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

Film Former

Hydrolyzed Silk Crosspolymer

Hydrolyzed Silk PG-Propyl Methylsilanediol Crosspolymer

4.0

A gentle film-forming ingredient derived from silk that helps smooth and protect skin and hair without heavy residue.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincarehaircare
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Silk Gland Extract

Hydrolyzed Silk Gland Extract

3.8

A gentle protein extract that helps hydrate and smooth skin, but its benefits are modest and best for those seeking extra moisture without irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Silk Gland Powder

Hydrolyzed Silk Gland Powder

4.0

A gentle, protein-based ingredient that helps skin feel soft and smooth by forming a light, moisture-locking film.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantfilm-former
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Film Former

Hydrolyzed Silk PG-Propyl Methylsilanediol

HYDROLYZED SILK PG-PROPYL METHYLSILANEDIOL

4.0

A gentle, semi-synthetic ingredient that combines silk proteins with a silicone-like molecule to improve skin softness and hair smoothness without heavy residue.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincarehaircare
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Snail Body Extract

Hydrolyzed Snail Body Extract

4.0

A gentle, hydrating ingredient derived from snails that may help soothe and plump the skin, but its benefits are largely anecdotal and vary by formulation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Sodium DNA

Hydrolyzed Sodium DNA

4.0

Hydrolyzed Sodium DNA is a gentle, water-loving ingredient that helps skin retain moisture and supports a healthy-looking complexion.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincarehumectant
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Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Sophora Fruit Extract

Hydrolyzed Sophora Japonica Fruit Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Soy Extract

Hydrolyzed Soy Extract

4.0

Hydrolyzed Soy Extract is a gentle, plant-derived protein that helps hydrate and plump the skin, making it a good choice for dry or mature skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Soy Flour

Hydrolyzed Soy Flour

4.0

A gentle, plant-derived protein that helps hydrate and strengthen skin and hair without irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehaircare
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein

4.0

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein is a gentle, plant-derived ingredient that helps hair and skin hold onto moisture and feel smoother, but it's not a deep repair agent.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehaircare
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Conditioning agent

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein & Amino Acid Complex

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein/Vegetable Amino Acids/Lysine Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride

4.0

A gentle conditioning ingredient that deposits a protective film on hair and skin, improving moisture and manageability without heavy buildup.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincarehaircare
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Surfactant

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Surfactant

SODIUM/TEA-UNDECYLENOYL HYDROLYZED SOY PROTEIN

4.0

A gentle, protein-based surfactant that cleanses without stripping the skin, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincarecleansing
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Film Former

Hydrolyzed Soy Starch

Hydrolyzed Soy Starch

4.0

A gentle, plant-based ingredient that helps skin and hair feel smooth and hydrated without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehaircarefilm-former
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Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Soybean Callus Extract

Hydrolyzed Soybean Callus Extract

3.8

A gentle, plant-based antioxidant that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research on its specific benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Soybean Fiber

Hydrolyzed Soybean Fiber

4.0

A gentle, plant-based humectant and film former that helps hydrate and smooth the skin without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantfilm former
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Soybean Seed

HYDROLYZED SOYBEAN SEED

4.0

A gentle, plant-derived protein that helps hydrate and strengthen skin and hair without common irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehaircare
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Absorbent

Hydrolyzed Spelt Starch

HYDROLYZED TRITICUM SPELTA STARCH

4.0

A gentle, plant-derived starch that soaks up excess oil and gives a silky, matte finish without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareabsorbent
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Film-Former

Hydrolyzed Spider Web

Hydrolyzed Spider Web

3.8

A novel biotech ingredient that forms a breathable film on skin to lock in moisture and provide a temporary smoothing effect.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincarefilm-former
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Film Former

Hydrolyzed Spinal Protein

Hydrolyzed Spinal Protein

3.0

Hydrolyzed Spinal Protein is an animal-derived film-forming ingredient that can temporarily smooth skin and hair, but its benefits are not well-studied and it may not suit vegan or sensitive users.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarefilm-former
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Soothing Agent

Hydrolyzed Sponge

Hydrolyzed Sponge

3.8

Hydrolyzed Sponge is a gentle, marine-based ingredient that may help calm irritated skin and support moisture retention, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincaresoothing agent
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Sponge Extract

