Beauty ingredient research
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
Film Former
BIS-PENTAERYTHRITYL TRIACRYLATE POLY(1,4-BUTANEDIOL)-9/GLYCOL/IPDI COPOLYMER
A synthetic film former that helps makeup stay put, but offers no skincare benefit and may feel tight on dry skin.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
Opacifying Agent
ALUMINUM IRON CALCIUM MAGNESIUM ZIRCONIUM SILICATES
A safe, non-irritating mineral pigment that adds coverage and texture to makeup, but offers no skincare benefits.
Irritation
low
Source
natural
A safe, widely used mineral pigment that adds shimmer and coverage, but can cause irritation in sensitive skin or when used in high concentrations.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A safe and widely used black pigment for coloring cosmetics, but may cause irritation in sensitive eyes or if inhaled as loose powder.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A synthetic film former that helps makeup last longer and resist water, but may feel tight or dry on sensitive skin.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A safe, non-reactive mineral composite that adds opacity and a silky feel to makeup, with no known skin benefits beyond aesthetics.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A synthetic film-former that helps makeup last longer and resist smudging, but may be drying for some users.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A metallic pigment that adds sparkle but may raise concerns for inhalation or skin sensitivity in some formulations.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
Film Former
Sucrose Benzoate/Sucrose Acetate Isobutyrate/Butyl Benzyl Phthalate/Methyl Methacrylate Copolymer
A synthetic film-former that gives nail polish and long-wear makeup their tough, shiny finish, but contains a phthalate that raises some safety questions.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A synthetic red pigment that adds vibrant color to makeup but offers no skincare benefits.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A synthetic film-former that helps nail polish and long-wear makeup stay put, but it offers no skincare benefit and may feel stiff on flexible surfaces.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A safe, widely used synthetic red pigment that adds vibrant color to makeup but offers no skincare benefits.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A widely used synthetic red pigment that adds vibrant color to makeup, generally considered safe at low concentrations but may cause sensitivity in some individuals.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A stable, vivid red pigment approved for cosmetic use in many regions, but with limited safety data compared to more common colorants.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
A synthetic film-former that helps nail and lip products resist chipping and smudging, but may cause sensitivity in a small number of users.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic
Film Former
VA/CROTONATES/METHACRYLOXYBENZOPHENONE-1 COPOLYMER
A synthetic polymer that helps sunscreen and makeup stay put longer, especially in water or sweat.
Irritation
low
Source
synthetic