What chemicals go under My Skin list of common ingredient groups used in cosmetics along with some examples for each

  1. Emollients:
  • Softens and smooths the skin.
  • Examples: Shea butter, cocoa butter, mineral oil, jojoba oil.
  1. Humectants:
  • Attract moisture to the skin.
  • Examples: Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, propylene glycol, sorbitol.
  1. Emulsifiers:
  • Help combine water and oil components.
  • Examples: Lecithin, polysorbates, cetearyl alcohol, glyceryl stearate.
  1. Surfactants:
  • Aid in cleansing and foaming.
  • Examples: Sodium lauryl sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, decyl glucoside.
  1. Preservatives:
  • Extend shelf life by preventing microbial growth.
  • Examples: Parabens, phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, benzyl alcohol.
  1. Fragrances:
  • Add scent.
  • Examples: Essential oils, synthetic fragrances, natural extracts.
  1. Colorants:
  • Add color to the product.
  • Examples: Iron oxides, titanium dioxide, mica, FD&C dyes.
  1. Thickeners and Stabilizers:
  • Enhance texture and consistency.
  • Examples: Xanthan gum, carbomer, cetyl alcohol, stearic acid.
  1. Antioxidants:
  • Protect skin by reducing oxidative stress.
  • Examples: Vitamin E (tocopherol), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), green tea extract, coenzyme Q10.
  1. Active Ingredients:
    • Serve specific skincare purposes.
    • Examples: Retinoids, salicylic acid, niacinamide, peptides.
  2. Astringents:
    • Tighten skin and pores.
    • Examples: Witch hazel, alcohol, alum.
  3. Botanicals and Extracts:
    • Natural extracts for various benefits.
    • Examples: Aloe vera, chamomile extract, lavender extract, rosemary extract.

These groups and examples provide a good overview of the types of ingredients typically found in cosmetic products.

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