10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid

A synthetic ingredient that functions as a skin-conditioning and occlusive agent.

4-T-butylcyclohexanol

A synthetic fatty alcohol that functions as an emollient and soothing agent...

acetyl glyceryl ricinoleate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

acetylated castor oil

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

acetylated hydrogenated cottonseed glyceride

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

acetylated lanolin

Emollient derived from lanolin.

acetylated lanolin alcohol

An ester of lanolin alcohol uses as an emollient and occlusive agent. An ester is a compound formed...

acetylated palm kernel glycerides

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate

A synthetic ingredient used in skin care products that enhances texture and has emollient properties.

bis-PEG-18 methyl ether dimethyl silane

A synthetic wax-like skin conditioning agent and surfactant belonging to the chemical class of siloxanes and silicones.

borage seed oil

Non-fragrant plant oil that contains gamma linolenic acid and other essential fatty acids for skin.

Borago officinalis extract

Borago officinalis seed oil

Brassica campestris

Butyrospermum fruit

Fruit from the karite tree, scientific name Butyrospermum parkii, from which the fat is obtained to...

Butyrospermum parkii

Buxus chinensis

C10-30 cholesterol/lanosterol esters

A complex mixture of fatty acids from lanolin and cholesterol that conditions skin and helps create thicker textures in cosmetics.

C12-15 alkyl benzoate

Synthetic ingredient used as an emollient and texture enhancing agent in cosmetics.

C12-18 acid triglyceride

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

C18-36 acid triglyceride

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

agar

An algae-based natural ingredient that serves as a thickener in cosmetics.

Ahnfeltia concinna extract

ahnfeltia extract

Alaria esculenta extract

A type of brown seaweed also known as badderlocks, used topically as an antioxidant and hydrating agent due to its mix of replenishing fatty acids.

alcohol

A group of organic compounds with a vast range of forms and uses in cosmetics...

algae

Algae are very simple, chlorophyll-containing organisms in a family that includes more than 20,000...

algae extract

algin

Brown algae.

almond oil

Non-volatile oil extracted from the seeds of almonds and used as an emollient.

alpha glucan oligosaccharide

Emollient used in cosmetics that also has water-binding properties.

amodimethicone

Anacystis nidulans extract

apricot kernel oil

Emollient plant oil pressed from the seeds of apricots, and similar to other nonfragrant plant oils.

arachidic acid

Derived from peanut oil and used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

arachidyl alcohol

A wax-like substance that serves as a thickening agent and moisturizing ingredient in cosmetics.

arachidyl propionate

Waxy substance used as a thickening agent and emollient in cosmetics.

Arachis hypogaea extract

Extract of the plant commonly known as the peanut. It can have emollient and skin soothing...

argan oil

Non-fragrant plant oil expressed from the kernels of argan trees. Argan oil contains several beneficial lipids and fatty acids for skin...

artemia extract

Ascophyllum nodosum

A type of cold water brown seaweed that has antioxidant properties and serves as a texture enhancer in cosmetics.

Asparagopsis armata extract

Extract derived from seaweed.

Astrocaryum murumuru seed butter

A non-fragrant vegetable fat that's nearly solid at room temperature (much like dairy butter). It functions as an emollient ingreident that works to keep...

avocado oil

Emollient oil similar to other nonfragrant plant oils. It has antioxidant properties.

babassu oil

Babassu oil comes from the seed of the Orbignya oleifera plant, which is native to Brazil.

batyl alcohol

A non-drying fatty alcohol used as a stabilizing and skin-conditioning ingredient in skin care products. It is derived from glycerin.

beeswax

Substance made by bees to build the walls of their honeycomb. It is a thickening agent that has...

behentrimonium chloride

A synthetic or plant-derived skin- and hair-conditioning agent and emulsifier.

candelilla wax

Extract derived from candelilla plants; used as a thickening agent and emollient to give products...

Cannabis sativa oil

caprylic/capric triglyceride

Derived from coconut oil and glycerin, it’s considered an excellent emollient and skin-replenishing ingredient.

caprylyl methicone

A synthetic or plant-derived silicone polymer that conditions skin and provides a permeable barrier that helps prevent moisture loss.

carrot oil

Emollient plant oil similar to other nonfragrant plant oils.

