Beauty ingredient research

Beauty ingredients explained in plain English

Browse the review database to understand what an ingredient is, what it does in a beauty formula, when it is useful, and when it deserves caution across skincare, haircare, bodycare, makeup, and more.

20769

Reviewed ingredients

524

Low-concern standouts

2884

Need usage caution

Showing 60 of 4,092
AllUV absorberUV filterabrasiveabsorbentacne treatmentactiveactive ingredientadhesivealkalizing agentamino acidanti-aginganti-androgenanti-cavityanti-cavity agentanti-inflammatoryanti-irritantanticariesanticavity agentantidandruffantifungalantimicrobialantioxidantantiperspirantantiplaqueastringentbarrier repairbarrier supportbarrier-repairbarrier-supportbinderbinding agentbiotechbiotechnologybond-builderbotanicalbotanical extractbotanical oilbotanical waterbrighteningbrightening agentbufferbuffering agentcell-communicating ingredientceramidechelating agentchemicalchemical intermediateclaycleansercleansingcleansing agentcolorantconditionerconditioningconditioning agentcooling agentcosmeticcosmetic additivecosmetic colorantcosmetic ingredientcosmetic pigmentcosmetic powdercosmetic-texturizercosmetic-waxcosmeticscrosslinking agentdelivery agentdelivery systemdenaturantdeodorantdeodorant agentdepigmenting agentdepilatorydepilatory agentdesensitizing agentdyedye intermediatedye precursordye-intermediateemollientemulsifierenzymeessential oilexfoliantexperimentaleyelashfermentfilm formerfilm-formerfilm-formingfilm-forming agentfirming agentfixativeflavoring agentformulationfragrancefragrance ingredientfunctional ingredientgashair carehair colorhair coloranthair conditionerhair dyehair removalhair-carehair-colorhaircarehumectantindustrialinsecticideintermediatelashlash carelash enhancerlash-and-browlip carelipidmakeupmarine extractmasking agentmicrobiomemicrobiome modulatormineralmoisturizernail carenail-careocclusiveoilopacifieropacifying agentoptical agentoral careotheroxidative dyeoxidative dye precursoroxidizing agentpH adjusterpain reliefpenetration enhancerpeptidepersonal careph adjusterpharmaceuticalpheromonepigmentplant oilplasticizerpolymerpolymer precursorprebioticprescription-drugpreservativepreservative boosterprobioticprocessing agentprocessing aidpropellantproteinpurifyingreducing agentretinoidscalp caresebum regulatorsebum-regulatorself-tannerself-tanningsensory additivesensory agentsensory modifiersiliconeskin barrierskin barrier supportskin conditionerskin conditioningskin conditioning agentskin lighteningskin protectantskin-conditioningskin-conditioning agentskin-identicalskin-identical ingredientskin-lighteningskin-lightening agentskincaresolventsoothingsoothing agentstabilizerstimulantsunscreensurfactantsyntheticsynthetic colorantsynthetic dyesynthetic resinsynthetic-coloranttexture enhancertexturizerthickenertoneruv-absorberuv-filtervasoactivevasodilatorviscosity controlviscosity controllingviscosity controlling agentvitaminwax

Antioxidant

Sophora Japonica Bud Extract

Sophora Japonica Bud Extract

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract that helps calm skin and defend against environmental stress, suitable for most skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sophora Japonica Callus Extract

SOPHORA JAPONICA CALLUS CULTURE EXTRACT

4.0

A gentle, lab-grown plant extract that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, though human studies are limited.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Sophronitis Dayana Callus Extract

Sophronitis Dayana Callus Extract

3.5

A trendy orchid-derived ingredient with antioxidant potential, but human studies are scarce and it's mainly found in high-end products.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Sorbus Bark & Leaf Extract

Sorbaria sorbifolia bark/leaf extract

3.8

A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research is still early and benefits are not yet proven in human skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sorbus Commixta Berry Extract

Sorbus Commixta Berry Extract

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich berry extract that may help protect skin from environmental stress, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sorbus Commixta Branch Extract

