The Skin Formulary

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79 ingredients

Emollient

Explore all 79 ingredients in the Emollient category. Learn about their benefits and find products that contain them.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is a natural fat extracted from the seeds of the African shea (karite) tree, Butyrospermum parkii. It is rich in fatty acids (oleic, stearic, linoleic, palmitic), triterpenes, and antioxidant vitamins A, E, and F, which work together to deeply moisturise, condition, and protect the skin barrier. Its anti-inflammatory triterpene content also helps soothe irritated skin and supports cell regeneration.

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is a synthetic ester made by combining benzoic acid with fatty alcohols of 12 to 15 carbon chain lengths. It functions as a lightweight emollient and skin-conditioning agent, imparting a smooth, silky, non-greasy feel to formulations. It is also widely used as a solvent and dispersant for UV filters in sunscreen products.

C10-18 Triglycerides

C10-18 Triglycerides are a mixture of glycerol esters derived from medium-chain fatty acids with carbon chain lengths of 10 to 18. They function primarily as emollients and skin-conditioning agents, forming a lightweight occlusive layer that softens the skin and helps prevent moisture loss. They also act as solvents, aiding in the dissolution and delivery of other cosmetic actives.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a lightweight, clear, odourless oil derived from coconut oil and glycerin. It is an ester formed from glycerol and a blend of caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) fatty acids, which gives it a non-greasy, fast-absorbing texture. It functions primarily as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, forming a breathable occlusive layer on the skin surface that helps reduce transepidermal water loss.

Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate

Pentaerythrityl tetraisostearate is an ester derived from pentaerythritol and isostearic acid, used primarily as an emollient and emulsifying agent in cosmetics. It forms a lightweight, non-greasy film on the skin that imparts a rich, cushiony texture and enhances gloss without leaving a sticky residue. It is widely used in lip care and colour cosmetics for its water-resistance and long-wearing properties.

Cetyl Alcohol

Cetyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol (hexadecan-1-ol, C16H34O) derived from coconut oil, palm kernel oil, or petroleum. Despite its name, it behaves nothing like drying alcohols such as ethanol — it is a waxy solid that acts as an emollient, emulsifier, and thickener, helping to create smooth, stable cream and lotion textures. It softens and conditions the skin by forming a protective film on the surface that reduces moisture loss.

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene

Hydrogenated polyisobutene is a synthetic liquid oil derived from the hydrogenation of polyisobutene, a polymer of isobutylene. It functions as an emollient and viscosity-controlling agent, forming a lightweight, non-greasy film on the skin that softens and smooths without the heaviness of mineral oil. Available in a range of molecular weights, it can be tuned from a volatile, light-feel oil to a richer, more occlusive texture depending on formulation needs.

Ethylhexyl Palmitate

Ethylhexyl palmitate is an ester formed from 2-ethylhexanol and palmitic acid (a fatty acid derived from palm oil). It functions as a medium-spreading emollient that softens skin, adds richness to formulas, and imparts a mild, non-greasy feel on application. It is frequently used as a lighter alternative to mineral oil in cleansing oils, balms, and colour cosmetics.

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate is a lightweight ester created by reacting fatty alcohols from coconut oil (C12–C18) with caprylic acid (C8) and capric acid (C10). It functions as a skin-conditioning emollient that softens the skin surface and reduces transepidermal water loss. It absorbs quickly and leaves a dry, silky finish without a greasy residue.

Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax

Helianthus Annuus Seed Wax is a natural hard wax extracted from the seeds of the sunflower plant (Helianthus annuus, Asteraceae family). It acts primarily as an emollient and skin conditioning agent, forming a protective layer on the skin surface that helps lock in moisture and smooth skin texture. Its high melting point makes it a popular structuring agent in solid formulations such as lip balms, stick sunscreens, and solid moisturisers.

