The beauty industry is highly under-regulated and we hope to bridge the gap from typical consumers and beauty brands. Ingredient transparency is our effort in showing that we not only care about what products you use, but more importantly, we care about the ingredients used in those products. We decipher through the finely printed ingredient lists of products and provide in-depth summaries of commonly used ingredients - all for you! Ultimately, these products may have future implications on your skin, hair, etc.; all of which should be beneficial and not harmful.
Providing you, the user, with an understanding of what an ingredient is, how its derived, and its role or purpose in the product allows you to easily reference commonly used ingredients in the beauty industry, as well as slowly begin to cultivate an understanding of what products Do work for you, what DOES NOT, and Why.
Activated Charcoal
- Often used for its ability to increase absorbency
- Good for absorbing dirt and oil from pores
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s)
- Most common and effective are Glycolic acid and Lactic acid, and Citric Acid
- Used to break down dead skins cells that naturally bind together and allows the brightness in skin to come through
- These Acids can make the skin feel dry and may irritate sensitive skin - users may need to slowly implement a product with AHA’s, especially with products that have higher concentration levels of AHA’s
Alcohol
- A group of organic compounds that come in a variety of forms, both good and bad kinds
- Good Alcohol = high molecular weight
- Bad Alcohol = low molecular weight (ethanol, denatured, methanol, isopropyl)
Amino Acids
- Our bodies need 20 different amino acids
- A few of which aid in giving skin its structural support
- Aging and other factors such as sun and environmental toxins reduce the level of amino acids in the body, which can be restored through creams or other forms
Benzoyl Peroxide
- a well researched anti-bacterial that is available over the counter
- Shown to be highly effective for treating acne by killing bacteria
Beta-Hydroxy Acid (BHA)
- Oil soluble exfoliant that is used to penetrate pores deeply and to clear acne and blackheads
- Most common is Salicylic Acid
Biotin:
- Important for regulating hair and nail growth
- Can be taken orally or can be found as an ingredient in products
Collagen
- a fibrous protein derived from animals
- Acts as a water-binding agent to keep moisture locked into the skin
- Topical collagen does not encourage the body to produce more collagen
- Ingestible collagen does not have any proven benefits
Citric Acid
- a type of AHA that exfoliates and brightens the surface layers of the skin when found in peels, masks, and washes
Clay
- Comes from a variety of natural sources and is effective at absorbing oil in the skin and unclog congested pores
Dimethicone
- A slippery form of silicone that hydrates and protects the skin
- Often found in oil-free moisturizes
Glycerin
- Naturally found in skin - Helps maintain soft, moisturized and healthy looking skin
- Often used in combination with other ingredients
Glycolic Acid
- Aids in dissolving the binding substances between skin cells and acts as a exfoliator to improve skin texture
Hyaluronic Acid
- Naturally found in skin tissue
- Synthetically recreated to help restore, hydrate, and protect skin
- Safe for most skin types
Oxybenzone:
- a chemical sunscreen that absorbs mainly UVB rays, which is why it is combined with UVA absorbing filters like (Avobenzone), creating “broad spectrum” sunscreens
Parabens
- Preservatives which some believe contain a high amount of estrogen and can be dangerous for one’s health
- Research has largely discredited this belief but brands kept “paraben-free” to comply with consumer beliefs
Panthenol
- A B Vitamin that moisturizes and strengthens both skin and hair
Retinol:
- A derivative of Vitamin A to stimulate the turnover of skin cells and increase collagen production (fight fine lines)
- 1% max over the counter
Salicylic Acid
- a BHA that removes excess oil and dead cells from skin’s surface
- Used in acne-prone skin products from 0.5% - 2%
Sulfate:
- A group of cleansing agents which may cause sensitivity and dryness when used in excess or left on the skin for too long
- Can be found in face washes and as well as shampoo or body washes
Vitamin E
- An antioxidant that protects against antioxidant damage
- Natural form is more effective than its synthetic form
Zinc Oxide:
- A non-irritating natural sunscreen ingredient
- Works by reflecting and scattering UV radiation
- Sun is a driving cause of aging skin
Last Updated: 12/20