Ingredient library
Every ingredient SkinAtlas knows about — all 2402 of them. What each one does, what it works well with, and what to watch for.
An inorganic phosphate polymer used as a chelating agent and pH adjuster in cosmetics; sequestrates calcium and magnesium ions to improve formula stability and preservative efficacy.
An amino acid-derived anionic surfactant formed from taurine, methyl, and coconut oil fatty acids, used as a gentle cleansing and foaming agent in mild facial and body cleansers.
A mild, sulfate-free anionic surfactant derived from taurine and oleic acid, used as a gentle cleansing and foam-boosting agent in facial cleansers.
A sodium salt of N-methyl-N-stearoyl taurine, used as a mild anionic surfactant and emulsifier in cream formulations. Less irritating than traditional alkyl sulfates.
A sodium salt used primarily as a counterion or processing-related residual in cosmetic formulations, typically present in trace amounts from manufacturing of quaternary surfactants.
An amino acid-derived anionic surfactant produced by condensing myristic acid (C14) with glutamic acid, used in gentle cleansers for mild, effective foaming with a favorable skin-compatibility profile.
The sodium salt of oleic acid; functions as an emulsifier and surfactant, often found in soap-based or emulsion formulas.
A component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF).
The sodium salt of palmitic acid, a saturated fatty acid naturally found in palm oil and animal fats. Acts as a mild soap-type surfactant and cleansing agent, commonly found in bar soaps and powder cleansers. Has emulsifying properties that allow it to lift oils and debris from skin. Can be drying at high concentrations.
An N-acyl amino acid ester formed from palmitic acid and the amino acid proline. Used in prestige anti-aging formulas for its ability to stimulate matrix proteins and help restore the skin's structural integrity. Commonly formulated as a lipid vesicle complex (e.g. with Nymphaea Alba).
The sodium salt of N-palmitoyl glutamic acid — an amino acid-based emulsifier and surfactant. Derived from palm oil and glutamic acid. Exceptionally gentle and skin-compatible, used in Naturie's milk for its emulsifying and conditioning properties.
The monosodium salt of phosphoric acid (NaH2PO4) used as a pH adjuster and buffering agent in cosmetic and personal care formulations.
A natural chelating agent derived from rice bran or corn that stabilizes formulas by sequestering trace metals and boosting preservative performance.
A superabsorbent sodium salt of polyacrylic acid used as a thickener and emulsion stabilizer in serums, essences, and gel-cream formulas.
A starch-grafted sodium polyacrylate copolymer used as a thickener, texturizer, and oil-absorbing agent in creams and sunscreens.
A synthetic polymer that thickens and stabilizes emulsions for a smooth, cushiony texture.
A biodegradable polyamino acid polymer (poly-aspartic acid sodium salt) used as a high-performance humectant and film-former that provides sustained surface hydration.
A fermentation-derived polymer (from natto) that binds water and forms a light moisturizing film, often described as more hydrating than hyaluronic acid by weight.
A synthetic polymer used as a film former and emulsion stabilizer that leaves a temporary tightening, smoothing film on skin.
The sodium salt of ribonucleic acid (RNA), used as a skin-conditioning agent that improves the feel and suppleness of skin in cosmetic formulations.
The sodium salt of saccharin, a synthetic sweetener used in cosmetics (lip balms, oral care) to mask taste.
A sodium salt of salicylic acid used as a milder BHA exfoliant, preservative, and pH adjuster in cosmetic formulations, offering gentler exfoliation suitable for sensitive skin types.
A modified starch ester used as an oil-absorbing texturizer and emulsion stabilizer in primers and color cosmetics.
The sodium salt of stearic acid, used as an emulsifier, surfactant, and opacifying agent in cleansing and moisturizing formulas.