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Tosowoong SOS Intensive Red Clinic Ovalicin Skin Clear Cream

Tosowoong SOS Intensive Red Clinic Ovalicin Skin Clear Cream Ingredients Explained

Moisturizer
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Updated December 27, 2023 Added by tsmeu

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Overview

What it is

General moisturizer with 52 ingredients that contains BHA, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and Vitamin E

Cool Features

It is reef safe

Suited For

It has ingredients that are good for fighting acne, anti aging, dry skin, brightening skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, reducing pores, scar healing and dark spots

Free From

It doesn't contain any parabens or sulfates

Fun facts

Tosowoong is from South Korea. This product is used in 1 routines created by our community.

We independently verify ingredients and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Does this product need an update? Let us know.

Quick info

Free from

Safety & Ethics

Korean Brand

Brand country of origin

Ingredients, at a glance

What's in this product, and how it might affect your skin.

Notable Ingredients

Benefits

Concerns

Ingredients List

Dive into the full list of ingredients.

Water Skin Conditioning, Solvent

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.

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Glycerin Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
0 / 0 Helps hydrate Dry Skin IconHelps brighten skin Icon

Glycerin is already naturally found in your skin. It helps moisturize and protect your skin.

0 Com. / 0 Irr.
Loved by users
2 Benefits
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Cetearyl Alcohol Emollient, Emulsifying, Emulsion Stabilising
2 / 1 Fatty Alcohol IconMay worsen Oily Skin IconBad for Acne Prone Skin IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Cetearyl alcohol is a mixture of two fatty alcohols: cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol. It is mainly used as an emulsifier. Emulsifiers help prevent the separation of oils and products. Due to its composition, it can also be used to thicken a product or help create foam.

2 Com. / 1 Irr.
Very disliked
Fatty AlcoholFatty Alcohol Icon3 Concerns
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Niacinamide Smoothing
Niacinamide IconGood for Oily Skin IconHelps reduce Skin Redness IconHelps reduce irritation IconGood for Minimizing Pores IconHelps with Anti-Aging IconGood for Dark Spots IconGood for Scar Healing IconHelps fight Acne IconHelps brighten skin Icon

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

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NiacinamideNiacinamide Icon9 Benefits
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Beeswax Emulsion Stabilising, Masking, Skin Conditioning
0-2 / 0 May worsen Oily Skin IconBad for Acne Prone Skin IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Beeswax is natural wax produced by honey bees and can be synthetically created. It consists mainly of fatty acid esters and long-chain alcohols.

0-2 Com. / 0 Irr.
Very disliked
3 Concerns
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Ceresin Emulsion Stabilising
0 / 0

Ceresin is a wax derived from ozokerite. It is an alternative to beeswax.

0 Com. / 0 Irr.
Disliked by users
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Hydrogenated Polyisobutene Emollient, Skin Conditioning
1 / 2

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is a synthetic polymer. Polymers are compounds with high molecular weight. Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is an emollient and texture enhancer.

1 Com. / 2 Irr.
Liked by users
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PEG-100 Stearate
0 / 0 Not safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Peg-100 Stearate is an emollient and emulsifier. As an emollient, it helps keep skin soft by trapping moisture in. On the other hand, emulsifiers help prevent oil and water from separating in a product.

0 Com. / 0 Irr.
Very disliked
Not safe for Fungal AcneNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon
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Glyceryl Stearate Emollient, Emulsifying
1 / 0 Not safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Glyceryl Stearate is a mix of glycerin and stearic acid.

1 Com. / 0 Irr.
Disliked by users
Not safe for Fungal AcneNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon
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Dimethicone Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
1 / 0 Silicon Icon

Dimethicone is a silicone used for making products smooth and silky. It also has the added benefit of sealing in hydration.

1 Com. / 0 Irr.
Very disliked
SiliconSilicon Icon
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Cetyl Ethylhexanoate Emollient

Cetyl Ethylhexanoate comes from cetearyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid.

Mixed reviews
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Emu Oil Skin Conditioning
Oil IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Emu Oil is an oil and isn't fungal acne safe.

Disliked by users
OilOil IconNot safe for Fungal AcneNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon
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Colloidal Sulfur Antimicrobial
Bad for Acne Prone Skin Icon

Colloidal Sulfur can be bad for acne prone skin.

