Ingredient Reference Library

Ingredient
Suite

An open, R&D-grade reference library for cosmetic formulators. Each monograph covers mechanism, documented use levels, formulation considerations and regulatory status — written to be accurate, scannable and genuinely useful. Free to use, share and reference.

100 ingredients published

New entries added regularly

Brightening / Pigmentation
Alpha Arbutin

Alpha arbutin is a stable, water-soluble glycoside of hydroquinone used in skincare as a gentle brightening active that helps reduce the appearance of uneven pigmentation.

typically 0.5–2%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Arbutin (Beta-Arbutin)

Arbutin is a naturally occurring glycoside of hydroquinone (the beta isomer) used in skincare as a brightening active that helps reduce the look of uneven pigmentation.

typically 1–2%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Ascorbic Acid & Derivatives

Vitamin C in cosmetics refers to L-ascorbic acid and its more stable derivatives, used as antioxidants that support brightening, even tone and collagen-related skin health.

L-AA 5–20%; derivatives ~1–5%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid used in skincare to help even tone, calm blemish-prone skin and reduce the look of redness.

cosmetic up to ~10%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Bearberry Extract

Bearberry extract (Arctostaphylos uva ursi) is a botanical naturally rich in arbutin, used in skincare as a gentle, plant-based brightening active for uneven tone.

extract typically 0.5–3%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Ferulic Acid

Ferulic acid is a plant-derived antioxidant used in skincare mainly to stabilise and boost other antioxidants — notably vitamins C and E — while adding its own free-radical protection.

typically 0.5–1%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Kojic Acid

Kojic acid is a fungal-derived organic acid used in skincare as a brightening active that inhibits melanin formation to help fade the look of dark spots.

typically up to ~1–2%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Licorice Root Extract & Glabridin

Licorice root extract is a botanical brightening and soothing active whose key compounds, notably glabridin and liquiritin, help even skin tone and calm visible redness.

extract typically 0.5–2%; glabridin often 0.1–0.5%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Mulberry Extract

Mulberry extract (Morus alba) is a botanical used in skincare for brightening and antioxidant support, valued for helping even the look of skin tone.

extract typically 0.5–2%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG)

N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG) is an amino sugar used in skincare to support a more even tone and hydration, often paired with niacinamide as a hyaluronic-acid precursor.

typically 1–4%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Niacinamide

Niacinamide is the amide form of vitamin B3 (niacin), a water-soluble multifunctional cosmetic active widely used for brightening, barrier support and sebum regulation.

typically 2–5% (up to 10%)Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a plant-derived polyphenol antioxidant (found in grapes and Japanese knotweed) used in skincare for antioxidant, brightening and anti-ageing support.

typically 0.5–1%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Rice Ferment Filtrate

Rice ferment filtrate is a postbiotic ingredient produced by fermenting rice, rich in amino acids, organic acids and vitamins, used in skincare for brightening, conditioning and barrier support.

essence-grade; commonly ~1–10%Read →
Brightening / Pigmentation
Tranexamic Acid

Tranexamic acid is a synthetic amino-acid derivative (of lysine) used topically in skincare to help reduce the appearance of stubborn discolouration and uneven tone.

typically 2–5% topicallyRead →
Hydration / Barrier
Argan Oil

Argan oil is a plant oil from the Moroccan argan tree, rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids and natural vitamin E, used as a conditioning emollient for both skin and hair.

variable; commonly 1–10% (higher as an oil)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is a red carotenoid antioxidant, typically sourced from microalgae, used in skincare at very low levels for strong antioxidant protection and anti-ageing support.

typically 0.01–0.1%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is a rich plant oil high in oleic acid and unsaponifiables, used in skincare as a deeply nourishing emollient for dry, mature and rough skin.

variable; commonly 1–10%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Betaine

Betaine (trimethylglycine) is a naturally derived humectant and osmolyte used in skincare to hydrate and to help protect skin cells against osmotic and environmental stress.

typically 0.5–5%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Butylene Glycol

Butylene glycol is a small glycol used in skincare as a lightweight humectant and solvent that hydrates, improves texture and helps dissolve botanical extracts and other actives.

typically 2–10%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Ceramides (incl. Ceramide NP)

