The library

Ingredient library

Every ingredient SkinAtlas knows about — all 2161 of them. What each one does, what it works well with, and what to watch for.

192 ingredients in Active — page 3 of 8

Active
Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate

A synthetic dipeptide that acts as a reversible antagonist at muscular nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, reducing repetitive facial muscle contractions to smooth expression lines.

anti-wrinkleneuromuscular-blocking-peptide
Mimics venom peptide waglerin-1 to inhibit acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, reducing muscle-contraction-driven expression linesSmooths fine lines and wrinkles with continued useWell tolerated at typical cosmetic concentrations
Insufficient long-term topical safety data; avoid in pregnancy as a precaution
Active
Dipeptide-15

A synthetic dipeptide of two glycine residues (glycylglycine) used as a skin- and hair-conditioning agent in cosmetic formulations.

skin-conditioninghair-conditioning
Conditions and smooths skin surfaceSupports skin rejuvenation as part of peptide complexes
Active
Dipotassium Ursolyl Phosphate
DIPOTASSIUM URSOLYL PHOSPHATE

A water-soluble phosphate salt derivative of ursolic acid, a pentacyclic triterpenoid found in rosemary and other botanicals. Developed for improved delivery of ursolic acid's anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits.

anti-agingskin-conditioning
Anti-aging firming activityReduces the appearance of wrinklesImproves skin elasticity
+ Glycerin+ Butylene Glycol
Active
Endomyces Ferment Filtrate
ENDOMYCES FERMENT FILTRATE

A ferment filtrate from Endomyces magnusii yeast, used in luxury skincare for its skin-conditioning, brightening, and moisturising properties. Rich in natural metabolites from fermentation.

skin-conditioninganti-agingmoisturising
Provides ferment-derived amino acids, peptides, and organic acids for skin conditioningBrightening and smoothing actionSupports skin texture
+ Acetyl Glutamine+ Hyaluronic Acid
Active
Engelhardtia Chrysolepis Leaf Extract

An extract of the leaves of Engelhardtia chrysolepis (Juglandaceae family) used in cosmetics for its phytoestrogen-like and antioxidant properties that support skin firmness and elasticity.

skin-conditioningantioxidantanti-aging
Rich in phytoestrogen-like compounds that support skin firmness and elasticityAntioxidant activity protects collagen-producing fibroblasts from free radical damageMay help interrupt glycation, protecting the skin barrier
Active
Equisetum Arvense Extract

An extract of field horsetail (Equisetum arvense) that is naturally rich in silica, flavonoids, and minerals, used in cosmetics to support collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and provide antioxidant protection.

antioxidantskin-conditioninganti-agingsoothing
Rich in silica to support collagen synthesis and improve skin elasticity and firmnessAntioxidant flavonoids protect against free radical damageAnti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin
Active
Escin

A triterpenoid saponin isolated from horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) seeds, used in cosmetics to strengthen capillary walls, reduce puffiness, and provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

anti-inflammatorydecongestantantioxidantskin-conditioning
Strengthens capillary walls and reduces their permeability, decreasing puffiness and edemaAnti-inflammatory effects reduce redness and skin irritationAntioxidant protection via associated flavonoids
Saponin-based; may be irritating at high concentrationsPatch test recommended for sensitive skin
Active
Folic Acid

Vitamin B9 (pteroylglutamic acid) used in cosmetics as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning agent that supports cellular renewal.

antioxidantskin-conditioningcell-communicating
Antioxidant that neutralises free radicalsSupports cellular turnover and DNA repair processesSkin-conditioning at low concentrations
Active
Fucus Vesiculosus Extract

A marine algae extract from bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) seaweed rich in fucoidan and phlorotannins that delivers antioxidant protection, collagen support, and light hydration for anti-aging formulations.

