Research your favorite cosmetic ingredient below.
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a
- Ac Dermapeptide Lifting PBFA peptide derived from almonds. May reduce the appearance of wrinkles, but more study is needed.
- Acacia CollagenRefer to Related Articles
- Acacia ProteinRefer to Related Articles
- Acai BerryRefer to Related Articles
- AcetamideRefer to Related Articles
- AcetoneA powerful solvent, often used as the active ingredient in nail-polish remover. On contact, can irritate skin; inhalation of its fumes can cause a slew of other health problems.
- Acetyl HexapeptideRefer to Related Articles
- Acetyl Hexapeptide 1Refer to Related Articles
- Acetyl Hexapeptide 3Refer to Related Articles
- Acetyl Hexapeptide 6Refer to Related Articles
- AcetylcholineRefer to Related Articles
- Acetylsalicylic AcidGOOD [row] [col span="1/1"] Fulvic acid is a strong acidic polymer (pH1) extracted from organic substances such as peat. It helps other ingredients better absorb into the skin. As well as serving as a potent antioxidant that can significantly help fight the signs of aging such as fine(...)
- Acnecidic 6Refer to Related Articles
- ActinovolRefer to Related Articles
- African Botanics Pure Marula OilRefer to Related Articles
- AlbinoRefer to Related Articles
- AlciumRefer to Related Articles
- AldehydesRefer to Related Articles
- Alguronic AcidRefer to Related Articles
- Almond OilRefer to Related Articles
- Alpha Hydroxy AcidIdeal for reducing fine wrinkles, regulating and smoothing the skin texture, exfoliating pores, and maintaining a balanced pH levenl. They work by thinning the straum corneum
- AluminaA drying agent. One of the most absorbent substances on earth.
- AluminumRefer to Related Articles
- Aluminum HydroxideRefer to Related Articles
- Aluminum OxideRefer to Related Articles
- Aluminum SaltsUsed in antiperspirants to inhibit sweating by blocking sweat glands.
- Aluminum Zirconium Trichlorohydrex GlyRefer to Related Articles
- Amino AcidRefer to Related Articles
- AmlactinRefer to Related Articles
- AmodimethiconeRefer to Related Articles
- AmorphophallusRefer to Related Articles
- AndrogenicRefer to Related Articles
- AntioxidantRefer to Related Articles
- Apple Cider VinegarRefer to Related Articles
- Apple Lysate ExtractRefer to Related Articles
- Apple Seed ExtractRefer to Related Articles
- Apricot Kernel OilRefer to Related Articles
- AqualantRefer to Related Articles
- Argan OilA natural ingredient produced from the kernels of the argan tree. Contains fatty acids to maintain skin elasticity, smoothness, and radiance.
- Arginine HydrochlorideRefer to Related Articles
- ArgirelineAn ingredient similar to Botox. It can be injected or applied topically (for a lesser effect).
- Artichoke Leaf ExtractA good antioxidant and free-radical scavenger. Artichoke leaf extract contains chlorogenic acid, which was found to prevent the erythema that occurs with UV irradiation.
- Ascophyllum NodosumRefer to Related Articles
- Ascorbic AcidA form of vitamin C, this naturally-derived ingredient is an antioxidant. One of the main ingredients of our FutureDerm CE Caffeic Silk Serum!
- Ascorbyl GlucosamineRefer to Related Articles
- Ascorbyl PalmitateRefer to Related Articles
- Ascorbyl PentapeptideRefer to Related Articles
- Ascorbyl TetrapalmitateRefer to Related Articles
- AstaxanthinRefer to Related Articles
- AstringentRefer to Related Articles
- AtelocollagenRefer to Related Articles
- AtilinacRefer to Related Articles
- AvobenzoneA chemical sunscreen that works by converting the energy from UV rays into a non-harmful form, such as heat. Not recommended for kids or pregnant women, as it gets absorbed into the body.
- Avocado OilRefer to Related Articles
- Azelaic AcidRefer to Related Articles
b
- B VitaminsRefer to Related Articles
- Babassu OilRefer to Related Articles
- Babassu PalmRefer to Related Articles
- Babassu Seed OilRefer to Related Articles
- BacitracinRefer to Related Articles
- Baking SodaSodium bicarbonate. A very alkaline (pH9) ingredient often used as an abrasive agent in toothpaste and in rinses for acidic mouths.
