Skincare ingredient database
Every ingredient in our database, reviewed for skin-care function, irritancy, comedogenicity, and safety. Each entry is rated on a five-tier scale adapted from Paula's Choice Beautypedia and cross-referenced with CIR safety assessments.
164 ingredients · 13 categories. Ingredient pages are continuously reviewed - this list is a snapshot.
A
Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester
Lipophilic neuropeptide marketed as Calmosensine, claimed to reduce sensory discomfort by modulating enkephalin receptors. Evidence is limited to small manufacturer studies.
peptide · soothing
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
Marketed as a topical “botox alternative.” Limited evidence for expression-line softening; safe and well-tolerated.
peptide
Adapalene
OTC third-generation retinoid. More stable and better tolerated than retinol, proven for acne.
active · retinoid
Alcohol Denat
Denatured ethanol. Gives a fast-absorbing, matte finish but weakens the skin barrier over time.
solvent · drying-alcohol
Allantoin
Gentle soother that calms irritated skin and supports repair. Works at very low concentrations.
soothing · healing
Aloe Vera
Classic soothing plant extract. Mildly hydrating and calming for irritated or sunburned skin.
soothing · humectant
Apricot Kernel Oil
Lightweight oil pressed from apricot kernels. Rich in oleic and linoleic acids plus vitamin E. Softens skin with mild antioxidant support.
emollient · antioxidant-carrier
Ascorbyl Glucoside
Stable, water-soluble vitamin C derivative. Gentle; converts slowly into ascorbic acid on skin.
antioxidant · brightening
Avobenzone
Widely used UVA-I filter. Needs a stabiliser like octocrylene to stay effective on skin.
sunscreen · organic-uv-filter
Avocado Oil
Rich, high-oleic oil (60–70%) loaded with vitamins A, D, E, and phytosterols. Deeply nourishes dry/mature skin but heavy and not ideal for acne-prone.
emollient · occlusive · antioxidant-carrier
Azelaic Acid
Gentle multitasker - calms redness, fades post-acne marks, and works on blemishes. Great for rosacea.
active · anti-inflammatory · brightening
B
Bakuchiol
Plant-derived molecule shown in small studies to give retinol-like effects with less irritation. Pregnancy-compatible.
antioxidant · retinol-alternative
Baobab Oil
Balanced oil from the African baobab tree. Roughly equal parts oleic and linoleic acids plus tocopherols and phytosterols. Broadly tolerated.
emollient · antioxidant-carrier
Beeswax
Natural wax that thickens balms and forms a protective film on skin. Mildly comedogenic on oily skin.
emollient · occlusive · thickener
Benzoyl Peroxide
Proven blemish-fighter - kills acne-causing bacteria. Can dry, irritate, and bleach fabric. Start at 2.5%.
active · antimicrobial
Benzyl Alcohol
Aromatic alcohol used at low % as a preservative. Listed on the EU 26-allergen list.
preservative · solvent
Butylene Glycol
Small-molecule humectant and solvent. Helps water-based actives penetrate and keeps formulas stable.
humectant · solvent
C
Calendula Oil
Infused oil rich in faradiol esters and triterpenoids. Calms irritation, redness, and minor abrasions. Allergen risk for those sensitive to ragweed and the Asteraceae family.
emollient · soothing · anti-inflammatory
Candelilla Wax
Plant-derived wax from the Euphorbia cerifera shrub. Vegan alternative to beeswax - thickens formulas and forms a protective film.
thickener · occlusive · emollient
Capryl/Capramidopropyl Betaine
Mild amphoteric coconut-derived surfactant used to lower irritation and boost foam in cleansers, shampoos, and baby washes.
surfactant · cleanser
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Coconut-derived chelator and antifungal preservative booster. Functions at neutral pH, popular in paraben- and phenoxyethanol-free formulas.
preservative · chelator
Caprylic Acid
Medium-chain C8 saturated fatty acid with mild antimicrobial activity. Used as a preservative booster and surfactant building block. Can be slightly irritating at higher levels.
antimicrobial · fatty-acid
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Lightweight, stable emollient derived from coconut and glycerin. Carries oil-soluble actives and feels dry.
emollient · solvent
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer
Bio-based copolymer (e.g. SymRepair 100) that forms a breathable film mimicking the skin barrier and boosts mild preservative efficacy. Soothes reactive skin.