Carthamus tinctorius oil

Carya illinoensis oil

castor isostearate succinate

Derived from castor seed oil, this ingredient conditions and moisturizes skin.

castor oil

Vegetable oil derived from the castor bean. It is used in cosmetics as an emollient, though its...

Caulerpa taxifolia extract

cephalin

Phospholipid.

cera microcristallina

Used as a thickener and to give products a semi-solid to solid smooth texture. Utilized most abundantly in lip care products.

disodium glyceryl phosphate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

docosahexaenoic acid

Dromiceius oil

dulse

Durvillaea antarctica extract

Extract derived from a species of algae (Durvillea antarctica).

Echium plantagineum seed oil

A novel, non-fragrant plant oil that's a rich source of saturated fatty acids...

ectoin

Ectoin is a synthetic ingredient that serves as an emollient on skin and can also have a buffering effect in cosmetic formulas.

egg yolk

Egg yolk is mostly water and lipids (fats), especially cholesterol, which makes it a good emollient...

eicosapentaenoic acid

Fatty acid derived from salmon oil; it is a good emollient and replenishing ingredient for skin.

Elaeis guineensis oil

A soothing source of antioxidants, including vitamin E. As an oil, it also has emollient properties for skin.

emollient

Supple, waxlike, lubricating, thickening agents that prevent water loss and have a softening and...

emu oil

The emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) is a large, flightless bird indigenous to Australia. The oil...

ester

A compound formed from the reaction between an alcohol and an acid via the elimination of water....

ethyl macadamiate

Mixture of fatty acids from macadamia nut oil.

ethylhexyl palmitate

A blend of non-drying ethylhexyl alcohol with palm-derived palmitic acid. Uses include emollient, solvent, and skin conditioning.

ethylhexyl stearate

Commonly used as an emollient to deliver skin-softening properties and a smooth afterfeel.

Euphorbia cerifera wax

A type of wax derived from candelilla plants, often used in lip care products for barrier protection and emollience. Also contributes to the product's solid consistency.

evening primrose oil

Can have significant soothing and emollient benefits for skin.

fatty acid

Substance typically found in plant and animal lipids (fat). Fatty acids include compounds such as...

fatty alcohol

Made from fatty acids; fatty alcohols are used in cosmetics as thickening agents and emollients....

cetearyl alcohol

Fatty alcohol used as an emollient, emulsifier, thickener, and carrying agent for other...

cetearyl ethylhexanoate

A derivative of fatty alcohol cetearyl alcohol and a colorless, thicker oil known as 2-ethylhexanoic acid. Works as a rich emollient and is excellent for dry skin.

cetearyl octanoate

cetyl acetate

A mixture of cetyl alcohol and acetic acid used as a skin-replenishing agent and emollient.

cetyl alcohol

Fatty alcohol used as an emollient, emulsifier, thickener, and carrying agent for other...

cetyl dimethicone copolyol

cetyl hydroxyethylcellulose

A derivative of fatty alcohol cetearyl alcohol and a thicker oil known as 2-ethylhexanoic acid. Works as a rich emollient and is excellent for dry skin.

cetyl palmitate

Cetyl palmitate is a blend of cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid that conditions skin and helps prevent water loss. The waxy nature of this ingredient makes it preferred for dry skin

chlorella

cholesterol

The surface of skin depends on the stratum corneum lipid matrix, which...

cocoa butter

Oil extracted from cocoa beans, used as an emollient and with properties similar to those of other...

cocoglycerides

Derived from coconut oil, these serve to moisturize skin and can help thicken skin care products to their desired texture.

coconut oil

Non-volatile plant kernel oil that has emollient properties for skin.

Cocus nucifera

Codium tomentosum extract

Corallina officinalis extract

corn oil

Emollient oil with properties similar to those of other nonfragrant plant oils (Source: British...

