Beauty ingredients explained in plain English

A gentle film-forming ingredient that helps hair feel smoother and skin look more refined, but may not suit those avoiding wheat-derived components.

A gentle conditioning polymer that helps hair feel smooth and look shiny without heavy buildup.

A gentle conditioning ingredient that smooths hair and skin without heavy buildup, but may not suit those avoiding silicones or wheat-derived ingredients.

A mild, protein-based cleanser that helps clean skin and hair while leaving them feeling soft and conditioned.

A gentle conditioning ingredient that helps hair feel smoother and skin softer without heavy buildup.

A gentle conditioning polymer that adds slip and shine to hair and skin without heavy buildup.

A gentle film-forming ingredient that helps smooth hair and skin while providing light hold and environmental protection.

A gentle plant-derived ingredient that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, though research is still emerging.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract that helps calm skin and defend against environmental stress, though research on its hydrolyzed form is still emerging.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract that may help calm irritated skin, but research on its cosmetic benefits is still limited.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract that helps calm skin and fight free radicals, but is not a substitute for medical treatment.

A gentle protein derived from wool that helps strengthen hair and temporarily smooth the skin's surface, but may not be suitable for those with wool allergies.

A gentle, hydrating ingredient that helps skin hold onto moisture without feeling heavy or sticky.

Hydrolyzed Yeast Extract is a gentle, multi-tasking ingredient that hydrates and supports skin barrier health, making it a good fit for most skin types.

A gentle, milk-derived protein that helps hydrate and temporarily support the skin barrier, best for normal to dry skin types.

Hydroquinone is a potent skin lightener for stubborn dark spots, but it requires careful use due to irritation and safety concerns.

A synthetic antioxidant that helps stabilize formulas and protect skin from environmental stress, but research on direct skin benefits is still emerging.

A synthetic UV filter that helps protect skin from sun damage, but with limited independent safety data compared to more common filters.

A gentle, multifunctional ingredient that helps protect your skin from environmental stress and allows brands to use fewer harsh preservatives.

A next-generation retinoid that aims to reduce fine lines and wrinkles with a gentler touch than traditional retinol.

A synthetic blue-violet dye for hair color, generally safe for most people but can cause irritation in sensitive scalps.

A gentle mineral abrasive that helps polish skin and teeth without harshness, but its role in anti-aging is still emerging.

Hydroxybenzaldehyde is a natural aromatic compound used for scent and mild antioxidant benefits, but it can be a skin sensitizer for some people.

A synthetic antioxidant that may help defend skin against pollution and UV damage, but research is still early.

A gentle preservative helper that extends product shelf life without the harshness of traditional preservatives.

Hydroxybutyl Methacrylate is a synthetic polymer used mainly in nail products to create a durable, glossy film, but it may cause skin sensitivity in some individuals.

A gentle, plant-derived thickener that improves product texture and stability without irritating skin.

A gentle, biodegradable film-former that helps products feel smooth and stay put without clogging pores.

A mild AHA that exfoliates and hydrates without the sting of stronger acids, ideal for sensitive skin.

A synthetic ceramide mimic that strengthens the skin barrier and locks in moisture without irritation.

A mild AHA that exfoliates without the sting, ideal for sensitive skin looking for gentle surface renewal.

A gentle, skin-identical ingredient that strengthens the moisture barrier and calms sensitivity.

A gentle synthetic emulsifier that helps oil and water mix, making creams and lotions smooth and stable.

A gentle synthetic conditioning ingredient that helps detangle and soften hair without heavy buildup.

A gentle synthetic ingredient that helps skin feel soft and hydrated by reducing water loss.

Hydroxycetyl Isostearate is a gentle, non-greasy emollient that helps soften and smooth the skin without clogging pores.

Hydroxycetyl Phosphate is a gentle synthetic emulsifier that helps create stable, smooth formulas without significant irritation or clogging concerns.

A gentle plant-derived antioxidant that helps shield skin from pollution and UV damage, but is less studied than vitamin C or E.

A lab-made peptide that may help improve skin firmness and smooth fine lines, but human studies are still limited.

Hydroxycitronellal is a common synthetic fragrance that gives a floral scent, but it can be a skin sensitizer for some people, especially those with sensitive or allergy-prone skin.

A synthetic floral scent ingredient that is generally safe at low levels but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

A synthetic floral scent ingredient that is generally safe but can be a skin sensitizer for some people.

A synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a floral, jasmine-like scent but may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

A synthetic fragrance blend that adds floral and animalic notes but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

A gentle synthetic antioxidant that may help protect skin from environmental damage, but research is still limited.

A synthetic fragrance ingredient that provides a sweet, floral scent; generally considered safe at low concentrations but may cause sensitivity in some individuals.

A gentle antioxidant from soy that may help calm skin and support a more even tone, but research is still early.

A gentle, sugar-derived humectant that hydrates and soothes, ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.

A gentle, oil-friendly form of CoQ10 that helps protect skin from environmental stress and supports a more youthful appearance.

A gentle, stabilized form of coenzyme Q10 that helps protect skin from oxidative stress and supports a more youthful appearance.

A common floral fragrance ingredient that can cause skin irritation or allergies in sensitive individuals.

A synthetic blue dye for semi-permanent hair color that is generally safe but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

A modern humectant that hydrates without stickiness, ideal for lightweight formulas and sensitive skin.

A gentle silicone derivative that smooths hair and skin without heavy buildup, but may not suit those avoiding all silicones.

A safe synthetic polymer that helps products spread smoothly and stay put without clogging pores.

A safe, synthetic thickener that gives lightweight gels and creams a smooth, non-sticky feel.

A gentle conditioning ingredient that helps detangle hair and reduce static without heavy buildup.

A gentle, coconut-derived surfactant that helps create a rich lather without stripping the skin.

A gentle conditioning ingredient that helps reduce frizz and static in hair while adding softness, with a low risk of irritation.

A synthetic conditioning ingredient that reduces frizz and improves manageability, but may cause buildup with frequent use.