Ceramides are skin-identical barrier lipids that make up a large part of the skin's outer barrier; replenishing them helps restore a healthy, resilient, well-hydrated barrier.

typically 0.1–1% (often lower)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Cholesterol

Cholesterol is one of the three core lipids of the skin barrier, used in skincare alongside ceramides and fatty acids to help rebuild and reinforce a healthy, resilient barrier.

typically 0.1–2%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a saturated plant oil used in skincare as a rich, occlusive emollient that softens skin and helps reduce water loss, best suited to body care and dry skin.

variable; commonly 1–15% (higher in balms)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone)

Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) is a lipid-soluble antioxidant naturally present in skin cells, used in skincare to support antioxidant defence and a more energised, youthful-looking complexion.

typically 0.5–1%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu)

Copper peptides (copper tripeptide-1, GHK-Cu) are copper-bound signal peptides used in skincare to support skin repair, firmness and a healthy-looking complexion.

low levels (about 0.05–2%, product-dependent)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Dimethicone

Dimethicone is a silicone widely used in skin and hair care to give a silky, smooth feel, form a breathable protective film and reduce water loss.

typically 1–15%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Ectoin

Ectoin is a biotech-derived extremolyte (a compatible-solute osmolyte) used in skincare as a molecular shield that supports hydration, barrier resilience and defence against environmental stress.

typically 0.3–2%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Glycerin

Glycerin is a small, water-soluble humectant and one of the most widely used and best-established moisturising ingredients in skincare.

typically 2–10%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is a lightweight plant oil rich in linoleic acid and antioxidant polyphenols, used in skincare as a fast-absorbing emollient well suited to oily and combination skin.

variable; commonly 1–10%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is a lightweight plant oil with a balanced profile of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, used in skincare as a conditioning emollient that suits most skin types (it is not the same as CBD).

variable; commonly 1–10%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan and one of the most widely used cosmetic humectants, able to bind large amounts of water to hydrate and plump the skin surface.

typically 0.1–1%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Inulin (Prebiotic)

Inulin is a plant-derived prebiotic fibre used in skincare to support a balanced skin microbiome by nourishing beneficial skin bacteria.

typically 0.5–5%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is a liquid wax ester from the jojoba plant that closely resembles the skin's own sebum, used as a lightweight, highly stable emollient that softens and conditions without heaviness.

variable; commonly 1–10% (up to a facial oil)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Lanolin

Lanolin is a rich, skin-lipid-like emollient derived from wool wax, used in skincare to soften and occlude very dry skin and lips, closely mimicking the skin's own surface lipids.

variable; commonly 1–10% (higher in balms)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Lecithin

Lecithin is a naturally derived phospholipid used in skincare as a skin-conditioning emollient and emulsifier that can also form liposomes to help deliver other actives.

typically 0.5–5%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Linoleic Acid (Vitamin F)

Linoleic acid is an essential omega-6 fatty acid (part of 'vitamin F') used in skincare to support the skin barrier and improve the feel of dry and blemish-prone skin.

typically 0.1–2% (higher via carrier oils)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Marula Oil

Marula oil is an African plant oil rich in oleic acid and antioxidants, used in skincare as a fast-absorbing, stable emollient that softens and conditions.

variable; commonly 1–10% (or as an oil)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Palmitoyl Peptides (Matrixyl-type)

Palmitoyl peptides (such as palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, the Matrixyl type) are lipid-tailed signal peptides used in skincare to support firmness and the look of fine lines.

low levels per supplier guidance (supplied pre-diluted)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Panthenol (Provitamin B5)

Panthenol is the provitamin form of vitamin B5, a versatile humectant used in skincare and haircare for hydration, soothing and improved softness.

typically 1–5%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Pentylene Glycol

Pentylene glycol is a multifunctional glycol used in skincare as a humectant and solvent that also provides mild antimicrobial activity, helping support a formula's preservation.

typically 1–5%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Petrolatum

Petrolatum is a highly effective occlusive used in skincare to seal the skin surface and dramatically reduce water loss, making it a benchmark ingredient for protecting and repairing dry, compromised skin.

variable; commonly 2–30% (higher in ointments)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Phytosphingosine

Phytosphingosine is a naturally occurring sphingoid lipid (a ceramide building block) used in skincare to support the barrier, soothe and provide mild antimicrobial benefits.