Very disliked
Bad for Acne Prone SkinBad for Acne Prone Skin Icon
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Polysorbate 60 Emulsifying
Not safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Polysorbate 60 is used to help stabilize products. It is a surfactant and emulsifier. These properties help keep ingredients together in a product. Surfactants help reduce surface tension between ingredients with different states, such as liquids and solids. Emulsifiers help prevent oils and waters from separating.

Very disliked
Not safe for Fungal AcneNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon
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Beta-Glucan Skin Conditioning
Helps hydrate Dry Skin IconHelps reduce Skin Redness IconHelps reduce irritation Icon

Beta-Glucan is a polysaccharide. It can be derived from the cell walls of seaweed, oats, yeast, and fungi. It hydrates the skin and helps boost your skin's natural barrier.

Loved by users
3 Benefits
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Sorbitan Stearate Emulsifying
0 / 1 Not safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Sorbitan Stearate comes from sorbitol and stearic acid. Sorbitol is a type of sugar and stearic acid is a fatty acid.

0 Com. / 1 Irr.
Very disliked
Not safe for Fungal AcneNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon
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Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil Antioxidant, Perfuming
Antioxidant IconFragrance IconOil IconGood for Oily Skin IconMay worsen Eczema Icon

This tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the Tea Tree plant. Tea tree oil has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

Mixed reviews
AntioxidantAntioxidant IconFragranceFragrance IconOilOil IconGood for Oily SkinGood for Oily Skin IconMay worsen EczemaMay worsen Eczema Icon
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Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Skin Conditioning
Helps hydrate Dry Skin IconMay worsen Oily Skin IconBad for Acne Prone Skin IconNot safe for Fungal Acne Icon

Butyrospermum Parkii Butter is a plant lipid from the fruit of the Shea Tree. It is an effective skin hydrator and emollient.

Very disliked
Helps hydrate Dry SkinHelps hydrate Dry Skin Icon3 Concerns
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Triethanolamine Buffering, Emulsifying, Masking
2 / 0

Triethanolamine is an emulsifier and pH adjuster. It is created using ethylene oxide and ammonia. This gives Triethanolamine a nitrogen core and a similar scent to ammonia.

2 Com. / 0 Irr.
Very disliked
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Carbomer Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
1 / 0

Carbomer is a polymer of acrylic acid. Its main role is to create a gel consistency.

1 Com. / 0 Irr.
Disliked by users
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Tocopheryl Acetate Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning
0 / 0 Vitamin E IconAntioxidant Icon

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.

0 Com. / 0 Irr.
Liked by users
Vitamin EVitamin E IconAntioxidantAntioxidant Icon
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Butylene Glycol Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning
1 / 0 Helps hydrate Dry Skin Icon

Butylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:

1 Com. / 0 Irr.
Mixed reviews
Helps hydrate Dry SkinHelps hydrate Dry Skin Icon
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Cetearyl Glucoside Emulsifying

Cetearyl Glucoside is a surfactant and emulsifier. It can be produced from synthetic of natural sources of cetearyl alcohol and glucose.

Disliked by users
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Lavandula Angustifolia Oil Masking, Perfuming, Tonic
Fragrance IconOil IconMay cause irritation IconEU Allergen Icon

Lavandula Angustifolia Oil is more commonly known as lavender essential oil.

Very disliked
FragranceFragrance IconOilOil Icon2 Concerns
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Betaine Humectant, Skin Conditioning
Helps hydrate Dry Skin IconHelps reduce irritation IconGood for Dark Spots Icon

Betaine is a common humectant (a substance that promotes retention of moisture). It's known to be gentle on the skin and can help balance hydration.

Loved by users
3 Benefits
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Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract Skin Conditioning

Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract comes from the Japanese Pepper, also known as the Prickly Ash. This plant is native to the Korean peninsula and Japan.

Mixed reviews
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Pulsatilla Koreana Extract Skin Conditioning

Pulsatilla Koreana Extract comes from the Korean pasque flower. This flower is used in traditional Korean medicine.

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Usnea Barbata Extract

We don't have a description for Usnea Barbata Extract yet.

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Disodium EDTA

Disodium EDTA plays a role in making products more stable by aiding other preservatives.

Disliked by users
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BHT Antioxidant, Masking
Antioxidant Icon

BHT is a synthetic antioxidant and preservative.

