Ingredient Glossary

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Serves three different functions in skincare formulations; humectant, solvent and preservative.

A peptide that targets pigmentation and dark spots to reduce appearance.

A peptide that calms, soothes, hydrates and firms the skin. It is also known for reducing puffiness and swelling.

Topical ATP prevents early signs of premature ageing and achieves more radiant, younger-looking skin.

Stabilises the formula and improves texture for a luxurious, silky, cushioned feel.

Stabilises the formula and improves texture for a luxurious, silky, cushioned feel.

An amino acid that contains moisturising properties to hydrate skin instantly.

The extract of the bark from the Falsa Mimosa contains anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

A naturally occurring polymer from brown algae, that is used in skincare formulations for its emulsifying properties.

Acts as a skin protectant with soothing benefits such as, anti-inflammation and intense hydration. Suitable for sensitive skin.

The juice from Aloe Barbadensis instantly soothes inflamed skin and calms irritation.

Fragrance compound used to scent skincare formulations.

Naturally found in rocks and soil, it is used as a thickening agent and as an absorbent.

Used in products due to its stabilising and thickening properties. It creates a gel-like texture.

Naturally derived, it is known for its ability to retain moisture and increasing the synthesis of barrier ceramides.

A solvent that allows ingredients to dissolve in the formulation and replenishes moisture in the skin.

A derivative of hydroquinone that works as a de-pigmenting agent to inhibit melanin production.

An amino acid that protects from skin free-radicals, boosts collagen and increases hydration.

An anti-oxidant derived from black seaweed with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

A potent active that is clinically proven to reduce pigmentation, increase collagen production and even skin tone.

A water soluble derivative of Vitamin C that is clinically proven to reduce pigmentation, increase collagen production and even skin tone.

A oil soluble derivative of Vitamin C that is clinically proven to reduce pigmentation, increase collagen production and even skin tone.

An extract of red algae, with soothing, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

Naturally derived from Asparagus Officinalis that promote even skin tone and skin rejuvenation.

An amino acid that hydrates the skin and boosts skin barrier repair.

Gentle AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) with anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties to treat blemish-prone skin and rosacea

Benzyl Alcohol is used as a fragrance component, preservative and solvent. It has been approved for use at up to 5%.

Used as a solvent to dissolve other ingredients.

A fragrance ingredient used to distribute scent to cosmetic products.

A polysaccharide that has moisturising, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Helps the skin retain moisture to keep the skin hydrated for longer./p>

A sunscreen ingredient that works to absorb UV rays.

Used in formulations to maintain the liquid consistency of products.

Extracted from the kernels of the fruit of the Shea tree. It has high concentration of fatty acids that promote a soft, smooth, healthy skin appearance.

Isoparaffins are used as solvents in cosmetics. Animal toxicology, genotoxicity, carcinogenicity and skin sensitisation studies have concluded that isoparaffins are safe for use in cosmetics.

When applied to the skin, caffeine has soothing and anti-oxidant properties. Around the eyes, when applied caffeine can reduce the look of puffiness.

A mineral-derived thickening agent.

Used in cosmetics as a humectant and as a skin conditioning agent.

Commonly known as the green tea extract, it has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties when used topically.

Derived from coconut oil, it contains fatty acids that moisturise and replenish the skin.

An alcohol derived from a fatty acid, it is used as a skincare ingredient as a humectant, preservative and anti-inflammatory properties.

Controls the consistency of cosmetic products and is a texturising agent.

Extracted by cold-pressing the nuts of the Cacay tree. It is rich in vitamin A and has moisturising properties due to its high content in vitamin E.

Grown in Asia, it is regarded for its ability to repair the skins protective barrier and speed up skin cell production and collagen synthesis.

A thickening and film-forming agent.

A lipid molecule naturally present in the skin. When used topically, it acts to improve the skin barrier function.

Extracted from the Carob tree. It is known for its film-forming and viscosity controlling properties.

Used in cosmetics to control the texture and keep formulas stable.

A modified cellulose polymer with multiple functions in formulations such as stabilising, thickening and moisturising properties.

An extract of camomile with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties

Extract from red algae which is rich in potent anti-oxidants, amino acids and peptides that keep the skin healthy and hydrated.

A pigment used to give a pink tone.

A pigment used to give a yellow tone.

A pigment used to control the brightness of a colour within a product.

A mineral pigment that forms a UVA/ UVB filter when used as a sunscreen ingredient. It has additional properties as a pigment.

A component of lemongrass, orange and lemon oil.

Found in citrus fruits such as lemon and orange, it is used to adjust the PH balance of cosmetics and also used as a preservative.

A fragrance ingredient extracted from geranium and rose plants.

An essential oil extracted from lemons used as a fragrance component.

An extract from lemons with astringent and anti-bacterial properties.

Extracted from mandarin orange peel, it promotes radiance and acts as a protective agent on the skin.

A common ingredient used in cleansing products where it provides foaming and stabilising qualities.

IIt is a combination of fatty acids derived from coconut oil, it increases the foaming action and moderates the viscosity of the formula.

Contains gold nano particles that is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties

An ingredient derived from Sigesbeckia orientalis, a shrub native to India. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing properties.