typically 0.1–0.5%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Polyglutamic Acid (PGA)

Polyglutamic acid (PGA) is a fermentation-derived humectant that binds large amounts of water at the skin surface, often described as holding even more moisture than hyaluronic acid.

typically 0.1–1%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Propanediol

Propanediol is a naturally derived humectant and solvent used in skincare to hydrate, improve texture and help dissolve other actives, often as a gentler alternative to propylene glycol.

typically 2–10%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil is a lightweight plant oil rich in linoleic and linolenic fatty acids and natural carotenoids, used in skincare to condition, support the barrier and improve the look of tone and texture.

variable; commonly 1–10% (or as a facial oil)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Shea Butter

Shea butter is a rich plant butter from the African shea tree, valued in skincare as a nourishing emollient that softens, comforts and supports the skin barrier.

commonly 1–15% (or higher in balms)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Sodium PCA

Sodium PCA is a highly effective humectant and a natural component of the skin's own moisturising factor, used to hydrate and improve suppleness with a light feel.

typically 0.2–2.5%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Sorbitol

Sorbitol is a plant-derived sugar alcohol used in skincare as a humectant that draws and holds water while adding a smooth, slightly sweet-feeling texture.

typically 2–10%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Squalane

Squalane is a lightweight, stable emollient derived by hydrogenating squalene, closely matching the skin's own lipids to soften and support the barrier without heaviness.

widely variable; commonly 1–10% in formulasRead →
Hydration / Barrier
Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is a mild, nourishing plant oil rich in oleic acid, used in skincare as a gentle emollient that softens and soothes dry, sensitive skin.

variable; commonly 1–10% (or as an oil)Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Trehalose

Trehalose is a naturally occurring disaccharide used in skincare as a humectant and osmoprotectant, known for helping cells and biomolecules withstand dehydration stress.

typically 0.5–5%Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Urea

Urea is a naturally occurring component of the skin's moisturising factor, used in skincare as a humectant at low levels and as a gentle keratolytic (softening) agent at higher levels.

humectant ~2–10%; keratolytic 10%+Read →
Hydration / Barrier
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

Tocopherol (vitamin E) is a lipid-soluble antioxidant widely used in skincare to protect skin lipids and formula oils from oxidation while conditioning and softening the skin.

typically 0.5–1%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Adenosine

Adenosine is a nucleoside signalling ingredient used at low levels in skincare to support smoother texture and a reduction in the look of fine lines.

typically 0.04–0.1%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha lipoic acid (thioctic acid) is a versatile antioxidant that is both water- and oil-soluble, used in skincare for antioxidant protection and a smoother, more refined-looking complexion.

typically 1–5%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Bakuchiol

Bakuchiol is a plant-derived active (from Psoralea corylifolia) used in skincare as a gentle, stable alternative to retinol that supports smoother texture and more even tone.

typically 0.5–2%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Citric Acid

Citric acid is an alpha hydroxy acid used in skincare both as a gentle surface exfoliant and, at low levels, as a pH adjuster and metal chelator that improves formula stability.

exfoliating ~1–10%; low levels for pH/chelationRead →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Gluconolactone (PHA)

Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) used as a very gentle exfoliant that also hydrates and provides antioxidant support, suiting sensitive skin that cannot tolerate stronger acids.

typically 3–10%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Glycolic Acid (AHA)

Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), a water-soluble surface exfoliant that loosens dead skin cells to improve tone, texture and radiance.

cosmetic typically up to ~10%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Lactic Acid (AHA)

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin surface while also acting as a humectant, making it a milder, hydrating option for improving tone and texture.

exfoliating ~5–10%; lower for humectant useRead →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Lactobionic Acid (PHA)

Lactobionic acid is a polyhydroxy (bionic) acid used in skincare as a very gentle exfoliant that strongly hydrates and provides antioxidant and metal-chelating benefits, suiting sensitive skin.

typically 3–10%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Malic Acid

Malic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid with a larger molecule than glycolic acid, used to gently exfoliate and even skin tone, often as part of AHA blends.

typically 1–10% (often in AHA blends)Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Mandelic Acid

Mandelic acid is a gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from almonds, with a larger molecule than glycolic acid, used to exfoliate, even tone and support blemish-prone skin with less irritation.

typically 5–10%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Papain (Fruit Enzyme)