film-forming · barrier-support · preservative-booster
Caprylyl Glycol
Multifunctional 1,2-diol that conditions skin while boosting preservative efficacy. Often paired with phenoxyethanol or caprylhydroxamic acid.
preservative · humectant · emollient
Carbomer
High-molecular-weight crosslinked polyacrylic acid polymer that forms clear gels when neutralized. Inert on skin and a workhorse rheology modifier.
thickener · gelling-agent
Centella Asiatica Extract
Asian herb rich in madecassoside and asiaticoside. Calms redness and supports skin repair - staple in K-beauty.
soothing · antioxidant
Ceramide NP
A skin-identical ceramide. Rebuilds the lipid barrier, reduces moisture loss, and calms irritation.
barrier-repair · emollient
Cetearyl Alcohol
Blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohols. Emulsifies oil and water and softens skin.
emollient · emulsifier · fatty-alcohol
Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate
Silky synthetic ester used as a lightweight silicone alternative. Smooth, non-greasy slip; improves the sensorial feel of creams and lotions.
emollient · silicone-alternative
Cetearyl Glucoside
Plant-derived non-ionic O/W emulsifier from coconut/palm fatty alcohols and glucose. Biodegradable, mild, suitable for sensitive skin.
emulsifier
Cetyl Alcohol
A fatty alcohol (not a drying alcohol). Thickens formulas and softens skin - safe for all skin types.
emollient · emulsifier · fatty-alcohol
Chamomile Extract
Soothing botanical rich in bisabolol. Calms irritation but can trigger allergy in ragweed-sensitive users.
soothing · antioxidant
Chili Pepper Resin
Capsaicin-rich oleoresin from chili peppers that triggers TRPV1 receptors, producing heat, redness, and lip plumping. High risk of stinging and burning, especially on sensitive skin.
warming-agent · counterirritant
Chlorphenesin
Mild preservative, commonly combined with phenoxyethanol. Broad-spectrum at low %.
preservative
Citric Acid
AHA most often used to adjust formula pH and chelate metals, with mild exfoliating action at higher concentrations. Can sting on broken or very sensitive skin.
ph-adjuster · chelator · exfoliant
Citronellol
Rose-scented fragrance ingredient on the EU 26-allergen list.
fragrance
Cloudberry Fruit Extract
Extract from cloudberry, a golden-orange Arctic fruit prized in Nordic skincare. Exceptionally high in vitamin C, vitamin E, and ellagic acid.
antioxidant · humectant
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Mild amphoteric surfactant derived from coconut. Common in gentle cleansers. Occasional allergy trigger.
surfactant · cleanser
Coco-Glucoside
Coconut-sugar-derived mild cleanser. Works well in sulfate-free cleansers at gentle pH.
surfactant · cleanser
Cocoa Butter
Rich, solid plant butter. Very moisturising for body use but highly comedogenic on facial skin.
emollient · occlusive
Coconut Oil
Rich fatty acid profile that softens skin but is highly comedogenic on the face. Best for hair and body.
emollient · occlusive
Coenzyme Q10
Lipid-soluble antioxidant naturally present in skin. Supports mitochondrial energy and protects against oxidative stress.
antioxidant
Colloidal Oatmeal
FDA-recognised skin protectant. Calms itch, supports the barrier, and is staple in eczema-friendly products.
soothing · barrier-support
Copper Tripeptide-1
Copper-bound peptide (GHK-Cu) shown to support wound healing and collagen synthesis.
peptide · healing
D
Decyl Glucoside
Sugar-derived non-ionic surfactant. Very mild - a staple in sensitive-skin and baby cleansers.
surfactant · cleanser
Diheptyl Succinate
Biodegradable plant-based ester prized as a clean silicone alternative. Dry, velvety afterfeel; improves spreadability for a weightless finish.
emollient · silicone-alternative
Dimethicone
Breathable silicone that smooths skin, blurs pores, and locks in moisture. Widely unfairly demonized.
occlusive · emollient · silicone
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
Water-soluble licorice root derivative that calms redness and irritation while gently inhibiting melanin synthesis. Excellent for sensitive and reactive skin.
soothing · brightening · anti-inflammatory
Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate
Mild anionic surfactant from sulfosuccinic acid. Cleanses and foams gently - notably less stripping than SLES, well-suited to sensitive-skin and baby cleansers.
surfactant · cleanser
E
EDTA
Binds trace metals in water to keep preservatives and actives stable. Inert on skin.
