The Top 30 Keratolytic Ingredients: A Guide to Exfoliation

Posted byMohammed ameer IbrahimPosted inUncategorized

Keywords: Keratolytic Ingredients, Exfoliation, Skin Care, Cosmetics

30 Most Common Keratolytic Ingredients in Cosmetics:

1. Salicylic Acid

  • INCI Name: Salicylic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA)
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores, reduces inflammation, helps treat acne and keratosis pilaris.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 0.5-2% (for over-the-counter products)
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; derived from willow bark or synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Oily, acne-prone, and combination skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Highly popular, widely used in acne treatments, exfoliating products, and anti-aging formulations.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, toners, serums, masks, and spot treatments.
  • References:

2. Lactic Acid

  • INCI Name: Lactic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, improves skin texture and tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, and promotes collagen production.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 5-12% (for over-the-counter products)
  • Notable Characteristics: Clear, viscous liquid; slightly sour odor; naturally occurring in milk or synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, especially dry, dull, and uneven skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Highly popular, widely used in exfoliating products, anti-aging treatments, and skin brightening formulations.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, toners, serums, masks, and moisturizers.
  • References:

3. Glycolic Acid

  • INCI Name: Glycolic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
  • Key Benefits: The smallest AHA molecule, effectively exfoliates dead skin cells, improves skin texture, reduces wrinkles, and promotes collagen production.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 5-10% (for over-the-counter products)
  • Notable Characteristics: Clear, viscous liquid; slightly sour odor; derived from sugarcane or synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, especially dry, dull, and uneven skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Highly popular, widely used in exfoliating products, anti-aging treatments, and skin brightening formulations.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, toners, serums, masks, and moisturizers.
  • References:

4. Urea

  • INCI Name: Urea
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Humectant and Keratolytic
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, improves skin hydration, reduces roughness, and helps treat conditions like psoriasis and keratosis pilaris.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 3-10%
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Dry, rough, and calloused skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: May be irritating to sensitive skin.
  • Popularity: Popular in moisturizers and foot creams, especially for dry and calloused skin.
  • Common Product Types: Body lotions, foot creams, and hand creams.
  • References:

5. Mandelic Acid

  • INCI Name: Mandelic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
  • Key Benefits: Larger molecule than glycolic acid, exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces hyperpigmentation, and helps treat acne.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 5-15% (for over-the-counter products)
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; derived from bitter almonds.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Sensitive, acne-prone, and hyperpigmented skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Increasingly popular, especially for its gentle and effective exfoliating properties.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, toners, serums, masks, and spot treatments.
  • References:

6. Azelaic Acid

  • INCI Name: Azelaic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Antioxidant and Keratolytic
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces inflammation, helps treat acne, and minimizes hyperpigmentation.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 15-20% (for over-the-counter products)
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; naturally occurring in grains.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Acne-prone, rosacea-prone, and hyperpigmented skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Popular in acne treatments and skin brightening formulations.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, serums, creams, and masks.
  • References:

7. Citric Acid

  • INCI Name: Citric Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, brightens skin tone, and helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-5%
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; sour taste; naturally occurring in citrus fruits.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, but may be irritating to sensitive skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: May cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Popular in many cosmetic formulations, especially for its exfoliating and brightening properties.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, toners, serums, and masks.
  • References:

8. Apple Cider Vinegar

  • INCI Name: Acetic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Acid
  • Key Benefits: Contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), exfoliates dead skin cells, helps balance skin’s pH, and may reduce acne.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-5% (for cosmetic applications)
  • Notable Characteristics: Clear, liquid substance; sour odor and taste; naturally fermented from apple juice.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Acne-prone, but may be irritating to sensitive skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Popular in natural and organic cosmetics, especially for its exfoliating and balancing properties.
  • Common Product Types: Toners, masks, and hair rinses.
  • References:

9. Sulfur

  • INCI Name: Sulfur
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Anti-Inflammatory and Keratolytic
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces inflammation, helps treat acne, and may improve skin texture.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 2-10%
  • Notable Characteristics: Yellow, powdery solid; odorless; naturally occurring in volcanic regions or synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Acne-prone, and oily skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Popular in acne treatments and anti-aging formulations.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, masks, and spot treatments.
  • References:

10. Tea Tree Oil

  • INCI Name: Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Anti-Inflammatory and Antibacterial
  • Key Benefits: Antibacterial properties, helps reduce inflammation, may help treat acne, and has a refreshing scent.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-5%
  • Notable Characteristics: Clear, liquid oil; strong, medicinal aroma; extracted from tea tree leaves.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Acne-prone and oily skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, or dryness in sensitive skin.
  • Popularity: Popular in acne treatments and natural skincare products.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, toners, serums, and spot treatments.
  • References:

11. Resorcinol

  • INCI Name: Resorcinol
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Anti-Inflammatory and Keratolytic
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces inflammation, helps treat acne, and may improve skin texture.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-2% (for over-the-counter products)
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Acne-prone and oily skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Used in some acne treatments and anti-aging formulations.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, serums, and spot treatments.
  • References:

12. Allantoin

  • INCI Name: Allantoin
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Cell Regenerating
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, promotes cell regeneration, soothes irritation, and helps heal wounds.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 0.5-2%
  • Notable Characteristics: White, powdery solid; odorless; naturally occurring in comfrey root or synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, especially sensitive and irritated skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild irritation.
  • Popularity: Popular in many cosmetic formulations, especially for its soothing and healing properties.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, toners, serums, creams, and masks.
  • References:

13. Papaine

  • INCI Name: Papain
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Enzyme
  • Key Benefits: Enzyme extracted from papaya, exfoliates dead skin cells, helps break down protein bonds, and may improve skin texture.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-5%
  • Notable Characteristics: White, powdery solid; odorless; derived from papaya fruit.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, but may be irritating to sensitive skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
  • Popularity: Popular in enzymatic exfoliants, masks, and peels.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, masks, and peels.
  • References:

14. Bromelain

  • INCI Name: Bromelain
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Enzyme
  • Key Benefits: Enzyme extracted from pineapple, exfoliates dead skin cells, helps break down protein bonds, and may reduce inflammation.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-5%
  • Notable Characteristics: Yellowish-brown, powdery solid; odorless; derived from pineapple stem.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, but may be irritating to sensitive skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
  • Popularity: Popular in enzymatic exfoliants, masks, and peels.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, masks, and peels.
  • References:

15. Aloe Vera Gel

  • INCI Name: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Soothing and Antioxidant
  • Key Benefits: Soothes, cools, and hydrates skin, promotes healing, and may help reduce inflammation.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 5-20%
  • Notable Characteristics: Clear, gel-like substance; mild aroma; extracted from the aloe vera plant.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Sensitive, irritated, and sunburnt skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
  • Popularity: Popular in natural and organic cosmetics, particularly for its soothing properties.
  • Common Product Types: Lotions, gels, and after-sun products.
  • References:

16. Glycolic Acid

  • INCI Name: Glycolic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA)
  • Key Benefits: The smallest AHA molecule, effectively exfoliates dead skin cells, improves skin texture, reduces wrinkles, and promotes collagen production.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 5-10% (for over-the-counter products)
  • Notable Characteristics: Clear, viscous liquid; slightly sour odor; derived from sugarcane or synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, especially dry, dull, and uneven skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Highly popular, widely used in exfoliating products, anti-aging treatments, and skin brightening formulations.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, toners, serums, masks, and moisturizers.
  • References:

17. Retinol

  • INCI Name: Retinol
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Cell Regenerating
  • Key Benefits: Vitamin A derivative, increases cell turnover, reduces wrinkles, promotes collagen production, and improves skin tone.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 0.01-1% (for over-the-counter products)
  • Notable Characteristics: Yellow, crystalline solid; odorless; synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, but may be irritating to sensitive skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, dryness, and photosensitivity.
  • Popularity: Highly popular in anti-aging and acne treatments.
  • Common Product Types: Serums, creams, and night treatments.
  • References:

18. Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)

  • INCI Name: Ascorbic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Antioxidant and Skin Brightening
  • Key Benefits: Powerful antioxidant, brightens skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, and promotes collagen production.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 5-20%
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, but may be irritating to sensitive skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Highly popular, widely used in serums, creams, and masks.
  • Common Product Types: Serums, creams, and masks.
  • References:

19. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

  • INCI Name: Niacinamide
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Anti-Inflammatory
  • Key Benefits: Reduces inflammation, minimizes pores, improves skin texture, and helps treat acne.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 2-5%
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, especially sensitive and acne-prone skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild irritation.
  • Popularity: Highly popular, widely used in serums, creams, and masks.
  • Common Product Types: Serums, creams, and masks.
  • References:

20. Kojic Acid

  • INCI Name: Kojic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Skin Brightening
  • Key Benefits: Reduces hyperpigmentation, brightens skin tone, and may help even out skin texture.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-4%
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; produced by certain fungi.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Hyperpigmented skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Popular in skin brightening treatments and products.
  • Common Product Types: Serums, creams, and masks.
  • References:

21. Licorice Root Extract

  • INCI Name: Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Brightening
  • Key Benefits: Reduces inflammation, helps lighten dark spots, and may improve skin tone.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-5%
  • Notable Characteristics: Brown, powdery substance; mild, licorice-like aroma; extracted from licorice roots.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Sensitive, irritated, and hyperpigmented skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
  • Popularity: Popular in skin brightening and soothing products.
  • Common Product Types: Serums, creams, and masks.
  • References:

22. Tranexamic Acid

  • INCI Name: Tranexamic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Skin Brightening
  • Key Benefits: Reduces hyperpigmentation, brightens skin tone, and may help even out skin texture.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 2-5%
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Hyperpigmented skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Increasingly popular, especially for its effectiveness in reducing dark spots.
  • Common Product Types: Serums, creams, and masks.
  • References:

23. Hydroquinone

  • INCI Name: Hydroquinone
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Skin Brightening
  • Key Benefits: Powerful skin lightening agent, reduces hyperpigmentation, and helps even out skin tone.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 2-4% (for prescription products)
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Hyperpigmented skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, and skin discoloration.
  • Popularity: Used in prescription-strength skin lightening products.
  • Common Product Types: Creams and lotions.
  • References:

24. Arbutin

  • INCI Name: Arbutin
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Skin Brightening
  • Key Benefits: Reduces hyperpigmentation, brightens skin tone, and may help even out skin texture.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 2-5%
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; derived from bearberry leaves.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Hyperpigmented skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Popular in skin brightening treatments and products.
  • Common Product Types: Serums, creams, and masks.
  • References:

25. Azelaic Acid

  • INCI Name: Azelaic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Antioxidant and Keratolytic
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces inflammation, helps treat acne, and minimizes hyperpigmentation.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 15-20% (for over-the-counter products)
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; naturally occurring in grains.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Acne-prone, rosacea-prone, and hyperpigmented skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause mild irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Popular in acne treatments and skin brightening formulations.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, serums, creams, and masks.
  • References:

26. Apple Cider Vinegar

  • INCI Name: Acetic Acid
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Acid
  • Key Benefits: Contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), exfoliates dead skin cells, helps balance skin’s pH, and may reduce acne.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-5% (for cosmetic applications)
  • Notable Characteristics: Clear, liquid substance; sour odor and taste; naturally fermented from apple juice.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Acne-prone, but may be irritating to sensitive skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Popular in natural and organic cosmetics, especially for its exfoliating and balancing properties.
  • Common Product Types: Toners, masks, and hair rinses.
  • References:

27. Sulfur

  • INCI Name: Sulfur
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Anti-Inflammatory and Keratolytic
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces inflammation, helps treat acne, and may improve skin texture.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 2-10%
  • Notable Characteristics: Yellow, powdery solid; odorless; naturally occurring in volcanic regions or synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Acne-prone, and oily skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Popular in acne treatments and anti-aging formulations.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, masks, and spot treatments.
  • References:

28. Tea Tree Oil

  • INCI Name: Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Anti-Inflammatory and Antibacterial
  • Key Benefits: Antibacterial properties, helps reduce inflammation, may help treat acne, and has a refreshing scent.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-5%
  • Notable Characteristics: Clear, liquid oil; strong, medicinal aroma; extracted from tea tree leaves.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Acne-prone and oily skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, or dryness in sensitive skin.
  • Popularity: Popular in acne treatments and natural skincare products.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, toners, serums, and spot treatments.
  • References:

29. Resorcinol

  • INCI Name: Resorcinol
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Anti-Inflammatory and Keratolytic
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces inflammation, helps treat acne, and may improve skin texture.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 1-2% (for over-the-counter products)
  • Notable Characteristics: White, crystalline powder; odorless; synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: Acne-prone and oily skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Can cause irritation, redness, or dryness.
  • Popularity: Used in some acne treatments and anti-aging formulations.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, serums, and spot treatments.
  • References:

30. Allantoin

  • INCI Name: Allantoin
  • Keratolytic Mechanism: Cell Regenerating
  • Key Benefits: Exfoliates dead skin cells, promotes cell regeneration, soothes irritation, and helps heal wounds.
  • Typical Concentration Range: 0.5-2%
  • Notable Characteristics: White, powdery solid; odorless; naturally occurring in comfrey root or synthetically produced.
  • Suitable Skin Types: All skin types, especially sensitive and irritated skin.
  • Potential Allergens or Irritants: Generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild irritation.
  • Popularity: Popular in many cosmetic formulations, especially for its soothing and healing properties.
  • Common Product Types: Cleansers, toners, serums, creams, and masks.
  • References:

Please note: This list provides a general overview of common keratolytic ingredients. It’s important to consult with a dermatologist for personalized skincare advice and to consider your individual skin type and concerns. The popularity and usage of these ingredients may vary depending on factors such as market trends, consumer preferences, and brand strategies. Always patch test any new product before applying it to your entire face.

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