Papain is a protein-digesting enzyme from papaya used in skincare as a gentle exfoliant that breaks down dead surface skin cells without acids or scrubbing.

typically low levels per activity unitsRead →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Phytic Acid

Phytic acid is a plant-derived acid (from rice bran and seeds) used in skincare as a very gentle exfoliant and brightener that also acts as an antioxidant and metal chelator.

typically 0.5–2%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Retinal (Retinaldehyde)

Retinal (retinaldehyde) is a vitamin A derivative just one conversion step from retinoic acid, used in skincare as a fast-acting alternative to retinol for smoother texture and more even tone.

typically 0.05–0.1%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Retinol

Retinol is a form of vitamin A and one of the most well-studied cosmetic actives for skin renewal, supporting smoother texture, more even tone and the appearance of firmness over time.

typically 0.1–1%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), an oil-soluble exfoliant that penetrates pores to help clear congestion and support clearer, blemish-prone skin.

cosmetic leave-on typically 0.5–2%Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Succinic Acid

Succinic acid is a dicarboxylic acid used in skincare mainly in products for blemish-prone and oily skin, valued as a gentle, multi-tasking ingredient for clearer-looking skin.

typically 1–2% (higher in spot products)Read →
Exfoliation / Renewal
Tartaric Acid

Tartaric acid is an alpha hydroxy acid from grapes, used in skincare for gentle exfoliation and as a pH buffer that helps stabilise multi-acid formulas.

typically 1–10% (often in AHA blends)Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Algae Extract

Algae extract is a marine ingredient rich in polysaccharides, minerals and antioxidants, used in skincare to hydrate, soothe and support a healthy-looking, protected complexion.

extract typically 0.5–5%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Allantoin

Allantoin is a gentle, widely used soothing and skin-conditioning active that helps calm the skin, support smoothness and improve comfort.

typically 0.1–2%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Aloe Vera

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) leaf juice is a botanical hydrating and soothing ingredient valued for calming, refreshing and lightly moisturising the skin.

variable; often 1–10% (or as part of the water phase)Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Beta-Glucan

Beta-glucan is a soothing, hydrating polysaccharide (often from oats or yeast) used in skincare to calm sensitive skin, support the barrier and hold water at the surface.

typically 0.1–1%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Bisabolol

Bisabolol is a gentle soothing active, originally from chamomile, used in skincare to calm irritation, reduce the look of redness and improve skin comfort.

typically 0.1–1%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Calendula Extract

Calendula (marigold) extract is a botanical long used in skincare to soothe, comfort and support the recovery of sensitive, irritated and dry skin.

extract typically 0.5–5%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Centella Asiatica & Madecassoside

Centella asiatica, often called cica, is a botanical soothing active whose key compounds (madecassoside, asiaticoside and related triterpenes) help calm, support barrier repair and reduce the look of redness.

extract typically 0.1–5%; purified actives lowerRead →
Soothing / Sensitive
Chamomile Extract

Chamomile extract (Chamomilla recutita / Matricaria) is a soothing botanical used in skincare to calm sensitive skin and reduce the look of redness, and is a natural source of bisabolol.

extract typically 0.5–5%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal is finely milled whole oat, used in skincare as a soothing, barrier-supporting ingredient recognised for calming dry, itchy and sensitive skin.

commonly ~1–5% in formulasRead →
Soothing / Sensitive
Cucumber Extract

Cucumber extract (Cucumis sativus) is a gentle botanical used in skincare to soothe, refresh and lightly hydrate, popular in products for tired, sensitive and warm skin.

extract typically 1–5%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Ginseng (Panax Ginseng)

Ginseng root extract (Panax ginseng) is a botanical rich in saponins called ginsenosides, used in skincare for antioxidant protection and a revitalised, radiant-looking complexion.

extract typically 0.1–5%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Green Tea Extract (EGCG)

Green tea extract (Camellia sinensis) is a botanical rich in polyphenol antioxidants — notably EGCG — used in skincare to soothe, protect against environmental stress and help balance oily, blemish-prone skin.

typically 0.5–5% (extract)Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Honey (Mel)

Honey (Mel) is a natural humectant used in skincare to hydrate, soothe and comfort the skin, with documented mild antibacterial character.

typically 1–10%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Hypochlorous Acid

