Skincare Ingredients A-Z

Argireline contains Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 known to target early symptoms of aging. It is used in skin care serums to address both forming and already developed sings of aging. In precise, it contains two potent proteins; elastin and collagen. The two are essential for a healthy and youthful skin appearance. Peptides are common ingredients in skincare products but this particular peptide is different because of its ability to decrease muscle movement and wrinkle appearance. It is a peptide that targets areas susceptible to developing wrinkles and fine lines like the forehead and areas around the eyes.

Other Products: Kiehl

Algae Extract is derived from various Algae species such as seaweed, furaceae, focus, vesiculosus, among others. It is often used in skin care products because of the potent vitamins and antioxidants present in it. It is a powerhouse ingredient packed with plenty of minerals and vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K. Algae works well on almost all types of skin. It has a smoothing effect in that it acts as a humectant by attracting water. It is, therefore, used in the cosmetic product as a skin conditioner and emollient.

Other Products: Proven Skincare

Aloe Vera is a succulent plant species from Aloe that grows in tropical climates. It is a short-stemmed thick leafy plant best known for treating various health concerns. The thick liquid extracted from the fleshy leaves is a medicinal extract with plenty of health benefits. It is a rich source of antioxidants like polyphenols which has numerous health benefits. It also contains other properties like antibacterial, antiseptic, and antiviral that inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria likely to cause various infections in humans. It is widely used to treat skin-related problems and is also ideal for wound healing.

Other Products: Lift Factor Plus , Infinite Restore

Amino Acids are organic compounds that join together to make proteins in the body. They are simply building blocks of protein, which are essential components of every cell in the human body. They are organic compounds comprising carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen that form proteins in the body. Amino acids are obtained from protein foods which are later broken into amino acids during digestion. Amino acids play different functions in the human body. It aids in muscle building. It also boosts immunity, prevents digestion-related problems, enhances mental alertness, and supports the transportation of nutrients in the body, among other benefits.

Apple cider vinegar is an ingredient formed through apple sugar fermentation. This version of vinegar is formed by fermenting apple sugars, hence turning the fermented sugar into alcohol. This fermented apple juice usually contains a component known as acetic acid, which is an active ingredient in apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar has been found to contain healthy properties such as antioxidant antimicrobial effects. It offers plenty of health benefits such as reducing cholesterol levels, supporting weight loss, lowering blood sugar levels, and improving diabetes-related symptoms. It is also a strong anti-bacterial that prevents various infections.

Other Products: Goli Nutrition Apple Cider Vinegar , Goli Nutrition Ashwagandha Gummies

Argan Oil is a naturally occurring plant oil extracted from argan tree fruit kernels found in Morocco. It is a rich source of antioxidants and fatty acids mostly used in skincare anti-aging products. It is a good skin moisturizer, reduces wrinkles, fades dark circles, and brightens the skin. It also contains vitamin E, an essential element necessary for healthy skin and hair. Argan oil is also used for cooking purposes. The consumption of this ingredient has been found to have medical benefits such as diabetes and high blood pressure treatment.

Other Products: Pura d’or Shampoo , M-61 Hydraboost Collagen+ Peptide Water Cream

Biotin also known as vitamin B7 or H is a water-soluble vitamin from the Vitamin B family. In precise this component is from the Vitamin B family present in some food and available in the form of a dietary supplement. It is an essential nutrient involved in a variety of metabolic processes in both humans and in other organisms. It helps in the maintenance of the major systems of the body. It helps the body to make use of enzymes and also transport nutrients throughout the body. It is also responsible for converting certain nutrients into energy. Other health benefits associated with biotin include healthy skin, hair, and nails.

Cucumber extract is a natural non-sensitizing extract from the Cucumis sativus plant. The ingredient derived from the Cucumis sativus plant and is believed to be one of the best skin superfoods. The extract is mostly composed of water. However, it also contains other essential properties like proteins, vitamin C, lipids, and a few minerals, ideal for your skin. It also contains other essential astringent properties known to relieve the skin from inflammation and puffiness. Cucumber extract is widely used to treat sunburns because of its cooling effect and the ability to reduce sunburn-related pain.

