Ingredient library
Every ingredient SkinAtlas knows about — all 2178 of them. What each one does, what it works well with, and what to watch for.
The sodium salt of a carboxymethyl ether of yeast-derived beta-1,3-glucan, used as a water-soluble humectant and film-forming agent with soothing and antioxidant properties.
Carboxymethylated hyaluronic acid — a modified form of sodium hyaluronate where additional carboxymethyl groups are added to the backbone. Enhanced adherence to the skin surface vs. standard HA. Used in Matsuyama's Hadauru toner for superior hydration.
A sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) sodium salt derived from animal cartilage. A potent humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin and supports the extracellular matrix.
A sulfated dextran polysaccharide sodium salt. Used in cosmetics as a humectant and water-binding polymer.
The sodium salt of glucuronic acid, a component of hyaluronic acid's molecular backbone. Used as a mild humectant and skin conditioner that supports natural glycosaminoglycan pathways. Included in Filorga's NCEF complex.
The salt form of hyaluronic acid; penetrates more readily.
A crosslinked form of sodium hyaluronate that creates a hydrating matrix on skin for enhanced, sustained moisture retention.
The sodium salt of lactic acid, a natural component of the skin's NMF used as a humectant and mild pH buffer in moisturizers and toners.
A component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF).
A biodegradable polyamino acid polymer (poly-aspartic acid sodium salt) used as a high-performance humectant and film-former that provides sustained surface hydration.
A fermentation-derived polymer (from natto) that binds water and forms a light moisturizing film, often described as more hydrating than hyaluronic acid by weight.
A water-soluble form of collagen that hydrates and forms a smoothing film on the skin's surface.
A sugar alcohol humectant derived from glucose that draws moisture into the skin and improves product texture.
A beta-glucan-rich mushroom extract that hydrates skin and calms irritation.
A fermentation-derived extract from Sphingomonas bacteria that produces polysaccharides providing hydration, barrier support, and soothing effects.
Common table sugar used in cosmetics as a gentle humectant that attracts water to the skin.
An extract derived from edible swiftlet nests (made of swiftlet saliva) rich in glycoproteins, sialic acid, and amino acids that condition and hydrate the skin.
A plant-derived polysaccharide gum from tamarind seeds that hydrates and smooths the skin.
A sulfonic amino acid that functions as a humectant and osmoprotectant, helping skin cells maintain hydration balance under osmotic stress.
An essential amino acid used as a humectant that contributes to the skin's natural moisturizing factor.
A sugar-based humectant that holds water and helps skin resist dehydration stress.
A high-molecular-weight polysaccharide extracted from Tremella fuciformis (snow mushroom), often marketed as a natural alternative to hyaluronic acid due to its exceptional water-binding capacity and film-forming properties.
Trichosanthes kirilowii root extract (Tian Hua Fen) is derived from the starchy root of the Chinese snake gourd, used in TCM for its cooling and fluid-promoting properties. The cosmetic extract provides humectant moisture-binding and mild anti-inflammatory benefits from its polysaccharide and sterol fractions. Properly processed cosmetic extracts are not expected to retain biologically active trichosanthin.
A polysaccharide derived from tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa). Functions as a humectant and film-former, providing intense moisturization and a silky skin feel. Used in premium Kanebo formulations.