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 20,303
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

Hakka

Hakka

3.8

Hakka is a gentle, fermented botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research on its specific benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hakka Yu Extract

HAKKA YU

3.5

Hakka Yu is a gentle citrus extract with antioxidant potential, but scientific research on its specific benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Humectant

Halamona Ferment Filtrate

HALOMONAS ELONGATA FERMENT FILTRATE

4.0

A gentle, biotech-derived ferment that supports skin hydration and calmness, ideal for sensitive or reactive skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincarehumectant
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Humectant

Halimeda Opuntia Extract

HALIMEDA OPUNTIA EXTRACT

4.0

A gentle, hydrating seaweed extract that helps skin retain moisture and may calm irritation, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Antioxidant

Haliptilon Callus Extract

Haliptilon Attenuatum Callus Culture Extract

3.8

A lab-grown red algae extract that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hallaisan Dandelion Extract

TARAXACUM HALLAISANENSIS EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract that may help calm skin and defend against environmental stress, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Absorbent

Halloysite

HALLOYSITE

3.8

A gentle clay that absorbs excess oil without stripping the skin, ideal for sensitive or combination skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareabsorbent
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Humectant

Haloarchaea Ferment Extract

HALOMONAS ANTICARIENSIS FERMENT EXTRACT FILTRATE

4.0

A gentle, hydrating ferment from salt-loving microbes that may help soothe and moisturize skin without irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincarehumectant
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Skin conditioning agent

Halocidin Peptide Complex

Halocidin Subunit A Amide/Halocidin Subunit B Amide

3.8

A lab-made peptide inspired by a sea creature that may help calm skin and strengthen its defenses, but human research is still very limited.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarepeptide
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Antioxidant

Halopteris Scoparia Extract

HALOPTERIS SCOPARIA EXTRACT

4.0

A gentle, ocean-sourced antioxidant that may help calm skin and fight environmental stress, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

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Humectant

Hardy Kiwi Juice

Actinidia Arguta Juice

4.0

Hardy kiwi juice is a gentle, water-soluble fruit extract that provides light hydration and antioxidant protection, making it a nice addition to soothing or brightening formulas.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
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Soothing agent

Harebell Extract

Campanula rotundifolia extract

3.5

A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research is limited and benefits are not well-established in human skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
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Soothing agent

Harpagide

HARPAGIDE

3.8

Harpagide is a gentle, plant-derived compound that may help calm irritated skin and fight free radical damage, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincaresoothing agent
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Antioxidant

Harpagoside

Harpagoside

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Haslea Ostrearia Extract

Haslea Ostrearia Extract

4.0

A gentle, blue microalgae extract that may help calm skin and fight oxidative stress, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Exfoliant

Hassaku/Natsudaidai Peel Powder

CITRUS HASSAKU/NATSUDAIDAI PEEL POWDER

3.8

A gentle powdered exfoliant from citrus peels that can brighten skin but may cause irritation for sensitive types.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincareexfoliant
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Antioxidant

Hatsudake Mushroom Extract

LACTARIUS HATSUDAKE FRUITING BODY EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle mushroom extract with antioxidant potential, but research is limited and benefits are not yet well-established in human studies.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Soothing Agent

Havardia Mexicana Bark Extract

Havardia Mexicana Bark Extract

3.5

A gentle botanical extract with potential antioxidant and soothing benefits, but research is limited and it is not a well-studied ingredient.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
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Antioxidant

Hawthorn Berry Powder

Crataegus Monogyna Powder

3.5

A gentle botanical powder with antioxidant potential, but limited direct skincare research and possible texture concerns.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hawthorn Flower Extract

Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Soothing Agent

Hawthorn Flower Water

Crataegus Oxyacantha Flower Water

3.8

A mild, floral water that may offer soothing and antioxidant benefits, but lacks strong clinical evidence for specific skincare claims.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincaresoothing
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Antioxidant

Hawthorn Fruit Extract

Crataegus Cuneata Fruit Extract

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich plant extract that helps protect skin from environmental stress while soothing and conditioning.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hawthorn Fruit Powder

Crataegus Cuneata Fruit Powder

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical powder that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hawthorn Leaf Extract

Crataegus monogyna leaf extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hawthorn Meristem Cell Extract

Crataegus Monogyna Meristem Cell Culture Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hawthorn Stem Extract

Crataegus Oxyacantha Stem Extract

3.8

Hawthorn Stem Extract is a gentle botanical antioxidant that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, but research on its topical benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hayflower Extract