SORBUS COMMIXTA BRANCH EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle, plant-based antioxidant that may help protect skin from environmental stress, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sorghum Extract

SORGHUM VULGARE SEED/SKIN/STALK EXTRACT

4.0

Sorghum extract is a gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical that helps calm skin and protect against environmental stress.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sorghum Leaf/Stem Extract

SORGHUM BICOLOR LEAF/STEM EXTRACT

4.0

A gentle, plant-derived antioxidant that may help calm skin and defend against environmental stress, though human studies are limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Souhakuhi Extract

Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract

4.0

A gentle botanical extract that helps calm irritation and defend against environmental stress, ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sour Cherry Bud Extract

Prunus Cerasus Bud Extract

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich extract from sour cherry buds that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sour Cherry Flower Extract

Prunus Cerasus Flower Extract

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich flower extract that may help calm and protect skin, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sour Cherry Fruit Extract

Prunus Cerasus Fruit Extract

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich fruit extract that offers mild exfoliation and brightening benefits, suitable for most skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sour Cherry Leaf Extract

Prunus Cerasus Leaf Extract

3.8

A gentle, plant-based antioxidant that may help calm skin and defend against environmental stress, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soursop Fruit Extract

Anona muricata fruit extract

3.8

A gentle fruit extract with antioxidant potential, but research on its topical benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soursop Leaf and Stem Extract

ANNONA MURICATA LEAF/STEM EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research on its skincare benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soy Adventitious Root Extract

Glycine Max Adventitious Root Extract

3.8

A gentle, plant-derived antioxidant that may help calm skin and protect against environmental stress, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soy Callus Culture Extract

Glycine Max (Soybean) Callus Culture Extract

4.0

A gentle, lab-grown soybean extract that helps protect skin from environmental stress and may support a more even tone.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Soy Callus Extract

Glycine Max Callus Extract

4.0

A gentle, plant-derived antioxidant that may help calm skin and protect against environmental stress, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soy Flower Leaf Stem Juice

Glycine Max (Soybean) Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice

3.8

A gentle, water-based extract from soybean leaves and stems that may help calm and protect skin, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soy Germ Extract

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Germ Extract

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich extract from soybean sprouts that may help support skin firmness and hydration without irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soy Hull Extract

Glycine Soja Hull

4.0

A gentle, plant-based antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental stress without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soy Leaf Cell Extract

Glycine Max Leaf Cell Extract

4.0

A gentle plant-based antioxidant that may help shield skin from pollution and UV damage, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soy Phyto-Placenta Extract

Glycine Max (Soybean) Phyto-Placenta Extract

3.5

A plant-based alternative to placenta extracts that may offer antioxidant and skin-conditioning benefits, but human research is limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soy Seedcoat Extract

Glycine Max Seedcoat Extract

4.0

A gentle, plant-based antioxidant that helps defend skin from environmental stress and may support a more even tone.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soy Sprout Extract

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sprout Extract

4.0

A gentle, plant-derived antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental stress and may calm irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Skin Conditioning

Soy Symbiosome Extract

Glycine Max Symbiosome Extract

4.0

A gentle, biotech-derived soybean extract that may support skin firmness and antioxidant defense, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Soybean Extract

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract

4.0

Soybean extract is a gentle, antioxidant-rich ingredient that helps hydrate and protect the skin, but may not be suitable for those with soy allergies.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soybean Oil Ferulate Esters

Soybean Oil/Ferulate Esters

4.0

A stable antioxidant that combines the benefits of soybean oil and ferulic acid to help protect skin from oxidative stress.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

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Antioxidant

Soybean Seed Extract

GLYCINE SOJA SEED EXTRACT

4.0

A gentle antioxidant-rich extract that helps calm skin and fight free radicals, ideal for sensitive or aging skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Soybean Seedcake Extract

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seedcake Extract

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich extract from soybean processing that may help calm and protect the skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spanish Moss Callus Extract