chelator
Ethylhexylglycerin
Preservative booster that extends the activity of phenoxyethanol. Also adds skin conditioning.
preservative-booster · humectant
Eugenol
Clove-scented fragrance compound on the EU 26-allergen list. Moderate-to-strong contact allergen.
fragrance
F
Ferulic Acid
Plant-derived antioxidant that stabilises and boosts the potency of vitamins C and E.
antioxidant · stabiliser
Fragrance
Undisclosed blend of scent compounds. Top trigger for irritation and contact allergy. Avoid on sensitive skin.
fragrance
Fructose
Simple fruit sugar used as a mild humectant to attract water to skin. Effective at low levels but less common than glycerin or sugar alcohols.
humectant
G
Galaxolide
Synthetic polycyclic musk widely used to add a clean, soft musky scent. Generally low irritancy but raises environmental persistence concerns.
fragrance
Geraniol
Rose-scented fragrance molecule on the EU 26-allergen list. Avoid on sensitive or damaged skin.
fragrance
Gluconolactone
Polyhydroxy acid (PHA) - gentler than AHAs, adds hydration, and is tolerated by sensitive and rosacea-prone skin.
active · exfoliant · pha
Glucose
Simple sugar that acts as a humectant. Often used as a base for glucoside surfactants and mild hydration.
humectant
Glycerin
One of the best-studied humectants - pulls water into the top layers of skin and supports the barrier. Well tolerated even on sensitive skin.
humectant
Glyceryl Stearate
Workhorse emulsifier that binds water and oil phases. Softens skin and improves product spread.
emulsifier · emollient
Glycolic Acid
The smallest AHA - penetrates deepest. Resurfaces, brightens, and fades post-acne marks. Can irritate at high %.
active · exfoliant · aha
Green Tea Extract
Rich in polyphenols (EGCG). Strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
antioxidant · soothing
H
Hexyl Cinnamal
Jasmine-floral synthetic fragrance ingredient on the EU 26-allergen list. Can trigger contact allergy and sensitization in susceptible individuals.
fragrance
Homosalate
Common UVB filter. Under EU review for endocrine effects; still widely used in US formulations.
sunscreen · organic-uv-filter
Honey
Natural humectant with mild antimicrobial activity from hydrogen peroxide and low pH.
humectant · antimicrobial
Hyaluronic Acid
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid - more stable and better-penetrating. Holds many times its weight in water.
humectant
Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate
Olive-oil-derived ester with a fatty acid profile similar to skin sebum. Soft cushiony slip; conditions skin and supports the barrier without a heavy feel.
emollient
Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables
Non-saponifiable fraction of olive oil, concentrated in squalene, sterols, and tocopherols. Nourishes skin, reinforces the barrier, and delivers antioxidant protection.
emollient · antioxidant · barrier-support
Hydrolyzed Baobab Seed Protein
Hydrolyzed protein from the seeds of the African baobab tree. Small peptides form a flexible film on skin, smoothing texture and helping retain moisture.
film-forming · humectant
Hydrolyzed Collagen
Broken-down collagen fragments. Forms a temporary hydrating film on skin - does not rebuild collagen topically.
humectant · film-forming
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
Enzymatically broken-down soy protein fragments that bind water and form a flexible film, giving a temporary tightening and smoothing effect.
humectant · film-forming
Hydroquinone
Gold-standard prescription skin brightener. Very effective for hyperpigmentation but restricted in many markets for OTC use.
active · brightening
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Plant-derived cellulose thickener that gives gels and lotions a smooth, non-tacky feel. Inert and non-irritating.
thickener · film-forming
Hydroxystearic/Linolenic/Oleic Polyglycerides
Multi-ester emollient blend of glycerides derived from hydroxystearic, linolenic and oleic acids. Softens skin and improves slip and cushion in formulas.
emollient
I
Idealift
Sederma/Croda's trademarked anti-aging complex. Carrier system delivering the Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester peptide for visible lifting and firming - marketed for sagging skin and loss of elasticity.
active-complex · firming · anti-aging
Inulin
Chicory-root-derived polysaccharide that hydrates and feeds beneficial skin microbiome bacteria. Acts as a gentle prebiotic and texture modifier.
humectant · prebiotic · texture-modifier
Iso E Super
Woody, ambery synthetic fragrance molecule used at low levels for warmth and diffusion. Generally well tolerated but can sensitize at high doses.
