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.
The free amino acid mixture released by complete hydrolysis of collagen, used as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent.
A mineral-rich red algae extract used to hydrate and condition the skin.
A glycerin derivative with a cyclohexyl substituent that improves its skin-conditioning and moisturising properties. Used in leave-on treatments and creams for sustained hydration.
A sulfur-containing amino acid that acts as a humectant and antioxidant in cosmetics, contributing to skin hydration and supporting the skin's own defense mechanisms.
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) in cosmetics refers to isolated and purified DNA — often from salmon milt (salmon sperm) as a sustainable byproduct — used as a humectant and skin-conditioning active. The phosphate backbone of DNA binds water strongly, delivering surface hydration and a moisturizing film. Low-molecular-weight depolymerized fractions may have skin conditioning benefits. Distinct from medical-grade PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide), which is a specific fraction with tissue-regeneration activity administered by injection.
A branched polysaccharide of α-D-glucose units primarily linked α(1→6), produced by fermentation of Leuconostoc mesenteroides. Distinct from dextrin (a partially hydrolyzed starch). In cosmetics, dextran forms a hydrophilic film on skin surfaces, providing temporary plumping, hydration retention, and a silky skin feel. Used in premium serums and masks for its biopolymer moisturizing and film-forming properties.
A succinic acid ester of dextran (a bacterial polysaccharide). Functions as a humectant and film-former in skincare. Found in Elixir's brightening emulsion.
A dimer of glycerin used as a humectant; provides hydration with a slightly richer, more substantive feel than glycerin.
A synthetic hybrid of dimethylsilanol and hyaluronic acid (CAS 128952-18-1) that functions as a humectant and skin conditioner, providing moisture-binding properties with enhanced surface compatibility.
A small sugar alcohol that acts as a humectant, drawing water into the skin.
A glycoside ester of glucose and ethanol. Functions as a gentle humectant. Used in Kanebo's Skin Harmonizer for its moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties.
An extract from the fruit of the common fig (Ficus carica) used for its humectant and antioxidant properties, contributing to skin softness and hydration.
A class of polysaccharides composed of fructose chains (including inulin-type and levan-type fructans) used in cosmetics as humectants and prebiotic agents.
Short-chain fructose polymers used in cosmetics as humectants and prebiotics to hydrate skin and support a balanced microbiome.
A simple monosaccharide sugar used in cosmetics as a humectant to attract and retain moisture in the skin.
An extract of the red alga Gelidiella acerosa rich in phycocolloids, used in cosmetics for humectant, soothing, and antioxidant properties.
Polysaccharide-rich extract from Gigartina stellata (star carrageen), a North Atlantic red algae related to Irish Moss. Contains sulphated carrageenans for moisture-binding and skin-soothing. Used in Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Cream.
A simple sugar humectant that draws moisture into the skin and serves as a substrate for skin-microbiome-friendly formulations.
A naturally occurring amino acid that functions as a humectant and contributes to the skin's natural moisturizing factor.
A polyethoxylated glycerin (12 EO units) used as a humectant and solvent. Milder and less occlusive than pure glycerin; pairs well with other polyols in lightweight hydrating serums and toners.
A polyethoxylated glycerin derivative (PEG-type ether with an average of 20 ethylene oxide units), used as a humectant and co-solvent in cosmetics; distinct from other glycereth chain lengths (e.g., Glycereth-12, Glycereth-26) in the KB.
A polyethoxylated glycerin derivative (26 ethylene oxide units) that provides humectant hydration and improves texture.
A gold-standard humectant that draws water into the skin.
A glucose-based humectant that hydrates and supports the skin's own moisture-management systems.