Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Supports hydration and helps maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Skincare Ingredient Glossary
The Standard for Ingredient Transparency for Professionals
This glossary outlines key active and functional ingredients used across cosmetic formulations. Each entry includes:
- INCI name (per EU Regulation No. 1223/2009)
- Primary cosmetic function
- Origin (plant-based / synthetic / biotech)
- Usage concentration (typical range)
- Safety & regulatory notes
Understanding and selecting effective ingredients in skincare routines is crucial for achieving optimal cosmetic results.
A
Allantoin
Skin protectant
Keratolytic
Origin: Biotech-derived
Usage: 0.2–0.5%
Listed as an OTC skin protectant in EU + US. Suitable for sensitive skin.
B
Bakuchiol
Skin conditioning
Antioxidant
Origin: Plant-based (Psoralea corylifolia)
Usage: 0.5–1%
Requires formulation stability support.
Betaine
Osmoprotectant
Moisturizer
Origin: Sugar beet fermentation
Usage: 1–5%
Helps support barrier function and hydration balance.
C
Centella Asiatica Extract
Skin conditioning
Soothing
Origin: CO2 or water extract
Usage: 0.5–2%
Contains asiaticoside; supports comfort in stressed skin.
Coco-Glucoside
Non‑ionic surfactant
Origin: Coconut + glucose
Usage: 3–10%
Ultra‑mild and biodegradable.
D
D‑Panthenol (Provitamin B5)
Moisturizer
Barrier support
Origin: Biotech
Usage: 1–5%
Helps reduce visible redness and supports hydration.
E
Ectoin
Anti‑pollution
Stress protection
Origin: Fermented from extremophile bacteria
Usage: 0.5–2%
Helps shield skin from oxidative and environmental stress.
G
Glycerin (Vegetable origin)
Humectant
Stabilizer
Origin: Plant‑based
Usage: 2–10%
Widely used for hydration and formula stability.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea)
Antioxidant
Soothing
Origin: Water or ethanol extracted
Usage: 0.1–3%
Rich in polyphenols; supports skin comfort and firmness.
H
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)
Hydrator
Plumping effect
Origin: Fermentation‑derived
Usage: 0.01–1%
Multi‑weight forms often preferred; improves appearance of skin texture.
J
Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia Chinensis)
Emollient
Lipid balancer
Origin: Cold‑pressed
Usage: 3–10%
Similar to natural sebum; supports skin elasticity.
L
Lactic Acid
AHA exfoliant
Brightener
Origin: Plant fermentation
Usage: 1–10%
Requires pH balancing; promotes a smoother, brighter look.
N
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Barrier booster
Tone corrector
Origin: Synthetic
Usage: 2–10%
Well‑tolerated; helps reduce the look of uneven tone and shine.
R
Rosa Canina Fruit Oil (Rosehip)
Emollient
Antioxidant
Origin: Cold‑pressed
Usage: 3–8%
Supports skin tone and luminosity; sensitive to oxidation.
S
Squalane (Plant‑based)
Emollient
Lipid restorer
Origin: Sugarcane or olive
Usage: 1–10%
Non‑comedogenic; provides a silky skin feel.
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii)
Occlusive
Nourishing
Origin: Raw/refined butter
Usage: 3–15%
Deep nourishment for dry skin; strengthens emulsions.
T
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
Antioxidant
Preservative booster
Origin: Plant oil (e.g., sunflower)
Usage: 0.1–1%
Stabilizes oils; supports skin softness.
Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia)
Antimicrobial
Origin: Steam‑distilled
Usage: <1%
Use with caution; check regional allergen limits.
Z
Zinc PCA
Sebum regulator
Antimicrobial
Origin: Zinc salt of PCA
Usage: 0.1–1%
Suitable for blemish‑prone skin; balances without over‑drying.