AntioxidantSkin-conditioningHumectantAnti-aging
Fucoidan and phlorotannins provide strong antioxidant protection against free radicals and pollutionForms a light film on skin, supporting hydration and moisture-retentionStimulates collagen production, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Seaweed extracts may contain iodine; individuals with iodine sensitivity or thyroid conditions should use caution with prolonged application to large areasRare potential for contact sensitization
Active
Ganoderma Lucidum (Mushroom) Stem Extract
GANODERMA LUCIDUM STEM EXTRACT

Extract from the stem of Ganoderma lucidum (reishi / lingzhi mushroom). Contains beta-glucans, ganoderic acids (triterpenoids), and polysaccharides. The stem extract is distinct from the fruiting body extract and complements it with similar adaptogenic and antioxidant properties.

antioxidantadaptogenskin-conditioning
Rich in beta-glucans and triterpenoidsAntioxidant and adaptogenicSupports skin immunity
+ Hyaluronic Acid+ Niacinamide
Active
Ganoderma Lucidum Extract

An extract from the fruiting body of Ganoderma lucidum (reishi / lingzhi mushroom), distinct from the stem-only extract already in the KB; contains beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and ganoderic acid triterpenoids with antioxidant, adaptogenic, and skin-conditioning benefits.

antioxidantadaptogenskin-conditioning
Beta-glucans and polysaccharides support skin immunity and hydrationGanoderic acids (triterpenoids) provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actionAdaptogenic properties for stressed skin
Active
Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf Extract
Gaultheria Procumbens Leaf Extract

An extract of wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens) leaves containing methyl salicylate, used in cosmetics for anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

anti-inflammatorysoothingskin-conditioning
Anti-inflammatory and soothing effects via naturally occurring methyl salicylateMild astringent properties
Contains methyl salicylate, a natural salicylate that absorbs through the skin; avoid in those with salicylate sensitivityPotential skin irritant; products typically use low concentrations
Active
Glucosamine HCl

The hydrochloride salt of glucosamine, an amino sugar. In topical skincare, studied for its ability to inhibit tyrosinase-related pigmentation pathways and stimulate hyaluronic acid production. Often paired with niacinamide for complementary brightening effects.

skin-brighteninghumectantanti-aging
May inhibit melanin formation for a brighter, more even skin toneSupports hyaluronic acid synthesis in the skinAmino sugar component of glycosaminoglycans — supports plumpness and hydration
+ Niacinamide+ Sodium Hyaluronate
Active
Glutamylamidoethyl Indole

A synthetic dipeptide-like active (L-glutamylamidoethyl indole) used as a cutaneous neuroprotective agent to reduce skin sensitivity and stress-related aging.

skin-protectinganti-agingneuroprotective
Protects skin neurons from stress-related degeneration (cutaneous neuroprotection)Anti-stress effects on cutaneous sensitivitySupports skin barrier integrity and moisture
Active
Hexapeptide-2

A six-amino-acid peptide that acts as an alpha-MSH antagonist, blocking one of the key signals that triggers melanin synthesis in melanocytes.

skin-brighteningpeptidemelanogenesis-inhibitor
Competes with alpha-MSH (melanocyte-stimulating hormone) to reduce melanin productionHelps even skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots
+ Niacinamide+ Oligopeptide-68
Active
Hexapeptide-9

A synthetic matrikine hexapeptide (Gly-Pro-Gln-Gly-Pro-Gln) that mimics a collagen sequence to stimulate extracellular matrix protein synthesis and support skin regeneration.

activeanti-agingskin-conditioning
Stimulates fibroblasts to increase collagen type I and IV productionEnhances hyaluronic acid synthesis in the dermisImproves skin firmness, elasticity, and texture
Active
Hexyl Nicotinate

A hexyl ester of nicotinic acid (niacin) that acts as a mild vasodilator when applied topically, temporarily increasing local blood flow and enhancing penetration of other ingredients.

vasodilatoremollientpenetration-enhancer
Increases local cutaneous blood flow for a healthy glow and improved delivery of activesMild emollient properties
Vasodilatory effect causes temporary redness, warmth, and tingling sensation; may be uncomfortable for sensitive skinLimited safety data for use during pregnancy
Active
Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Water

The water fraction obtained from the fruit of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), distinct from the steam-distilled hydrosol (Hippophae Rhamnoides Water) and the lipid-rich fruit oil; used primarily as a solvent and mild skin-conditioning agent in water-based cosmetic formulas.