Jojoba Seed Oil

Simmondsia chinensis seed oil, commonly known as jojoba oil, is a liquid wax ester pressed from the seeds of the desert shrub Simmondsia chinensis. Unlike most plant oils, which are triglycerides, jojoba is a wax ester — making it chemically very similar to human sebum and exceptionally stable at high temperatures. It moisturises through a dual mechanism: forming a light semi-occlusive barrier on the skin surface while also absorbing into the upper skin layers.

Sunflower Seed Oil

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil is a lightweight plant oil cold-pressed from sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuus L., Compositae family). It is exceptionally rich in linoleic acid (50–74%) and oleic acid (14–35%), fatty acids that closely mimic the skin's own lipid barrier. It works primarily as an emollient, smoothing and softening the skin surface while forming a light occlusive film that helps lock in moisture and support barrier repair.

Dicaprylyl Carbonate

Dicaprylyl carbonate is an ester formed by combining carbonic acid with two molecules of caprylyl alcohol, an eight-carbon fatty alcohol derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. It functions as a lightweight, fast-spreading emollient and skin-conditioning agent that creates a dry, non-greasy finish on skin. It also acts as a solvent, helping to dissolve and disperse UV filters, pigments, and other ingredients in a formulation.

Squalane

Squalane is a saturated hydrocarbon (C30H62) naturally found in human sebum and derived from plant sources such as sugarcane, olives, and amaranth seed. It functions as a highly effective emollient and skin-identical ingredient, mimicking the skin's own oils to soften and smooth the skin barrier without heaviness or greasiness.

Phospholipids

Phospholipids are naturally occurring molecules composed of a glycerol backbone, two fatty acid tails, and a phosphate group, making up approximately 75% of all cell membranes. Their amphiphilic structure (water-loving head, fat-loving tails) allows them to act as emollients, emulsifiers, and skin-identical barrier lipids in cosmetic formulations. They are commonly derived from soybeans, sunflower seeds, or egg yolk, and are widely used to form liposomes — microscopic delivery vehicles that enhance penetration of active ingredients into the skin.

Soybean Oil

Glycine Soja Oil is the fixed oil extracted from soybeans (Glycine soja). It is composed primarily of triglycerides, with a fatty acid profile rich in linoleic acid (48–59%), oleic acid (17–30%), and alpha-linolenic acid (4.5–11%), which give it barrier-repairing and nourishing properties. It functions as a cost-effective, plant-derived base oil that conditions the skin and supports the lipid barrier.

Soybean Sterols

Glycine Soja Sterols is a mixture of phytosterols (plant-derived sterols) extracted from the soybean plant (Glycine soja, Leguminosae family). Structurally similar to cholesterol, these plant sterols integrate into the skin's intercellular lipid matrix to support and restore the skin barrier. They also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and CXCL8.

Mango Seed Butter

Mangifera indica seed butter (mango seed butter) is a soft, off-white to ivory fat extracted from the kernels of mango fruit. It is rich in stearic and oleic fatty acids, antioxidant phenolic compounds including ferulic acid, and provides almost all essential amino acids. As an emollient and skin conditioning agent, it softens and smooths skin by forming a protective barrier that reduces transepidermal water loss.

Diisopropyl Sebacate

Diisopropyl sebacate is a synthetic diester of isopropyl alcohol and sebacic acid (a dicarboxylic acid derived from castor oil). It is a clear, colourless, practically odourless lightweight liquid that functions as an emollient, solvent, and plasticiser in cosmetic formulations. It works by filling microscopic gaps between skin cells to improve softness, and dissolves oil-soluble actives such as UV filters and fragrances.

Coconut Alkanes

Coconut Alkanes is a volatile, naturally derived hydrocarbon ingredient produced by the complete reduction and hydrogenation of fatty acids from coconut (Cocos Nucifera) oil. It functions as a lightweight emollient and solvent, imparting a smooth, silky skin feel without leaving a heavy residue. Because it is volatile, it largely evaporates from the skin surface after application, making it a popular plant-based alternative to volatile silicones such as Cyclopentasiloxane.