Other Products: Lush Lift Cream , DRMTLGY

Caffeine is a stimulant belonging to the methylxanthine class, naturally found in coffee, cocoa, and tea plants. It is found in various plants like coffee, cocoa, guarana, and tea. Caffeine is one of the widely consumed drugs because, unlike other psychoactive drugs, caffeine is legal and unregulated. It is, therefore, added to many beverages and supplements. The reason why caffeine as an ingredient is being used in many beverages and supplements is because of its wide range of health benefits. If used in moderation (small doses), caffeine can help stimulate the nervous system and also increase brain activity. It makes one feel refreshed and stay focused.

Ceramides are naturally occurring fatty acids in the form of lipids found in skin cells. The fatty acids known as lipids present in the skin cells and they make up about 50% of the skin’s outer layer. The main castor oil component is ricinoleic acid. It is a type of fatty acid known to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Castor oil has been used as a traditional medicine for centuries. It exists in the form of a laxative and it is taken orally. It is also applied topically on the skin for lubrication purposes and on the hair to stimulate hair growth. It is also applied to ease arthritis-related pain.

Other Products: CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion , CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream

Collagen is a natural protein found all over the body, especially in the skin, ligaments, tendons, bones, teeth, and connective tissues. Ideally this is one highly abundant protein present in the human body. It comprises a third of the protein in the body and three-quarters of the skin. It is found in the muscles, bones, tendons, and skin. It is this substance that holds the entire body together by forming a scaffold to provide the body with structure and strength. It is, therefore, responsible for skin stretchiness or elasticity and healthy joints. Aging usually leads to the breakdown of collagen, making it harder for the body to produce more. So, most people use supplements to help boost collagen production.

DMAE also called Dimethylethanolamine is a chlorine molecule containing one less methyl group and provides the body with a number of health benefits. DMAE has been found to improve the general functioning of the brain. It is believed to enhance memory, improve brain function, and affect mood. DMAE is also known to have some health benefits on aging skin. It has been found to decrease age-related symptoms that are usually evident on the skin like wrinkles and fine lines.

Other Products: LifeCell

Folate, also known as vitamin B9 is a naturally occurring vitamin derived from various sources of food, especially leafy vegetables like citrus fruits, leafy vegetables, and beans. The water-soluble vitamin exists in the form of vitamin B9. It is present in many foods and also sold as a supplement as folic acid. It is the best vitamin that is easily absorbed compared to other vitamins from various food sources. Folate is an important substance essential for healthy cell growth and the formation of red blood cells.

Other Products: Nioxin Recharging Complex

Glycerin also known as glycerin or glycerol is a scentless and colorless liquid developed by hydrolyzing vegetable and animal fats. Ideally it exists in the form of trihydroxy sugar alcohol. Glycerin exists in two forms; synthetic and natural. Natural glycerin is produced by hydrolyzing vegetable and animal fats. It is referred to as a medication because it is a powerful moisturizer used to prevent or treat rough, itchy, dry, scaly skin, and minor skin irritations. It forms a protective layer on the upper layer of the skin, hence preventing moisture loss while trapping water in the skin.

Other Products: Earth to Skin , SculptMedix , Clinique Smart Night Custom-Repair Moisturizer Cream

Grapeseed oil is oil processed from seeds of the grape trees and it is a byproduct of winemaking. The oil extract has a number of uses. It is largely used as a medicinal ingredient because of its ability to manage a number of skin concerns. Grape seed oil is known to be a rich source of anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. The oil also contains omega fatty acids and vitamin E, making it a popular ingredient for formulating skin care products. It absorbs faster into the skin, leaving your skin supple, soft, and moisturized.