fragrance
Isopropyl Myristate
Gives a silky, fast-absorbing feel but is highly comedogenic. Common in body lotions, best avoided on the face.
emollient
K
Kiss-Me-Quick Extract
Extract from kiss-me-quick (hairy purslane), a small succulent native to the Americas. Osmolytes and polysaccharides hydrate and calm stressed skin.
soothing · humectant
Kojic Acid
Fungal-derived tyrosinase inhibitor. Fades hyperpigmentation and brightens tone. Can sensitise with long use.
active · brightening · antioxidant
L
L-Proline
Non-essential amino acid and a natural component of skin’s NMF and collagen structure. Acts as a humectant when applied topically.
humectant · nmf-component
Lactic Acid
Larger AHA than glycolic acid - gentler exfoliation and adds a hydrating, humectant effect.
active · exfoliant · aha
Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate
Postbiotic obtained by lysing Lactobacillus cells, releasing peptides and metabolites that support the skin barrier and microbiome. Soothing and well tolerated.
barrier-support · soothing · probiotic
Lactobionic Acid
Bionic acid / PHA with antioxidant activity. Exfoliates gently and binds moisture - good for sensitive skin.
active · exfoliant · pha
Lanolin
Wool-derived wax that closely mimics skin lipids. Deeply moisturising but a known contact allergen for some.
emollient · occlusive
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate
Naturally derived antimicrobial peptide complex from radish root fermented with Leuconostoc kimchii (Leucidal Liquid). Milder ECOCERT-compliant alternative to synthetic preservatives, though efficacy can vary.
preservative · antimicrobial
Licorice Root Extract
Contains glabridin - inhibits tyrosinase, calms redness, and brightens pigmentation.
soothing · brightening · antioxidant
Limonene
Citrus-scented fragrance component. Oxidises in air to a known contact allergen - listed on the EU 26-allergen list.
fragrance
Linalool
Lavender-scented fragrance molecule. Oxidation products are a common allergen - on the EU 26-allergen list.
fragrance
Linalyl Acetate
Lavender- and bergamot-style fragrance ester added to the EU allergen list in the 2023 expansion. Can oxidize on storage and cause contact sensitization.
fragrance
Lingonberry Fruit Extract
Extract from the lingonberry, a tart red Nordic berry related to cranberry. Vitamin C, arbutin, and polyphenols brighten skin and defend against oxidative stress.
antioxidant · brightening
M
Magnesium Aluminum Silicate
Purified clay-derived smectite that swells in water to thicken, suspend pigments, and absorb sebum. Inert and non-irritating; common in masks and mineral makeup.
thickener · absorbent · suspending-agent
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
A water-soluble, stable vitamin C derivative. Gentler than ascorbic acid and works at a skin-friendly pH.
antioxidant · brightening
Mandelic Acid
A large AHA derived from bitter almonds. Very gentle, good for sensitive skin and deeper skin tones.
active · exfoliant · aha
Methylparaben
A well-studied preservative that has been in use for decades. Safe in the concentrations used in cosmetics, though often avoided due to consumer preference.
preservative · paraben
Mineral Oil
Highly refined petroleum-derived occlusive. Non-comedogenic, non-irritating, and excellent at reducing water loss.
occlusive · emollient
O
Octinoxate
UVB filter - effective but banned in some reef-protection zones (Hawaii, Key West).
sunscreen · organic-uv-filter
Octisalate
Well-tolerated UVB filter. Often paired with avobenzone to improve photostability.
sunscreen · organic-uv-filter
Octocrylene
UVB + short UVA filter. Stabilises avobenzone so it keeps working on skin. Small allergy risk.
sunscreen · organic-uv-filter · photostabiliser
Oxybenzone
Older UV filter flagged for reef toxicity and systemic absorption. Many brands have phased it out.
sunscreen · organic-uv-filter
P
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Anti-inflammatory peptide paired with Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 in Matrixyl 3000. Supports firmness and calms skin.
peptide · signal-peptide
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Signal peptide that encourages collagen production. Typically paired with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 as Matrixyl 3000.
peptide · signal-peptide
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38
Lipidated signal peptide (Matrixyl synthe’6) marketed to upregulate collagen, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and laminin 5. Modest wrinkle reduction in manufacturer studies.
peptide · signal-peptide
Panthenol
Provitamin B5 - hydrates, soothes, and supports barrier repair. Excellent for irritated or post-procedure skin.