Dimethicone

Dimethicone (also known as polydimethylsiloxane or PDMS) is a synthetic silicone polymer and one of the most widely used emollients in cosmetics, appearing in around 16% of all formulations. It works by forming a lightweight, air-permeable film on the skin surface that locks in moisture and prevents trans-epidermal water loss, without blocking sweat or sebum. Its large molecular size means it sits on top of skin rather than penetrating deeply, making it extremely well tolerated.

CocoCaprylate/Caprate

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate is a light, fast-absorbing emollient ester composed of coconut-derived C12–18 fatty alcohols bonded to C8–10 (caprylic and capric) fatty acids. It provides a dry, silky skin feel similar to volatile silicones but with a natural, plant-derived origin. It is widely used as a natural alternative to synthetic emollients in clean beauty formulations.

Jojoba Esters

Jojoba esters are a complex mixture of wax esters produced by the transesterification or interesterification of Simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) oil and/or hydrogenated jojoba oil. Unlike triglyceride plant oils, they are true wax esters — structurally similar to human sebum — which gives them exceptional oxidative stability and a characteristic non-greasy skin feel. Depending on the degree of hydrogenation and processing, they can be formulated as a liquid, creamy paste, or hard wax, making them highly versatile across product types.

Sweet Almond Oil

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil (sweet almond oil) is a fixed oil cold-pressed from the ripe seed kernels of the sweet almond tree (Prunus amygdalus var. dulcis, Rosaceae). It is rich in oleic acid (55–86%) and linoleic acid (7–35%), along with antioxidant vitamin E and B vitamins. It functions as a nourishing emollient that smooths, softens, and moisturises the skin while reinforcing the lipid barrier.

Candelilla Cera

Candelilla Cera is a natural vegetable wax extracted from the leaves of the candelilla shrub (Euphorbia cerifera and Euphorbia antisyphilitica), native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. It functions primarily as an emollient and film-forming agent, creating a protective layer on the skin surface that locks in moisture and imparts a high-gloss finish. It is widely used in lip products, mascaras, and stick formulas to provide body, structure, and texture stability at its relatively high melting point of approximately 70°C.

Oat Kernal Oil

Avena Sativa Kernel Oil is the fixed oil cold-pressed from the kernels of the oat plant (Avena sativa L., Poaceae). It is rich in linoleic acid (35–45%) and oleic acid (25–35%), with a fatty acid profile closely resembling the skin's natural lipid barrier, making it highly compatible with skin. It works primarily as an emollient, softening the skin surface, replenishing intercellular lipids, and reducing transepidermal water loss to maintain hydration and suppleness.

Tribehenin

Tribehenin is the triglyceride of behenic acid (a long-chain C22 saturated fatty acid), formed by esterifying glycerol with three molecules of behenic acid. It functions primarily as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, forming a soft, occlusive film on the skin surface that reduces water loss and improves texture. It also acts as a thickening and gelling agent in formulations, and helps to improve the heat stability of emulsions.

Oat Kernal Flour

Avena Sativa Kernel Flour is a finely milled powder obtained from grinding oat (Avena sativa) kernels, retaining the starches, proteins, lipids, beta-glucans, and antioxidant avenanthramides naturally present in oats. It functions as an emollient, absorbent, and mild physical exfoliant that forms a protective film on the skin surface to retain moisture and reduce transepidermal water loss. Its beta-glucan and avenanthramide content deliver well-documented anti-inflammatory, soothing, and antioxidant effects, making it a cornerstone ingredient in sensitive and compromised skin formulations.

Oleic Acid

Oleic acid is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid found abundantly in plant oils such as olive, avocado, macadamia, and marula oils. It works by integrating into the skin's lipid barrier, softening and conditioning the skin while also functioning as a penetration enhancer that helps other actives absorb more effectively. Its relatively large, non-polar molecular structure makes it highly nourishing but means it sits heavier on the skin than linoleic acid-rich alternatives.