Corylus americana

Corylus avellana

cyclohexasiloxane

One of the numerous forms of synthetic silicone

cyclomethicone

Silicone that is used to improve the aesthetics of a formula (its dry finish can help make moisturizers feel less greasy).

cyclopentasiloxane

Lightweight silicone with a silky, slippery feel that functions as a skin/hair conditioning agent.

cyclotetrasiloxane

A type of silicone that is most often utilized for contributing emollience to a formula and delivering a skin-softening effect.

decyl oleate

A skin-conditioning agent with research backing its ability to improve immediate skin hydration. Its composition is similar to skin’s natural lipids.

dicaprylyl carbonate

A skin-conditioning agent, emollient and solvent that helps enhance the absorption of other ingredients in a cosmetic formula. May be derived from synthetic or animal sources.

diethylhexyl malate

Emollient and skin-conditioning agent derived from the solvent ethyl hexanediol.

diisopropyl adipate

Used as a film-forming agent, emollient, and skin-conditioning agent.

diisopropyl dimer dilinoleate

A synthetic ester that functions as a skin-conditioning agent and emollient.

diisostearoyl trimethylolpropane siloxy silicate

Emollient in the silicone family.

diisostearyl dimer dilinoleate

A synthetic ester that functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. May be animal-derived.

diisostearyl malate

Diisostearyl malate is an ester that functions as an emollient...

dimer dilinoleyl dimer dilinoleate

A mixture of fatty acids and a fatty alcohol. This synthetic ingredient...

dimethicone

A type of silicone, dimethicone is one of the most frequently used emollient ingredients in moisturizers due to its gentleness...

dimethicone copolyol

dimethicone crosspolymer

A silicone derivative used as a stabilizing and suspending agent or as a thickener in skin care products.

dimethicone/PEG-10/15 crosspolymer

A mixture of the silicone dimethicone with PEG-10 and PEG-15.

dimethiconol

dipentaerythrityl hexacaprylate/hexacaprate

Mixture of fatty acids used as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickening agent. Leaves skin feeling soft and conditioned.

disodium diglyceryl phosphate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

gamma linolenic acid (GLA)

Fatty acid used in cosmetics as an emollient and antioxidant. GLA is considered to...

Gellidiela acerosa extract

Extract derived from a type of algae.

GLA

glycereth-26

Functions as a skin-conditioning agent to provide a soft, smooth feel.

glycereth-26 phosphate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glycereth-6 laurate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glycerol monostearate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glycerol triacetate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glycerol trioleate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glyceryl behanate

A simple mixture of glycerin and the naturally-occuring fatty acid behenic acid. Glyceryl behenate...

glyceryl cocoate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glyceryl dibehanate

A complex mixture of glycerin and the naturally-occurring fatty acid behenic acid. Glyceryl...

glyceryl dipalmitate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glyceryl distearate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glyceryl ester

Large group of ingredients that are composed of fats and oils. At room temperature, the fats are...

glyceryl isopalmitate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glyceryl isostearate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glyceryl myristate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glyceryl oleate

Mixture of portions of glycerin and oleic acid that can serve as an emollient, surfactant, emulsifier, and absorption enhancer within skin care formulas.

glyceryl palmitate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

glyceryl stearate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

isononyl isononanoate

An ester that functions as a skin-conditioning agent. Occurs naturally in cocoa and lavender oil.

isopropyl isostearate

The ester of isopropyl alcohol and isostearic acid. It is used as a skin-conditioning agent and emollient in cosmetics products...

isopropyl lanolate

Derived from lanolin, it is used in cosmetics as a thickening agent and emollient.

isopropyl myristate

Texture enhancer and emollient as used in cosmetics.

isopropyl palmitate

Texture enhancer and emollient as used in cosmetics. It can potentially be...

isopropyl titanium triisostearate

A synthetic or animal-derived ingredient used as a surface treatment for cosmetic pigments...

Japan wax

Vegetable wax obtained from sumac berries, and used as a thickening agent and emollient in...

jojoba butter

The fattiest portion of jojoba oil, used as an intensive emollient.

jojoba esters

Jojoba esters are a mixture of esters from jojoba oil and hydrogenated jojoba oil that are used as emollients, occlusives, or as scrub particles in cosmetics.

jojoba oil

Emollient, non-fragrant oil (technically, a polyunsaturated wax) extracted from the seeds of a perennial shrub.

jojoba wax

Semi-solid portion of jojoba oil.

kelp extract

kukui nut oil

Non-volatile oil from a plant native to Hawaii; it has emollient properties for skin (Source:...

