Ingredient library
Every ingredient SkinAtlas knows about — all 2171 of them. What each one does, what it works well with, and what to watch for.
The menthyl ester of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA) that functions as a humectant and long-lasting coolant, locking in moisture while delivering a gentle cooling effect.
A zwitterionic phosphorylcholine monomer that mimics the polar head group of cell membrane phospholipids, used in cosmetics to deliver lasting hydration and support the skin barrier.
A methyl glucoside ethoxylate with 10 ethylene oxide units used as a mild humectant and emollient, providing gentle hydration with a non-sticky finish.
A methyl glucoside ethoxylate (20 ethylene oxide units) used as a gentle humectant that provides lasting hydration with a non-tacky finish.
Extract from Mitsuishi konbu (Laminaria japonica), a premium Japanese kelp variety harvested from specific coastal areas. Rich in polysaccharides (fucoidan, alginate), trace minerals, and iodine. Used in Bijin Nuka's rice-based skincare for hydration and mineral nutrition.
An extract derived from the fruit of Musa sapientum (banana), rich in sugars, vitamins, and potassium, used as a skin-conditioning humectant with mild antioxidant properties.
A glycogen polysaccharide extracted from mussels (Mytilus species) used in Japanese skincare as a moisturizing and film-forming agent that helps maintain the skin's water balance.
An extract from the leaf and stem of Myrothamnus flabellifolia (the 'resurrection plant'), native to the Namib Desert, rich in trehalose, arbutin, and polyphenols; used for deep hydration and antioxidant protection.
A guanidine-modified proline amino acid derivative. Functions as a humectant in skincare formulations. Found in Kanebo premium skincare.
A methylated derivative of the amino acid L-serine. Functions as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent, helping attract and retain water in the skin.
Natto gum is polyglutamic acid (PGA) — a biopolymer produced by Bacillus subtilis during the fermentation of soybeans (natto). It has extraordinary water-holding capacity, exceeding even hyaluronic acid. Used in Matsuyama's Hadauru ceramide line for superior moisturization.
1,8-Octanediol is a straight-chain C8 aliphatic diol used as a humectant and multifunctional preservative booster with inherent antimicrobial properties, distinct from 1,2-octanediol (caprylyl glycol).
An extract from the tuberous roots of Ophiopogon japonicus (lilyturf / Maidong), a classic TCM herb; rich in steroidal saponins and fructo-oligosaccharides that provide humectant, soothing, and skin-conditioning benefits.
An extract from the fruit of Opuntia coccinellifera (nopal/prickly pear cactus), rich in polysaccharides, betalain pigments, and antioxidants; used in cosmetics for its moisturising and soothing properties.
An extract from the stem of Opuntia ficus-indica (prickly pear cactus) rich in polysaccharides, flavonoids, and betalain antioxidants, used to hydrate, soothe, and protect skin.
An aqueous extract from the fruit of Opuntia tuna (prickly pear cactus) rich in polysaccharides, betalain pigments, and flavonoids used to hydrate, soothe, and protect skin from oxidative stress.
An extract from Opuntia vulgaris (common prickly pear cactus) used as a humectant and soothing agent, rich in polysaccharides and antioxidant phenolic compounds.
An aqueous extract from rice bran containing water-soluble vitamins, ferulic acid, and amino acids used as a lightweight humectant and skin-brightening agent.
A polyethylene glycol with ~23 EO units (MW ~1000 Da). Liquid at room temperature. Used as a humectant and co-solvent in Elixir Retino Power Cream.
A polyethylene glycol with 12 ethylene oxide units. Used as a humectant, solubilizer, and skin conditioner at low concentrations. Shorter chain than PEG-40 or PEG-60, giving a lighter, less viscous feel.
A high-molecular-weight polyethylene glycol. Used as a humectant, thickener, and solvent in skincare formulations. High MW PEGs are generally considered safe and non-irritating.
A polyethylene glycol with ~34 ethylene oxide units (MW ~1500 Da). Used as a humectant and co-solvent in skincare formulations.
A polyethylene glycol of MW ~1540 Da. Similar to PEG-1500. Used as a humectant and binder in Curel's gentle toner formulation.
A medium-chain polyethylene glycol (~20 ethylene oxide units, ~880 Da) used as a humectant and solvent to hydrate skin and improve formula texture.