The Skin Formulary

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37 ingredients

Antioxidant

Explore all 37 ingredients in the Antioxidant category. Learn about their benefits and find products that contain them.

Ascorbyl Palmitate

Ascorbyl palmitate is a synthetic, fat-soluble ester of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and palmitic acid, first commercialised in the 1960s as an antioxidant in food and pharmaceuticals. Unlike pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), it is oil-soluble and stable at neutral pH, making it easier to formulate into creams and emulsions. It acts by neutralising free radicals and binding to cell membranes to protect lipids from oxidative damage, though evidence for its conversion into active vitamin C within skin is limited.

Tocopherol

Tocopherol is the INCI name for Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that occurs naturally in human skin. It works by neutralising free radicals generated by UV exposure and environmental pollution, protecting cell membranes and lipids from oxidative damage. It also has emollient properties that help reinforce the skin barrier and retain moisture.

Hydroxyacetophenone

Hydroxyacetophenone (4'-hydroxyacetophenone) is a synthetic multifunctional cosmetic ingredient that acts as an antioxidant, preservative booster, and soothing agent. It also has humectant properties, helping to draw moisture into the skin and improve skin conditioning.

Tocophersolan

Tocophersolan (also known as Vitamin E TPGS — tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate) is a water-soluble synthetic derivative of vitamin E created by esterifying tocopherol with succinic acid and then attaching approximately 22 ethylene oxide (PEG) groups. Unlike natural vitamin E, which is fat-soluble only, tocophersolan is amphiphilic — it can function in both water- and oil-based formulations. It acts as an antioxidant by neutralising free radicals, protecting the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and environmental pollution.

Tocopheryl Acetate

Tocopheryl acetate is the esterified, stabilised form of vitamin E and the most widely used vitamin E derivative in cosmetics. It functions as an antioxidant by neutralising free radicals caused by UV exposure and environmental pollution, helping to protect the skin barrier from oxidative damage. Compared to pure tocopherol, it has a longer shelf life in formulations but is absorbed more slowly through the skin.

Dimethylmethoxy Chromanol

Dimethylmethoxy Chromanol (also known as Lipochroman-6) is a synthetic chromanol derivative structurally similar to vitamin E. It is a potent antioxidant uniquely capable of protecting against both reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), which are major contributors to premature skin ageing and cellular damage from UV exposure and pollution.

Ubiquinone

Ubiquinone (Coenzyme Q10, CoQ10) is a fat-soluble organic compound naturally present in every human cell, where it plays a central role in mitochondrial energy production. When applied topically, it penetrates into the upper layers of the skin and acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralising free radicals generated by UV exposure and environmental aggressors. Skin levels of ubiquinone decline with age, making topical supplementation a useful strategy for supporting the skin's natural antioxidant defences.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a methylxanthine alkaloid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that penetrates skin well due to its small, water-soluble molecular structure. Topically, it acts as a vasoconstrictor and phosphodiesterase inhibitor, improving microcirculation, reducing puffiness, and helping protect skin against UV-induced free radical damage. It is widely used in eye creams, anti-cellulite formulas, and antioxidant serums.

Purple Sweet Potato Root Extract

Ipomoea batatas root extract is derived from the roots of the sweet potato plant. It is rich in anthocyanins (particularly in purple sweet potato varieties), polyphenols, and vitamins that provide antioxidant and skin conditioning benefits. It helps protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by environmental aggressors.

Ascorbyl Glucoside

Ascorbyl glucoside is a stable, water-soluble derivative of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) formed by bonding ascorbic acid to glucose via a glycosidic linkage. It addresses the well-known instability of pure vitamin C by resisting oxidation and maintaining efficacy in formulations. After skin absorption, cutaneous glucosidase enzymes cleave the glucose molecule, releasing free L-ascorbic acid that delivers antioxidant, brightening, and collagen-stimulating effects.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate

Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THDA) is a stable, oil-soluble ester form of vitamin C that penetrates the skin more effectively than water-soluble ascorbic acid, thanks to its lipophilic structure. Once absorbed, it converts to active L-ascorbic acid within the skin layers, delivering antioxidant protection, collagen synthesis support, and melanin-inhibiting effects. It was developed to overcome the instability and oxidation issues associated with traditional vitamin C (ascorbic acid).