Very disliked
AntioxidantAntioxidant Icon
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Salicylic Acid Masking, Preservative, Skin Conditioning
BHA IconPreservative IconGood for Oily Skin IconGood for Minimizing Pores IconHelps fight Acne IconHelps brighten skin IconCan worsen Dry Skin IconMay worsen Eczema IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Salicylic Acid (also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is one of the most well-known ingredients for treating skin that struggles with blackheads and acne. It helps to exfoliate both the skin's surface and pores, and also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent.

Loved by users
BHABHA IconPreservativePreservative Icon4 Benefits3 Concerns
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Salvia Sclarea Extract Antiseborrhoeic, Astringent, Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Salvia Sclarea Extract yet.

Not enough ratings
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Propanediol Solvent

Propanediol helps absorb ingredients into your skin, boosting their benefits. It can act as an emollient, making your skin softer. Propanediol can help products last longer by boosting the properties of preservatives within the formulation.

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Ovalicin Antimicrobial

We don't have a description for Ovalicin yet.

Not enough ratings
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Hyacinthus Orientalis Extract Skin Conditioning, Tonic

We don't have a description for Hyacinthus Orientalis Extract yet.

Not enough ratings
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Adenosine Skin Conditioning
Good for Minimizing Pores IconGood for Scar Healing Icon

Adenosine is in every living organism. It is one of four components in nucleic acids that helps store our DNA.

Loved by users
2 Benefits
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Zingiber Officinale Root Extract Masking, Skin Conditioning, Tonic

Zingiber Officinale is more commonly known as ginger.

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Camellia Japonica Leaf Extract Skin Conditioning

Camellia Japonica Leaf Extract comes from the leaves of the Camellia japonica plant. This plant is native to East Asia.

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Lavandula Angustifolia Water Masking

Lavandula Angustifolia Extract is created by distilling parts of the lavender flower. Lavandula Angustifolia is known as the English Lavender and famous for creating purple fields in Provence, France.

Very disliked
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Borago Officinalis Extract Emollient, Skin Conditioning
Helps reduce irritation Icon

Borago Officinalis Extract is often synonymous with Borago Officinalis Seed Oil. It comes from the seeds of the starflower plant. This plant grows primarily in Europe.

Not enough ratings
Helps reduce irritationHelps reduce irritation Icon
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Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf Extract Antimicrobial

Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract comes from the Chamomile flower.

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Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract Skin Conditioning, Tonic

We don't have a description for Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract yet.

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Citrus Paradisi Seed Extract Masking, Perfuming
Fragrance Icon

Citrus Paradisi Seed Extract is a fragrance.

Not enough ratings
FragranceFragrance Icon
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Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant, Skin Conditioning
0 / 0 Hyaluronic Acid Icon

Sodium Hyaluronate is hyaluronic acid's salt form. It is commonly derived from the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid.

0 Com. / 0 Irr.
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Hyaluronic AcidHyaluronic Acid Icon
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Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract Astringent, Skin Conditioning

Centaurea Cyanus Flower extract comes from the cornflower, Centaurea cyanus. The cornflower is native to Europe.

Not enough ratings
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Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract Antimicrobial, Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract yet.

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Phenoxyethanol Preservative
Preservative Icon

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.

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PreservativePreservative Icon
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Benzyl Alcohol Perfuming, Preservative, Solvent
Alcohol IconFragrance IconPreservative IconCan worsen Dry Skin IconMay worsen Oily Skin IconMay cause irritation IconEU Allergen IconMay worsen Eczema IconMay worsen Rosacea Icon

Benzyl Alcohol is most commonly used as a preservative. It also has a subtle, sweet smell. Small amounts of Benzyl Alcohol is not irritating and safe to use in skincare products. Most Benzyl Alcohol is derived from fruits such as apricots.

Very disliked
AlcoholAlcohol IconFragranceFragrance IconPreservativePreservative Icon6 Concerns
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Salix Alba Bark Extract Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
Good for Oily Skin Icon

Salix Alba Bark Extract comes from the white willow tree, which is native to Europe and Central Asia.

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Good for Oily SkinGood for Oily Skin Icon
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Sophora Flavescens Root Extract Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning
Antioxidant Icon

Sophora Flavescens Root Extract is an antioxidant.

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AntioxidantAntioxidant Icon
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Citrus Paradisi Fruit Extract Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Citrus Paradisi Fruit Extract yet.