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a mild, skin-compatible antimicrobial molecule (the same one produced by the body's own immune cells) used in skincare to cleanse and calm blemish-prone and sensitive skin.

typically 100–500 ppmRead →
Soothing / Sensitive
Mugwort Extract

Mugwort extract (Artemisia vulgaris) is a botanical popular in K-beauty for soothing sensitive, reactive skin and providing antioxidant support.

extract typically 0.5–5%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Propolis Extract

Propolis is a bee-derived resin used in skincare for its soothing, antioxidant and antibacterial character, popular in products for sensitive and blemish-prone skin.

extract typically 0.5–5%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Sea Buckthorn

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) is a botanical rich in omega fatty acids, carotenoids and vitamins, used in skincare for antioxidant protection, soothing and support of dry, stressed skin.

extract/oil typically 0.1–1% (higher as an oil)Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Snail Mucin (Snail Secretion Filtrate)

Snail secretion filtrate, commonly called snail mucin, is a naturally derived ingredient rich in glycoproteins, glycosaminoglycans and other skin-friendly molecules, used for hydration, soothing and a smooth, repaired-looking complexion.

variable; often a significant part of the formulaRead →
Soothing / Sensitive
Willow Bark Extract

Willow bark extract (Salix alba) is a botanical containing salicin (a natural precursor to salicylic acid), used in skincare as a gentle, plant-based option for smoother, clearer-looking skin.

extract typically 0.5–5%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Witch Hazel

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a tannin-rich botanical used in skincare as a gentle astringent and soothing ingredient, popular in toners and products for oily and blemish-prone skin.

extract typically 1–10%Read →
Soothing / Sensitive
Zinc Oxide

Zinc oxide is a mineral used in skincare as a broad-spectrum UV filter and a recognised skin protectant that also soothes and comforts sensitive and irritated skin.

sunscreen commonly 5–25%; lower as a protectantRead →
Soothing / Sensitive
Zinc PCA

Zinc PCA is the zinc salt of the skin's own PCA, used in skincare to help regulate oil, soothe and support clearer, blemish-prone skin while adding light hydration.

typically 0.1–1%Read →
Hair
Arginine

Arginine is an amino acid used in skin and hair care as a gentle humectant, a natural pH adjuster and a conditioning ingredient that supports softness and manageability.

typically 0.2–5% (less for pH adjustment)Read →
Hair
Biotin (Vitamin B7)

Biotin (vitamin B7) is a water-soluble vitamin used in hair- and skin-care formulas as a conditioning ingredient, most often featured in products marketed for hair and scalp.

typically low levels (often ~0.1% or less)Read →
Hair
Caffeine

Caffeine is a plant-derived methylxanthine used in cosmetics as an antioxidant and stimulating active, popular in scalp, hair and eye-area products.

typically 0.5–3%Read →
Hair
Castor Oil

Castor oil (Ricinus communis) is a thick plant oil rich in ricinoleic acid, used in hair, brow and lip products as a conditioning, occlusive emollient that adds shine and a smooth feel.

typically 1–10% (or higher in balms)Read →
Hair
Hydrolyzed Keratin

Hydrolyzed keratin is a water-soluble protein derived from keratin, used in hair care to condition, smooth and temporarily improve the look and feel of strength in the hair.

typically 1–5% of the (dilute) solutionRead →
Hair
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein

Hydrolyzed wheat protein is a plant-derived protein used in hair (and skin) care to condition, add body and volume, and improve moisture retention through a light conditioning film.

typically 1–5% of the (dilute) solutionRead →
Hair
Menthol

Menthol is a cooling active (from mint) used in scalp, body and after-sun products to give a fresh, cooling, tingling sensation and a temporary soothing feel.

typically 0.1–1%Read →
Hair
Rosemary Extract

Rosemary extract is a botanical rich in antioxidant polyphenols (such as rosmarinic and carnosic acids) used in scalp and hair care to support a healthy scalp environment and in skincare as an antioxidant.

typically 0.1–1% (extract)Read →
Hair
Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is an essential oil with well-documented antimicrobial character, used in scalp and skincare products for blemish-prone skin and a clarified, comfortable scalp.

typically 0.5–2% (with allergen assessment)Read →

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This library is maintained and expanding — new monographs are added regularly.