Laminaria longicruris

Laminaria sacharrina

lanolin

Emollient, very thick substance derived from sheep. Lanolin has long been...

lanolin alcohol

Emollient derived from lanolin.

lauryl lactate

Mixture of lauryl alcohol and lactic acid that functions as a skin-conditioning agent and...

lecithin

Phospholipid found in egg yolks and may be plant or animal derived. It is widely used in...

glyceryl stearate SE

Emulsifies water and oil; can also be used as a thickener. Derivative of glyceryl stearate that is a self-emulsifying (that’s what the “SE” stands for).

Glycine soja (soybean) oil

Glycine soja (soybean) oil is a non-fragrant plant oil with multiple uses for skin.

Glycine soja seed extract

Glycine soja sterols

A sterol is a solid complex alcohol derived from animals and plants. In this case, the sterols are...

glycol stearate

A mixture of glycerin and stearic acid used as an emollient, surfactant, and emulsifier. May also be used to impart a pearlescent appearance to a formula.

glycolipid

Type of lipid composed of sugar (monosaccharide) and fat (lipid) that forms an important component...

grape seed oil

Emollient, non-fragrant plant oil that also has excellent antioxidant properties...

Haslea ostrearia extract

Extract derived from a water plant also known as blue algae. In pure concentrations this extract...

hazelnut oil

Oil extracted from the hazelnut and that is used as an emollient.

Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil

Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil is a non-volatile, non-fragrant plant oil used as an emollient in cosmetics.

Helianthus oil

hemp seed oil

From the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa.

hexyl laurate

Skin-softening agent and emollient that is a mixture of hexyl alcohol and lauric acid.

hexyldecanol

A synthetic, non-drying fatty alcohol used as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent.

Himanthalia elongate extract

Extract of a species of algae.

hydrogenated coco-glyceride

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

hydrogenated lecithin

hydrogenated olive oil

A rich source of antioxidants; can help increase the viscosity and emolliency of a formula. Hydrogenating the oil changes it from its natural liquid state into a solid.

hydrogenated palm glycerides

Palm glycerides are the fatty acid component of palm oil. When a plant oil is hydrogenated, it is...

hydrogenated polydecene

Synthetic emollient and skin-softening agent. In certain formulations it lends a non-occlusive film for added skin barrier protection.

hydrogenated polyisobutene

Synthetic emollient with research backing its ability to provide long-lasting moisture retention. It acts as a lubricant on skin’s surface, providing a soft, smooth feel.

hydrogenated soybean oil

Non-fragrant plant oil from soy that has been hydrogenated so it retains a semi-solid rather than liquid state.

hydrogenated vegetable glycerides citrate

A hydrogenated blend of vegetable glycerides that functions chiefly as an emollient and texture enhancer in cosmetics.

hydrolyzed jojoba esters

Essential fatty acids from the jojoba plant, broken down by water to form a new complex. They serve as skin-softening and stabilizing ingredients in cosmetics.

hydrolyzed jojoba protein

Protein fraction of seeds from the jojoba plant that has been hydrolyzed, which is a chemical...

hydroxylated lecithin

Irish moss extract

Type of red algae.

linoleic acid

Unsaturated fatty acid used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics. There is some...

lipid

Wide range of ingredients found in plants, animals, and human skin. Lipids include fatty acids,...

lupine

Legume that is a source of isoflavones with antioxidant properties.

lupine oil

Extract of Lupinus albus, a legume; it has emollient and antioxidant properties.

Lupinus albus seed extract

Non-fragrant plant extract that serves as a beneficial source of fatty acids and antioxidants for skin.

macadamia nut oil

Used in cosmetics as an emollient for dry skin.

peanut oil

Emollient plant oil similar to all nonfragrant plant oils.

pecan oil

Emollient plant oil similar to all nonfragrant plant oils.

pectin

Natural substance found in plants, especially apples, and used in cosmetics as an emulsifier and...

PEG-10 dimethicone

A synthetic blend of polyethylene glycol and skin-protecting silicone that conditions skin and hair.

PEG-10 dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer

A synthetic, silicone-enhanced polymer that helps products adhere…

PEG-10 rapeseed sterol

A blend of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and the fatty acid component of the rapeseed plant. Used as a...

PEG-100 stearate

PEG-12 dimethicone

A silicone blend of skin-protective dimethicone and a lightweight polyethylene glycol. It functions as a hair and skin-conditioning agent.

PEG-20 methyl glucose sesquistearate

A mix of polyethylene glycol, methyl glucose, and stearic acid that serves as an emollient and emulsifier in cosmetics. Good example of combining natural and synthetic.

PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil

Emollient ingredient that is a mixture of polyethylene glycol (PEG) with castor oil.

PEG-60 almond glycerides

The polyethylene glycol derivative of fatty acids from almond oil...

PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil

The chief function of this ingredient is cleansing agent.

PEG-7 glyceryl cocoate

A complex blend of a polyethylene glycol derivative and coconut + glycerin-derived cleansing agent. The blend can be an emollient, emulsifier, and surfactant.

PEG-8

A synthetic polymer that works to bind moisture to skin and as a solvent for other cosmetic ingredients, helping them penetrate more efficiently.

PEG 90M

PEG

PEG is the acronym for polyethylene glycol. Various forms of PEG compounds are mixed with fatty...

PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer

A synthetic glycol-created polymer that works primarily as a solvent but can also be an emollient and cleansing agent.

PEG/PPG-18/18 dimethicone

PEG stands for polyethylene glycol; PPG stands for polypropylene glycol.

PEG/PPG-20/15 dimethicone

PEG stands for polyethylene glycol; PPG stands for polypropylene glycol.

pentaerythrityl tetraoctanoate

Synthetic compound as an emollient and thickening agent.

Persea gratissima (avocado) oil

Persea gratisima is the Latin name for avocado, and the oil from this fruit is an excellent source of skin-replenishing fatty acids

petrolatum

Vaseline is pure petrolatum, and petrolatum is a rich emollient and FDA-approved skin protectant.

phenyl trimethicone

In skin care, it contributes to a product’s silky texture and feel on skin. In hair care, it conditions and increases luster.

phosphatidylcholine

Active ingredient in lecithin…

phosphatidylethanolamine

phospholipid

Type of lipid (fat) composed of glycerol, fatty acids, and phosphate. Phospholipids are essential...

phytosterols

Phytosterols are naturally occurring, cholesterol-like molecules found in all plant foods.

pistachio seed oil

Emollient plant oil with uses similar to peanut oil in cosmetics.

Pistacia vera seed oil

plum seed oil

Plum (Prunus domestica) seed oil, also known as plum kernel oil, is non-fragrant oil…

Mangifera indica (mango) seed butter

More commonly known as mango butter, this ingredient is a very good plant-based...

Mastocarpus stellatus

Limnanthes alba (meadowfoam) seed oil

Limnanthes alba (meadowfoam) seed oil is a non-fragrant, edible plant oil originally developed as an agricultural crop in the 1950s.

methicone

One of the simpler silicones due to its less complex molecular structure. It helps give skin products a silky feel and helps skin retain moisture.

methyl glucose sesquistearate

A mixure of the diesters of methyl glucoside and stearic acid. Functions as a skin-conditioning...

methyl trimethicone

methylsilanol mannuronate

methylsilanol PEG-7 glyceryl cocoate

A glyceryl ester used as an emollient and texture enhancer in cosmetics.

Microcystis aeruginosa

Latin name for spirulina.

milk protein

mineral oil

Clear, odorless oil derived from petroleum that is widely used in cosmetics because it rarely...

murumuru seed butter

myristyl myristate

Used as a texture enhancer and emollient. It has a wetter feel and is best for dry skin.

neopentyl glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate

Emollient that leaves a silky (but not greasy) afterfeel on skin.

octyl palmitate

Used in cosmetics as a texture enhancer and emollient.

octyl stearate

Used in cosmetics as a texture enhancer and emollient.

octyldodecanol

A mineral wax used as a texture enhancer in cosmetics, especially to add stability to lipsticks and stick foundations and keep them blended.

octyldodecyl myristate

Mixture of octyldodecanol (thickener) and myristic acid that forms a new compound used as a...

octyldodecyl neopentanoate

A skin-softening agent and emollient.

Oenothera biennis oil

Olea europaea fruit oil

Olea europaea oil unsaponifiables

An unsaponifiable oil is the portion of a plant oil that is not broken down when the oil's fatty...

olive oil/olive fruit oil

Emollient plant oil similar to many other non-fragrant plant oils. The concept of olive oil having...

Orbignya martiana

Orbignya oleifera seed oil

Orbignya oleifera seed oil is more commonly known as babassu oil, a non-fragrant nut oil that smooths and softens skin as well as being a good antioxidant.