A natural surfactant made from plant based fatty acids and glucose, used in cleansing products.

A preservative used in cosmetics to keep the formulas fresh, safe and stable.

A cosmetic thickener, adhesion promoter and humectant that is made from a blend of polysaccharides.

Used in cosmetic formulations as a moisturizing, nourishing and firming agent.

Ingredient derived from the licorice root. It has a myriad of uses as a soothing, anti-inflammatory and sebum regulating agent.

An ingredient that enhances the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations.

Disodium EDTA functions as a chelating agent to stabilise formulations and boost preservative efficacy. Toxicology studies have found it to be safe to consumers in cosmetic formulations and it is approved by both the EU and FDA.

A derivative of vitamin C that is stable and soluble in both water and oil.

Derived from macadamia nut oil, it is a natural alternative to silicones that has skin softening properties due to the high content of essential fatty acids.

A sunscreen ingredient that protects the skin from UVB rays.

A sunscreen ingredient that protects the skin from UVB rays.

A preservative used in cosmetics to keep formulas stable and fresh.

Rich in minerals, French red clay gently cleanses and exfoliates the skin.

Fragrance ingredient derived from rose, geranium and citronella plants.

Classified as a pH regulator, humectant and anti-discoloration agent.

Polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that gently exfoliates the skin and has long-term anti-ageing benefits through increasing cell turnover.

A simple sugar that is used in cosmetics as a humectant.

A common ingredient used in cosmetics as a humectant to prevent water loss, as a viscosity decreasing agent and as a skin protectant./p>

Derived from coconuts, it is a highly versatile ingredient as it can be used an emulsifier, preservative booster and moisturizing agent.

Used in cosmetic formulations as an emulsifying agent.

Used in cosmetic formulations as an emulsifying agent.

An amino acid with anti-ageing and anti-redness properties,

Derived from soy beans, this rich oil is known for its anti-ageing and skin conditioning properties.

Derived from soy beans, this ingredient is rich in proteins and amino acids that work to calm and soothe the skin.

An AHA acid that exfoliates the outermost layer of skin cells and targets a myriad of concerns such as breakouts, hyperpigmentation, dullness, and signs of skin ageing.

Ingredient derived from the licorice root. It has a myriad of uses as a soothing, anti-inflammatory and sebum regulating agent.

Ingredient derived from the licorice root. It has a myriad of uses as a soothing, anti-inflammatory and sebum regulating agent.

Derived from cotton seed oil, this ingredient is a soothing and skin conditioning.

Fragrance ingredient that has jasmine like notes

An amino acid with antioxidant and anti-ageing benefits

Naturally derived from Barley, this extract has detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties.

Hyaluronic acid immediately hydrates and plumps the skin by binding water to collagen, thus trapping moisture in the skin.

Information

This ingredient is a mixture of polysaccharides that work to moisturise and soften the skin.

Lower molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, penetrates deeper to for plumping and filling benefits.

A mixture of peptide chain with skin conditioning and emollient properties.

A mixture of plant based peptide chains with skin conditioning and emollient properties.

Plant based extract that can stimulate the synthesis of hyaluronic acid and thereby moisturise the skin.

This ingredient has the ability to boost preservative function in formulations and fight against free radicals due to its antioxidant properties.

A fatty acid ester that is used to enhance the texture of formulations.

An amino acid with moisturising and barrier repairing properties.

Used to improve the texture and feel of formulations.

An emollient ingredient that increases moisture levels in the skin. It also enhances the penetration of active ingredients.

Emulsifier with emollient properties.

A fatty acid that is used as a binder and to thicken formulas.

A AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) that provides gentle exfoliation to brighten dull skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

A PHA (poly hydroxy acid), that gently exfoliates and smoothes the skin.

Derived from coconut oil, it is used as a cleansing agent and texture enhancer.

Consisting mainly of phospholipids, it is a skin conditioning and moisturising agent.

A fragrance ingredient that is the main constituent of citrus peel oil.

Fragrance ingredient derived from lavender.

Extract of the ryegrass plant with anti-ageing and anti-oxidant properties.

A AHA( alpha hydroxy acid) that provides chemical exfoliation and boosts cell turnover to brighten the skin.

Derived from rice and potato starch, it is a mattifying agent that also helps to stabilise formulations.

Plant stem cell extract that protects against environmental stressors.

Derived from peppermint, this oil is known for its refreshing scent and anti-inflammatory properties.

This ingredient is used for its cooling and refreshing properties.

An anti-ageing and anti-oxidant agent that is well suited for sensitive skin.

Mineral derived ingredient that is used in products to add shimmer and shine.

A peptide that can have a retinol-like effect on the skin, to improve texture and tone.

Used in formulations as a texture enhancer and emollient.

Also known as Vitamin B3, it is highly regarded for its ability to minimise pores, prevent breakouts and hydrate the skin.

Preservative widely used in cosmetics. It is effective against fungal and bacterial growth which is needed to keep cosmetics safe for consumers.

Lipid derived from olive oil that has hydrating and moisture replenishing properties.

