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

White Rose Leaf Cell Extract

Rosa Alba Leaf Cell Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

White Water Lily Leaf Cell Extract

NYMPHAEA ALBA LEAF CELL 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

biotech

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Antioxidant

Wichuraiana Rose Stem Extract

ROSA WICHURAIANA STEM EXTRACT

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Wild Grape Stem Extract

Vitis Labrusca Stem Extract

3.8

A gentle botanical extract that may help protect skin from environmental stress, though human studies are limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Wild Himalayan Raspberry Root Extract

RUBUS ELLIPTICUS ROOT EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle, plant-based antioxidant extract from the root of a wild raspberry species, still under early research but promising for soothing and protecting skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Wild Rice Extract

Zizania Aquatica Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Wild Strawberry Juice

FRAGARIA VESCA JUICE

3.8

Wild strawberry juice offers gentle antioxidant and soothing benefits, but its effects are mild and best as part of a broader formula.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Wild Strawberry Leaf Extract

FRAGARIA VESCA LEAF EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich plant extract that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, but research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antimicrobial

Wild Thyme Oil

Thymus Serpillum Oil

3.8

Wild Thyme Oil offers antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits but can be irritating for sensitive skin, especially at high concentrations.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Wild Yam Root Extract

DIOSCOREA PANTHAICA ROOT EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle antioxidant-rich root extract that may help calm skin and fight free radicals, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Willow Leaf Extract

Salix blinii leaf extract

3.8

A gentle willow leaf extract that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Wine Ferment Filtrate

LACTOBACILLUS/WINE EXTRACT FERMENT FILTRATE

3.8

A fermented wine extract that may help brighten and protect skin, but research is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Winged Bean Root Extract

Psophocarpus tetragonolobus root extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Wisteria Leaf Extract

Wisteria Brachybotrys Leaf Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Wogonin

Wogonin

3.8

Wogonin is a plant-derived antioxidant that may help calm skin and protect against environmental stress, but research in cosmetics is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Wolf Apple Meristem Cell Culture

Solanum Lycocarpum Meristem Cell Culture Conditioned Media

3.8

A plant stem cell ingredient that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Woolly Thistle Callus Extract

Cirsium Eriophorum 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

Xanthine

Xanthine

3.5

Xanthine is a gentle antioxidant that may help calm skin and fight free radicals, but it's not a powerhouse ingredient on its own.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Xanthohumol

Xanthohumol

4.0

A promising hop-derived antioxidant that helps defend skin from pollution and UV damage, though more human studies are needed to confirm its anti-aging benefits.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Xylaria Nigripes Ferment Filtrate

Xylaria Nigripes Ferment Filtrate

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich fungal ferment that may help calm skin and defend against environmental stress, though human research is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Xylyl Dibutylbenzofuranone

XYLYL DIBUTYLBENZOFURANONE

4.0

A synthetic antioxidant that helps keep skincare products fresh and stable, with low irritation potential.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

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Antioxidant

Xymenynic Acid

XYMENYNIC ACID

3.5

Xymenynic acid is a plant-derived fatty acid with antioxidant potential, but research is still early and it's not a mainstream ingredient.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yeast & Mistletoe Ferment Extract

SACCHAROMYCES/VISCUM ALBUM FERMENT EXTRACT

3.8

A fermented blend of yeast and mistletoe that may offer antioxidant and soothing benefits, but research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Yeast Chromium Ferment Filtrate

Saccharomyces/Chromium Ferment Extract Filtrate

3.8

A novel fermented ingredient with potential antioxidant benefits, but research is limited and it's not a proven skincare powerhouse.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Humectant

Yeast Fermented Artichoke Extract

SACCHAROMYCES/HYDROLYZED STACHYS AFFINIS TUBER FERMENT FILTRATE

4.0

A gentle, fermented botanical extract that helps hydrate and protect the skin with antioxidant benefits.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Yeast Titanium Ferment Filtrate

SACCHAROMYCES/TITANIUM CITRATE FERMENT LYSATE FILTRATE

3.8

A novel fermented ingredient that may offer antioxidant protection, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Yeddo Hawthorn Bark Extract

Rhaphiolepis Umbellata Bark Extract

3.8

A gentle plant extract that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yeddo Hawthorn Stem Extract

Rhaphiolepis Umbellata Stem Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yellow Loosestrife Extract

Lysimachia Vulgaris Extract

3.8

A gentle plant 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

Yerba Mate Leaf Extract

Ilex Paraguariensis Leaf Extract

4.0

Yerba Mate Leaf Extract is a gentle antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental stress while providing mild soothing benefits.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yerba Mate Leaf Oil

