Ingredient library
Every ingredient SkinAtlas knows about — all 2277 of them. What each one does, what it works well with, and what to watch for.
A postbiotic ingredient produced by lysing (rupturing) Lactobacillus bacteria, releasing intracellular metabolites that support the skin microbiome and strengthen the barrier.
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that exfoliates very gently while also drawing in moisture and providing antioxidant benefits. Suited to sensitive skin.
A postbiotic ferment derived from Lactococcus lactic acid bacteria, delivering bioactive metabolites including lactic acid, bacteriocins, and exopolysaccharides that condition skin and support microbiome health.
A postbiotic lysate of fermented Lactococcus bacteria containing inactivated cells and metabolic byproducts, used to reinforce the skin barrier, soothe irritation, and support microbiome health.
A ferment filtrate produced by culturing Lactococcus bacteria on a hyaluronic acid substrate, yielding a humectant ingredient that hydrates and smooths the skin.
Lactose is a naturally occurring disaccharide composed of glucose and galactose, found in milk. In cosmetics it appears primarily in powder-format products (enzyme powders, vitamin C powder treatments) as a humectant and powder carrier. It functions as a mild moisture-attracting agent and contributes to the smooth texture and flowability of dry powder formulas.
Laminaria Digitata Extract is derived from oarweed, a brown marine macroalga harvested primarily from the North Atlantic. It is exceptionally rich in fucoidan, alginates, iodine, minerals, and vitamins that collectively deliver hydrating, antioxidant, firming, and barrier-reinforcing benefits. Its multi-functional marine active profile makes it a premium ingredient in K-beauty anti-aging and hydrating formulations.
An extract from the brown seaweed Laminaria japonica (Japanese kelp), rich in polysaccharides and minerals, used for hydration, antioxidant protection, and skin conditioning.
An extract from the brown seaweed Laminaria ochroleuca (golden kelp), rich in polysaccharides and antioxidants, used in cosmetics for hydration, soothing, and anti-aging benefits.
Extract from Lamium album (white dead nettle), a traditional European medicinal herb. Contains iridoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids with soothing, astringent, and antioxidant properties. Used in balancing and soothing skincare.
A complex mixture of wax esters secreted by sebaceous glands of wool-bearing sheep, one of the most effective occlusive emollients available with a composition similar to human sebum.
Extract from the leaves of Lansium domesticum (langsat/duku), a tropical Southeast Asian tree. Contains bioactive tetranortriterpenoids and polyphenols that provide antioxidant and potential skin-brightening benefits. Featured in L'Occitane's Immortelle range.
An amphoteric betaine surfactant derived from lauric acid and dimethylaminopropylamine. Gentler than cocamidopropyl betaine. Used in Rosette's clay cleanser for foaming and skin conditioning.
A cationic quaternary ammonium derivative of hydrolyzed wheat protein and lauric acid that conditions and repairs damaged hair via protein film formation, with mild surfactant and antistatic properties.
A polyethylene glycol ether of lauryl alcohol with 10 ethylene oxide units, used as a mild nonionic surfactant and emulsifier in cleansers and creams.
A polyethylene glycol ether of lauryl alcohol with 23 ethylene oxide units, used as a nonionic emulsifier and surfactant in serums and creams.
A polyethylene glycol ether of lauryl alcohol with 7 ethylene oxide units, functioning as a mild nonionic surfactant and emulsifier in cleansers and emulsions.
A polyethylene glycol ether of lauryl alcohol with 8 ethylene oxide units, functioning as an emulsifier and solubilizer in cosmetic creams, lotions, and cleansers.
A medium-chain saturated fatty acid (C12) found naturally in coconut oil, used in cosmetics as an emollient, cleansing agent, and precursor to mild surfactants.
An amino acid-derived ingredient synthesized from lysine and lauroyl chloride, used in cosmetics and color products to provide a silky texture and improve pigment adhesion.
Extract from the leaves of Laurus nobilis (bay laurel); provides cineole and polyphenol antioxidants with mild antimicrobial activity, used in vegan botanical formulas.
Lauryl Alcohol (1-dodecanol) is a C12 saturated fatty alcohol. It is shorter and more fluid than the typical cosmetic fatty alcohols (cetyl C16, stearyl C18) and functions primarily as a lightweight emollient and emulsion co-stabilizer. Used in eye cream formulations where a fluid, non-waxy texture is needed alongside the conditioning feel of the emollient phase.
A C12 alkyl betaine (amphoteric surfactant) used as a mild co-surfactant in cleansers and emulsions. Reduces irritation of anionic surfactants and improves skin feel.
A C12 alkyl-modified silicone fluid that delivers emollient and conditioning benefits with a clean, non-occlusive finish.