Beauty ingredients explained in plain English

A safe, synthetic polymer that creates a flexible film on skin, improving water resistance and texture without common irritation.

A synthetic film former found mainly in nail products; can be a skin sensitizer and is not recommended for everyday skincare.

A synthetic film-former that helps products stay put, but offers no active skincare benefit.

PPG-7 Diacrylate is a synthetic film-former that helps products spread evenly and stay put, but it may cause irritation for sensitive skin.

A synthetic polymer that helps skincare and makeup stay put by forming a flexible, breathable film on the skin.

A biotech ingredient that forms a protective film on skin, but research on its cosmetic benefits is still emerging.

A lab-made silk protein that may help skin feel smoother and more hydrated, but human studies are limited.

A lab-made silk protein that may help hydrate and smooth skin, but human studies are limited.

Rosin/Formaldehyde Copolymer is a film-forming resin used in nail products, but its formaldehyde content raises safety concerns for sensitive individuals.

A silicone crosspolymer that creates a flexible, breathable film on skin for smoother texture and longer wear without clogging pores.

A silicone polymer that helps makeup last longer and feel smooth, but may not suit those avoiding silicones.

A synthetic film former that helps makeup and sunscreen stay put longer without feeling overly stiff or sticky.

A silicone-arginine hybrid that provides smoothness and conditioning without heavy buildup.

A silicone-modified pearl protein that forms a flexible, breathable film for smoother hair and a temporary skin-smoothing effect.

A synthetic film-forming polymer that helps skincare products feel silky and last longer on the skin.

A next-generation humectant that forms a flexible, breathable film to lock in moisture without the stickiness of traditional hyaluronic acid.

A gentle, seaweed-based ingredient that forms a protective film on skin, helping to lock in moisture and shield against irritants.

A synthetic polymer that helps nail polish dry hard and stay glossy, but its safety relies on proper formulation and avoiding inhalation during application.

A synthetic resin that helps nail polish stick better and last longer, but it may be a concern for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

An effective film former for nail products, but carries concerns over formaldehyde release and potential allergenicity.

A synthetic film former that helps nail polish and long-wear makeup stay put, but may cause sensitivity in some users.

A gentle silicone that helps products glide on smoothly and resist water, but offers no active skincare benefits.

A high-performance silicone film former that helps makeup and sunscreen stay put without feeling heavy or greasy.

A high-performance fluorinated silicone that creates a durable, water-resistant barrier on skin and hair, but its environmental persistence raises sustainability concerns.

A synthetic crosslinker for nail coatings, not a beneficial skincare ingredient; may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

A synthetic ingredient that strengthens nail coatings but may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

A gentle film-forming ingredient that gives hair flexible hold and skin a smooth, water-resistant feel without heavy silicones.

A gentle silicone that smooths hair and skin without heavy buildup, but may not suit those avoiding all silicones.

A synthetic film-former used in nail products to create strong, flexible coatings, but may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Vinyl Dimethicone is a safe, non-comedogenic silicone that gives products a silky feel and helps other ingredients spread evenly.

A gentle synthetic polymer that creates a smooth, flexible film on skin to improve product feel and wear.

Xyloglucan is a gentle, plant-based humectant that hydrates and soothes the skin while forming a protective barrier — a great option for sensitive or dry skin types.