Very disliked
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Ethylhexylglycerin Skin Conditioning

Ethylhexylglycerin (we can't pronounce this either) is commonly used as a preservative and skin softener. It is derived from glyceryl.

Mixed reviews
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What the community thinks

Based on the number of likes and dislikes each ingredient has received.

10
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10
liked
mixed
disliked
not rated
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Ingredients Explained

This product contains 52 ingredients. Click on any ingredient to learn more about it
Skin Conditioning, Solvent
Loved

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 Water
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
Loved

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 Glycerin
Emollient, Emulsifying, Emulsion Stabilising
Very Disliked

Cetearyl alcohol is a mixture of two fatty alcohols: cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol. It is mainly used as an emulsifier. Emulsifiers help prevent the separation of oils and products. Due to its composition, it can also be used to thicken a product or help create foam.

Cetearyl alcohol is an emollient. Emollients help soothe and hydrate the skin by trapping moisture.

Studies show Cetearyl alcohol is non-toxic and non-irritating. The FDA allows products labeled "alcohol-free" to have fatty alcohols.

This ingredient is usually derived from plant oils such as palm, vegetable, or coconut oils. There is debate on whether this ingredient will cause acne.

Due to the fatty acid base, this ingredient may not be Malassezia folliculitis safe.

Learn more about Cetearyl Alcohol
Smoothing
Loved

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

It is known to treat acne by reducing inflammation. It also helps fade dark-spots and strengthen the skin by promoting the growth of the ceramide barrier.

Other benefits include smoothing wrinkles and minimizing redness.

The cherry on top? 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.

Learn more about Niacinamide
Emulsion Stabilising, Masking, Skin Conditioning
Very Disliked

Beeswax is natural wax produced by honey bees and can be synthetically created. It consists mainly of fatty acid esters and long-chain alcohols.

In cosmetics, beeswax is a emollient. Due to its waxy structure, it creates a protective barrier. This barrier prevents water from evaporating off the skin.

This may not be a good ingredient for oily skin. We recommend speaking with a professional if you have concerns.

Beeswax cannot be removed with water, but can be taken off with an oil cleanser.

Beeswax is also antiseptic and contains vitamin A.

Learn more about Beeswax
Emulsion Stabilising
Disliked

Ceresin is a wax derived from ozokerite. It is an alternative to beeswax.

The most common process of creating ceresin is by using heat and sulfuric acid.

Emollient, Skin Conditioning
Liked

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is a synthetic polymer. Polymers are compounds with high molecular weight. Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is an emollient and texture enhancer.

In one study, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene showed better skin hydration levels than Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride. As an emollient, it helps keep your skin soft and hydrated by trapping moisture in.

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is often used as a mineral oil replacement.

Learn more about Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Very Disliked

Peg-100 Stearate is an emollient and emulsifier. As an emollient, it helps keep skin soft by trapping moisture in. On the other hand, emulsifiers help prevent oil and water from separating in a product.

PEGS are a hydrophilic polyether compound . There are 100 ethylene oxide monomers in Peg-100 Stearate. Peg-100 Stearate is polyethylene glycol ester of stearic acid.

Emollient, Emulsifying
Disliked

Glyceryl 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 Stearate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting
Very Disliked

Dimethicone is a silicone used for making products smooth and silky. It also has the added benefit of sealing in hydration.

The amount of dimethicone found in beauty products is considered safe and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores.

This ingredient has been found to increase absorption in skin, boosting the benefits of other ingredients.

Learn more about Dimethicone
Emollient
Mixed

Cetyl Ethylhexanoate comes from cetearyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid.

It is an emollient that adds a velvety feel to products when applied. Emollients help trap moisture into your skin, keeping your skin soft and hydrated.

Skin Conditioning
Disliked

Emu Oil is an oil and isn't fungal acne safe.

Antimicrobial
Very Disliked

Colloidal Sulfur can be bad for acne prone skin.

Emulsifying
Very Disliked

Polysorbate 60 is used to help stabilize products. It is a surfactant and emulsifier. These properties help keep ingredients together in a product. Surfactants help reduce surface tension between ingredients with different states, such as liquids and solids. Emulsifiers help prevent oils and waters from separating.

Polysorbate 60 is sorbitol-based and created from the ethoxylation of sorbitan. Ethoxylation is a chemical reaction used to add ethylene oxide. Sorbitan is a the dehydrated version of sorbitol, a sugar found in fruits.

