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