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

Lactobacillus/Plum Blossom Ferment

LACTOBACILLUS/PRUNUS MUME FLOWER EXTRACT FERMENT FILTRATE

4.0

A gentle fermented botanical extract that may help soothe and protect the skin, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Exfoliant

Lactobacillus/Rye Flour Ferment

LACTOBACILLUS/RYE FLOUR FERMENT

4.0

A gentle fermented ingredient that offers mild exfoliation and skin conditioning, ideal for sensitive skin looking for a softer alternative to stronger acids.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincareexfoliant
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Skin conditioning agent

Lactobacillus/Sorbus Ferment Filtrate

LACTOBACILLUS/SORBUS COMMIXTA BRANCH FERMENT FILTRATE

4.0

A gentle, fermented botanical ingredient that may help soothe and protect the skin, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Lactobacillus/Turmeric Ferment Filtrate

Lactobacillus/Turmeric Ferment Filtrate

4.0

A fermented turmeric extract that offers antioxidant protection and soothing benefits with potentially better skin absorption than plain turmeric.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincareantioxidantsoothing
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Exfoliant

Lactobionic Acid

Lactobionic Acid

4.5

A gentle, hydrating exfoliant that smooths skin without the sting of stronger acids.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareexfoliant
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Soothing Agent

Lactococcus Ferment Extract

Lactococcus Ferment Extract

4.0

A gentle, probiotic-derived ingredient that helps calm irritation and supports a healthy skin microbiome.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincaresoothing agent
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Exfoliant

Lactococcus Ferment Filtrate

LACTOCOCCUS/NONFAT MILK FERMENT FILTRATE

4.0

A gentle, probiotic-derived exfoliant that helps smooth skin texture and support a healthy skin barrier without harsh acids.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincareexfoliantsoothing
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Soothing Agent

Lactococcus Ferment Lysate

Lactococcus/Lac Ferment Lysate

4.0

A gentle, probiotic-based ingredient that may help calm irritation and support a healthy skin barrier, but research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincaresoothing agent
Read ingredient review

Antimicrobial

Lactoferricin

Lactoferricin

3.8

Lactoferricin is a milk-derived peptide that may help calm skin and reduce unwanted bacteria, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantimicrobial
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Antioxidant

Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin

4.0

Lactoferrin is a gentle, milk-derived protein that helps calm skin and fight environmental stress without irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Lactoflavin

Lactoflavin

4.0

Lactoflavin (vitamin B2) is a gentle antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental stress and supports a healthy complexion.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Humectant

Lactoglobulin

Lactoglobulin

3.8

A gentle milk protein that helps hydrate and temporarily smooth the skin, but may not suit those with dairy sensitivities.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Antimicrobial

Lactoperoxidase

Lactoperoxidase

4.0

Lactoperoxidase is a gentle, milk-derived enzyme used as a natural preservative to help keep skincare products fresh without harsh chemicals.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarepreservative
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Fragrance Ingredient

Lactoscatone

Lactoscatone

3.5

Lactoscatone is a synthetic scent ingredient that adds a creamy note to products, but it has limited published safety data and is primarily used for fragrance.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarefragrance
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Lactose

LACTOSE

3.8

Lactose is a gentle milk-derived sugar that hydrates and lightly exfoliates, making it a good option for sensitive or dry skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Film Former

Lactoyl Methylsilanol Elastinate

LACTOYL METHYLSILANOL ELASTINATE

4.0

A silicone-modified elastin derivative that may temporarily improve skin firmness and hydration, but long-term anti-aging benefits are not well proven.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareanti-aging
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Skin-identical ingredient

Lactoyl Phytosphingosine

Lactoyl Phytosphingosine

4.2

A gentle, skin-identical lipid that strengthens the moisture barrier and calms irritation without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemollient
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Humectant

Lactulose

Lactulose

3.8

Lactulose is a gentle sugar-derived humectant that also acts as a prebiotic, helping to support a balanced skin microbiome without irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincarehumectant
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Antioxidant

Lady Palm Leaf Extract

Rhapis Flabelliformis Leaf Extract

3.8

A gentle plant 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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Antioxidant

Lady Slipper Orchid Extract

Paphiopedilum Maudiae Flower Extract

3.5

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Lady's Mantle Extract

Alchemilla Vulgaris Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Astringent

Lady's Mantle Leaf Extract

Alchemilla Vulgaris Leaf Extract

3.8

A gentle botanical extract that may help tighten pores and calm skin, but most benefits come from traditional use rather than strong clinical studies.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
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Fragrance Ingredient

Laevo-Carvyl Acetate

LAEVO-CARVYL ACETATE

3.5

Laevo-Carvyl Acetate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that provides a fresh, minty scent, but offers no direct skincare benefits and may be a concern for those with fragrance sensitivities.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarefragrance
Read ingredient review

Fragrance

Laevo-Rose Oxide

Laevo-Rose Oxide

3.8

Laevo-rose oxide adds a delicate rose scent to products and may offer mild antioxidant benefits, but its main role is fragrance.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarefragrance
Read ingredient review

Skin conditioning

Lake Whitefish Extract

COREGONUS CLUPEAFORMIS EXTRACT

3.5

A novel marine-derived extract that may help hydrate and condition skin, but research is limited and it's not a proven powerhouse.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareconditioning agent
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Laminaria Cloustoni Extract

Laminaria Cloustoni Extract

4.0

A gentle, mineral-rich seaweed extract that helps hydrate and calm the skin without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Laminaria Hyperborea Extract

Laminaria Hyperborea Extract

4.0

A nutrient-rich seaweed extract that hydrates, soothes, and protects the skin with antioxidants, ideal for dry or sensitive skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Laminaria Japonica Powder

