Beauty ingredients explained in plain English

Sudachi Fruit Extract is a gentle, antioxidant-rich citrus extract that may help brighten skin and protect against environmental stressors, but research is still emerging.

Sugar kelp extract is a gentle, hydrating seaweed ingredient that helps skin retain moisture and may calm irritation.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich extract from sugar pine wood that may help protect skin from environmental stress, though research is still limited.

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

A gentle plant-derived exfoliant that helps smooth skin and improve radiance without harsh irritation.

A gentle, naturally-derived exfoliant and hydrator that helps smooth skin texture without harshness.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical extract that helps calm skin and fight environmental stress, but research is still emerging.

A mushroom ferment that may help calm skin and fight free radicals, but research is still early.

A marine-derived extract with potential antioxidant benefits, but research is limited and it's mostly found in high-end formulations.

A mild, plant-derived surfactant that cleans without stripping, but may feel heavy on oily skin types.

A gentle, coconut-derived surfactant that cleanses effectively without the harshness of traditional sulfates.

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

A mild, water-soluble cleanser derived from peanut oil, but not suitable for anyone with peanut allergies.

A synthetic film-former that helps products stay put longer, especially in sunscreens and long-wear makeup.

A modified keratin protein that bonds to hair to temporarily fill damage and improve strength and shine.

A reliable film-former that helps makeup and sunscreen stay put longer without feeling heavy.

A powerful plant-derived antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental damage and may support a more even skin tone.

Sulfur is a time-tested acne-fighting ingredient that works by killing bacteria and gently exfoliating dead skin, but it can be drying and has a distinct smell.

A gentle, protein-based ingredient that strengthens hair and forms a protective film, but may not suit protein-sensitive hair types.

A modified corn protein that may help strengthen hair and form a protective film on skin, but research is limited.

Sulfurized jojoba oil combines the moisturizing benefits of jojoba with sulfur's antimicrobial power, making it a targeted option for acne-prone skin, though it may cause irritation for some.

An unusual, chemically modified lavender-palladium complex with very limited research and potential for irritation.

This sulfurized limonene compound is rarely used in skincare and may cause irritation; it's best avoided in leave-on products.

A sulfur-infused oil derivative that helps control acne and dandruff by reducing microbes and excess oil, but may cause irritation in sensitive skin.

Sumac fruit wax is a natural, plant-derived wax that helps thicken and soften skincare products with a low risk of irritation.

A gentle botanical extract that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research is still early.

Sumac root extract is a gentle, antioxidant-rich botanical that may help calm skin and fight free radical damage, though research is still emerging.

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

A gentle botanical extract that may help calm skin and fight free radicals, but research is still early.

A trendy, antioxidant-rich mushroom extract that may help protect skin from environmental stress, but research is still limited.

A gentle plant extract with potential soothing and antioxidant benefits, but research is limited.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich extract from sunflower flowers that helps soothe and protect skin without irritation.

A gentle, plant-derived exfoliant that helps smooth skin texture without the sting of stronger acids.

A mild, plant-based emulsifier that helps blend oil and water in formulas while leaving skin feeling soft and conditioned.

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

A lightweight, plant-based emollient that hydrates without clogging pores, ideal for sensitive and oily skin types.

A gentle, plant-based surfactant that cleanses without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.

A gentle, plant-based butter that moisturizes without clogging pores, ideal for dry or sensitive skin.

A gentle, natural exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells without harsh microbeads, suitable for most skin types.

A gentle, nourishing oil that hydrates and supports the skin barrier without clogging pores.

A gentle, plant-derived emollient that softens skin without clogging pores, ideal for sensitive and dry skin types.

A gentle, plant-derived emollient that softens and smooths skin without clogging pores, suitable for most skin types.

A gentle, oil-soluble antioxidant that helps defend skin against free radicals and may support a more even tone.

A mild, sunflower-derived emulsifier that stabilizes formulas while leaving skin feeling soft and non-greasy.

A mild, plant-based emollient that softens and conditions skin without clogging pores, ideal for sensitive and dry skin types.

A gentle, plant-derived emulsifier that helps water and oil mix in your skincare products without stripping the skin.

A gentle, plant-derived emulsifier that helps water and oil mix in your skincare without stripping the skin.

A mild, eco-friendly emulsifier that helps blend oil and water in skincare products while leaving skin feeling soft.

A gentle, eco-friendly emulsifier that helps blend oil and water in skincare products without irritation.

A mild, eco-friendly emulsifier that helps blend water and oil in creams and lotions while also softening the skin.

A mild, eco-friendly emulsifier that helps blend oil and water in skincare products without stripping the skin.

A mild, eco-friendly emulsifier that helps blend water and oil in creams and lotions while leaving skin soft.

A gentle, plant-based emulsifier that helps blend oil and water in skincare formulas while providing light skin conditioning.

A gentle, non-greasy emollient that helps strengthen the skin barrier and calm irritation.

A gentle, plant-derived wax that adds texture and moisture without clogging pores.

A gentle, natural exfoliant from sunflower seeds that also delivers skin-conditioning fatty acids and proteins.

A gentle, antioxidant-rich extract from sunflower seeds that helps soothe and protect the skin.

Sunflower sprout extract is a gentle, antioxidant-rich ingredient that helps protect skin from environmental stress and may calm irritation.

A gentle, fermented botanical extract that may support skin barrier function and provide antioxidant benefits, though human studies are limited.

A gentle, plant-derived surfactant that helps create a rich lather without stripping the skin, making it a good choice for sensitive skin cleansers.