In this case, the 60 comes from reacting 60 units of ethylene oxide with sorbitan.

Polysorbates are commonly used in medicine and foods.

Learn more about Polysorbate 60
Skin Conditioning
Loved

Beta-Glucan is a polysaccharide. It can be derived from the cell walls of seaweed, oats, yeast, and fungi. It hydrates the skin and helps boost your skin's natural barrier.

As an antioxidant, beta-glucan helps fight free-radicals. Free-radicals are molecules that may damage your skin cells, such as pollution.

Studies show this ingredient may be an effective wrinkle reducer as it can deeply penetrate into skin. It has also been show to help with wound healing.

Learn more about Beta-Glucan
Emulsifying
Very Disliked

Sorbitan Stearate comes from sorbitol and stearic acid. Sorbitol is a type of sugar and stearic acid is a fatty acid.

It is used as an emulsifier and helps ingredients stay together by creating water-in-oil emulsions.
This ingredient may not be Malassezia folliculitis, or fungal-acne safe.

Antioxidant, Perfuming
Mixed

This tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the Tea Tree plant. Tea tree oil has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

According to the book Journal of Profiles of Drug Substances, tea tree helps in reducing acne-causing bacteria such as Propionibacterium acnes. This is due to the Terpinen components of tea tree oil.

Tea tree may cause sensitivity and irritation for some people. This oil naturally contains fragrance such as linalool and limonene.

However, research shows irritation usually occurs when using pure tea tree oil and not in cosmetic products.

Tea tree oil was found to help relieve the symptoms of psoriasis in one study.

Tea tree oil is toxic when ingested. Another study showed it to caused damage to the nervous system of dogs and cats when applied to their skin or given orally.

Learn more about Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
Skin Conditioning
Very Disliked

Butyrospermum Parkii Butter is a plant lipid from the fruit of the Shea Tree. It is an effective skin hydrator and emollient.

Emollients help soothe and soften your skin. It does this by creating a protective film on your skin. This barrier helps trap moisture and keeps your skin hydrated. Emollients may be effective at treating dry or itchy skin.

Shea butter is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free-radicals, or molecules that may harm the body. It is also full of fatty acids including stearic acid and linoleic acid. These acids help replenish the skin and keep skin moisturized.

While Shea Butter has an SPF rating of about 3-4, it is not a sunscreen replacement.

Shea butter may not be fungal acne safe. We recommend speaking with a professional if you have any concerns.

Learn more about Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Buffering, Emulsifying, Masking
Very Disliked

Triethanolamine is an emulsifier and pH adjuster. It is created using ethylene oxide and ammonia. This gives Triethanolamine a nitrogen core and a similar scent to ammonia.

As an emulsifier, it prevents ingredients from separating and enhances texture by adding volume to a product.

PH adjusters are common in cosmetic products. The pH of a product can affect the effectiveness of other ingredients. A product with a high pH may also irritate the skin.

Learn more about Triethanolamine
Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
Disliked

Carbomer is a polymer of acrylic acid. Its main role is to create a gel consistency.

A high amount of carbomer can cause pilling or balling up of products. Don't worry, most products contain 1% or less of carbomer.

Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning
Liked

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 Acetate
Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning
Mixed

Butylene Glycol (or BG) is used within cosmetic products for a few different reasons:

  • It is a solvent, meaning that it helps to dissolve other ingredients. This also enhances the absorption of the product into one's skin.
  • It is a humectant, which means that it helps attract moisture into the skin.
  • It helps improve product application.

Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and well-rounded ingredient that works well with other ingredients.

Emulsifying
Disliked

Cetearyl Glucoside is a surfactant and emulsifier. It can be produced from synthetic of natural sources of cetearyl alcohol and glucose.

Emulsifiers help prevent ingredients from separating, such as oils and waters. It can also be used to enhance the texture of products.

As a surfactant, Cetearyl Glucoside helps during the cleansing process. By gathering all the dirt and oils, it allows these molecules to be washed away easily.

Learn more about Cetearyl Glucoside
Masking, Perfuming, Tonic
Very Disliked

Lavandula Angustifolia Oil is more commonly known as lavender essential oil.

Lavender imparts a famous scent. While the smell is lovely, this ingredient and may sensitize skin in topical products. This is because it contains linalool, a known allergen.

