Glycerin
A humectant: an ingredient used to help attract water in a formula. You may see it in cleansers, creams, and lotions.
A thoughtful note
Notice where it appears in the ingredient list; a full formula matters more than one name.
BEHIND THE LABEL
A little more clarity.
A beginner’s glossary for a more considered beauty shelf. The complete formula matters more than a single headline ingredient.
Hyaluronic acid
An ingredient used in cosmetics for its water-binding properties. Different formulas can feel quite different on the skin.
A thoughtful note
Look at the complete product and its directions, rather than assuming every hyaluronic-acid product is the same.
Squalane
An emollient used to give products a smooth feel and soften the feel of skin.
A thoughtful note
Texture is personal: a lightweight oil may feel different from a cream that contains it.
Ceramides
Lipids included in many moisturizers. An ingredient name is a useful clue, not a guarantee about a finished product.
A thoughtful note
Read the label for the intended use and any claims specific to the finished formula.
Panthenol
Also called provitamin B5. It is used in a range of skin and hair-care formulas.
A thoughtful note
One ingredient can have different roles depending on the product it is in.
Niacinamide
A form of vitamin B3 used in many cosmetic formulas, including serums and moisturizers.
A thoughtful note
A higher percentage is not automatically a better choice. Follow the product directions.
Emollients
A family of ingredients used to soften and smooth the feel of skin. Oils, esters, and other ingredients can serve this role.
A thoughtful note
Try describing a texture — rich, light, silky — rather than judging it by one ingredient.
Fragrance
Ingredients added to give a formula a scent. Labels may use fragrance, parfum, or individual fragrance ingredient names.
A thoughtful note
If you know you react to a fragrance ingredient, check the complete label and ask a professional when unsure.
No matching notes. Try another ingredient or category.