- BakuchiolRefer to Related Articles
- Bamboo ExfoliantRefer to Related Articles
- Bamboo ExtractRefer to Related Articles
- Bay Leaf OilRefer to Related Articles
- Beech Tree Bud ExtractRefer to Related Articles
- BeeswaxRefer to Related Articles
- Bella SugarRefer to Related Articles
- BentoniteRefer to Related Articles
- BenzocaineRefer to Related Articles
- Benzoic AcidRefer to Related Articles
- Benzoyl PeroxideHas been shown to kill acne bacteria by generating reactive oxygen species in the sebaceous follicle. However, this process creates free radicals, so use only when needed and only on specific spots.
- Benzyl NicotinateRefer to Related Articles
- BergamotRefer to Related Articles
- Beta CaroteneRefer to Related Articles
- Beta GlucanRefer to Related Articles
- Beta-Hydroxy AcidAn oil-soluble ingredient that can easily enter clogged pores. Also removes dead skin cells, allowing new cells to grow in and theoretically fill in wrinkles.
- BhaRefer to Related Articles
- BhtRefer to Related Articles
- Bifida Ferment ExtractRefer to Related Articles
- Bifida Ferment LysateA probiotic claimed to work as a DNA repair agent when applied topically. This is not proven by a study.
- BilberryRefer to Related Articles
- BisabololRefer to Related Articles
- Bismuth OxychlorideRefer to Related Articles
- Bitter Cherry Seed OilContains fatty acids that moisturize and soften hair, as well as vitamin E.
- BorageRefer to Related Articles
- BosciaRefer to Related Articles
- Brazil Nut OilRefer to Related Articles
- BrimonidineAn alpha-2 andrenergic antagonist that
- Butyl AcetateRefer to Related Articles
- Butylated HydroxytolueneRefer to Related Articles
- Butylene GlycolRefer to Related Articles
- Butyrospermum ParkiiRefer to Related Articles
- BuxomRefer to Related Articles
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- CadmiumA toxic heavy metal sometimes found in lipstick. It is not easily absorbed into skin, but topical exposure to large quantities is not recommended.
- Caffeic AcidA form of hydroxycinnamic acid, this is a very potent antioxident. Studies have shown it is more effective than ferulic acid.
- CaffeineApplied topically, this ingredient works as a vasoconstrictor, antioxidant, and diuretic. However, due to its diuretic effect, may be drying as well.
- CalendulaRefer to Related Articles
- Camelina SativaRefer to Related Articles
- Camellia Japonica Seed OilNatural oil derived from camillias. Increases collagen production within the skin and promotes hydration.
- Canarium LuzonicumRefer to Related Articles
- Candlenut OilRefer to Related Articles
- Canola OilRefer to Related Articles
- CapislowRefer to Related Articles
- Capric TriglycerideRefer to Related Articles
- Caprooyl Tetrapeptide 3Refer to Related Articles
- Caprylic AcidRefer to Related Articles
- CapsaicinRefer to Related Articles
- CaracolRefer to Related Articles
- Carboxylic AcidRefer to Related Articles
- Carnosic AcidRefer to Related Articles
- CarnosolRefer to Related Articles
- CarotenoidRefer to Related Articles
- Carrot Seed OilAn oil that has strong antioxidant properties and contains carotenoids, which help prevent signs of aging, even out skin tone, and protect skin from UV damage.
- Castor Seed OilPrimarily used as an emollient and moisturizer.
- Caviar ExtractExtracted from caviar, the salt-preserved, non-fertilized eggs
- Celazome Serum VitaeRefer to Related Articles
- CellulazeRefer to Related Articles
- CeramideRefer to Related Articles
- Cerium DioxideRefer to Related Articles
- Cerium OxideRefer to Related Articles
- Cetearyl AlcoholLike Cetyl alcohol, this is a fatty alcohol derived from coconuts. A great moisturizer that is used as an emollient and to improve viscosity in cosmetics.
- Cetyl AlcoholLike Cetearyl alcohol, this is a fatty alcohol derived from coconuts. A great moisturizer that is used as an emollient and to improve viscosity in cosmetics.
- ChamomileRefer to Related Articles
- Chlorella ExtractRefer to Related Articles
- Chlorogenic AcidA phenolic compound naturally found in green coffee beans, potatoes, prunes, and other foods. Has strong antioxident and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Citric AcidRefer to Related Articles
- Clove OilRefer to Related Articles
- Coal TarA petroleum by-product sometimes used to treat psoriasis. Exactly how it works, however, is unclear.
- Cocoa Butter OilRefer to Related Articles
- Coconut AcidRefer to Related Articles
- Coconut OilA very heavy oil that is frequently used in hair products, as it contains triglycerides that are easily absorbed into the hair shaft.
