What's inside
What's inside
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningSodium Laureth Sulfate
CleansingAcrylates Copolymer
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
CleansingSodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate
CleansingParfum
MaskingCaffeine
Skin ConditioningSodium Salicylate
PreservativeSodium Benzoate
MaskingHydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride
Disodium EDTA
Menthol
MaskingSodium Chloride
MaskingPPG-3 Caprylyl Ether
SolventCaprylyl Glycol
EmollientCetrimonium Chloride
AntimicrobialSodium Hydroxide
BufferingPhenoxyethanol
PreservativeDi-C12-13 Alkyl Malate
EmollientDipropylene Glycol
HumectantLinalool
PerfumingCitric Acid
BufferingClimbazole
AntimicrobialButylene Glycol
HumectantMentha Arvensis Leaf Extract
MaskingGeraniol
PerfumingMicrocrystalline Cellulose
AbsorbentLimonene
PerfumingGlycerin
HumectantMalt Extract
Skin ProtectingSorbitol
HumectantZea Mays Starch
Absorbent1,2-Hexanediol
Skin ConditioningTetrasodium EDTA
Sucrose
HumectantHydrolyzed Extensin
Skin ConditioningCI 77289
Cosmetic ColorantDextrin
AbsorbentPanax Ginseng Root Extract
EmollientTocopheryl Acetate
AntioxidantRosa Damascena Flower Extract
MaskingHydrogenated Lecithin
EmulsifyingEthylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningSea Salt
AbrasiveCamellia Sinensis Leaf Water
MaskingCamellia Japonica Seed Oil
EmollientMelaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
AntioxidantCamellia Sinensis Seed Oil
HumectantNelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract
Skin ConditioningGlycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract
BleachingXylitylglucoside
HumectantAnhydroxylitol
HumectantPrunus Mume Fruit Extract
HumectantXylitol
HumectantPhyllostachys Bambusoides Juice
Skin ConditioningLactobacillus Ferment Lysate
Skin ConditioningWater, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Acrylates Copolymer, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Parfum, Caffeine, Sodium Salicylate, Sodium Benzoate, Hydroxypropyl Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Disodium EDTA, Menthol, Sodium Chloride, PPG-3 Caprylyl Ether, Caprylyl Glycol, Cetrimonium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Di-C12-13 Alkyl Malate, Dipropylene Glycol, Linalool, Citric Acid, Climbazole, Butylene Glycol, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Extract, Geraniol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Limonene, Glycerin, Malt Extract, Sorbitol, Zea Mays Starch, 1,2-Hexanediol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sucrose, Hydrolyzed Extensin, CI 77289, Dextrin, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Rosa Damascena Flower Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sea Salt, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil, Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Prunus Mume Fruit Extract, Xylitol, Phyllostachys Bambusoides Juice, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate
Water
Skin ConditioningSodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
CleansingAlcohol Denat.
AntimicrobialAcrylates Copolymer
Lauryl Betaine
CleansingButylene Glycol
HumectantMenthol
MaskingCaffeine
Skin ConditioningSodium Salicylate
PreservativePPG-3 Caprylyl Ether
SolventMentha Piperita Oil
MaskingCetrimonium Chloride
AntimicrobialCaprylyl Glycol
EmollientPolyquaternium-10
Sodium Hydroxide
BufferingIllicium Verum Fruit/Seed Oil
MaskingMicrocrystalline Cellulose
AbsorbentSodium Sulfite
PreservativeSodium Citrate
BufferingDextrin
AbsorbentXylitylglucoside
HumectantRosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil
MaskingZea Mays Starch
AbsorbentJuniperus Virginiana Oil
MaskingAnhydroxylitol
HumectantEthylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningTetrasodium EDTA
Mannitol
HumectantXylitol
HumectantMentha Arvensis Leaf Oil
MaskingMentha Arvensis Leaf Extract
MaskingSorbitol
HumectantSucrose
HumectantEucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil
PerfumingOnsen-Sui
Ocimum Basilicum Oil
Masking1,2-Hexanediol
Skin ConditioningChromium Hydroxide Green
Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate
Fructooligosaccharides
HumectantAnthemis Nobilis Flower Oil
MaskingCI 77492
Cosmetic ColorantHydrogenated Lecithin
EmulsifyingViola Odorata Leaf Extract
MaskingLactobacillus Ferment Lysate
Skin ConditioningAscorbic Acid
AntioxidantCI 77891
Cosmetic ColorantTocopheryl Acetate
AntioxidantPropanediol
SolventPanax Ginseng Root Extract