Tillandsia Usneoides Callus Extract

3.8

A gentle, lab-grown botanical extract that may help calm skin and fight free radicals, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Spanish Moss Extract

Tillandsia Usneoides Extract

3.8

Spanish Moss Extract is a gentle botanical antioxidant that may help soothe and protect skin, but research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spanish Sage Extract

Salvia Officinalis Lavandulifolia Herb Extract

4.0

A gentle herbal extract that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sparassis Crispa & Usnea Ferment

Sparassis Crispa Mycelium/Usnea Longissima Ferment Extract Filtrate

3.8

A fermented mushroom-lichen blend that may offer antioxidant and soothing benefits, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Sparassis Crispa Ferment Filtrate

Sparassis Crispa Ferment Filtrate

3.8

A gentle, fermented mushroom extract that may help calm skin and defend against environmental stress, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sparassis Latifolia Powder

Sparassis Latifolia Powder

4.0

A mushroom-derived powder that may help soothe skin and fight oxidative stress, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Speedwell Leaf Extract

Veronica Officinalis Leaf Extract

3.8

A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research on its specific skin benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sphacelaria Scoparia Extract

Sphacelaria Scoparia Extract

3.8

A gentle brown algae extract that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spice Fruit Blend Extract

ILLICIUM VERUM FRUIT/MYRISTICA FRAGRANS FRUIT/PIMENTA OFFICINALIS FRUIT EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle botanical blend that offers antioxidant protection and a pleasant natural scent, but research on its skincare benefits is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spinach Leaf Extract

SPINACIA OLERACEA (SPINACH) LEAF EXTRACT

4.0

Spinach leaf extract is a gentle antioxidant-rich ingredient that helps protect skin from environmental stress while providing soothing benefits.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spinach Leaf Powder

SPINACIA OLERACEA LEAF POWDER

3.8

Spinach leaf powder is a gentle, antioxidant-rich ingredient that may help soothe and protect skin, but research on its topical benefits is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spiraeoside

Spiraeoside

4.0

A gentle plant-derived antioxidant that may help calm skin and protect against environmental stress, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spiranthes Sinensis Extract

Spiranthes Sinensis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract

3.8

A gentle botanical extract that may help calm skin and fight free radicals, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spirulina Extract

SPIRULINA SUBSALSA EXTRACT

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich algae extract that may help calm and protect skin from environmental stress.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spondias Amara Fruit Extract

Spondias Amara Fruit Extract

3.8

A gentle fruit extract rich in antioxidants that may help protect skin from environmental stress, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spondias Purpurea Fruit Extract

Spondias Purpurea Fruit Extract

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich fruit extract that may help soothe skin and protect against environmental stress, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spondias Tuberosa Fruit Extract

Spondias Tuberosa Fruit Extract

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich fruit extract that helps hydrate and protect skin from environmental stress, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spotted Lanternfly Extract

Lycorma delicatula Extract

2.0

Spotted Lanternfly Extract is a novel, insect-derived ingredient with very limited research and safety data, making it a high-risk choice for skincare.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Sprout Juice Complex

RAPHANUS SATIVUS/TRIGONELLA FOENUM-GRAECUM/BRASSICA OLERACEA ITALICA SPROUT JUICE

4.0

A gentle, plant-based ingredient that may help protect skin from environmental stress and calm irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spruce Bark Extract

Picea Mariana Bark Extract

4.0

A gentle, plant-based antioxidant that helps shield skin from pollution and UV-related damage without irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spruce Bud Extract

Picea abies bud extract

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich extract from spruce buds that helps protect skin from environmental stress and soothe irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spruce Leaf Cell Extract

Picea Abies Leaf Cell Extract

4.0

A gentle, plant-derived antioxidant that may help protect skin from environmental stress, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Spruce Leaf Extract

Picea Mariana Leaf Extract

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich plant extract that may help calm and protect skin, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Spruce Wood Extract

Picea Abies Wood Extract

4.0

A gentle, plant-derived antioxidant that helps calm skin and defend against environmental stress—great for sensitive or reactive skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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