Beauty ingredients explained in plain English

Phenylthioglycolic acid is a synthetic depilatory ingredient that breaks down hair keratin, but it can be irritating and is not intended for leave-on skincare.

A light-activated chlorophyll derivative that may boost collagen and reduce pigmentation, but requires professional handling due to potential irritation.

A gentle plant-root extract with early research suggesting antioxidant and soothing benefits, but human studies are limited.

A gentle apple-derived antioxidant that helps even skin tone and defends against pollution and UV stress.

A gentle apple-derived antioxidant that helps even skin tone and fights early signs of aging without irritation.

A gentle, plant-derived antioxidant that may help brighten skin and reduce the look of dark spots without irritation.

Phloroglucinol Trimethyl Ether is a synthetic antioxidant that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research on its specific benefits in cosmetics is still limited.

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

A gentle, plant-based extract that may help calm skin and fight environmental stress, though research is still early.

A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research is still early and benefits are not yet proven in human skin.

A fragrant wood oil with mild antimicrobial potential, best suited for those who enjoy botanical scents and have resilient skin.

A gentle, hydrating mushroom extract that helps skin hold moisture and feel smooth, but research is still early.

Phonolite is a natural volcanic mineral powder that gently exfoliates and absorbs excess oil without harsh chemicals.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich ferment from blue-green algae that may help calm skin and defend against environmental stress.

A gentle, biotech-derived microalgae ferment that may help calm skin and fight oxidative stress, though research is still emerging.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich microalgae extract that may help calm skin and fight environmental stress, though research is still early.

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

A gentle, antioxidant-rich flower extract that may help soothe and protect skin, though research is still emerging.

A gentle, plant-based extract that may help calm irritation and provide antioxidant protection, though human studies are limited.

A gentle, hydrating plant juice that adds moisture and soothing benefits, but research on its efficacy is still limited.

A gentle, natural exfoliant from New Zealand flax that helps polish skin without harsh microbeads.

A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, best for soothing sensitive or irritated skin, though research is still emerging.

A gentle, plant-based emollient with antioxidant potential, but research on its specific benefits is still limited.

A gentle, plant-derived antioxidant extract that may help calm and protect skin, though research is still early.

A gentle, plant-based oil that helps soften and smooth skin without feeling heavy, though research on its specific benefits is still limited.

A gentle pH buffer and saline base that helps keep other ingredients stable and comfortable on skin.

A gentle, naturally derived phospholipid that helps reinforce the skin barrier and improve moisture retention.

A skin-friendly phospholipid that hydrates and helps other ingredients penetrate more effectively.

A gentle, skin-identical phospholipid that supports barrier function and hydration without irritation.

A gentle, skin-identical lipid that supports barrier function and hydration without clogging pores.

Phosphatidylserine is a gentle, skin-identical lipid that helps strengthen the moisture barrier and soothe dryness, but its anti-aging benefits are still being studied.

A gentle chelating agent that helps your products stay fresh and effective by neutralizing problematic metal ions.

Phosphoric acid is a pH adjuster that helps keep products stable and effective, but it can be irritating at high concentrations.

An experimental, cholesterol-linked RNA ingredient with potential for targeted skin delivery, but lacks broad safety and efficacy data for cosmetic use.

Phosphorus pentoxide is a strong chemical used in tiny amounts to adjust pH, but it is not a direct skincare active and can be irritating if not properly diluted.

A gentle, biomimetic polymer that forms a protective film to lock in moisture and improve skin feel without irritation.

A gentle, biomimetic film-former that helps lock in moisture and improve skin feel without clogging pores.

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

A safe, synthetic film former that helps products stay put without clogging pores or irritating skin.

Phthalates are controversial synthetic chemicals linked to endocrine disruption; most are banned or restricted in cosmetics in many regions, but consumers should still check labels for hidden sources.

A synthetic film-former that helps makeup and hair products last longer, but offers no skincare benefit and may feel heavy on some skin types.

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

A synthetic polymer that helps products stay put, but offers no active skincare benefit.

A synthetic peroxide exfoliant that gently dissolves dead skin cells and helps fade dark spots, but may cause irritation in sensitive skin.

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

A gentle, antioxidant-rich plant extract that may help calm and protect skin, though research is still early.

Physalis Fruit Extract is a gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical that may help protect skin from environmental stress and calm minor irritation, though research is still emerging.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich fruit extract that helps protect skin from environmental stress while providing mild soothing benefits.

A gentle, plant-based extract from moss that may help calm skin and provide antioxidant protection, but research is still early.

Phytantriol is a gentle, plant-derived humectant that helps hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier, making it a solid choice for most skin types.

A mild, plant-derived exfoliant that brightens skin and boosts the effectiveness of other ingredients without the irritation of stronger acids.

Phytin is a gentle, plant-derived ingredient that helps stabilize formulas and boost antioxidant protection without irritating skin.

Phytoglobin is a plant-based protein that may help boost skin oxygenation and radiance, but research is still emerging and it's not a proven substitute for clinical treatments.

Phytol is a gentle antioxidant from chlorophyll that may help calm skin and fight signs of aging, but research is still early.

A skin-friendly lipid that strengthens the barrier and helps calm redness without clogging pores.

A gentle, ceramide-like ingredient that strengthens the skin barrier and soothes sensitivity.

A gentle, dual-action ingredient that pairs barrier-strengthening lipids with stable vitamin C for antioxidant and brightening benefits.

A gentle, skin-identical lipid that helps strengthen the moisture barrier and calm sensitivity without clogging pores.

A skin-friendly lipid that strengthens the moisture barrier and calms sensitivity without clogging pores.

A skin-friendly lipid that strengthens the moisture barrier and soothes sensitivity without clogging pores.