EmollientZingiber Officinale Root Extract
MaskingSea Salt
AbrasiveCamellia Sinensis Leaf Water
MaskingTocopherol
AntioxidantHouttuynia Cordata Extract
Skin ConditioningCamellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
AntimicrobialPolygonum Multiflorum Root Extract
Skin ConditioningDisodium EDTA
Nelumbo Nucifera Extract
Skin ConditioningGlycine Soja Seed Extract
Skin ConditioningPhyllostachys Bambusoides Juice
Skin ConditioningMaltodextrin
AbsorbentAloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
EmollientWater, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Alcohol Denat., Acrylates Copolymer, Lauryl Betaine, Butylene Glycol, Menthol, Caffeine, Sodium Salicylate, PPG-3 Caprylyl Ether, Mentha Piperita Oil, Cetrimonium Chloride, Caprylyl Glycol, Polyquaternium-10, Sodium Hydroxide, Illicium Verum Fruit/Seed Oil, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Sodium Sulfite, Sodium Citrate, Dextrin, Xylitylglucoside, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Zea Mays Starch, Juniperus Virginiana Oil, Anhydroxylitol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tetrasodium EDTA, Mannitol, Xylitol, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Extract, Sorbitol, Sucrose, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Onsen-Sui, Ocimum Basilicum Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Chromium Hydroxide Green, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Fructooligosaccharides, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, CI 77492, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Viola Odorata Leaf Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate, Ascorbic Acid, CI 77891, Tocopheryl Acetate, Propanediol, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Sea Salt, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Tocopherol, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Polygonum Multiflorum Root Extract, Disodium EDTA, Nelumbo Nucifera Extract, Glycine Soja Seed Extract, Phyllostachys Bambusoides Juice, Maltodextrin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
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.
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 preservatives
Acrylates Copolymer is used as a film-forming agent and texture enhancer.
After applied, Acrylates Copolymer forms a thin film cover that helps skin feel more soft. It can help sunscreens become more water-resistant.
It is also used to make a product more thick.
Learn more about Acrylates CopolymerThis 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 AnhydroxylitolButylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:
Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient that works well with other ingredients.
Though this ingredient works well with most skin types, some people with sensitive skin may experience a reaction such as allergic rashes, closed comedones, or itchiness.
Learn more about Butylene GlycolCaffeine is a naturally occurring plant compound found in coffee beans, tea leaves, cocoa pods, and guarana.
As an antioxidant, caffeine protects your skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and envionrmnetal stressors.
Early research also shows that caffeine can help calm redness, soothe irritated skin, and support hair growth by stimulating microcirculation in the scalp.
You might have seen eye creams marketing caffeine as a depuffing ingredient. This is because it is a vasoconstrictor meaning it can temporarily constrict blood vessels, though clinical evidence for this specific use is still limited.
Most skincare products contain this ingredient at concentrations between 1-6%. It is able to penetrate skin easily regardless of skin type or thickness.
Just so you know, a very small number of case reports describe caffeine-induced allergy. This ingredient is generally well-tolerated, non-irritating, and non-sensitizing for the majority of people.
Learn more about CaffeineCamellia Sinensis Leaf Water is also known as green tea hydrosol. It is the water leftover from steeping or steam-distilling tea.
It's mostly in cosmetics to lend a light tea scent and gentle refreshing feel (tonic) rather than acting as an active.
Unlike the extract, this ingredient only carries trace amounts of catechins, amino acids, and caffeine that makes tea leaf extract famous.
Learn more about Camellia Sinensis Leaf WaterCaprylyl Glycol is a humectant, skin conditioner, emollient, and preservative booster derived from either caprylic acid or synthetically created.