Other Products: Oribe Conditioner for Brilliance and Shine , Caudalie Vinosculpt Lift & Firm Body Cream

Green tea extract is an ingredient derived from the leaves of a plant called Camellia sinensis. This tea extract is made from the leaves Camellia sinensis plant and exists in different forms; capsule, powder, and liquid. This ingredient when orally consumed is said to provide the body with plenty of health benefits. Green tea extract contains potent antioxidant properties called catechins known to protect the body against oxidative-related stress by fighting cell damage. It has also been found to help in exercise recovery and promotes weight loss too. Other health benefits that have been associated with this ingredient include sugar regulation, heart, liver, and brain health, and overall disease prevention.

Other Products: Jan Marini , Kylie Skin Eye Cream

Hyaluronic acid is a sugar that occurs naturally throughout the connective tissue of the body. The main function of Hyaluronic acid is to provide the needed moisture in various parts of the body, hence keeping the body tissues well moist and lubricated. However, as people age the production of Hyaluronic acid decreases, affecting moisture and water supply in different body parts. So, most people opt for supplemental hyaluronic acid. It exists in three forms; oral supplements, injections, serums, or topical creams.

Other Products: Beverly Hills MD Anti-Aging Lip Enhancer

Hydrolyzed collagen refers to a group of peptides with small molecular weight extracted from various sources like porcine or bovine. This ingredient is popular in most dietary supplements because of its ability to support the overall well-being of the body. When collagen is obtained from other sources for supplementation purposes, they usually need to be broken down to allow easy absorption into the bloodstream. Hydrolyzed collagen is, therefore, available as a dietary supplement mostly in powder form. It has been found to support flexible joints, strong muscles, healthy nails, and glossy skin and hair.

Other Products: Hair Hero , BioBare Beauty Sleep

Jojoba oil is a popular ingredient derived from the jojoba shrub seeds, found in North American’s deserts. This ingredient has plenty of health benefits to both the skin and hair. It is found in body care products like body lotions, facial creams, moisturizers, conditioners, shampoos, among others. Jojoba oil has a nourishing and smoothening effect on both the skin and hair. It also fades away fine lines and wrinkles and relieves the skin from sunburns. It promotes hair growth and prevents it from splitting at the ends.

Other Products: Albolene

Keratin is a naturally occurring protective protein. Keratin helps moisturize the skin and improve elasticity. Topical application of Keratin prevents damage of structural components of the skin. The protein also helps improve the strength and elasticity of your hair allowing it to fold without breaking. Keratin provides a protective barrier to the hair and protects it from heat damage. Keratin also helps the hair look shinier, thicker, and suppler in volume.

Other Products: Briogeo Shampoo , Keranique Hair Shampoo

Lavender oil is an essential oil that has antibacterial properties to help fight can-causing bacteria Lavender oil is helpful to the skin in many ways, and that is why it is added to skincare products. Lavender oil has antibacterial properties that help heal and prevent acne breakouts. It helps treat psoriasis and eczema and soothe dry and itchy skin. Lavender oil also helps reduce inflammation, reduce dark spots and discoloration, fight free radicals, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Other Products: Dr. Loretta Anti-Aging Repair Moisturizer

Licorice root extract is derived from a herb that grows in parts of Asia and Europe and contains compounds beneficial to the skin. The root was traditionally cultivated in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The root extract contains two compounds, liquiritin and isoliquiritin, that are rich in antioxidants. Licorice root extract helps to brighten the skin by fading discoloration, hyperpigmentation, and dark spots. The root extract protects the skin from free radicals, photodamage, and other environmental aggressors. Licorice root extract also helps heal acne scars, cam inflammation, soften the skin and improve its texture.

Other Products: Total Restore

Malic acid is an organic compound considered an alpha-hydroxyl that naturally occurs in pears and apples. It is from a family of fruit acids known as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that stimulates the exfoliation of dead skin cells. The topical application of skincare products containing malic acid helps improve skin hydration, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, improve skin texture, and even out skin tone. Malic acid is added to cosmetic products to help balance the PH levels.