humectant · soothing · barrier-support
Papaya Seed Oil
Light cold-pressed oil from papaya seeds high in oleic acid with notable beta-carotene and tocopherol. Absorbs reasonably well with low comedogenicity.
emollient · antioxidant-carrier
PEG-30 Glyceryl Cocoate
Ethoxylated PEG emulsifier and solubilizer for fragrance and oils. Generally well tolerated; PEGs may carry trace 1,4-dioxane impurities if not purified.
emulsifier · solubilizer
Pentylene Glycol
Mild humectant that also boosts preservation, letting formulas use less traditional preservative.
humectant · preservative-booster
Petrolatum
Gold-standard occlusive - reduces water loss from skin by up to 99%. Non-comedogenic despite the misconception.
occlusive
Phenethyl Alcohol
Aromatic alcohol with a mild rose-like scent used as a preservative booster and masking fragrance. Generally well tolerated; can sensitize a small subset of users.
preservative · fragrance
Phenoxyethanol
Broad-spectrum preservative. Widely used (0.5–1%) and well-tolerated.
preservative
Polysorbate 20
Nonionic ethoxylated sorbitan ester (Tween 20) used to solubilize fragrance or essential oils into water-based formulas. Very low irritation potential.
solubilizer · emulsifier
Potassium Sorbate
Broad mild preservative for yeast and mould. Works best below pH 6 and is commonly paired with sodium benzoate.
preservative
Propanediol
Plant-derived, renewable alternative to propylene glycol. Pulls in moisture and improves the feel of actives.
humectant · solvent
Propylene Glycol
Long-used humectant and penetration enhancer. Safe at cosmetic levels but an occasional contact allergen.
humectant · solvent
Propylparaben
A paraben preservative with a solid safety record. Flagged under EU restrictions at higher concentrations.
preservative · paraben
R
Resveratrol
Polyphenol antioxidant from grapes and berries. Neutralises free radicals and supports skin defences.
antioxidant
Retinaldehyde
One step closer to retinoic acid than retinol - faster-working with similar tolerability.
active · retinoid
Retinol
The gold-standard over-the-counter retinoid. Boosts cell turnover, smooths fine lines, and fades discoloration. Can irritate - start 2–3×/week.
active · anti-aging
Retinyl Palmitate
A gentler ester form of vitamin A. Needs to convert to retinol then retinoic acid in the skin, so effects are much milder than retinol.
active · antioxidant
Rice Amino Acids
Free amino acids from hydrolyzed rice protein that mimic the skin’s natural moisturizing factor (NMF). Supports hydration and barrier feel.
humectant · nmf-component
Rosehip Seed Oil
Cold-pressed oil rich in linoleic acid and natural tretinoin precursors. Lightweight, antioxidant, and barrier-supportive.
emollient · antioxidant
Rosemary Leaf Extract
Polyphenol-rich botanical. Stabilises oil-phase formulas against oxidation and adds antioxidant benefit.
antioxidant · preservative-booster
S
Salicylic Acid
Oil-soluble BHA that penetrates pores to clear excess sebum and dead skin. Best for blackheads, blemishes, and oily skin.
active · exfoliant · bha
Shea Butter
Rich plant butter packed with fatty acids. Deeply softening but can feel heavy on oily skin.
emollient · occlusive
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Stable water-soluble vitamin C derivative with mild antibacterial activity. Gentle and works at neutral pH.
antioxidant · brightening
Sodium Benzoate
Mild preservative, often paired with potassium sorbate. Active only at low pH.
preservative
Sodium Chloride
Common table salt used mainly to thicken surfactant cleansers and balance osmolarity. Can be drying or irritating in leave-on products at high levels.
thickener
Sodium Hydroxide
Strong alkali (lye) used in tiny amounts to neutralize acidic ingredients and adjust pH. Safe in finished products at trace levels; raw material is corrosive.
ph-adjuster
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Gentler cousin of SLS. Still a sulfate, but milder on skin.
surfactant · cleanser · sulfate
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Aggressive cleansing surfactant. Effective but can strip the skin barrier - better options exist today.
surfactant · cleanser · sulfate
Sodium PCA
Part of skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF). Binds water and supports hydration even at low %.
humectant
Sodium Phytate
Sodium salt of phytic acid, derived from rice or grains. Gentle plant-based chelator that binds metal ions to stabilize formulas and boost preservative efficacy.
