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

Hydrolyzed Proanthocyanidin

Hydrolyzed Proanthocyanidin

4.0

A potent antioxidant that helps protect skin from free radicals and may support collagen health, but more human studies are needed to confirm anti-aging claims.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Film Former

Hydrolyzed Prune Seedcake/MDI Copolymer

HYDROLYZED PRUNE SEEDCAKE/MDI COPOLYMER

3.8

A novel film-forming ingredient that combines plant-derived prune seedcake with a synthetic polymer to improve water resistance and texture in skincare products.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincarefilm-former
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Prunus Domestica

Hydrolyzed Prunus Domestica

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich plum extract that helps hydrate and condition the skin, but research on its specific benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Quinoa

Hydrolyzed Quinoa

4.0

Hydrolyzed Quinoa is a gentle, plant-based protein that helps hydrate and reinforce the skin barrier without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantconditioning agent
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Quinoa Bran Extract

Hydrolyzed Chenopodium Quinoa Bran Extract

4.0

A gentle, plant-based humectant that helps attract moisture to the skin and leaves a smooth, non-greasy feel.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Quinoa Seed

Hydrolyzed Chenopodium Quinoa Seed

4.0

A gentle, plant-based protein that helps hydrate and temporarily smooth the skin's surface without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Skin conditioning

Hydrolyzed Rapeseed Extract

Hydrolyzed Brassica Napus Seedcake Extract

4.0

A gentle, plant-based skin conditioner that may help soothe and soften skin with minimal irritation risk.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareconditioning agent
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Raspberry Fruit

Hydrolyzed Raspberry Fruit

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Red Algae

Hydrolyzed Porphyra Yezoensis

4.0

A gentle, hydrating ingredient from red algae that helps skin retain moisture and feel soothed.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Red Blood Cells

HYDROLYZED RED BLOOD CELLS

3.5

A novel protein ingredient that may help hydrate and soothe skin, but research is limited and it may not suit those avoiding animal-derived ingredients.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Firming Agent

Hydrolyzed Reticulin

Hydrolyzed Reticulin

3.8

A protein ingredient that may help support skin structure, but research is limited and benefits are not well-proven in humans.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareanti-aging
Read ingredient review

Film Former

Hydrolyzed Rhizobian Gum

Hydrolyzed Rhizobian Gum

4.0

A gentle, biotech-derived film former that helps lock in moisture and soothe the skin without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincarefilm former
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Rhubarb Root Extract

HYDROLYZED RHEUM OFFICINALE ROOT EXTRACT

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Extract

Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidantsoothing
Read ingredient review

Hair Conditioner

Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Protein

Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hydrolyzed Rice Bran Protein

4.0

A gentle, protein-based conditioner from rice bran that adds softness and manageability to hair and a smooth feel to skin.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehaircare
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Rice Extract

Hydrolyzed Rice Extract

4.2

A gentle, plant-derived humectant that hydrates and supports the skin barrier without irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Rice Ferment Filtrate

Lachancea/Hydrolyzed Rice Ferment Filtrate

4.0

A gentle, fermented rice ingredient that hydrates and supports skin barrier health without irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

biotech

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Rice Leaf Extract

Hydrolyzed Rice Leaf Extract

4.0

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Film Former

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein Siloxysilicate

HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM HYDROLYZED RICE PROTEIN/SILOXYSILICATE

4.0

A gentle, dual-action ingredient that deposits a protective film on hair and skin, offering conditioning and shine without heavy buildup.

Irritation

low

Source

semi-synthetic

beautyskincarehaircare
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Rocket Leaf

HYDROLYZED ERUCA SATIVA LEAF

3.8

A gentle, antioxidant-rich plant extract that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Roe Extract

Hydrolyzed Roe Extract

3.8

Hydrolyzed Roe Extract is a protein-rich ingredient that helps hydrate and condition the skin, but its benefits are mostly anecdotal and backed by limited clinical research.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Royal Jelly Extract

HYDROLYZED ROYAL JELLY EXTRACT

3.8

A gentle, protein-derived ingredient that may help hydrate and soothe skin, but research on its benefits is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Skin conditioning agent

Hydrolyzed Royal Jelly Protein

Hydrolyzed Royal Jelly Protein

3.8

A gentle, protein-rich ingredient that helps hydrate and condition skin, but its anti-aging benefits are not as dramatic as marketing suggests.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareconditioning agent
Read ingredient review

Skin conditioning

Hydrolyzed Rye Phytoplacenta Extract

Hydrolyzed Rye Phytoplacenta Extract

3.8

A gentle, plant-based alternative to animal-derived placental extracts, offering antioxidant and skin-conditioning benefits with limited but promising research.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareanti-aging
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Salmon Ovary Extract

HYDROLYZED SALMON OVARY EXTRACT

3.8

A marine-derived peptide ingredient that may help hydrate and support skin firmness, but human research is still limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Sea Fennel

Hydrolyzed Crithmum Maritimum

4.0

A gentle, hydrating marine ingredient that may help support skin barrier function, though human studies are limited.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Skin conditioning

Hydrolyzed Sea Hare Extract

HYDROLYZED KURODA'S SEA HARE EXTRACT

3.5

An exotic marine extract with potential skin conditioning benefits, but very limited research and a high novelty factor.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareconditioning agent
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Sea Lettuce Extract

Hydrolyzed Ulva Lactuca Extract

4.0

A gentle, hydrating algae extract that helps skin retain moisture and may calm irritation, but research is still early.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Sericin

Hydrolyzed Sericin

4.0

Hydrolyzed Sericin is a gentle silk protein that helps skin and hair retain moisture and feel smooth, with a low risk of irritation.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehaircare
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Sesame Extract

Hydrolyzed Sesame Extract

4.0

A gentle, water-soluble sesame derivative that helps hydrate and soothe skin, suitable for most skin types.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectant
Read ingredient review

Hair Conditioning Agent

Hydrolyzed Sesame Protein

Hydrolyzed Sesame Protein

4.0

A gentle, plant-based protein that strengthens hair and lightly hydrates skin without common irritation or clogging.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehaircareconditioning agent
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Sesame Seed Extract

Hydrolyzed Sesame Seed Extract

4.0

A gentle, water-soluble extract from sesame seeds that helps hydrate and protect the skin with antioxidant benefits.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Shea Seedcake Extract

Hydrolyzed Shea Seedcake Extract

4.0

A gentle, protein-rich extract from shea butter production that helps hydrate and condition skin without clogging pores.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantconditioning agent
Read ingredient review

Antioxidant

Hydrolyzed Sichuan Pepper Extract

Hydrolyzed Zanthoxylum Piperitum Seed Extract

3.8

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

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincareantioxidant
Read ingredient review

Humectant

Hydrolyzed Silk

Hydrolyzed Silk

4.0

Hydrolyzed silk is a gentle protein that helps skin feel soft and smooth, but its benefits are mostly surface-level and temporary.

Irritation

low

Source

natural

beautyskincarehumectantfilm-forming
Read ingredient review

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
Read ingredient review

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
Read ingredient review

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
Read ingredient review

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
Read ingredient review

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
Read ingredient review

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
Read ingredient review