- Coffeeberry ExtractExtracted from the coffee cherry of the
- Copper PeptidesRefer to Related Articles
- Corn OilRefer to Related Articles
- Cottonseed OilAn emollient and moisturizer that is rich in tocopherol, as well as fatty acids.
- Cranberry Seed OilRefer to Related Articles
- CyclopentasiloxaneA lightweight, liquid silicone. Used in moisturizers, conditioners, solvents, and as a delivery agent for other skin-care ingredients.
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- DehydrocholesterolRefer to Related Articles
- Deionized WaterRefer to Related Articles
- Dibutyl PhthalateRefer to Related Articles
- Diethylene GlycolRefer to Related Articles
- DihydroxyacetoneRefer to Related Articles
- DimethiconeA type of silicone that works well to help fill in wrinkles, while still allowing other ingredients to get through to the skin thanks to its unique structure. Often used in foundation to prevent the product from creasing in lines and wrinkles.
- Dimethyl MeaRefer to Related Articles
- Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE)Has been proven to firm skin by causing the formation of vacuoles (large pools of water) inside cells. However, too many vacuoles can cause cell death-- use with caution.
- DimethylethanolamineRefer to Related Articles
- Dipalmitoyl HydroxyprolineRefer to Related Articles
- DMAERefer to Related Articles
e
- ElemiPossibly an exciting new anti-aging ingredient that helps to promote microcirculation in skin. However, more studies are needed to prove this.
- Ellagic AcidRefer to Related Articles
- EmollientRefer to Related Articles
- Emu OilRefer to Related Articles
- EthoxydiglycolRefer to Related Articles
- Ethyl AcetateRefer to Related Articles
- Ethyl AlcoholRefer to Related Articles
- Ethylhexyl MethoxycinnamateRefer to Related Articles
- EucalyptusRefer to Related Articles
f
- Ferulic AcidA form of hydroxycinnamic acid, this is a strong antioxident.
- Fish OilRefer to Related Articles
- Flaxseed OilRefer to Related Articles
- Folic AcidRefer to Related Articles
- FructanRefer to Related Articles
- Fruit AcidRefer to Related Articles
- FucoidanRefer to Related Articles
- Fulvic AcidA strong acidic polymer (pH1) extracted from organic substances such as peat. Helps other ingredients better absorb into the skin.
g
- GalactoarabinanRefer to Related Articles
- GalangaRefer to Related Articles
- Galanga Leaf ExtractAn extract from the galanga plant, a member of the rhizome family. A good antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits; may also promote the production of hyaluronic acid in skin.
- Gallic AcidRefer to Related Articles
- Gambir ExtractRefer to Related Articles
- Gamma Polyglutamic AcidRefer to Related Articles
- Gamma-Linoleic AcidFound in apricot-seed oil, this ingredient soothes conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff.
- Gardenia JasminoidesRefer to Related Articles
- Gardenia OilRefer to Related Articles
- GarlicTopically applied garlic gel has been shown in studies on those with alopecia areata to help promote hair growth. Also handy for repelling vampires.
- Gentiana Lutea Root ExtractRefer to Related Articles
- Geranium OilRefer to Related Articles
- GlycerinAn emollient, humectant, and occlusive agent. It has been shown to consistently be one of the best moisturizers in products.
- Glycolic AcidA great exfoliant that also increases collagen production by stimulating fibroblasts. Found to be effective in treating UV-damaged skin because it mediates the matrix degradation that keratinocytes release.
- Gold NanoparticlesTiny particles of gold. Could cause damage to skin that inhibits wound healing and speeds up aging.
- Greek YoghurtAn ingredient claimed to soothe skin by delivering moisture when applied topically. Also, a delicious snack.
- Green BananaBananas are rich in antioxidants and contain vitamins A, C, and E, as well as beta-carotene, selenium, and lutein. Unripened (green) ones have been shown to help heal ulcers.
- Green TeaContains powerful polyphenols that fight against skin cancer formation and free radicals. Also protects against inflammation and encourages cell regeneration.
h
- Hemp Oil
- HomosalateA chemical sunscreen that works by converting the energy from UV rays into a non-harmful form, such as heat. Not recommended for kids or pregnant women, as it gets absorbed into the body.
- Hydrogen PeroxideThe main ingredient in hair bleach, it bleaches hair by breaking down melanin when it oxidizes. Always do a patch test when using hair color containing it, as it can cause chemical burns and/or allergic reactions.
- HydroquinoneA skin-lightening ingredient that works by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, by acting as a melanocyte cytotoxic inhibitor, and by increasing the cytotoxicity of melanocytes.
- Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid (Hepes)A buffer, used to maintain the pH of a formulation.
i
- IdebenoneA stable form of the antioxidant coenzyme Q10, the most prevalent antioxidant naturally found in the body. It neutralizes free radicals and protects the skin from UV-induced reactive oxidative species, but causes allergic reactions in some users.
- Irish Moss (Chondrus Crispus)A type of red seaweed that is the main source of carrageenans,which are sulphated linear polysaccharides. Plumps skin and may possess antiviral and immunomodulatory properties.
- IsododecaneAn emollient used for its smoothness and for being silky without being greasy.
- Isopropyl MyristateUsed in cosmetics as an emollient and lubricant. Comedogenic (pore-clogging; bad for acne-prone skin).
k
- Katafray ExtractComes from a tree found in Madagascar and is used in traditional medicine to heal wounds and skin infections. Claims that it improves skin's barrier function and ability to retain moisture are not, to date, substantiated.
- KinetinA cytokin and plant hormone that has been shown to build repair enzymes as well as increase the rate of the cell cycles. Improves fine wrinkling and lines, mottled skin, and roughness.
- KiwifruitOften used in cosmetics for its scent, but also serves as an emollient with high essential fatty acids (Omega-3 from alpha-linoleic acid) and antioxidants. We'd like to see more testing, though.
- Kojic AcidUsed to lighten dark spots or treat melasma, kojic acid works by suppressing tyrosinase activity. Some users experience a contact allergy, so patch test first.
- Kukui OilKukui oil is derived from the candlenuts of the kukui tree in Hawaii. Creates a barrier to prevent the skin from losing moisture and may also aid wound healing (though more studies are needed).
l
- Lactic AcidA popular alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), lactic acid can be naturally extracted from milk, but is usually synthesized in a lab for use in cosmetics in order to ensure its purity. Lactic acid's smoothing abilities are similar to that of glycolic acid.
- Lavender OilA strongly-scented essential oil derived from lavender flowers. Often used in aromatherapy products.
- LeuphasylA synthetic peptide that works like enkephalins to inhibit neuronal activity and catecholamine
- Licorice Root ExtractContains glycyrrhizinate and has been proven to be anti-inflammatory as well as a moisturizer. Also prevents hyperpigmentation.
- LimoneneA colourless liquid hydrocarbon. Limonene has been found to be an irritant and a skin sensitizer, which means that it makes you skin more vulnerable to the sun.
- Luminum Potassium SulfateRefer to Related Articles
- Lysate Extract BioactiveClaimed to smoothe skin, improve its appearance, and produce a cooling effect, but further studies are needed.
m
- MelanozymeThe trademarked name for a certain variety of the enzyme lignin peroxidase, which comes from fungi. Used in skin-lightening products.
- MethylacrylateAn ingredient in nail polish that has been shown to cause contact dermatitis (i.e., a rash) in some users.
- MicrodermabrasionRefer to Related Articles
- Mineral OilA liquid distillate of petroleum comprised of alkanes (saturated hydrocarbons) that have a chain length of between 14
- MitostimeAnother name for the extract of Laminaria digitata, which is a type of brown algae. Said to help increase cell energy, slowing the aging process, but further study is needed.
- Musk Rose OilAn emollient which has a high proportion of fatty unsaturated acids, such as linoleic, oleic, and linolenic acids, along with carotenes, tocopherols, and tretinoin. A study showed it can help heal skin and reduce signs of aging, but we'd like to see more research on this very promising ingredient.
n
- NiacinamideThe high-pH version of vitamin B3. Improves mild to moderate acne and signs of aging, such as hyperpigmentation.
o
- OctisalateA chemical sunscreen that works by converting the energy from UV rays into a non-harmful form, such as heat. Not recommended for kids or pregnant women, as it gets absorbed into the body.
- OctocryleneA chemical sunscreen that works by converting the energy from UV rays into a non-harmful form, such as heat. Not recommended for kids or pregnant women, as it gets absorbed into the body.
- Olia OilRefer to Related Articles
- Olive OilContains resveratrol, which may promote the activity of sirtuins, agents that prolong the life of collagen-producing skin cells. May also protect against UV skin damage, but further study is needed.
- OxybenzoneA chemical sunscreen that works by converting the energy from UV rays into a non-harmful form, such as heat. Not recommended for kids or pregnant women, as it gets absorbed into the body.
p
- P-PhenylenediamineThe main ingredient in hair dye. This organic compound turns brown when oxidizing agents
- ParabensOften used as a preservative, parabens are a hot topic amongst beauty insiders. There is evidence that might link them to breast cancer, but it's important to remember the FDA has declared them safe in cosmetics.
