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.
A zwitterionic biological buffer (HEPES) used in cosmetics to stabilize formula pH and provide gentle exfoliation by promoting keratinocyte shedding.
A cellulose ether with hydroxypropyl groups. Used as a thickener, binder, and film-forming agent in skincare. Provides a smooth, gel-like consistency. Commonly used in Kanebo toners.
A hydroxypropyl-modified cyclodextrin that forms hollow, cage-like molecular structures to encapsulate actives, improving their stability, solubility, and skin delivery.
A semi-synthetic cellulose ether used as a film-former, thickener, and binder in cosmetic serums, gels, and eye-area products.
A cellulose derivative modified with both hydroxypropyl-methyl and stearoxy groups. Used primarily in Japanese sunscreen formulas (notably Shiseido/Elixir SPF products) to create a smooth, non-tacky film-forming gel texture.
A chemically modified starch derivative used as a thickener and film-former to improve formula texture and stability.
A quaternized crosslinked maltodextrin polymer; forms a cationic conditioning film on skin that improves texture and provides a silky, smooth feel in premium serums.
A hydroxy fatty acid derived from castor oil used as a gelling and thickening agent in creams and sticks. Contributes minor emollient properties to formulas.
A hydroxy fatty acid derivative. Has mild antimicrobial properties. Used in Kanebo's Skin Harmonizer for conditioning and microbiome-supporting effects.
A lauroyl ester of inulin, a plant-derived polysaccharide (fructan). Functions as a film-former and has prebiotic properties that support the skin microbiome. Creates a powdery, velvety skin feel. Used in Sana's eye cream.
Inorganic mineral pigments (red, yellow, and black iron oxides) used as colorants in cosmetics including tinted sunscreens, CC creams, and foundation.
A naturally occurring white clay mineral (aluminum silicate) used in cosmetics as an absorbent, opacifier, and texture agent in cleansers, masks, and powders.
Lactose is a naturally occurring disaccharide composed of glucose and galactose, found in milk. In cosmetics it appears primarily in powder-format products (enzyme powders, vitamin C powder treatments) as a humectant and powder carrier. It functions as a mild moisture-attracting agent and contributes to the smooth texture and flowability of dry powder formulas.
An amino acid-derived ingredient synthesized from lysine and lauroyl chloride, used in cosmetics and color products to provide a silky texture and improve pigment adhesion.
A crosslinked copolymer of lauryl methacrylate and glycol dimethacrylate; used as a texture modifier and film-forming agent in premium skincare to improve spreadability.
A crosslinked copolymer of lauryl methacrylate and sodium methacrylate used by Kao in Biore UV formulas. Forms an oil-absorbing film for the signature watery-essence texture and improved SPF longevity on oily skin.
A silicone-based PEG emulsifier used to create stable water-in-silicone emulsions, providing a lightweight, silky texture in sunscreens and foundations.
A silicone-polyether copolymer emulsifier used to stabilize water-in-silicone emulsions, delivering a characteristic lightweight, silky finish in sunscreens and hybrid formulas.
An extract from the seeds of Lens esculenta (lentil), used in cosmetics for its skin-protecting, antioxidant, and nourishing properties derived from proteins and vitamins.
An extract from the fruit of Lens esculenta (lentil), rich in polyphenols and oligosaccharides, used in cosmetics for its skin-conditioning, antioxidant, and sebum-regulating properties.
A lipolytic enzyme derived from microbial or plant sources used in cosmetics for controlled release of active ingredients and lipid-processing effects.
A flower extract from Lonicera caprifolium (Italian honeysuckle), used in cosmetics primarily for its skin-conditioning and mild natural perfuming properties.
A synthetic clay-like aluminosilicate mineral used as an absorbent, mattifier, and rheology modifier in sunscreens and BB creams.
The magnesium salt of aspartic acid, used in cosmetics as a skin-conditioning agent to supply magnesium ions that support skin metabolism.