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

Absorbent

Thiosulfate Silica Complex

SODIUM PROPOXYHYDROXYPROPYL THIOSULFATE SILICA

3.5

A hybrid ingredient that combines silica's oil-absorbing power with thiosulfate's antioxidant potential, but research on its cosmetic benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincarehaircare
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Antioxidant

Thiotaurine

THIOTAURINE

3.8

Thiotaurine is a gentle antioxidant that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Thioxanthine

Thioxanthine

3.5

Thioxanthine is a synthetic antioxidant that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research is limited and it's not a well-established ingredient.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Skin brightening agent

THPE Dioxothiomorpholinomethyl Phenylindole

TETRAHYDROPYRANYLMETHYLAMINO DIOXOTHIOMORPHOLINOMETHYL PHENYLINDOLE

3.5

A novel synthetic ingredient with limited public research; early data suggests it may help even skin tone, but its safety and efficacy are not yet well-established.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarebrightening
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Humectant

Threitol

THREITOL

3.8

Threitol is a gentle, lesser-known humectant that helps hydrate skin without stickiness, but research on its cosmetic benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Soothing agent

Threoninamido Ornithine

THREONINAMIDO ORNITHINE

4.0

A gentle amino-acid derivative that may help reduce visible skin reactivity and support a more even tone, though human data is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincaresoothing agent
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Threonine

THREONINE

4.0

Threonine is a gentle, hydrating amino acid that supports the skin's natural moisture barrier and is well-tolerated by most skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
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Soothing agent

Thuja Bark Extract

Thuja Occidentalis Bark Extract

3.5

Thuja Bark Extract may offer soothing and antimicrobial benefits, but its use in skincare is still emerging and requires caution due to potential skin irritation.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
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Antioxidant

Thuja Koraiensis Extract

Thuja Koraiensis Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Fragrance

Thuja Leaf Oil

Thuja Occidentalis Leaf Oil

3.5

Thuja Leaf Oil offers antimicrobial benefits but can be irritating for sensitive skin; use with caution.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincareessential oil
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Antimicrobial

Thuja Leaf/Stem Extract

Thuja Occidentalis Leaf/Stem Extract

3.8

A traditional botanical extract with some antimicrobial promise, but limited modern research and a moderate risk of skin irritation for sensitive individuals.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
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Antioxidant

Thuja Orientalis Powder

Thuja Orientalis Branch/Leaf Powder

3.5

A gentle botanical powder with antioxidant potential, but research in cosmetics is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical
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Antioxidant

Thuja Plicata Leaf Extract

THUJA PLICATA LEAF EXTRACT

3.5

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Thuja Plicata Stem Extract

THUJA PLICATA STEM 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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Soothing Agent

Thuja Plicata Wood Water

THUJA PLICATA WOOD WATER

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical water that may help soothe skin, but research is limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Thuja Root Extract

Thuja Occidentalis Root Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
Read ingredient review

Astringent

Thuja Stem Extract

Thuja Occidentalis Stem Extract

3.5

A plant extract with traditional astringent uses, but limited modern research on its effectiveness and safety in skincare.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
Read ingredient review

Fragrance

Thuja Stem Oil

Thuja Occidentalis Stem Oil

3.5

A potent essential oil with antimicrobial potential, but its strong nature and limited skincare research mean it's best used cautiously in low concentrations.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincareessential oil
Read ingredient review

Fragrance

Thujanol

4-THUJANOL

3.5

Thujanol is a fragrant plant compound that can add a fresh, woody scent to products but may cause irritation for sensitive skin.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincarefragrance
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Antioxidant

Thujic Acid

Thujic Acid

3.5

Thujic acid is a plant-derived compound with early evidence of antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits, but it is not well-studied in human skincare and is rarely used as a standalone active.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Vasodilator

Thurfyl Nicotinate

Thurfyl Nicotinate

3.5

Thurfyl Nicotinate creates a temporary flush and warmth by widening blood vessels, but it is not a long-term solution for skin concerns and may irritate sensitive skin.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarevasodilator
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Vasodilator

Thurfyl Nicotinate HCl

THURFYLNICOTINATE HCL

2.5

Thurfyl nicotinate HCl creates a temporary warming sensation by dilating blood vessels, but its cosmetic benefits are short-lived and may cause irritation in sensitive skin.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarevasodilator
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Antioxidant

Thyme Extract

Thymus Vulgaris Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract

4.0

Thyme extract is a gentle botanical antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental stress and may support a balanced skin microbiome.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Thyme Flower/Leaf Extract

THYMUS VULGARIS FLOWER/LEAF EXTRACT

4.0

Thyme extract is a gentle botanical antioxidant that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but its fragrance can be a concern for sensitive skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Fragrance

Thyme Flower/Leaf/Stem Water

Thymus Vulgaris Flower/Leaf/Stem Water

4.0

Thyme water is a mild, fragrant botanical water that can add a subtle antimicrobial boost and a pleasant herbal scent to skincare, but it is not a potent active ingredient on its own.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Thyme Leaf & Stem Powder

Thymus Vulgaris Leaf/Stem Powder

3.8

Thyme powder brings antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits to skincare, but its gritty texture limits it mostly to rinse-off products.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical
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Antioxidant

Thyme Leaf Extract

Thymus Serpyllum Leaf Extract

4.0

Thyme Leaf Extract is a gentle antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental stress while offering mild soothing benefits.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Soothing agent