HAYFLOWER EXTRACT

3.5

Hayflower extract is a gentle botanical with antioxidant and soothing potential, but research on its specific skincare benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hazel Bud Extract

Corylus Avellana Bud Extract

3.8

A mild, plant-based extract that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hazel Flower Extract

Corylus Avellana Flower Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Skin conditioner

Hazel Leaf Water

Corylus Avellana Leaf Water

4.0

A mild, hydrating botanical water that adds a touch of antioxidant protection without stripping the skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical water
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Emollient

Hazelnut Ethyl Ester

Corylus Avellana Ethyl Ester

4.3

A silky, non-greasy emollient derived from hazelnut oil that hydrates and softens skin without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemollient
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Emollient

Hazelnut Oil PEG-8 Esters

HAZELNUT SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS

4.0

A gentle, water-friendly emollient that softens skin without a greasy feel, suitable for most skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemollient
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Emollient

Hazelnut Seed Oil Decyl Esters

HAZELNUT SEED OIL DECYL ESTERS

4.0

A silky, non-greasy emollient derived from hazelnut oil that helps moisturize and soften skin with a lightweight feel.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemollient
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Exfoliant

Hazelnut Seed Powder

Corylus Avellana Seed Powder

3.8

A gentle, natural exfoliant that also helps absorb excess oil, but may be too gritty for sensitive skin if not finely milled.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareexfoliant
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Exfoliant

Hazelnut Shell Powder

Corylus Avellana Shell Powder

3.8

A gentle, natural physical exfoliant that helps smooth skin without harsh chemicals, but may feel too gritty for sensitive skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareexfoliant
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Film Former

HDI Alkyl Tartrate Copolymer

HDI/DI-C12-14 ALKYL TARTRATE/HYDROGENATED DILINOLEYL ALCOHOL COPOLYMER

3.8

A synthetic film-former that helps makeup last longer and resist water, but may feel heavy on some skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarefilm-former
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Film Former

HDI/PPG/Polycaprolactone Crosspolymer

HDI/PPG/Polycaprolactone Crosspolymer

4.0

A gentle synthetic film-former that helps makeup and skincare products feel smooth, last longer, and resist water without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarefilm-former
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Film Former

Hea Succinate

Hea Succinate

3.8

Hea Succinate is a synthetic film-former that helps products spread smoothly and feel lightweight on skin, with a low risk of irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarefilm-former
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Antioxidant

Heather Flower Extract

Calluna Vulgaris Flower Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Soothing Agent

Heather Flower Water

Calluna Vulgaris Flower Water

3.8

A mild, aromatic floral water that may offer soothing and antioxidant benefits, but lacks strong clinical evidence for specific skincare claims.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincaresoothing
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Absorbent

Hectorite

Hectorite

4.0

Hectorite is a gentle clay that helps control shine and thicken formulas without stripping the skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincaretexturizer
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Antioxidant

Hedera Rhombea Extract

Hedera Rhombea Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Soothing agent

Hedge Bindweed Extract

Calystegia sepium extract

3.5

A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research is limited and it's not a skincare powerhouse.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
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Chelating Agent

HEDTA

HEDTA

3.5

HEDTA is a safe, effective chelating agent that helps your products stay stable and fresh without causing irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarechelating agent
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Antioxidant

Hedychium Coronarium Extract

HEDYCHIUM CORONARIUM 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

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hedychium Coronarium Flower Extract

HEDYCHIUM CORONARIUM FLOWER EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract that may help calm skin and provide light fragrance, but research on its specific benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical
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Soothing Agent

Hedychium Coronarium Root Extract

HEDYCHIUM CORONARIUM ROOT EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle botanical extract that may help calm skin and provide antioxidant support, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
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Absorbent

Heilmoor Clay

Heilmoor Clay

4.0

Heilmoor Clay is a gentle, mineral-rich clay that helps absorb excess oil and impurities without over-drying, making it a good option for normal to oily skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareabsorbent
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Antioxidant

Heldreich Pine Bark Extract

Pinus Heldreichii Bark Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Helichrysum Callus Extract

Helichrysum Italicum Callus Extract

4.0

A gentle, lab-grown antioxidant extract that helps calm skin and fight environmental stress without irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Soothing Agent

Helichrysum Floral Water

Helichrysum Italicum Flower/Leaf/Stem Water

4.0

A gentle, aromatic hydrosol that may help calm skin and provide antioxidant support, but research is limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincaresoothing
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Antioxidant

Helichrysum Flower Extract

HELICHRYSUM STOECHAS FLOWER EXTRACT

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract that helps calm skin and protect against environmental stress, but research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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