Beauty ingredients explained in plain English

A gentle conditioning polymer that helps detangle hair and reduce flyaways without heavy buildup.

A gentle, positively charged polymer that coats hair and skin to reduce frizz, add slip, and improve feel without heavy buildup.

A synthetic ingredient that helps condition skin and stabilize formulas, but research on its specific benefits is still limited.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich orchid extract that may help soothe and hydrate skin, but research is still early.

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

A gentle orchid extract that may help protect skin from environmental stress and add light hydration.

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

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

A gentle, plant-derived antioxidant extract with limited but promising research; best for soothing and protecting normal to dry skin.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract from an Australian native plant, promising for soothing and protecting skin, though research is still emerging.

A fermented mushroom and abalone extract that may offer antioxidant and soothing benefits, but research is limited.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich blend of mushroom and bee product that may help calm skin, but research is limited and allergy caution is needed.

A fermented mushroom-collagen blend that may support skin hydration and antioxidant defense, though human studies are limited.

A fermented mushroom extract that may help calm skin and fight oxidative stress, though human studies are limited.

A fermented mushroom-rice blend that may help soothe and protect skin, though research is still emerging.

A gentle botanical extract that helps calm skin and fight free radical damage, best for those with sensitive or stressed skin.

A gentle, phosphate-based surfactant that cleanses effectively while being kinder to sensitive skin than traditional sulfates.

A synthetic fragrance ester that adds a fruity, floral scent to products but offers no skincare benefits.

A synthetic fragrance ester that adds a floral, honey-like scent; generally safe at low concentrations but may cause sensitivity in some individuals.

Phenethyl acetate is a pleasant-smelling fragrance ingredient found naturally in many flowers and fruits, generally considered safe at the low levels used in cosmetics.

A gentle, rose-scented alcohol that adds fragrance and helps preserve formulas without the drying effects of denatured alcohol.

Phenethyl anthranilate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient with mild UV-absorbing properties, generally considered safe at low concentrations but may cause sensitivity in some individuals.

Phenethyl benzoate is a gentle synthetic ester that helps condition skin and carry fragrance, with a low risk of irritation.

Phenethyl Butyrate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a pleasant floral or fruity scent to products, but it offers no skincare benefits and may cause sensitivity in some individuals.

A gentle antioxidant from propolis that helps protect skin from environmental stress and may support a calmer, more even complexion.

Phenethyl Cinnamate is a gentle, naturally derived fragrance ingredient with some antioxidant potential, but its benefits in skincare are not yet well-established.

Phenethyl Crotonate is a gentle synthetic ingredient that may help control bacteria on skin, but research is limited and it's not a standalone acne solution.

Phenethyl Dimethicone is a lightweight silicone that smooths skin, reduces tackiness, and helps products glide on without clogging pores.

A lightweight silicone that gives a silky, non-greasy feel and helps other ingredients spread smoothly on skin.

Phenethyl Formate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a floral, rose-like scent to products; it is generally considered safe at low concentrations but offers no skincare benefits.

A plant-derived compound with promising antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits, but limited research in topical skincare and potential for skin irritation.

Phenethyl Isovalerate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a pleasant floral-honey note to products, with a low risk of irritation for most people.

Phenethyl methacrylate is a synthetic film-forming ingredient used mainly in nail products; it can be a skin sensitizer for some people.

A synthetic scent ingredient that adds a pleasant floral note but offers no skincare benefit and may be unnecessary for sensitive noses.

A synthetic compound with early research suggesting brightening and antioxidant benefits, but long-term safety data in cosmetics is limited.

Phenethyl Phenylacetate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a sweet, floral scent to products but offers no direct skincare benefits.

A synthetic ester that adds a mild floral scent and light emollient feel, generally considered safe at low concentrations.

Phenethyl Propionate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a sweet, floral scent to products, but it offers no skin benefits and may cause sensitivity in some individuals.

Phenethyl Salicylate is a gentle synthetic ingredient that adds a pleasant floral scent and offers mild UV protection, but it is not a primary sunscreen agent.

Phenethyl Tiglate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a floral, rosy scent to products, but offers no skincare benefits and may be a concern for those with fragrance sensitivities.

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

Phenolsulfonphthalein is a synthetic dye used in tiny amounts for color; it has no proven skincare benefits and is generally safe at low concentrations.

A synthetic film-former that helps products like nail polish and mascara dry into a smooth, durable layer.

A synthetic emulsifier that helps mix oil and water in products, generally considered safe at low concentrations.

Phenoxyacetaldehyde is a synthetic fragrance compound that adds a floral scent but may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Phenoxyacetic acid is a synthetic ingredient used to boost preservative systems and adjust pH, but it is less common than alternatives like phenoxyethanol.

Phenoxyethanol is a safe and effective preservative that keeps your products fresh and free from harmful bacteria.

Phenoxyethyl Caprylate is a gentle, synthetic emollient that helps products feel silky and spread easily, with a low risk of irritation or clogged pores.

Phenoxyethyl isobutyrate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient with low irritation potential, but it offers no skincare benefits beyond scent.

A synthetic film-former mainly used in nail products; generally safe but can be a mild irritant for sensitive skin.

A gentle humectant that pulls moisture into the skin and helps other ingredients work better, but it's not a star performer on its own.

A gentle synthetic emollient that helps soften skin and improve product texture without common irritation.

Phenoxyethylparaben is a paraben preservative that is rarely used today because of consumer concerns and regulatory restrictions in some regions.

Phenoxyisopropanol is a less common synthetic preservative that helps keep products fresh, but it has limited safety data compared to alternatives like phenoxyethanol.

A gentle preservative booster and humectant that helps keep formulas fresh and hydrated without common irritation.

Phenyl benzoate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds scent to products but may cause irritation in sensitive skin.

A gentle silicone that gives skin a smooth, velvety finish without clogging pores.

A gentle silicone that adds slip and shine without clogging pores, making it a good option for most skin and hair types.

A gentle silicone that adds shine and slip to products without feeling heavy or clogging pores.

Phenyl Methyl Pyrazolone is a synthetic colorant used in some cosmetics, but its safety data is limited and it may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.