Malachite Extract

Malachite extract is a cosmetic ingredient derived from malachite, a copper carbonate mineral. It is produced by grinding the stone, solubilising it with hydrochloric acid, and neutralising with sodium bicarbonate. The resulting copper-rich extract functions as an antioxidant, helping to protect the skin against oxidative stress and environmental damage. Copper is an essential cofactor for superoxide dismutase (SOD), a key antioxidant enzyme in the skin.

Ethyl Ferulate

Ethyl ferulate is the ethyl ester of ferulic acid, a potent phenolic antioxidant found naturally in rice bran, oats, and other plants. As an ester derivative, it offers improved stability and lipid solubility compared to free ferulic acid, allowing better penetration into the skin. It protects against UV-induced oxidative damage and enhances the efficacy of other antioxidants like vitamins C and E.

Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate

Sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) is a stable, water-soluble derivative of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid). It offers excellent stability up to pH 7, overcoming the rapid oxidation issues of pure ascorbic acid. While its skin penetration and potency are lower than L-ascorbic acid, it provides proven photoprotective, brightening, and antimicrobial benefits with significantly better tolerability.

Rice Bran Extract

Oryza sativa bran extract is obtained from the bran layer of rice. It is rich in gamma-oryzanol, ferulic acid, tocotrienols, and phytosterols, which together provide antioxidant, skin-conditioning, and protective benefits. Rice bran has been used in traditional Asian skincare for centuries for its brightening and softening properties.

Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract

Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit extract is derived from the Kakadu plum, a native Australian superfruit from the Combretaceae family and one of the world's richest natural sources of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). In skincare, it functions primarily as a potent antioxidant, neutralising free radicals that cause oxidative stress and premature ageing. Its high phenolic content — including ellagic acid, hydrolysable tannins, and ascorbic acid — also contributes to skin brightening and anti-inflammatory effects.

Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract

Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract is the hydrolysate of the fruit extract of Gardenia florida L. (cape jasmine, family Rubiaceae), produced by acid, enzyme, or other hydrolysis methods. The hydrolysis process breaks down larger polysaccharides and polyphenolic compounds into smaller, more bioavailable fragments, enhancing skin absorption of the plant's antioxidant actives. Key phytochemicals in the parent plant include iridoid glycosides (genipin, gardenoside) and carotenoids (crocin), which confer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. In cosmetics it functions primarily as an antioxidant and skin-conditioning agent, helping to protect skin cells from oxidative stress.

Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract

Euterpe oleracea fruit extract is derived from the acai berry, the fruit of the cabbage palm native to Central and South America. It is exceptionally rich in anthocyanins, polyphenols, and essential fatty acids (oleic and palmitic), giving it potent antioxidant activity that helps neutralise free radicals and protect skin from environmental damage.

Vitamin C

Ascorbic acid (L-ascorbic acid, vitamin C) is the most potent and well-researched form of topical vitamin C. It is a water-soluble antioxidant that plays a critical role in collagen synthesis, neutralises free radicals from UV exposure, and inhibits tyrosinase to reduce melanin production. It requires a low pH (below 3.5) for optimal skin penetration and is notoriously unstable, oxidising rapidly when exposed to light and air.

Panax Ginseng Root Extract

Panax Ginseng Root Extract is derived from the roots of Panax ginseng (Korean ginseng), a plant used in traditional Asian medicine for over 2,000 years. It contains active compounds called ginsenosides that deliver potent antioxidant activity, enhance skin cell metabolism, and support collagen synthesis. The extract works by neutralising free radicals, improving microcirculation, and stimulating skin renewal for a brighter, firmer complexion.

Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone

Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, also known as [6]-Gingerone, is a synthetic molecule that replicates a bioactive compound naturally found in grains of paradise (Aframomum melegueta), a spice from the ginger family. It is marketed as a 4-in-1 active with topical and cellular antioxidant, anti-irritant, and hyaluronic acid-boosting properties.

Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside

Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside is a stabilised, water-soluble derivative of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the primary polyphenol in green tea. It is produced by bonding EGCG with glucose, which improves its solubility and stability in cosmetic formulations while retaining the potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits of the parent compound.

Gallyl Glucoside

Gallyl glucoside is a glycosylated form of gallic acid, produced by reacting gallic acid with glucose. Derived from oak leaves and other plant sources, it provides antioxidant and soothing properties in skincare formulations. The glucoside bond improves water solubility and stability compared to free gallic acid.