Oryza sativa oil

Padina pavonica extract

palm kernel acid

A mixture of fatty acids derived from palm oil. Used as a cleansing agent, emulsifier, or to add...

palm oil

Has emollient and antioxidant properties for skin.

Palmaria palmata extract

Extract from a type of algae whose common name is dulse.

palmitic acid

Blend of the fatty acid palmitic acid with several amino acids…

Paraffinum liquidum

The Latin name for emollient ingredient mineral oil, also known as liquid paraffin.

polyethylene

A synthetic polymer whose many uses in cosmetics depend on whether it is used in solid, wax, or liquid forms. In solid form it can be an abrasive; wax and liquid forms serve as binding or thickening agents and film-formers.

polyglycerol monostearate

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

polyglyceryl 2 triisostearate

A mixture of the fatty acid Isostearic acid and a form of glycerin that functions as a...

polyglyceryl-3 methylglucose distearate

polyglyceryl-4 isostearate

The ester of isostearic acid and polyglycerin-4 that functions as an emollient and can also be a...

polyglyceryl-6 isostearate

A synthetic mixture of fatty acids from stearic acids and a glycerin polymer. Multiple roles in cosmetics include emollient, emulsifier, and surfactant, making it a good choice for hydrating cleansers.

polymethylsilsesquioxane

A silicone derivative that serves as a skin conditioning agent and moisturizer in cosmetics.

PPG-3 benzyl ether myristate

An emollient that has a silicone-like feel and multiple functions in cosmetic products...

propylene glycol isostearate

A mixture of propylene glycol and isostearic acid. See both. This ingredient is used as an...

propylene glycol laurate

The ester of propylene glycol and lauric acid, which is a constituent of many vegetable fats.

Prunus amygdalus dulcis

Prunus armeniaca (apricot) kernel oil

Latin name for apricot and also known as Armenian plum. Use in cosmetics depends on the part used: oil, extract, water/juice, leaf, seed, or shell.

Prunus domestica seed oil

Non-fragrant plant oil, more commonly known as plum (and, when dried, prune) that is a rich source of several potent antioxidants.

Prunus dulcis

pumpkin seed extract

Type of squash that is a very good source of antioxidant cartenoids. Pumpkin seed oil and extract...

quinoa oil

Derived from quinoa grain, it may have disinfectant properties (Source: Journal of Agricultural Food...

rapeseed oil

Nonfragrant oil that has emollient and potential antioxidant properties for skin (Source: British...

sodium PEG-7 olive oil carboxylate

A mild surfactant formed by reacting fatty acids from olive oil esters with polyethylene glycol (PEG).

sodium polyacrylate

A versatile, synthetic polymer used as a film-forming agent, stabilizer, absorbent, thickening agent, and emollient.

Sonojell

Trade name for petrolatum.

soy oil

Soy oil is a non-fragrant plant oil with multiple uses for skin.

spirulina

squalane

Squalane is a moisturizing ingredient that’s also a source of skin-replenishing fatty acids and antioxidants.

squalene

Oil derived from shark liver or from plants (usually olives). It is a natural component...

stearates

stearic acid

Fatty acid used as an emollient and emulsifier...

stearyl alcohol

A type of non-irritating fatty alcohol used to moisturize skin and to help keep other ingredients intact in a formulation.

stearyl methicone

Silicone polymer used as a skin-conditioning or occlusive agent.

stearyl stearate

A plant-based wax prepared with natural fatty acids combined with synthetic fatty alcohols.

sunflower seed oil

Non-volatile plant oil used as an emollient in cosmetics.

sweet almond

Most often used in its oil form, this ingredient is expressed from almonds. Also used as an...

sweet almond oil

Emollient, non-fragrant plant oil.

synthetic beeswax

An artificial form of beeswax composed of a mixture of alcohol esters...

red algae

rice bran oil

Emollient oil similar to other nonfragrant plant oils. There is no research showing this has any...

rice oil

Emollient similar to other nonfragrant plant oils. There is no research showing this has any...

