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 20,769
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

Gymnanthemum Leaf Extract

Gymnanthemum amygdalinum leaf extract

3.5

A gentle plant extract with antioxidant potential, but research is still emerging—great for soothing formulas but not a powerhouse ingredient on its own.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Gymnema Extract

Gymnema Sylvestre Extract

3.5

Gymnema extract is a gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, but its skincare benefits are still being explored.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Gymnema Sylvestre Leaf Powder

Gymnema Sylvestre Leaf Powder

3.8

A gentle botanical powder with antioxidant potential, but research in skincare is limited and it may not be a standout ingredient.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Antioxidant

Haberlea Rhodopensis Callus Extract

HABERLEA RHODOPENSIS CALLUS EXTRACT

4.0

A promising antioxidant extract from a 'resurrection plant' that may help protect skin from environmental stress, though human studies are still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincareantioxidant
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Humectant

Hagfish Mucus Extract

Inshore Hagfish Skin Mucus Extract

3.5

Hagfish mucus extract is an experimental marine ingredient with promising hydrating and film-forming abilities, but it's very new to cosmetics and lacks broad safety and efficacy data.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantfilm-former
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Skin conditioning

Hagfish Polypeptide-1

SR-Hagfish Polypeptide-1

3.5

A novel biotech peptide that may help firm skin, but research is very limited and it's not a proven anti-aging powerhouse.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincarepeptide
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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

beautyskincareantioxidant
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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
Read ingredient review

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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Hair Colorant

HC Blue No. 11

HC Blue No. 11

3.0

HC Blue No. 11 is a synthetic hair dye that can provide vibrant blue color, but it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyhair carecolorant
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Colorant

HC Blue No. 12

HC Blue No. 12

3.0

HC Blue No. 12 is a synthetic blue dye for hair color that is generally considered safe in small amounts but may cause irritation for sensitive scalps.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyhair colorsynthetic dye
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Colorant

HC Blue No. 13

HC Blue No. 13

3.5

HC Blue No. 13 is a synthetic blue dye for hair color, generally considered safe in rinse-off products but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyhair colorsynthetic dye
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Hair colorant

HC Blue No. 14

HC Blue No. 14

3.5

HC Blue No. 14 is a synthetic hair dye that adds blue tones but may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyhair colorsynthetic dye
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Colorant

HC Blue No. 15

HC Blue No. 15

3.5

HC Blue No. 15 is a synthetic hair dye that can deliver vibrant blue shades but may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyhaircarecolorant
Read ingredient review

Colorant

HC Blue No. 16

HC Blue No. 16

3.5

A synthetic blue dye for hair color that is generally safe for most people but may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyhair colorsynthetic dye
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Colorant

HC Blue No. 17

HC Blue No. 17

3.5

HC Blue No. 17 is a synthetic hair dye that delivers blue tones but may cause irritation for sensitive scalps.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyhair colorsynthetic dye
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Colorant

HC Blue No. 18

HC Blue No. 18

3.5

HC Blue No. 18 is a synthetic hair dye that adds blue tones to semi-permanent formulas; it is generally considered safe for external use but may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Irritation

low

Source

synthetic

beautyhair carecolorant
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Hair Colorant

HC Blue No. 2

HC Blue No. 2

3.5

HC Blue No. 2 is a synthetic hair dye that delivers blue color but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyhair carecolorant
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Hair colorant

HC Orange No. 1

HC Orange No. 1

2.8

HC Orange No. 1 is a synthetic dye for orange hair color, but it may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals and has limited safety data for long-term use.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyhair colorsynthetic dye
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Hair Colorant

HC Orange No. 2

HC Orange No. 2

3.5

HC Orange No. 2 is a synthetic dye that adds orange shades to hair color, but it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals and has limited long-term safety data.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyhaircarecolorant
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Hair colorant

HC Orange No. 5

HC Orange No. 5

3.5

HC Orange No. 5 is a synthetic dye that adds orange tones to hair color, but it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals and has limited safety data for long-term use.

Irritation

moderate

Source

synthetic

beautyhair colorsynthetic dye
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