However, lavender essential oil has shown to have anti-inflammatory activity due to its prostanoid and histamine content. Its leaves also exhibit antibacterial properties.

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 Oil
Humectant, Skin Conditioning
Loved

Betaine is a common humectant (a substance that promotes retention of moisture). It's known to be gentle on the skin and can help balance hydration.

This ingredient is best for improving hydration and soothing irritated skin. Studies also show it helps even out skin tone.

Fun fact: Betaine is naturally created in the skin and body. The kind found within cosmetic products can be either plant-derived or synthetic.

Learn more about Betaine
Skin Conditioning
Mixed

Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract comes from the Japanese Pepper, also known as the Prickly Ash. This plant is native to the Korean peninsula and Japan.

The pepper has antioxidant properties. It may help reduce the signs of aging.

For those with fragrance sensitivities, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract contains limonene.

If you have concerns, we recommend speaking with a professional about using this ingredient.

The Japanese Pepper is related to the Sichuan Pepper.

Learn more about Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract
Skin Conditioning
Loved

Pulsatilla Koreana Extract comes from the Korean pasque flower. This flower is used in traditional Korean medicine.

We don't have a description for Usnea Barbata Extract yet.

Disliked

Disodium EDTA plays a role in making products more stable by aiding other preservatives.

It is a chelating agent, meaning it neutralizes metal ions that may be found in a product.

Disodium EDTA is a salt of edetic acid and is found to be safe in cosmetic ingredients.

Learn more about Disodium EDTA
BHT
Antioxidant, Masking
Very Disliked

BHT is a synthetic antioxidant and preservative.

As an antioxidant, it helps your body fight off free-radicals. Free-radicals are molecules that may damage your skin cells.

As a preservative, it is used to stabilize products and prevent them from degrading. Specifically, BHT prevents degradation from oxidation.

The concerns related to BHT come from oral studies; this ingredient is currently allowed for use by both the FDA and EU.

However, it was recently restricted for use in the UK as of April 2024.

Learn more about BHT
Masking, Preservative, Skin Conditioning
Loved

Salicylic Acid (also known as beta hydroxy acid or BHA) is one of the most well-known ingredients for treating skin that struggles with blackheads and acne. It helps to exfoliate both the skin's surface and pores, and also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent.

This multitasking property makes it a great ingredient for cleaning out pores, controlling oil production, and reducing inflammation.

Unlike AHAs which are water soluble, Salicylic Acid is oil soluble. This means that it's able to exfoliate the inside of pores and reduce blackheads.

Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as an over-the-counter topical acne product.

It can cause irritation and/or dryness if one's skin already has a compromised moisture barrier, so it's best to focus on repairing that before introducing a Salicylic Acid into your routine.

In general, Salicylic Acid is a great ingredient for oily acne-prone skin.

While salicylic acid does not increase sun-sensitivity, we still recommend wearing SPF.

If you are looking for the ingredient called BHA or Butylated Hydroxyanisole, click here.

Learn more about Salicylic Acid
Antiseborrhoeic, Astringent, Skin Conditioning

We don't have a description for Salvia Sclarea Extract yet.

Solvent
Liked

Propanediol helps absorb ingredients into your skin, boosting their benefits. It can act as an emollient, making your skin softer. Propanediol can help products last longer by boosting the properties of preservatives within the formulation.

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.

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Antimicrobial

We don't have a description for Ovalicin yet.

Skin Conditioning, Tonic

We don't have a description for Hyacinthus Orientalis Extract yet.

Skin Conditioning
Loved

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.

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Masking, Skin Conditioning, Tonic
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Zingiber Officinale is more commonly known as ginger.

Ginger root has antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and antimicrobial properties.

The antioxidant properties help protect your body from free-radicals. Free-radicals are molecules that may damage your skin cells. As a result, ginger may help slow down signs of aging such as hyperpigmentation and wrinkles.

Studies show ginger inhibits the enzyme that breaks down collagen. It also helps with:

This ingredient has no negative side-effects and is safe to use unless one has a specific allergy to it.

Ginger originates from Southeast Asia but has spread throughout the world. It is now a common spice used in many cultures.

Learn more about Zingiber Officinale Root Extract
Skin Conditioning
Loved

Camellia Japonica Leaf Extract comes from the leaves of the Camellia japonica plant. This plant is native to East Asia.