Ricinus communis

Rosa canina

Rosa centifolia

Rosa centifolia flower

Rosa eglanteria

Rosa mosqueta

Rosa rubiginosa

rose hip

rose hip oil

Good emollient oil that has antioxidant properties (Sources: Journal of Agricultural Food...

rutin

Bioflavonoid that is extracted from various plants and used in cosmetics as an antioxidant and...

saccharide isomerate

Water-binding agent and emollient, particularly helpful for dry skin. Research indicates it has an affinity for soothing and strengthening skin’s barrier, while delivering long-lasting hydration.

safflower seed oil

Emollient oil derived from the safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) plant.

Sclerocarya birrea

More commonly known as marula oil, Sclerocarya birrea oil is a non-fragrant plant oil that's a rich source...

Seamollient

Trade name for an algae extract.

seaweed

Group of sea plants (scientific name: algae) of all sizes and shapes, and having a gelatin-like...

Sesamum indicum (sesame) seed oil

Sesame oil is a non-fragrant plant oil that is a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats along with vitamin E and lignans.

Sesamum indicum

sesquioleate

Used in cosmetics as a thickening agent and emollient.

shea butter

Shea butter is a plant lipid extracted from the karite tree that is used as an emollient in cosmetics.

silicone

Substance derived from silica (sand is a silica). The unique fluid properties of silicone give it a...

siloxane

Simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil

Theobroma cacao seed butter

tribehenin

A mixture of skin-replenishing glycerin and a fatty acid known as behenic acid that conditions skin and helps prevent moisture loss. May be plant-derived or synthetic.

tribehenin PEG-20 esters

A complex mixture of tribehenin and PEG-20, this ingredient has multiple functions in cosmetic...

tricaprylin

Mixture of glycerin and caprylic acid. Has emollient properties and is used as a skin-softening...

tridecyl stearate

Offers skin conditioning and emollient properties. Can also be included in formulas as a thickening agent.

triethoxysilylethyl polydimethylsiloxyethyl hexyl dimethicone

A silicone polymer that has multiple functions in cosmetic products, including skin and hair softening and as a texture enhancer.

triglyceride

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

trihydroxystearin

A mixture of glycerin and castor oil-derived fatty acids that is used in amounts between 1–7% as an emollient and thickening agent.

triisocetyl citrate

A trimester of the fatty alcohol isocetyl alcohol and citric acid. It is used as on occlusive agent.

trilaurin

Group of ingredients that are triesters of glycerin and aliphatic acids, and known generically as...

trimethylsiloxysilicate

Used as a skin-softening and occlusive agent.

trioctanoin

Used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics.

trioctyldodecyl citrate

Mixture of octyldodecanol and citric acid used as a skin-softening agent and emollient.

Triticum vulgare germ oil

Non-fragrant plant oil that imparts emollience and delivers beneficial compounds including skin-replenishing squalane.

vitamin F

Name sometimes used to represent essential fatty acids of linoleic acid and linolenic acid. These...

Vitis vinifera

Latin name for the vines that produce wine grapes. More commonly known as grape seed oil or grape...

walnut oil

Emollient, non-fragrant plant oil...

wheat germ glycerides

Used as emollient and texture enhancer in cosmetics.

wheat germ oil

Emollient plant oil similar to all non-fragrant plant oils.

Ximenia americana oil

Latin name for plum oil; it can have emollient properties.

methyl gluceth-20 benzoate

The ester of methyl gluceth-20 and preservative and pH adjuster benzoic acid. Esters are ingredients formed from alcohols and acids by eliminating water. Functions as an emollient and solvent.

Pongamia glabra seed oil

Oil derived from the seeds of the Millettia pinnata tree, a plant native to South and Southeast Asia...

glyceryl behenate

An ester emollient of fatty acid behenic acid...

glyceryl rosinate

An ester of long chain acids derived from a plant-based ingredient known as rosin.

lauryl laurate

An ester of lauryl alcohol and lauric acid...

Salvia hispanica (chia) seed oil

Non-fragrant plant oil whose seeds are a rich source of fatty acids...