Ilex Paraguariensis Leaf Oil

3.8

Yerba Mate Leaf Oil is a gentle antioxidant-rich oil that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research on its topical benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yerba Santa Extract

Eriodictyon californicum flower/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

Yerba Santa Leaf Extract

Eriodictyon Crassifolium Leaf Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yew Meristem Cell Culture

TAXUS (MEDIA/CUSPIDATA/BREVIFOLIA/BACCATA/CANADENSIS) MERISTEM CELL CULTURE CONDITIONED MEDIA

3.8

A plant stem cell culture ingredient that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but human research is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Yew Meristem Cell Extract

TAXUS MEDIA/TAXUS CUSPIDATA/TAXUS BREVIFOLIA/TAXUS BACCATA/TAXUS CANADENSIS MERISTEM CELL CULTURE EXTRACT

3.8

A lab-grown plant cell extract that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research is still early and it's mostly found in high-end products.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Yoshino Cherry Branch/Leaf Extract

Prunus Yedoensis Branch/Leaf Extract

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract from cherry tree leaves and branches that may help soothe and protect skin from environmental stress.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yoshino Cherry Flower Extract

Prunus Yedoensis Flower Extract

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract that may help soothe and brighten skin, but human evidence is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yoshino Cherry Leaf Extract

Prunus Yedoensis Leaf Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yunnan Madder Root Extract

RUBIA YUNNANENSIS EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle plant extract with antioxidant potential, but research is limited compared to more established botanical ingredients.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yuukari Ekisu

Yuukari Ekisu

3.8

Yuukari Ekisu is a gentle botanical extract that may help calm skin and fight free radicals, but research is still limited compared to more studied antioxidants.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yuzu Ferment Filtrate

Citrus Junos Fruit/Sucrose Ferment Filtrate

4.0

A gentle fermented fruit extract that offers antioxidant protection and mild exfoliation, suitable for most skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Yuzu Fruit Extract

CITRUS JUNOS FRUIT EXTRACT

4.0

Yuzu Fruit Extract is a gentle, antioxidant-rich citrus ingredient that helps brighten and soothe skin without common citrus irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yuzu Fruit Juice

CITRUS JUNOS FRUIT JUICE

3.8

Yuzu fruit juice offers antioxidant benefits and a refreshing feel, but its acidity may irritate sensitive skin.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yuzu Fruit Powder

Citrus Junos Fruit Powder

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich fruit powder that can help brighten skin and provide mild exfoliation when used in appropriate formulations.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Skin conditioning

Yuzu Fruit Water

CITRUS JUNOS FRUIT WATER

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich water from yuzu fruit that adds a refreshing feel and subtle brightening potential to skincare products.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yuzu Peel Extract

Citrus Tumida Peel Extract

4.0

Yuzu Peel Extract is a gentle, antioxidant-rich ingredient that helps protect skin from environmental stress and may support a brighter, more even complexion.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Exfoliant

Yuzu Peel Ferment Filtrate

Saccharomyces/Citrus Junos Peel Ferment Filtrate

4.0

A gentle fermented yuzu peel extract that offers mild exfoliation and antioxidant benefits, ideal for sensitive skin.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

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Antioxidant

Yuzu Peel Water

CITRUS JUNOS PEEL WATER

3.8

Yuzu Peel Water offers gentle antioxidant benefits and a refreshing feel, but its effects are mild and mostly due to its water-soluble components.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Yuzu Seed Extract

Citrus Junos Seed Extract

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich extract from yuzu seeds that helps protect skin from environmental stress while providing light hydration.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Zanthoxylum Branch/Leaf Extract

ZANTHOXYLUM ZANTHOXYLOIDES BRANCH/LEAF EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but more research is needed to confirm its benefits for skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Zanthoxylum Fruit Oil

ZANTHOXYLUM ACANTHOPODIUM FRUIT OIL

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich oil from the prickly ash fruit that may help calm skin and fight free radicals, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Zeatin

ZEATIN

3.8

Zeatin is a plant hormone with antioxidant potential that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but human research is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Zeaxanthin

ZEAXANTHIN

4.0

Zeaxanthin is a gentle antioxidant that helps defend skin against blue light and UV damage, but it is not a replacement for sunscreen.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Zederone

ZEDERONE

3.8

Zederone is a plant-derived antioxidant that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Zedoary Root Powder

Curcuma Zedoaria Root Powder

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich root powder that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Antioxidant

Zinc Acetylmethionate

Zinc Acetylmethionate

3.8

A gentle zinc-based ingredient that may help calm skin and fight free radicals, but research is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

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