chelator
Sodium Silicate
Strongly alkaline mineral salt (water glass) used to adjust viscosity and pH. High pH can be irritating to skin and eyes at meaningful levels.
thickener · ph-adjuster
Sorbic Acid
Naturally-occurring acid (originally from rowan berries) used as a preservative against yeasts and molds. Effective only at low pH (<6.5) and well tolerated.
preservative
Sorbitan Isostearate
Non-ionic sorbitan ester used to stabilize water-in-oil emulsions and disperse pigments in color cosmetics. Mild and skin-compatible.
emulsifier
Sorbitan Laurate
Non-ionic W/O emulsifier from sorbitol and lauric acid. Often paired with polysorbates to stabilize creams. Low-irritation and well tolerated.
emulsifier
Sorbitol
Sugar alcohol humectant. Binds water, adds slip, and softens skin without stickiness.
humectant
Soybean Oil
Affordable, vitamin E-rich oil high in linoleic acid (~50%) with phytosterols that support the barrier. Moderately comedogenic - better for dry/mature skin than acne-prone.
emollient · antioxidant-carrier
Squalane
Stable, hydrogenated version of skin-mimicking squalene. Lightweight, non-greasy, and rarely breaks anyone out.
emollient
Stearic Acid
Plant- or animal-derived fatty acid. Thickens creams and stabilises emulsions. Skin-friendly.
emulsifier · fatty-acid · thickener
Sucrose Cocoate
Sugar ester of sucrose and coconut fatty acids. Acts as a gentle O/W emulsifier and skin conditioner. Highly biodegradable.
emulsifier · emollient
Sunflower Seed Oil
Widely studied, well-tolerated oil very high in linoleic acid (especially the high-linoleic variety, ~60–70%) and vitamin E. Reinforces the barrier without disruption.
emollient · barrier-support · antioxidant-carrier
Sweet Pepper Resin
Resinous extract of sweet bell pepper used at low levels in lip and warming products for a mild tingle. Lower in capsaicin than chili variants but can still irritate.
warming-agent
T
Tinosorb S
Photostable broad-spectrum UVA + UVB filter. Approved in the EU, AU, and Asia - not yet US-approved.
sunscreen · organic-uv-filter
Titanium Dioxide
Mineral UVB + UVA-II filter. Pairs with zinc oxide for full-spectrum mineral sunscreen coverage.
sunscreen · mineral-uv-filter
Tocopherol
Vitamin E - fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin lipids from oxidation. Often pairs with vitamin C.
antioxidant
Tocopheryl Acetate
Stabilised vitamin E ester. Needs to convert on skin, so antioxidant effect is milder than plain tocopherol.
antioxidant
Tretinoin
Prescription retinoid (retinoic acid) - the most potent and best-studied anti-aging and acne ingredient. Start low and slow.
active · retinoid
V
Vanilla Bean Extract
Extract from cured vanilla orchid pods. Vanillin and polyphenols give mild antioxidant activity, but the naturally aromatic compounds can sensitize reactive skin.
antioxidant · fragrance
Vegetable Collagen
Marketing term for hydrolyzed plant proteins (often wheat, soy, or pea) positioned as a vegan collagen alternative. Hydrates and forms a film but does not replace dermal collagen.
humectant · film-forming
Vilca Bark Extract
Extract from the bark of the South American vilca (cebil) tree. Tannins and polyphenols deliver antioxidant and astringent benefits, calming redness.
antioxidant · soothing
Vitamin C
Pure L-ascorbic acid - the most-studied antioxidant for skin. Brightens tone and boosts collagen. Unstable; needs low pH (<3.5) to work.
active · antioxidant · brightening
Volufiline
Sederma's plant-derived active (based on sarsasapogenin) marketed for cheek and lip volumizing by stimulating lipid storage in adipocytes. Not currently in any OkoaSkin formula.
peptide · firming · anti-aging
W
Water
The base for almost every water-phase formula. Dissolves other ingredients and delivers them to the skin.
solvent
White Birch Sap
Mineral- and amino-acid-rich sap tapped from white birch trees, often used as a water replacement. Hydrates, soothes, and provides trace minerals for the barrier.
humectant · soothing
X
How we rate ingredients
Every ingredient in this database has been reviewed against peer-reviewed cosmetic literature, the CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) safety assessments, and published irritancy/comedogenicity data. We do not accept vendor-supplied marketing claims.
See our full methodology for scoring details.