Thyme Leaf Water

THYMUS VULGARIS LEAF WATER

3.8

Thyme Leaf Water offers a mild, natural way to add light antimicrobial and soothing benefits to skincare, but its effects are subtle and best for those who enjoy botanical ingredients.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincaresoothing
Read ingredient review

Antimicrobial

Thyme Oil

THYMUS VULGARIS FLOWER/LEAF OIL

3.8

Thyme oil can help fight acne-causing bacteria and provide antioxidant protection, but it is potent and may irritate sensitive skin if used undiluted.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Thyme-Leaf Sandwort Extract

Arenaria Serpyllifolia Leaf Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Skin conditioning agent

Thymidine

Thymidine

4.0

Thymidine is a gentle, science-backed ingredient that helps support skin’s natural repair processes, making it a smart addition to anti-aging and recovery routines.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincareactive
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Skin conditioning agent

Thymine

Thymine

3.5

Thymine is a DNA base with emerging research in skin repair, but its cosmetic benefits are not yet well-established in human studies.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareconditioning agent
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Preservative

Thymol

THYMOL

3.8

Thymol is a natural antimicrobial from thyme oil that helps preserve products and fight acne-causing bacteria, but it can be irritating for sensitive skin at higher concentrations.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincarepreservative
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Fragrance

Thymol Acetate

THYMOL ACETATE

3.5

Thymol Acetate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient with mild antimicrobial properties, but it can be irritating for sensitive skin.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyskincarefragrance
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UV Absorber

Thymol Trimethoxycinnamate

THYMOL TRIMETHOXYCINNAMATE

3.5

A synthetic UV filter that helps shield skin from sun damage, but research on its long-term safety and efficacy is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincaresunscreen
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Antioxidant

Thymus Capitatus Herb Extract

THYMUS CAPITATUS HERB EXTRACT

4.0

A gentle herbal extract that helps protect skin from environmental stress and may support a balanced skin microbiome.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antimicrobial

Thymus Capitatus Herb Oil

THYMUS CAPITATUS HERB OIL

3.8

A potent botanical oil with antimicrobial benefits, best used in low concentrations and with caution for sensitive skin.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Thymus Linearis Leaf Extract

Thymus Linearis Leaf Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Thymus Praecox Extract

THYMUS PRAECOX EXTRACT

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Fragrance

Thymus Zygis Flower Oil

THYMUS ZYGIS FLOWER OIL

3.8

Thymus Zygis Flower Oil offers antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits, but its strong fragrance and potential for irritation mean it's best for those with resilient skin.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincareessential oil
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Antioxidant

Thymus Zygis Herb Extract

Thymus Zygis Herb Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Fragrance

Tiare Flower Extract

Gardenia tahitensis flower extract

4.0

Tiare flower extract adds a pleasant tropical scent and mild antioxidant benefits, but its skincare effects are not well-studied.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Soothing Agent

Tiarella Polyphylla Extract

Tiarella Polyphylla Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
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Antioxidant

Tibouchina Extract

Tibouchina Lepidota Bark/Flower/Leaf Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Soothing Agent

Tiger Lily Extract

Lilium Tigrinum Extract

3.8

Tiger lily extract is a gentle botanical ingredient that may help calm skin and provide antioxidant support, though research is still emerging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical
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Antioxidant

Tiger Lily Flower Extract

CALOCHORTUS TOLMIEI FLOWER EXTRACT

3.5

A gentle, plant-based extract that may help calm skin and fight free radicals, but research on its specific benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
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Soothing agent

Tiger Lily Root Extract

Lilium Tigrinum Root Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical extract
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Emollient

Tiger Nut Root Oil

CYPERUS ESCULENTUS ROOT OIL

4.0

Tiger nut root oil is a gentle, nutrient-rich emollient that hydrates and soothes skin without clogging pores, making it a good choice for sensitive and dry skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareemollient
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Exfoliant

Tiglic Acid

Tiglic Acid

3.5

Tiglic acid is a gentle exfoliating acid with antimicrobial potential, but research on its efficacy and safety in cosmetics is still limited.

Irritation

moderate

Source

natural

beautyskincareexfoliant
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Antioxidant

Tiliacora Triandra Extract

TILIACORA TRIANDRA LEAF/VINE EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle plant extract with antioxidant potential, but research on its cosmetic benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Tiliroside

Tiliroside

4.0

Tiliroside is a gentle plant antioxidant that may help calm redness and defend skin from daily pollution, though human studies are still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Timonacic

Timonacic

3.5

Timonacic is a synthetic antioxidant that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research on its cosmetic benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Timor Plum Extract

Pleiogynium timoriense fruit extract

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-packed fruit extract that may help protect skin from environmental stress, though research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Colorant

Tin

TIN

2.0

Tin is a safe, low-risk metallic pigment used in small amounts for color in cosmetics, but it offers no skincare benefits.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarecolorant
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Bulking Agent

Tin Oxide

TIN OXIDE

3.5

Tin oxide is a safe, inert mineral that helps give cosmetics a smooth texture and opaque finish, but it offers no active skincare benefits.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarecosmetic ingredient
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Antioxidant

Tinospora Cordifolia Extract

TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA ROOT/STEM EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle, plant-based antioxidant from Ayurveda that may help calm skin and fight environmental stress, though human studies are still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Tinospora Cordifolia Stem Powder

TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA STEM POWDER

3.8

A traditional Ayurvedic botanical that may offer antioxidant and soothing benefits, but clinical skincare evidence is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical
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Antioxidant

Tinospora Tuberculata Powder

TINOSPORA TUBERCULATA POWDER

3.5

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarebotanical
Read ingredient review