solventskin-conditioningantioxidant
Aqueous fraction of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) fruit, retaining water-soluble bioactives including flavonoids and organic acidsProvides mild antioxidative and skin-conditioning properties characteristic of sea buckthornSuitable for water-phase formulations where the heavier fruit oil or extract would not be appropriate
Generally well-tolerated; sea buckthorn derivatives may cause reactions in individuals with known plant allergies
Active
Homosulfamine
HOMOSULFAMINE

A sulfonamide-type antibacterial compound used in Japanese quasi-drug (OTC medicated) skincare products for acne treatment. Has antimicrobial activity against bacteria including Cutibacterium acnes. Used in Meishoku's medicated skin lotion.

antimicrobialanti-acne
Antimicrobial — targets acne-causing bacteriaUsed in Japanese quasi-drug (医薬部外品) acne formulations
Active pharmaceutical ingredient — follow product instructions; avoid overuse
+ Salicylic Acid
Active
Hydrangea Macrophylla Leaf Extract

An extract from the leaves of Hydrangea macrophylla (bigleaf hydrangea) containing hydrangenol and polyphenols with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential brightening properties via tyrosinase inhibition.

brighteninganti-inflammatoryantioxidant
Contains hydrangenol and phyllodulcin with brightening and antioxidant propertiesAnti-inflammatory effects soothe irritated skinMay help address hyperpigmentation through tyrosinase inhibition
Active
Hydrogenated Conchiolin Protein
HYDROGENATED CONCHIOLIN PROTEIN

A hydrogenated form of conchiolin protein, the structural protein from mollusk shells (pearl/nacre). Hydrogenation improves stability. Used as a conditioning film-former in Shiseido Elixir formulations.

skin-conditioningfilm-former
Hydrogenated form — improved oxidative stabilityFilm-forming skin conditionerPearl-derived protein for luxury formulations
+ Hyaluronic Acid+ Soluble Collagen
Active
Hydrolyzed Conchiolin Protein
HYDROLYZED CONCHIOLIN PROTEIN

A hydrolysate of conchiolin, the structural protein from pearl/nacre (Pinctada spp.). Used in luxury Japanese skincare for its moisturising, conditioning, and film-forming properties.

skin-conditioningmoisturisingfilm-forming
Conditions and smooths skin surfaceMoisture-binding film-forming actionLuxury pearl-derived ingredient
Shellfish/animal-derived — patch test recommended for sensitive individuals
+ Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate+ Trehalose
Active
Hydrolyzed Ginseng Saponins

Hydrolyzed Ginseng Saponins are produced by enzymatic or acid hydrolysis of the triterpene saponins (ginsenosides) present in Panax ginseng root. The hydrolysis cleaves sugar moieties, yielding smaller aglycone and protopanaxadiol/protopanaxatriol metabolites (including Rh1, Rh2, Rg3, compound K) that have improved skin penetration versus intact high-molecular-weight saponins. Used in premium Korean skincare as a high-potency, bioavailable form of ginseng active.

skin-conditioningantioxidantanti-agingskin-brightening
Enzymatic or acid hydrolysis of intact Panax ginseng saponins (ginsenosides) produces smaller, more bioavailable aglycone forms (Rh1, Rh2, Rg3, compound K) that penetrate the stratum corneum more readily than native ginsenosidesHydrolyzed ginsenosides retain and in some cases exceed the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening activity of the parent saponins — with the added benefit of reduced molecular weight for topical deliveryStimulates collagen synthesis and inhibits matrix metalloproteinases in fibroblasts, supporting anti-aging and skin firming effects consistent with ginseng's longstanding reputation in East Asian skincare
+ Panax Ginseng Root Extract+ Niacinamide+ Sodium Hyaluronate
Active
Hydrolyzed Pearl

An enzymatic or acid hydrolysate of freshwater or marine pearl (nacre) yielding amino acids, calcium, and trace minerals that brighten, condition, and hydrate skin.

Skin-conditioningBrighteningMoisturizing
Rich in amino acids (glycine, alanine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid) that support skin hydration and elasticityInhibits melanin production, helping reduce the appearance of dark spots and dullnessProvides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors
Animal-derived ingredient (freshwater or marine bivalve); not veganPotential allergen for individuals with shellfish sensitivities — patch-test recommended