Other Products: Product Name

Milk protein is a liquid food that is rich in nutrients obtained from the mammary glands of mammals. Milk proteins contain 9 amino acids, all essential and beneficial to the human body. Milk protein helps in the restructuring of cells because it easily penetrates the skin. It is a formulation that is mainly added in cleansers and moisturizers. It attracts dead skin cells and dirt so that they are easily washed away. Milk protein helps hydrate the skin, reduce the appearance of dark spots, prevent allergic infections, and improve skin texture. Aside from that, it is also added to hair products to repair damages, promote growth, and increase shine and texture.

Other Products: Bio Jouvance Paris

MSM is a rich natural source of organic Sulphur that has numerous benefits to the skin and hair Methyl-sulfonyl-methane (MSM) is a Sulphur component mostly found in foods and beverages. MSM is a water-soluble crystal, and it is added to the water phase during the manufacture of skincare products. Many skincare formulations include methyl-sulfonyl-methane because it is effective on the skin. It helps to regenerate skin cells and improve firmness as well. MSM supports collagen production, improves skin elasticity, and evens out the skin tone.

Other Products: Hairburst , Vibrance Hair Growth Vitamins

Niacinamide is a water-soluble vitamin that is also referred to as vitamin B3. It is a vitamin B derivative that helps soothe redness, boost brightness, and minimize the appearance of pores and natural oils. Niacinamide reduces skin inflammation by minimizing blotchiness and redness. The mineral also helps reduce the appearance of pores, protects the skin’s lipid barrier, regulates oil, protects against sun damage, treats acne and hyperpigmentation, and minimizes the appearance of wrinkles.

Other Products: Olay Retinol 24

Omega-3 fatty acids is a group of fatty acids that the body requires for various functions, from cell growth to muscle activity. In precise, Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that the body cannot produce and must obtain them from foods such as salmon, flaxseeds, and fish. These fatty acids are an important part of the cell membrane that protects other cells from damage by free radicals. Some studies reveal that omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce cholesterol, cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and support healthy bones and joints. Apart from these health benefits, omega-3 protects against sun damage. Omega-3 also regulates how the skin responds to sunlight and reduces the severity of acne.

Other Products: La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Cream

Olive oil is a liquid fat extracted from cold-pressed from olives, a traditional crop in the Mediterranean. The oil is recognized in the world as one of the healthiest oils available. The beauty and the cosmetic world has incorporated olive oil in many of its skin care products. Olive oil protects the skin against sun damage and signs of premature aging. As an antioxidant, olive oil fights free radicals that may be harmful to the skin. Aside from that, the oil moisturizes the skin, helps remove sticky makeup, and protects against oxidative stress. Olive oil moisturizes the skin under the eye area and prevents water loss.

Other Products: 111Skin , Honest Beauty

Panthenol is a stable form of pro-vitamin B5 known for its soothing, repairing, and moisturizing properties in skincare and hair products. It is sometimes referred to as pantothenic acid and is a form of vitamin B5. As a humectant, it is added to skincare products because it can attract and hold in moisture. Once applied to the skin, panthenol is converted to pantothenic acid. Pantothenic acid now pulls water to the skin cells to retain water in the tissues. Regular application of panthenol acts as an inflammatory and helps relieve irritation, dryness, sunburns, cuts, and insect bites. It helps increase the wound-healing process. Panthenol also thickens hair, seal in moisture, reduce tangles, and add shine to the hair.

Other Products: Olay Regenerist , ROC Retinol

Peptides are short chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds that naturally occur on the skin Peptides, also called polypeptides, are amino acids that make up the proteins that the skin needs. Specifically, collagen contains three polypeptide chains, and adding peptides can increase collagen production. Adding peptides to skincare products helps improve the skin barrier to protect it against pollution, Ultraviolet rays, and other toxins. Peptides make up the elastic fibers in the skin, and they help firm and tighten the skin. They also help calm inflammation, even skin tone, and repair damaged skin.