Laminaria Japonica Powder

4.0

A gentle seaweed powder that helps hydrate and calm the skin while providing antioxidant protection.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
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Humectant

Laminaria Longissima Extract

Laminaria Longissima Extract

4.0

A gentle, mineral-rich seaweed extract that hydrates and soothes the skin, ideal for sensitive or dry types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Laminaria Ochotensis Extract

Laminaria Ochotensis Extract

4.0

A gentle seaweed extract that hydrates and soothes skin, but its benefits are mostly backed by traditional use and limited clinical studies.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract

Laminaria Ochroleuca Extract

4.0

A gentle, mineral-rich seaweed extract that hydrates and soothes skin, ideal for sensitive or dry types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
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Humectant

Laminaria Saccharina Extract

Laminaria Saccharina Extract

4.0

A gentle, nutrient-rich seaweed extract that hydrates and soothes the skin, with antioxidant benefits to help protect against environmental stress.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
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Abrasive

Laminated Polyethylene Powder

POLYETHYLENE/POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE LAMINATED POWDER

3.0

A synthetic laminated powder that provides gentle exfoliation but raises environmental concerns due to microplastic content.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyskincaretexturizer
Read ingredient review

Texture Enhancer

Laminated Polymer Powder

Polymethyl Methacrylate/Polypentaerythrityl Terephthalate/Stearate/Palmitate Laminated Powder

4.0

A high-tech synthetic powder that gives makeup a silky feel and helps blur fine lines without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarecosmetic ingredient
Read ingredient review

Texture Enhancer

Laminated Powder

POLYETHYLENE/POLYPENTAERYTHRITYL TEREPHTHALATE LAMINATED POWDER

3.5

A synthetic laminated powder that gives makeup a silky feel and helps it stay put, but offers no skincare benefit.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarecosmetic
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Lanceleaf Plantain Meristem Cell

PLANTAGO LANCEOLATA MERISTEM CELL

3.8

A gentle, plant-derived ingredient that may help protect skin from environmental stress and support a calmer complexion, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Emulsifier

Laneth-10

LANETH-10

3.5

Laneth-10 is a gentle emulsifier that helps blend water and oil, but may be comedogenic for acne-prone skin.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemulsifier
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Emollient

Laneth-10 Acetate

LANETH-10 ACETATE

3.5

A gentle, lanolin-derived emollient that softens skin without heavy greasiness, but may not suit those with lanolin allergies.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemollient
Read ingredient review

Emulsifier

Laneth-15

LANETH-15

3.5

Laneth-15 is a gentle emulsifier derived from lanolin, but it may be comedogenic for acne-prone skin and is not suitable for those with lanolin allergies.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemulsifier
Read ingredient review

Emulsifier

Laneth-16

Laneth-16

3.8

Laneth-16 helps blend oil and water in products, but may be slightly pore-clogging for acne-prone skin.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemulsifier
Read ingredient review

Emulsifier

Laneth-20

Laneth-20

3.8

Laneth-20 is a gentle, water-friendly emulsifier derived from lanolin, ideal for blending oils and water in creams and cleansers, but those with lanolin allergies should avoid it.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemulsifier
Read ingredient review

Emulsifier

Laneth-25

Laneth-25

3.8

Laneth-25 is a gentle, water-soluble lanolin derivative that helps blend oil and water in formulas, but may not suit those with lanolin allergies.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemulsifier
Read ingredient review

Surfactant

Laneth-4 Phosphate

Laneth-4 Phosphate

3.5

Laneth-4 Phosphate is a synthetic emulsifier that helps mix oil and water, but it may cause irritation for sensitive skin types.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyskincaresurfactant
Read ingredient review

Emulsifier

Laneth-40

LANETH-40

3.8

Laneth-40 is a gentle, water-friendly emulsifier derived from lanolin that helps blend oils and water in creams and cleansers, but may not suit those with lanolin allergies.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemulsifier
Read ingredient review

Emollient

Laneth-5

LANETH-5

4.0

Laneth-5 is a gentle, lanolin-derived ingredient that helps soften skin and stabilize formulas, but those with wool allergies should patch-test first.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemollientsurfactant
Read ingredient review

Emulsifier

Laneth-50

Laneth-50

3.5

Laneth-50 is a gentle emulsifier that helps blend oil and water in creams and lotions, but it may not suit those with lanolin allergies.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemulsifier
Read ingredient review

Emulsifier

Laneth-60

LANETH-60

3.8

A gentle emulsifier derived from lanolin that helps blend oil and water in formulas, but may not suit those avoiding ethoxylated ingredients.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemulsifier
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Emollient

Laneth-75

Laneth-75

4.0

A gentle, water-soluble lanolin derivative that moisturizes without the heavy, greasy feel of traditional lanolin.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemollient
Read ingredient review

Emulsifier

Laneth-9 Acetate

LANETH-9 ACETATE

3.8

A gentle, lanolin-derived emulsifier that helps blend water and oil in creams and lotions, with a low risk of irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemulsifier
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Lannea Coromandelica Bark Extract

LANNEA COROMANDELICA BARK 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

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Emollient

Lanolin

LANOLIN

4.0

Lanolin is a time-tested moisturizer that mimics skin's natural oils, but it can be comedogenic for some and is not suitable for those with wool allergies.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareemollient
Read ingredient review

Emollient

Lanolin Linoleate

LANOLIN LINOLEATE

4.0

A gentle, lanolin-based emollient that helps soften and condition skin without the heavy feel of pure lanolin.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemollient
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Emollient

Lanolin Oil Ethoxylate

PPG-40-PEG-60 Lanolin Oil

3.8

A gentle, modified lanolin oil that moisturizes and helps blend water and oil in formulas, but may not suit those with wool allergies.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareemollientemulsifier
Read ingredient review