Typical use levels vary from 0.3-1% as a preservative booster and go up to 2% to condition skin.
Because it is not a free-fatty acid or alcohol, this ingredient is fungal acne safe (there's nothing for Malassezia to feed on).
Learn more about Caprylyl GlycolThis ingredient is a preservative, antimicrobial, and emulsifier. It is often used in cosmetics for its ability to cleanse, condition, and reduce static.
Cetrimonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium salt, meaning it has a water-soluble structure.
Dextrin is used to thicken a product and helps bind ingredients together. It is created from starch and glycogen.
As an emulsifier, dextrin prevents ingredients from separating. This helps elongate a product's shelf life.
Studies show coating UV filters with dextrin prevents these ingredients from being absorbed. This helps UV ingredients last longer on the skin.
Learn more about DextrinDisodium EDTA is a chelating agent. It grabs onto and deactivates metal ions that sneak into your products from water, packaging, or air.
This ingredient mainly works behind the scenes and helps with:
On top of that, this ingredient can counteract the effects of hard water by binding to the minerals in it.
One thing worth knowing is that Disodium EDTA has been shown to be a mild penetration enhancer. It can help other ingredients absorb into skin more effectively which can be a double-edged sword (great for actives, but can also make the active too strong if you have sensitive skin).
Clinical patch testing showed no significant skin irritation at typical use concentrations and minimal dermal absorption.
You'll most likely see this ingredient near the end of an ingredient list. It's typically found in concentrations less than 1%.
Learn more about Disodium EDTAEthylhexylglycerin is created from glycerin. It is a multitasker ingredient that:
The CIR Expert Panel found minimal skin absorption or sensitization of any kind in a safety assessment. Though this ingredient is considered well-tolerated, a small number of cases of allergic dermatitis have been published since 2002. Just be sure to patch test if you are unsure.
Industry-reported use ranges from 8% in rinse-off products and 2% in leave-on formulations.
Learn more about EthylhexylglycerinHydrogenated Lecithin is a more stable version of lecithin.
It's made by taking lecithin (a phospholipid commonly found in soybeans and egg yolks) and hydrogenating it. This just means the unsaturated fatty acids are turned into saturated ones so they don't go bad as easily.
This ingredient is an emollient, emulsifier, and penetration enhancer. As an emollient, it helps soften and hydrate skin by trapping moisture within. As an emulsifier, it prevents oil and water ingredients from separating.
Hydrogenated Lecithin can form tiny spherical structures made of phospholipid bilayers called liposomes. These liposomes are able to capture compounds inside their structure and deliver them through the skin barrier.
Because phospholipids are a natural component of our cell membranes, this ingredient is inherently compatible with skin.
A 2021 study found lecithin-based surfactants were less harsh and more tolerable comared to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS).
Learn more about Hydrogenated LecithinLactobacillus Ferment Lysate is a postbiotic with skin soothing properties. Postbiotics are inactive molecules produced by probiotic bacteria that provide skin benefits.
This ingredient comes from the secretion of the bacteria, Lactobacillus.
Studies show this ingredient can help calm redness and may help treat the signs of photoaging; however, the evidence is inconclusive and further studies are needed.
Lactobacillus Ferment is generally considered safe for fungal-acne prone skin. The key thing to understand is that it comes from bacteria, not yeast or fungus.
Yeast-derived ferments (like galactomyces) have been shown to activate a protein that's linked to Malassezia-related skin issues whereas lactobacillus doesn't have that problem.
Its byproducts also don't contain the types of fatty acids (C11-24 chain lengths) that Malassezia feeds on.
Learn more about Lactobacillus Ferment LysateWe don't have a description for Mentha Arvensis Leaf Extract yet.
Menthol is a compound found in mint plants, such as peppermint. In its pure form, it is a clear crystalline substance.
Menthol is known for its cooling sensation; however, the cooling is actually from your skin being sensitized. Menthol can worsen rosacea. We recommend speaking with a professional if you have concerns.
Menthol also has antimicrobial properties.
Learn more about MentholMicrocrystalline Cellulose is another name for refined wood pulp. It is used as an emulsifier and mattifying ingredient. As an emulsifier, it helps keep ingredients together.