Other Products: Beautycounter

Probiotics are naturally occurring “good” bacteria that support a healthy gut and also used in skin care products. Probiotics contain bacteria that the body requires to remain healthy. Aside from ensuring a toxin-free and balanced gut, probiotics exhibit numerous benefits for the skin. Probiotics can be topically applied to reduce the threat of skin infections and improve the skin’s natural defenses against pollution, bacteria, and free radicals. Probiotics claim to soothe and calm inflammation, acne, and rosacea, making it perfect for sensitive skin types. Some probiotics increase the skin’s production of lipids and ceramides enabling the skin to retain moisture and keep away the acne-causing bacteria.

Other Products: Onnit Health Supplements

Quercetin is a polyphenol flavonoid derived from plants like broccoli, blueberries, and red onions. It is also a bioflavonoid ingredient that naturally occurs in fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, kale, berries, and grapes. It is incorporated in different skincare products including toners, moisturizers, masks, or serums. Quercetin has skin-soothing, restorative, and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin when applied topically. It helps reduce the effects of UV rays on the skin that may cause photo aging, fight free radicals, calms inflammation, and reduce oxidative stress on the skin. Quercetin also promotes the growth and repair of damaged skin cells.

Other Products: Epionce

Resveratrol is a natural antioxidant that can be obtained from grape skin, wine, berries, dark chocolate, and peanuts. Resveratrol is a polyphenol full of antioxidants that provide many skin benefits. It fights free radical molecules from the skin that may cause aging. Resveratrol protects the skin against photo damage and may reduce hyperpigmentation caused by the sun. Adding resveratrol to skincare products helps improve skin elasticity and boost its firmness. Resveratrol helps improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and acne. It also has hydrating effects making it ideal for dry skin.

Other Products: Resveratrol Lift Night Infusion Cream , Caudalie PREMIER CRU The Rich Cream

You have very dry skin, are on other medication like blood thinners, or are pregnant. Prolonged use of products with salicylic acid can cause skin dryness.

Other Products: The Mighty Patch , ZO Skin Health , CeraVe

Seaweed is a natural source of skin-loving amino-acids, minerals, and vitamins that have anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits to the skin. Seaweed has anti-aging, ultra-hydrating, humectant qualities, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is packed with minerals and vitamins making it a good skincare ingredient. Its antibacterial properties make it ideal for the treatment of rosacea, acne, and other skin conditions. Seaweed also acts as an exfoliate and helps get rid of dead skin cells and toxins. Seaweed also promotes collagen production, providing the skin with many anti-aging benefits and promoting youthful skin. Skin serums with seaweed help fade hyperpigmentation and brighten the skin.

Other Products: AngelLift

Shea Butter is a fatty oil derived from the shea or karite tree. The butter has been included in many moisturizers and body lotions for many years. High concentrations of vitamins A, E and F, and fatty acid in shea butter make it an ideal ingredient in cosmetics used for softening the skin. Shea butter is also known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Topical application of shea butter can smoothen, moisturize and tone the skin. Shea butter also promotes collagen production and hydrates the skin during pregnancy to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Other Products: Jan Marini Regeneration Booster

Saw Palmetto is a shrub-like palm tree native to the United States whose berries are used for the treatment of acne and other conditions. Saw palmetto is a palm tree that grows in Florida and other parts of the United States. Its anti-androgenic effects are useful in the treatment of hormonal acne. Saw palmetto also helps regulate the production of sebum in the skin, which is the major cause of acne. Saw palmetto extract is commonly added to serums, lotions, and anti-aging creams to reduce appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Saw palmetto extracts claims to help reduce inflammation, redness, and protect the skin from free radical damage.

Other Products: Nutrafol

Tea tree oil is an essential oil derived from the leaves of tea tree and is added to cosmetics, household products, and topical medicines. It is an essential oil that has numerous skin benefits, including being a naturopathic treatment for skin conditions. When topically applied, tea tree oil promotes healthy skin and improves its overall appearance. It soothes dry, irritated, and itchy skin and treats eczema. Tea tree oil has antiseptic properties that help deal with oily skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil help reduce redness, rosacea, psoriasis, and inflammation. Tea tree oil can also be used in scalp treatment by removing dead skin cells and promoting hair growth.