- PeptidesHave been shown to increase collagen production and enhance ingredient penetration in research studies. However, peptides are too large to penetrate the skin, so while it's clear they work, researchers don't know quite how this is possible.
- PetrolatumTechnically a wax, petrolatum acts as an occlusive moisturizer, keeping water in the skin and other substances out. It is derived from petroleum.
- Petroleum JellySee
- PistachioThe skins of pistachio nuts are packed with antioxidants, and, when this ingredient is applied topically, it can have a photoprotective effect, reducing UVB-induced erythema. More study is needed, though, and anyone with a nut allergy should be careful.
- PlacentaExtracted from the organ that connects a baby to its mother in her uterus, this ingredient has not been shown to have any positive effect on the skin. It is usually taken from sheep, pigs, or goats, but at least one product we know of uses human placenta.
- PolyethyleneThe most widely-used plastic in the world today. In cosmetics, used for many things, including as a stabilizer and viscosity-increasing ingredient.
- PolymersOften found in hair products, polymers coat the hair and offer a watertight seal. They
- Primrose OilRefer to Related Articles
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- QuinoaA cereal grain containing amino acids that have been proven in studies to penetrate the hair shaft, strengthening hair.
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- ResveratrolShown in a number of studies to increase sirtuin production. Often extracted from the roots of Japanese Knotweed.
- Retinol
- Retinyl Propionate
s
- Safflower OilAn antioxidant that combats free radicals, skin discoloration, acne, and inflammation.
- Salicyloyl PhytosphingosineAn ingredient that helped reduce the depth of wrinkles and improve the appearance of photoaged skin... in a study commissioned by its manufacturer. Further study is required.
- Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) OilOil extracted from the seeds of an African tree. Contains oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids, as well as both vitamins C and E.
- Scorbyl GlucosideRefer to Related Articles
- Shea ButterA fat extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree, shea butter is an excellent moisturizer. It also may have anti-aging and healing properties.
- SiliconesInert, synthetic compounds generally used to improve make product glide smoothly over the skin. Also help prevent transepidermal water loss and absorb excess oils.
- SilverA precious metal. Future research may uncover that it promotes wound healing, helps acne, and has anti-aging properties, but current research is contradictory at best.
- Snap-8The elongated form of argireline (it has two extra amino acids). Has an effect similar to Botox.
- Sodium HyaluronateA natural complex sugar that holds about 10,000 times its weight in water. It hydrates skin extremely well, and can temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Soft ParaffinSee
- SoyExtracted from soybeans, this ingredient helps to lighten skin and reduce unwanted body hair. However, it can be irritating to the skin and provoke an allergic reaction in some users.
- SqualeneA naturally occurring compound found in shark liver as well as many plant-based oils. It has anti-aging and anti-fungal properties and is easily absorbed by skin.
- Starfish ExtractExtracted from starfish, this ingredient is becoming popular in Asian products. Claims that the starfish's regenerative properties help aging skin are unsubstantiated.
- Sunflower Seed OilAn emollient and occlusive agent that does not clog the pores. It contains ~60% linoleic acid. Note: This applies only to the cosmetic-grade oil, not the kind you can buy at the supermarket.
- Synthetic WaxLess greasy but also less pliable than fats. Waxes resist oxidation, microbial agents, and moisture well.
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- Tetrahexyldecyl AscorbateA form of vitamin C that is oil-soluble. This powerful antioxident can penetrate both the epidermis (the uppermost layer of skin) and dermis (the deepest layer of skin).
- ThymolAn oil derived from thyme. Has been shown in several studies to work against Candida albicans, one of the fungi responsible for nail fungus.
- Trifix OilRefer to Related Articles
- TrimethylsiloxysilicateA silicone derivative and emollient that
- Triple Antibiotic Ointments (Taos)The collective name for Polymyxin B Sulfate, Bacitracin Zinc, and Neomycin. Used to prevent infection in wounds.
u
- UreaAn excellent natural moisturizing factor that improves skin barrier function. It binds water to the skin and promotes the production of keratin.
v
- Vitamin CVitamin C is a necessary nutrient for the human body (in food). Topically, it is a strong antioxident and a key ingredient in our FutureDerm Vitamin CE Eye Cream!
- Vitamin E
w
- White PetrolatumSee
- White Tea
y
- Yerba Mate ExtractDerived from a leafy holly plant, yerba mate is better known as a drink than a skincare ingredient. However, it has strong antioxident properties.
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- Zinc OxideA very effective physical sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
- Zinc PyrithioneAn antibacterial and anti-fungal compound that also has cytotoxic activity against skin cells. Often the active ingredient in dandruff shampoo.