Argania spinosa kernel oil

Argania spinosa kernel oil is the latin name for the oil expressed from the kernels of the argan tree.

myristyl alcohol

A lighter-weight fatty alcohol that functions as a thickener, emulsion stabilizer, and emollient.

hydrolyzed algae extract

The hydrolyzed form of algae extract, and a rich source of polysaccharides for skin.

caprylyl caprylate/caprate

A synthetic ester blend of medium chain fatty acids and fatty alcohol that works as an emollient.

ethylhexyl olivate

A natural ester of skin-conditioning fatty acids derived from olive oil. It can have an occlusive effect on skin.

isoamyl cocoate

A mix of non-irritating fatty alcohol isoamyl alcohol and coconut acid, this natural ingredient works as an emollient on skin.

sucrose stearate

Sucrose stearate is an ester of stearic acid and sugar that works as an emollient and cleansing agent.

polyglyceryl-10 stearate

Polyglyceryl-10 stearate is the ester of stearic acid with a glycerin polymer that functions as a skin-softener and emollient ingredient.

triethylhexanoin

Triethylhexanoin is a synthetic mixture of glycerin and a fatty acid that functions as a solvent, occlusive, and skin-conditioning ingredient.

Butyrosperum parkii (shea) butter extract

Butyrosperum parkii (shea) butter extract doesn’t just have a rich texture; it’s also a rich source of antioxidants and replenishing antioxidants.

Ahnfeltiopsis concinna extract

Ahnfeltiopsis concinna extract is a type of red algae with calming and hydrating properties for skin.

phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate

Phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate, a mix of amino acids and plant-based sterols, functions in cosmetics as an emollient and skin-conditioner.

Moringa oleifera seed oil

Moringa oil is a non-fragrant plant oil that contains several antioxidants and vitamins.

diisostearyl polyglyceryl-3 dimer dilinoleate

Diisostearyl polyglyceryl-3 dimer dilinoleate is an emollient blend of fatty acids often used in cosmetics to enhance coverage.

Euterpe oleracea (acai) sterols

Euterpe oleracea (acai) sterols are the sterol portion derived from the acai plant.

ceteareth-6 olivate

A mixture of a derivative of fatty alcohol cetearyl alcohol and a fatty acid from olives. Works to make emulsions stable and offers skin-smoothing emollient properties.

silica silylate

Silica silylate works as a binder, thickening agent, and emollient in cosmetics.

polyglyceryl-4 laurate

Polyglyceryl-4 laurate works as an emollient, emulsifier, and a cleansing agent

coco-caprylate

A lightweight, easy-to-spread emollient ingredient that smooths and softens skin.

coco caprylate/caprate

An emollient that leaves a non-greasy, soft finish on skin. Can also function as a prebiotic to help feed skin’s natural supply of probiotics.

polyglyceryl-4 olivate

Polyglyceryl-4 olivate is the plant-derived or synthetic ester of olive oil and polyglycerin.

behenyl behenate

Behenyl behenate is the wax-like ester of the fatty acid behenic acid and fatty alcohol behenyl alcohol.

Cassia angustifolia seed polysaccharide

Cassia angustifolia seed polysaccharide is the polysaccharide portion derived from the seed of the Cassia angustifolium plant.

polyglyceryl-3 stearate

Polyglyceryl-3 stearate is the ester of the fatty acid stearic acid and polyglycerin-3, which is a polymer of glycerin that contains three units.

Silybum marianum seed oil

Silybum marianum seed oil comes from the milk thistle plant.

diisooctyl succinate

Diisooctyl succinate is a synthetic or plant-derived (Paula’s Choice uses the latter) transparent liquid emollient.

olive oil PEG-7 esters

Olive oil PEG-7 esters comes from a process known as transesterification.

cetyl esters

A synthetic wax that is a replacement for a wax that’s obtained from sperm whales. Works on skin as an emollient and texture enhancer, typically creating a thicker feel.

Raphanus sativus (radish) seed oil

Raphanus sativus (radish) seed oil is non-fragrant plant oil that’s a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids.

propylene glycol dibenzoate

A synthetic blend of moisture-binding solvent propylene glycol with the preservative benzoic acid. It works in cosmetics as a skin-softening emollient.

PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate

PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate is an ester of the fatty acid isostearic acid combined with polyethylene glycol and glycerin.

diethylhexyl carbonate

Functions as a lightweight emollient. Can also be used in sunscreen formulas to help keep the active ingredients dispersed throughout the formula.

hydrogenated rapeseed oil

Hydrogenated rapeseed oil works as an emollient, thickening agent, and occlusive.

glyceryl stearate citrate

Glyceryl stearate citrate is an ester of citric acid and glyceryl stearate.