Hydrolyzed Sponge Extract

3.8

A gentle, marine-sourced humectant that provides light hydration and skin conditioning, but research on its benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Spongin

Hydrolyzed Spongin

3.8

A gentle marine-derived protein that helps skin hold moisture and feel smooth, but research on its benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Hair Conditioning Agent

Hydrolyzed Starch Conditioner

Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride

4.0

A gentle, starch-derived conditioner that reduces frizz and static without heavy buildup.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincarehaircare
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Starfish Extract

Hydrolyzed Starfish Extract

3.5

A marine extract that may help hydrate and calm skin, but research is limited and sustainability concerns exist.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Strawberry Fruit

Hydrolyzed Strawberry Fruit

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich ingredient derived from strawberries that helps protect skin from environmental stress and provides light hydration.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Sturgeon Extract

Hydrolyzed Sturgeon Extract

3.8

A protein-rich ingredient that may help hydrate and temporarily firm skin, but evidence is limited and mostly based on general peptide benefits.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Sturgeon Ovary Membrane Extract

Hydrolyzed Sturgeon Ovary Membrane Extract

3.8

A luxurious, protein-rich extract that helps hydrate and condition skin, but scientific evidence is limited and it may not be suitable for strict vegans.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Film Former

Hydrolyzed Sulfonated Keratin

HYDROLYZED SULFONATED KERATIN

4.0

A gentle, modified keratin protein that helps strengthen and smooth hair while adding a light protective film to skin.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincarehaircarefilm former
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Soothing Agent

Hydrolyzed Sundew Leaf

HYDROLYZED DROSERA ROTUNDIFOLIA LEAF

3.8

A gentle, plant-derived ingredient that may help calm redness and provide antioxidant support, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincaresoothing agent
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Sweet Almond Seedcake

Hydrolyzed Sweet Almond Seedcake

3.8

A gentle, plant-derived protein that helps hydrate and smooth skin, though research on its specific benefits is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Sweet Orange Fruit Extract

HYDROLYZED CITRUS AURANTIUM DULCIS FRUIT EXTRACT

4.0

A gentle antioxidant-rich extract from sweet oranges that helps protect skin from environmental stress and supports a more even tone.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Swiftlet Nest

Hydrolyzed Swiftlet Nest

3.8

A novel, protein-rich ingredient from bird nests that may support skin hydration and elasticity, but human evidence is limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantskin-conditioning agent
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Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Sycamore Extract

Hydrolyzed Platanus Occidentalis Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Tabebuia Leaf Extract

Hydrolyzed Tabebuia Impetiginosa Leaf Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Tartary Buckwheat Extract

HYDROLYZED POLYGONUM TATARICUM BUD/SEED EXTRACT

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Skin Conditioning Agent

Hydrolyzed Thymus Extract

HYDROLYZED THYMUS EXTRACT

3.5

Hydrolyzed Thymus Extract is a protein-rich ingredient that may support skin firmness and repair, but evidence is limited and it may not be suitable for vegans or those with animal product sensitivities.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareanti-aging
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Tiger Prawn Extract

Hydrolyzed Tiger Prawn Extract

3.5

A novel marine protein extract that may help hydrate and temporarily firm skin, but lacks robust human studies and is unsuitable for those with shellfish allergies.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Tomato Fruit Extract

Hydrolyzed Lycopersicon Esculentum Fruit Extract

4.0

A gentle antioxidant-rich extract that may help protect skin from environmental damage and support a more even tone.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Tomato Skin

Hydrolyzed Tomato Skin

4.0

A gentle, antioxidant-rich ingredient from tomato skins that helps protect skin from environmental stress while providing light hydration.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Tremella Polysaccharide

Hydrolyzed Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide

4.5

A gentle, plant-based humectant that rivals hyaluronic acid for hydration without the stickiness, ideal for sensitive or dry skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Tremella Sporocarp Extract

Hydrolyzed Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract

4.3

A gentle, mushroom-derived humectant that helps skin hold moisture and may calm irritation — a natural alternative to hyaluronic acid.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Humectant

Hydrolyzed Walnut Extract

Hydrolyzed Walnut Extract

3.8

A gentle, plant-derived humectant that helps hydrate and condition the skin, but research on its specific benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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