Turmeric is an antioxidant that contains curcumin as its active compound to provide the skin with numerous benefits. Turmeric has been linked to healing properties and cosmetic benefits for many years now. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric provide the skin with a natural glow and luster. The yellow-orange spice can be used as a face mask to help reduce acne and its resulting scars. Turmeric can also help with eczema, psoriasis, alopecia, and other skin conditions. A combination of turmeric and neem can help in the treatment of scabies. Curcumin in turmeric enhances the healing of wounds.

Other Products: Morning Complete

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin used in many cosmetic products and lotions to help treat various skin conditions. It is also called phytonadione. It is added to cosmetic products to help reduce inflammation and redness and fade hyperpigmentation. In many skincare products, vitamin K is paired with retinol or caffeine to fight signs of aging. Vitamin K also helps reduce the appearance of under-eye circles and fine lines. Vitamin K also helps speed up the healing and repair of damaged skin.

Other Products: Neocutis Lumière Riche , La Prairie Skin Caviar Eye Lift Serum , Clarins Extra-Firming Yeux Eye Cream

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble essential vitamin that has anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. E vitamin is added to creams and other skincare products including, sunscreens, eye serums, anti-aging creams, and makeup for topical application. The skin easily absorbs vitamin E. Topical application of vitamin E chronic and acute skin damage caused by exposure to UV rays. Vitamin E as oil is used to moisturize dry areas on the skin like elbows and cuticles. It also helps nourish and protect the skin from damage by free radicles. Applying vitamin E oil on the skin may also fight any signs of aging and reduce the appearance of blemishes.

Other Products: HairOmega

Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble secosteroids that the body produces in response to exposure to sunlight. This vitamin acts as an anti-inflammatory molecule that has numerous benefits to the skin. The skin and the gut are the two main sources of vitamin D. Vitamin D is mostly used in topical skin care products. It helps reduce inflammation and treats skin conditions like vitiligo, psoriasis, and eczema. Working within the cell’s nucleus, vitamin D regulates functions, stimulates the proliferation of skin cells, and protects the skin against cancer. As an antioxidant, vitamin D protects the skin from environmental suppressors that may cause premature aging. Vitamin D3 is produced when the body absorbs vitamin D from the sun.

Other Products: Vitamins Energy

Vitamin C is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that helps form and maintain the skin’s connective tissues. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that provides the skin with numerous health benefits. Topical application of vitamin C skincare products promotes collagen production, protects the skin from free radicals, brightens the skin and fades hyperpigmentation, reduces the appearance of under-eye circles, and protects from sun damage. Vitamin C occurs in several forms. The most commonly used form of vitamin C in skincare products is ascorbyl palmitate, L-ascorbic acid, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate.

Other Products: La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C Face Serum

Vitamin A is a nutritional unsaturated compound that is required or normal cell growth, development and function. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that is known for its restorative benefits to the skin. The most common and readily available forms of vitamin A in skin care products include retinol, retinoic acid, retinyl palmitate, and retinyl acetate. Many cosmetic products including sunscreens, moisturizers, anti-aging creams, and oils contain retinol. Vitamin A works by controlling and preventing acne, accelerating exfoliation, stimulating collagen production to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and fading dark spots. It also stimulates the production of new skin cells and helps in moisture retention.

Other Products: Beverly Hills MD

Zinc is a pigmented natural mineral that is mined in the quarry and then refined into white powder. It is an essential non-soluble mineral that is usually added to creams and body lotions to help maintain skin health. When mixed with these carrier agents, zinc provides protection against the sun. Zinc is commonly used in sunscreens, and it creates a natural barrier that prevents UVB and UVA rays from damaging the skin cells. Zinc also stabilizes the skin cells and protects them as they divide and grow. Zinc contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is helpful for skin diseases including eczema and acne.

Other Products: Viviscal