Oxidized Glutathione

Oxidized glutathione (GSSG) is the disulfide-bonded dimer form of glutathione, a tripeptide naturally present in all human cells. In cosmetics it functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. It is commonly used in brightening and anti-ageing products, working alongside reduced glutathione to support the skin's antioxidant defence system.

Melanin

Melanin is the naturally occurring pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye colour in humans. In cosmetics it functions as a skin-protecting agent, providing antioxidant and UV-absorbing properties. Synthetic or plant-derived melanin is used in sunscreens and anti-ageing products to offer additional photoprotection.

Propyl Gallate

Propyl gallate is a synthetic antioxidant formed by esterifying gallic acid with propanol. In skincare it is used to reduce oxidative damage to formulations and to the skin, enhancing product stability. It also has mild perfuming properties.

Rosemary Leaf Extract

Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract is derived from the leaves of the rosemary plant (Lamiaceae family). It is rich in rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and diterpenes, which give it potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In cosmetics it functions as a skin conditioning agent, antimicrobial, and natural antioxidant to help protect both the skin and the product formula from oxidative degradation.

Tomato Fruit Extract

Solanum lycopersicum fruit extract is derived from tomato fruit and is rich in lycopene, a potent carotenoid antioxidant. It helps protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants. The extract also contains vitamins A and C, which contribute to skin brightening and anti-ageing benefits.

BHT

BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) is a synthetic antioxidant widely used as a preservative in both food and cosmetic products since the 1970s. It works by neutralising free radicals that cause oxidative degradation, thereby extending the shelf life and efficacy of cosmetic formulations. The CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) has assessed BHT as safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations.

Asiaticoside

Asiaticoside is the principal bioactive triterpenoid saponin of Centella asiatica (gotu kola). It has well-established wound healing and antioxidant activities, stimulating glycosaminoglycan production and collagen I synthesis. It is one of the most studied components of Centella and is widely used in soothing and barrier-repair skincare.

Naringenin

Naringenin is a flavanone, a type of flavonoid naturally found in citrus fruits such as grapefruit. It has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect skin cells from oxidative stress and UV-induced damage. It also shows potential in inhibiting melanin production.

Ergothioneine

Ergothioneine (EGT) is a naturally occurring amino acid derived from histidine, found in mushrooms, certain bacteria, and other organisms. It is a potent antioxidant that accumulates in tissues exposed to high levels of oxidative stress. In skincare, it protects against UV-induced damage, pollution, and other environmental stressors. It is increasingly used in vitamin C serums and anti-ageing formulations to boost antioxidant protection.

Tocotrienols

Tocotrienols are a family of compounds belonging to the vitamin E group, alongside tocopherols. They are found naturally in palm oil, rice bran, and certain grains, and are distinguished from tocopherols by their unsaturated side chain, which allows them to move more freely within cell membranes and provides superior antioxidant potency. In skincare, they protect skin cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, UV exposure, and environmental aggressors, while also modulating inflammatory pathways and supporting collagen synthesis.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a naturally occurring polyphenol antioxidant found primarily in red grape skins and seeds, as well as in berries and Japanese knotweed. It works by neutralising free radicals generated by UV exposure and environmental pollution, protecting skin cells from oxidative damage and reducing inflammation at a cellular level. It is also studied for its anticarcinogenic properties and ability to support skin barrier integrity.

Ferulic Acid

Ferulic acid is a naturally occurring phenolic antioxidant found in the cell walls of plants, particularly in the bran of grasses such as rice, wheat, and oats. It works by neutralising free radicals caused by UV exposure and environmental pollution, protecting skin cells from oxidative damage. It is best known in skincare for its ability to dramatically stabilise and enhance the efficacy of vitamins C and E when combined in a formulation.

Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract

Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract is derived from the bark of the maritime pine tree found along the southwest coast of France. It is rich in potent antioxidant molecules, primarily procyanidins and phenolic acids. The standardised extract is widely known under the trade name Pycnogenol and has been the subject of over 370 published studies.

EUK-134 (Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride)

Ethylbisiminomethylguaiacol Manganese Chloride (commonly known as EUK-134) is a synthetic, manganese-based molecule that mimics the activity of two natural skin enzymes: superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. Unlike typical antioxidants that neutralise a single free radical, EUK-134 operates catalytically — it converts superoxide radicals into hydrogen peroxide and then breaks that hydrogen peroxide down into harmless water and oxygen. This dual-action cycle allows a small concentration to provide ongoing protection against oxidative stress.