Ingredient library
Every ingredient SkinAtlas knows about — all 2165 of them. What each one does, what it works well with, and what to watch for.
Ceramide AG is the INCI name for Ceramide 6-II, characterized by an alpha-hydroxy fatty acid (A) and dihydrosphingosine (G). One of the naturally occurring ceramides in the stratum corneum. Used in multi-ceramide formulations (Matsuyama Hadauru, Kiku-Masamune, Ishizawa) to restore barrier.
An ester of N-lauroyl glutamic acid with cholesterol and octyldodecanol. Forms liquid crystalline structures that mimic the skin's lamellar lipid matrix, integrating and reinforcing barrier function. Used in Naturie's Hatomugi gel and milk for barrier-compatible emolliency.
An AHA most often used in small amounts to adjust pH.
A mixture of fatty acids derived from coconut oil (primarily lauric, myristic, and capric acids) used as a surfactant, emulsifier, and emollient in cleansers and creams.
The free amino acid mixture released by complete hydrolysis of collagen, used as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent.
A small molecule with four carboxylic acid groups arranged around a cyclobutane ring. Functions as a chelating agent, binding metal ions that would otherwise catalyze oxidative degradation of active ingredients. Found in Elixir Reflet SPF50+ as a stability enhancer.
A sulfur-containing amino acid that acts as a humectant and antioxidant in cosmetics, contributing to skin hydration and supporting the skin's own defense mechanisms.
The oxidized dimer of cysteine formed by a disulfide bond between two cysteine molecules; used in cosmetics as a conditioning amino acid with roles in keratin integrity and as a precursor to antioxidant glutathione — distinct from cysteine (the monomer free thiol form).
The sodium salt of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), typically sourced from salmon milt (sperm). Highly hydrophilic — attracts and retains moisture. Also promotes skin cell repair mechanisms. Used in Lululun's Hydra PD mask.
A naturally derived cyclic lactone preservative approved for both conventional and Ecocert/COSMOS-certified natural cosmetics, effective against bacteria and fungi.
A mixed ester of diglycerin and adipic acid with fatty acids. Used as a lightweight emollient in Elixir Retino Power Cream.
A polymeric ester formed from dimerized linoleic acid esterified with a blend of phytosterols, isostearyl, cetyl, stearyl, and behenyl groups. Used in premium formulas for rich emolliency.
An ester of dipentaerythritol and a blend of fatty acids. Functions as a lightweight, non-greasy emollient that provides a silky, dry-touch skin feel; also improves formula stability.
A mixed ester of dipentaerythritol with C5–C9 branched-chain fatty acids, used as a lightweight emollient and texture modifier. It provides a dry, silky skin feel without the heaviness of conventional oils, commonly used in light-feel formulas and primers.
A water-soluble phosphate salt derivative of ursolic acid, a pentacyclic triterpenoid found in rosemary and other botanicals. Developed for improved delivery of ursolic acid's anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits.
A stable, both water- and oil-compatible vitamin C derivative that converts to ascorbic acid in skin. Valued for brightening with good formula stability.
The ethyl ester of oleic acid used as a lightweight, penetrating emollient and delivery solvent in skincare formulas.
A collective term for free fatty acids found in the skin's stratum corneum lipid matrix. Together with ceramides and cholesterol they form the lamellar bilayer that controls skin barrier function and water retention.
A plant antioxidant that stabilizes and boosts vitamins C and E.
Vitamin B9 (pteroylglutamic acid) used in cosmetics as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning agent that supports cellular renewal.
The simplest carboxylic acid. In cosmetics, listed at trace levels (typically at the end of amino acid complex formulas) as a pH adjuster. Safe at the very low concentrations used in skincare.
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that exfoliates gently and hydrates.
A naturally occurring amino acid that functions as a humectant and contributes to the skin's natural moisturizing factor.
A free-form amino acid (L-glutamine) used in cosmetics as a skin-conditioning agent and component of amino acid complex formulas; distinct from acetyl glutamine which is the N-acetylated form with different stability and activity profile.