The leaves of Camellia Japonica have been found to have anti-inflammatory compounds. These include squalene, lupeol, and vitamin E.

This extract is created by using 50% 1,3-Butylene glycol.

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Masking
Very Disliked

Lavandula Angustifolia Extract is created by distilling parts of the lavender flower. Lavandula Angustifolia is known as the English Lavender and famous for creating purple fields in Provence, France.

Lavender has anti-inflammatory properties due to its prostanoids and histamine content. It also contains flavonoids and phenolic acids (such as ferulic acid), potent antioxidants.

Emollient, Skin Conditioning

Borago Officinalis Extract is often synonymous with Borago Officinalis Seed Oil. It comes from the seeds of the starflower plant. This plant grows primarily in Europe.

This oil does not have a scent. It contains fatty acids such as linolenic acid. These fatty acids help keep skin hydrated.

Borago Officinalis Seed Oil is an antioxidant. Antioxidants help fight free-radicals. Free-radicals are molecules that may damage your skin cells.

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Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract comes from the Chamomile flower.

Chamomile is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Several compounds found in chamomile help with soothing, such as bisbolol.

Antioxidant components in chamomile make it an effective ingredient to help slow the signs of aging. Antioxidants help fight free-radical molecules, or molecules that may damage your skin.

Learn more about Chamomilla Recutita Flower/Leaf Extract
Skin Conditioning, Tonic
Loved

We don't have a description for Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract yet.

Masking, Perfuming

Citrus Paradisi Seed Extract is a fragrance.

Humectant, Skin Conditioning
Loved

Sodium 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 Hyaluronate
Astringent, Skin Conditioning

Centaurea Cyanus Flower extract comes from the cornflower, Centaurea cyanus. The cornflower is native to Europe.

Cornflowers contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains high amounts of anxiotidants such as Vitamin C. They also contain flavonoids and anthocyanins.

Folk medicine in European cultures used cornflowers to help treat eye inflammation.

Fun fact: Cornflowers were used to determine if love was returned. Young men would wear cornflowers and if the color faded quickly, it meant the love was not reciprocated.

Learn more about Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract
Antimicrobial, Skin Conditioning
Loved

We don't have a description for Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract yet.

Preservative
Very Disliked

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.

It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.

Perfuming, Preservative, Solvent
Very Disliked

Benzyl Alcohol is most commonly used as a preservative. It also has a subtle, sweet smell. Small amounts of Benzyl Alcohol is not irritating and safe to use in skincare products. Most Benzyl Alcohol is derived from fruits such as apricots.

Benzyl Alcohol has both antibacterial and antioxidant properties. These properties help lengthen the shelf life of products. Benzyl Alcohol is a solvent and helps dissolve other ingredients. It can also improve the texture and spreadability.

Alcohol comes in many different forms. Different types of alcohol will have different effects on skin. This ingredient is an astringent alcohol.

Using high concentrations of these alcohols are drying on the skin. They may strip away your skin's natural oils and even damage your skin barrier. Astringent alcohols may also irritate skin.

Other types of astringent alcohols include:

According to the National Rosacea Society based in the US, you should be mindful of products with these alcohols in the top half of ingredients.

Any type of sanitizing product will have high amounts of alcohol to help kill bacteria and viruses.

Learn more about Benzyl Alcohol
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing
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Salix Alba Bark Extract comes from the white willow tree, which is native to Europe and Central Asia.

Salix Alba Bark Extract has often been described as salicylic acid's cousin. This is due to the salicin it contains. However, studies are limited showing salix alba bark to be an effective salicylic acid alternative.

Salicin does have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has shown to decrease the formation of inflammatory mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor-α and nuclear factor-kappa B. Salicin also has a mildly exfoliating effect on the skin.

Several other components in salix alba bark extract also contain antioxidant properties, such as flavonoids and polyphenols. Antioxidants may help with anti-aging as they neutralize harmful free-radical molecules.

Willow Bark extract has been used for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations used white willow to help treat pain and fevers.

Learn more about Salix Alba Bark Extract
Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning
Loved

Sophora Flavescens Root Extract is an antioxidant.

Skin Conditioning
Very Disliked

We don't have a description for Citrus Paradisi Fruit Extract yet.

Skin Conditioning
Mixed

Ethylhexylglycerin (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.

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