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.
A tertiary alcohol (2-methyl-2-propanol) used as a volatile solvent and solubilizer, particularly in sunscreen formulas to dissolve UV filters.
A naturally occurring magnesium silicate mineral milled to a fine powder. Widely used in foundations, SPF products, and pressed powders for oil absorption, opacity, and improved texture.
A plant-derived polysaccharide gum from tamarind seeds that hydrates and smooths the skin.
A plant-derived polyphenol (from oak bark, chestnut, and other sources) with astringent, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties used in pore-refining and soothing formulations.
A naturally occurring alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) found in grapes and wine, used in cosmetics for its mild exfoliating, pH-buffering, and antioxidant properties; gentler than glycolic acid due to its larger molecular size and slower skin penetration.
A sulfonic amino acid that functions as a humectant and osmoprotectant, helping skin cells maintain hydration balance under osmotic stress.
A water-soluble, photostable organic UVA filter (Ecamsule/Mexoryl SX) approved in the EU at up to 10% that absorbs UV radiation predominantly in the UVA range.
Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract is derived from Kakadu plum, an Australian native fruit (Terminalia ferdinandiana). It holds the record for the highest natural vitamin C concentration of any fruit globally (up to 5300 mg/100g), far exceeding rosehip, acerola, and other 'vitamin C fruits'. The extract also provides ellagic acid, punicalagin, gallic acid, and other polyphenolic antioxidants. Used in premium vitamin C and brightening formulas alongside synthetic ascorbic acid derivatives.
A naturally occurring monoterpene alcohol (alpha-terpineol) with a pleasant floral-lilac scent found in over 150 essential oils. Used as a fragrance component and mild antimicrobial in cosmetics.
A synthetic C14 alpha-olefin hydrocarbon used as a lightweight emollient and spreading agent in sunscreens and color cosmetics.
Lipotec-developed neuropeptide (trade name Leuphasyl) that modulates neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction, reducing muscle micro-contractions that deepen expression wrinkles. Structurally related to enkephalin, a natural pain-modulating peptide.
Tetradecylaminobutyroylvalylaminobutyric Urea Trifluoroacetate (Inyline, Lipotec/BASF) is a long-chain lipopeptide derivative that mimics the acetylcholine receptor-blocking activity of waglerin-1, a peptide from the temple pit viper (Tropidolaemus wagleri). By competitively antagonizing the muscular nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR), it reduces the force of facial muscle contraction and thereby softens dynamic expression wrinkles. Its mechanism complements SNARE-targeting peptides (e.g., Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) and collagen-stimulating signal peptides, making it a frequent component of comprehensive anti-aging peptide ampoules.
A stable, oil-soluble vitamin C derivative.
A synthetic analogue of piperine (CAS 23434-88-0) produced by catalytic hydrogenation of black pepper-derived piperine. Used in cosmetics as a transdermal penetration enhancer at very low concentrations (0.001–0.1%): fluidizes stratum corneum intercellular lipids, reducing barrier resistance and increasing absorption of co-applied actives. Effective for both hydrophilic and lipophilic ingredients. Non-irritating and non-sensitizing at cosmetic use levels in patch testing. Marketed as Cosmoperine® by Sabinsa. CosIng-listed (skin conditioning function), no EU concentration restriction.
A synthetic ketone aromatic compound (C16H26O) used primarily as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics, also known as Iso E Super or TENA.
The fully neutralized tetrasodium salt of EDTA, used as a chelating agent to sequester metal ions and improve the stability and performance of cosmetic preservative systems.
The tetrasodium salt of etidronic acid (HEDP — hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid). A chelating agent that binds calcium and heavy metal ions in formulations, preventing oxidative degradation and enhancing preservative effectiveness. Common in toners and emulsions.
A glutamic-acid-derived chelating agent and preservative booster that sequesters trace metal ions to stabilize cosmetic formulas; considered biodegradable and CIR-assessed as safe.
An inorganic salt used as a chelating agent and pH buffer in cosmetic formulations to sequester metal ions and improve the performance of cleaning systems.
An extract of cocoa (Theobroma cacao) rich in polyphenols such as flavanols that provide antioxidant and soothing benefits; distinct from the seed-specific extract form.
Cocoa seed extract rich in polyphenols, with antioxidant and soothing properties.
A natural fat extracted from cacao seeds (Theobroma cacao) used as a rich emollient and occlusive ingredient in lip balms, body butters, and moisturizers.
Butter pressed from the seeds of Theobroma grandiflorum (Cupuaçu), an Amazonian relative of cacao. Highly emollient; absorbs faster than shea or cocoa butter due to its unique fatty acid profile.
A ferment derived from Thermus thermophilus, a bacterium that thrives in extreme heat. Its thermostable antioxidant enzymes provide protection against oxidative stress. Used in Clinique's Moisture Surge franchise.