ExtractVinyldimethicone is a type of silicone.
Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterXanthan gum is used as a stabilizer and thickener within cosmetic products. It helps give products a sticky, thick feeling - preventing them from being too runny.
On the technical side of things, xanthan gum is a polysaccharide - a combination consisting of multiple sugar molecules bonded together.
Xanthan gum is a pretty common and great ingredient. It is a natural, non-toxic, non-irritating ingredient that is also commonly used in food products.
Learn more about Xanthan GumXylitol is a humectant and prebiotic. It can help with dry skin.
In studies, xylitol has been shown to improve dry skin. It decreased transepidermal water loss, or when water passes through the skin and evaporates. Xylitol also showed to help improve the biomechanical properties of the skin barrier.
The prebiotic property of xylitol may also help reinforce our skin's natural microbiome. Having a healthy microbiome prevents infection by bad bacteria and helps with hydration.
As a humectant, Xylitol helps draw moisture from both the air and from deeper skin layers. This helps keep skin hydrated.
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol and commonly used as a sugar substitute. It is naturally occurring in plants such as strawberries and pumpkin.
Learn more about XylitolXylitylglucoside is created from xylitol and glucose, two humectants.
Not surprisingly, this ingredient is also a humectant. It attracts and holds water in your skin, helping to maintain hydration.
This ingredient is most commonly found in a popular trio called Aquaxyl. Aquaxyl is made up of anhydroxylitol(24 - 34%), xylitylglucoside (35 - 50%), and xylitol (5 - 15%).
According to a manufacturer, Aquaxyl is known for a 3-D hydration concept and an anti-dehydration shield to reinforce the outer layer of skin.
Learn more about XylitylglucosideWe don't have a description for C12-13 Alketh-9 yet.