Ginseng root is a well-loved ingredient in Asian skincare for good reason. It hydrates the skin, soothes irritation, and helps even out skin tone.
In traditional East Asian medicine, ginseng has been used for centuries both as food and as a healing remedy, and modern research continues to confirm its skin benefits.
One of the standout features of ginseng is its ability to improve blood circulation and oxygen delivery to the skin, bringing a fresh supply of nutrients to support overall skin health. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This helps to protect your skin against damage from UV exposure, pollution, and daily stress.
Additionally, studies suggest that ginseng may help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme involved in melanin production.
There are different types of ginseng used in skincare, and while they all share core benefits, their potency can vary.
Most products use fresh or white ginseng because it’s more affordable. However, red ginseng, produced by steaming the root, contains higher levels of ginsenosides, which are compounds with proven anti-aging effects. These ginsenosides help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin elasticity.
Note: All forms of ginseng are listed simply as “Panax ginseng” in ingredient lists. We recommend reaching out to the brand if you have questions about which type of ginseng is used in their ingredients.
For general antioxidant benefits, any ginseng extract will do, but for wrinkle care or firmer skin, red or fermented ginseng is often more effective.
In short, ginseng is a powerhouse ingredient that supports hydration, radiance, and resilience.
Learn more about Panax Ginseng Root ExtractWe don't have a description for Phyllostachys Bambusoides Juice yet.
We don't have a description for PPG-3 Caprylyl Ether yet.
Sea salt has abrasive or exfoliation properties. It can sensitize and dry out the skin.
Sodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective.
In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline.
Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated.
"Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic.
Learn more about Sodium HydroxideThis ingredient is the sodium salt of salicylic acid, the famous anti-acne ingredient.
Officially, this ingredient is used as a preservative. However, some studies found Sodium Salicylate to have exfoliating properties. Further studies are needed.
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol. It is a hydrating and moisturizing agent created from the reduction process of glucose.
Most sorbitol is usually made from potato starch. It is also found in fruits such as apples and pears.
As a humectant, Sorbitol helps draw water to the skin. This helps keep the skin hydrated. Sorbitol also helps create a thicker texture in products. You might find sorbitol in your toothpaste and other gels.
It is a non-irritating ingredient that is great for those with dry skin.
Sorbitol is a prebiotic. It helps promote the growth of healthy bacteria on your skin. The bacteria on your skin form a microbiome. This microbiome helps protect your skin from infection and harmful bacteria.
Learn more about SorbitolSucrose is a natural sugar found in fruits, vegetables, and nuts. It is the main constituent of white sugar.
In skincare, sucrose is a humectant and can be a mild exfoliant.
Sucrose is hydrophilic, meaning it attracts water. This makes it an effective humectant and helps hydrate the skin.
Studies show sugars may worsen acne-prone skin due to it disrupting the skin's natural biome. We recommend speaking with a professional if you have any concerns.
In some products such as body scrubs, sucrose is used as an gentle exfoliant.
The term 'sucrose' comes from the french word for sugar, 'sucre'.
Learn more about SucroseTetrasodium EDTA is the salt formed from neutralizing ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid with sodium hydroxide. It is a chelating agent and used to prevent metal ions from binding to other ingredients. This helps keep the product and ingredients stable.
Tetrasodium EDTA comes as a white solid and is soluble in water.
Tocopheryl Acetate is AKA Vitamin E. It is an antioxidant and protects your skin from free radicals. Free radicals damage the skin by breaking down collagen.
One study found using Tocopheryl Acetate with Vitamin C decreased the number of sunburned cells.
Tocopheryl Acetate is commonly found in both skincare and dietary supplements.
Learn more about Tocopheryl AcetateWater. 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. Remember to stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterXylitol 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 XylitylglucosideZea Mays Starch is starch made from corn. You might know this as cornstarch . It is used to thicken a product. It can replace talc as an absorbent.
The pH of cornstarch is 5.92.
Cornstarch is a common food ingredient used to thicken soups or to make corn syrup.
Learn more about Zea Mays Starch