A plant based extract that is a natural antioxidant and can be used to boost microcirculation.

Also known as Vitamin B5, this is a widely studied ingredient with proven moisturising properties.

Gentle peeling agent derived from plants that decreases inflammation and boosts cell renewal.

Fragrance ingredient.

PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid), derived from amino acids, serves as a humectant in cosmetic formulations.

Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are used in cosmetic formulations as surfactants, emulsifiers and skin conditioners. Toxicology studies have concluded that PEGs are not associated with skin irritation or adverse systemic effects.

Both water and oil-soluble, this ingredient has moisture-binding and anti-microbial properties.

Phenoxyethanol is one of the most widely used preservatives in cosmetics as it has a large spectrum of antimicrobial activity and is effective against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, as well as yeasts. Phenoxyethanol is safe for consumers and is necessary to keep formulations free of any microbial activity.

An amino acid, with skin-conditioning and nourishing qualities.

An essential component of cell membranes, phospholipids are necessary to support and protect the skin barrier.

A moisturising, nourishing and regenerating ingredient.

Plant extract from the leaves of the English plantain with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Used in formulation to stabilise and bind ingredients.

Used in formulations as a film-forming agent.

A polysaccharide with texture enhancing and emollient properties.

This ingredient has emollient and solubilising properties.

A suspending agent and emulsifier, that also stabilises formulations.

Used in formulations to increase viscosity and improve texture.

A surfactant, emulsifier, as well as fragrance ingredient.

A thickening and stabilising agent.

A azelaic acid derivative with water-soluble, moisturising and brightening properties.

Increases the viscosity of products.

Used in cosmetics as a preservative to keep formulas fresh and stable.

Used in formulations due to its softening and smoothing properties.

One of the most widely used ingredients in cosmetics as it attracts water to act as a humectant and moisturises the skin.

An amino acid with moisturising and soothing properties.

Attract moisture to the skin to lock in hydration and boosts the efficacy of preservatives.

Acts to dissolve other ingredients and control the viscosity of formulations.

A humectant to trap moisture in the skin and also keeps formulas stable.

Extract derived from raspberries that contains a mix of antioxidants, as well as both vitamin C and E.

Also known as Vitamin A, it is an extensively studied ingredient with proven anti-aging properties by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin.

Natural ingredient that is used for its ability to reduce redness, inflammation and provide protection against free radicals.

Plant derived ingredient that moisturises and soothes the skin.

An amino acid with moisturising and plumping properties.

An ingredient used in skincare for its skin-conditioning properties.

Found naturally in clay and sandstone, silica is used in formulations as a thickening and binding ingredient.

A moisturising and skin conditioning agent.

Derived from the desert shrub, Jojoba, this oil is known for its soothing, moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties.

Mineral salt of Vitamin C with proven ability to brighten and reduce signs of pigmentation.

Water-soluble vitamin C derivative that is an effective antioxidant and has the ability to brighten the skin tone and prevent the production of melanin.

Preservative used to keep formulations free of microbial activity and safe for consumers.

An ingredient used to control the pH levels of formulations.

An ingredient used to control the pH levels of formulations.

An ingredient used to control the pH levels of formulations.

The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid with a low molecular weight that enables it to penetrate deep into the epidermis and thereby plump and hydrate the skin.

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Balances the pH level of formulations.

A preservative enhancer, as well as buffering and moisturising agent.

Naturally found in the skin, supplementing this molecule topically, allows moisture to be trapped from the surrounding air and thereby deeply hydrate the skin.

An antioxidant with anti-ageing properties.

A skin conditioning and moisturising agent.

An antimicrobial agent used as a preservative to prevent the growth of yeast and bacteria.

An emulsifying agent used to help mix ingredients in formulations.

Stabilises the mixture of water and oils in formulations.

One of the main components of the skin hydrolipidic film. When applied topically in skincare it has well known anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing properties. It’s an excellent moisturiser as it traps moisture to the skin.

A creamy white fine powder used as a suspending agent.

A disaccharide used a a skin conditioning and soothing agent.

An emulsifier and surfactant that is used to improve the texture of formulations.

A synthetic mica that gives a shimmering effect to formulations.

An amino acid with hydrating and skin barrier boosting properties.

Used in formulations as a bulking and opacifying agent.

A form of vitamin E which is known as a potent natural antioxidant.

A derivative of vitamin E.

A well researched ingredient, that has been shown to disrupt cellular pathways that lead to pigmentation. It can also reduce redness and make the skin surface less susceptible to UV light damage.

A sugar found in plant that is useful for its rehydrating and water binding properties.

An emollient, surfactant and emulsifier.

A cleansing and emulsifying agent.

A stabiliser, pH adjuster, and thickening agent.

Extract of the Indian cress, it can strengthen the skin’s barrier and boost antioxidant protection.

A brown seaweed extract that is renowned for its detoxifying properties.

An amino acid that maintains hydration levels and overall suppleness in the skin.

A binder and skin-conditioning agent.

This ingredient retains the skin’s natural moisture to boost hydration levels.

A moisturising agent used to improve skin health.

A physical sunscreen agent that deflects UV rays to protect the skin from photo ageing.