The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Water is the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. It often makes up the largest portion of a product, and is thus typically found at (or near) the top of an ingredients list.

In most cases, the purpose of water within an ingredient list is to act as a solvent - this means it's there to help dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.

Water also happens to be necessary for all life on Earth. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!

Niacinamide has emerged as an all-star ingredient due to its many benefits.

It is known to treat acne by reducing inflammation fading dark-spots. It can strengthen the skin by promoting the growth of the ceramide barrier.

Other benefits include smoothing wrinkles and minimizing redness.

Niacinamide can also help build keratin, a protein that keeps skin firm.

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.

Niacinamide can be mixed with other ingredients to boost benefits. For instance, it has shown to be effective when used with copper, folic acid, and zinc to treat acne.

Pentylene glycol is typically used within a product to thicken it, and also adds a smooth, soft, and moisturizing feel to the product.

This ingredient also acts as a mild preservative and helps to keep a product microbe-free.

Zinc PCA (or "zinc salt") differs slightly from zinc itself. PCA stands for pyrrolidone carboxylic acid.

It can help reduce redness, regulate sebum, and promote the general healing process of the skin.

Zinc PCA tends to be especially useful for those with oily, acne-prone skin. It's certainly an ingredient worth trying out!

We don't have a description for Dimethyl Isosorbide.

We don't have a description for Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum.

Xanthan 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.

Isoceteth-20 can cause irritation.

Ethoxydiglycol is a fragrance.

Phenoxyethanol has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. In studies, Phenoxyethanol has been found to prevent germ and microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent similar to roses.

Phenoxyethanol is commonly used with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.