Triheptanoin

Triheptanoin is a lightweight synthetic triglyceride formed from glycerin and heptanoic acid (a seven-carbon fatty acid). It functions primarily as an emollient and occlusive, forming a breathable film on the skin's surface that reduces transepidermal water loss and leaves skin feeling soft and smooth. Its exceptionally high spreadability and low viscosity make it a popular silicone alternative in lightweight serums, sunscreens, and skin-conditioning formulas.

Glyceryl Oleate

Glyceryl oleate is a monoester formed by combining glycerin with oleic acid. It functions primarily as a co-emulsifier and emollient, helping to stabilise oil-in-water emulsions while providing skin-softening and refatting properties. It is also used as a thickener in cleansing formulations.

Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate

Hydrogenated palm glycerides citrate is derived from palm oil and consists of hydrogenated mono-, di-, and tri-glycerides esterified with citric acid. It functions as an emollient and skin conditioning agent, softening the skin and helping to maintain moisture. It is commonly used in cleansing products and body care formulations.

Behenic Acid

Behenic acid (INCI: Docosanoic Acid) is a long-chain C22 saturated fatty acid naturally found in plant oils such as moringa (ben oil), rapeseed, and peanut oil. In cosmetics it functions primarily as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, softening the skin surface by filling gaps between skin cells and reducing transepidermal water loss. It also serves as an emulsifier, opacifying agent, and surfactant/cleansing co-agent, contributing texture, slip, and stability to formulations.

Castor Seed Oil

Ricinus Communis Seed Oil (castor oil) is a fixed oil obtained from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis, Euphorbiaceae). It is uniquely rich in ricinoleic acid (85-95%), a hydroxylated fatty acid with distinctive water-attracting properties not found in other plant oils. This gives castor oil both emollient and humectant characteristics. It has a thick, viscous consistency and produces a high-gloss finish, making it popular in lip products, moisturisers, and hair treatments.

Cupuacu Seed Butter

Theobroma Grandiflorum Seed Butter (cupuacu butter) is a rich, creamy fat derived from the seeds of the cupuacu tree (Theobroma grandiflorum, Sterculiaceae family), native to the Brazilian Amazon. It is exceptionally high in phytosterols and fatty acids (oleic, stearic, palmitic, arachidic), and has a remarkable capacity to absorb and retain water — up to 240% of its own weight — making it superior to shea and cocoa butter for skin hydration.

Babassu Seed Oil

Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil (babassu oil) is a fixed oil obtained from the nuts of the babassu palm (Orbignya oleifera, Palmaceae). It consists primarily of glycerides of lauric, myristic, and oleic fatty acids. It melts on contact with skin, providing a lightweight, non-greasy emollient feel. Its fatty acid profile is similar to coconut oil but with a lighter texture.

Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate

Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate is a synthetic ester formed from cetearyl alcohol (C16-18 fatty alcohols) and 2-ethylhexanoic acid. It functions as a lightweight emollient oil that delivers a soft, non-greasy, non-sticky skin feel with rapid absorption. It also serves as a hair-conditioning and skin-conditioning agent in cosmetic formulations.

Hydrogenated Olive Oil

Hydrogenated olive oil is the end product of the controlled hydrogenation of olive (Olea Europaea) oil. The hydrogenation process converts the liquid oil into a semi-solid or solid fat, making it more stable and resistant to oxidation. It functions as a skin-conditioning emollient and viscosity-controlling agent in cosmetic formulations.

Diheptyl Succinate

Diheptyl succinate is a natural, biodegradable emollient ester derived from succinic acid and heptanol. It is marketed as a silicone-alternative emollient, frequently combined with capryloyl glycerin/sebacic acid copolymer under the trade name LexFeel N. Depending on formulation ratios, it can deliver a lightweight feel similar to cyclomethicone or a more substantial feel similar to dimethicone.

Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer

Capryloyl glycerin/sebacic acid copolymer is a natural, biodegradable copolymer of capryloyl glycerin and sebacic acid monomers. It functions as a film-forming agent, emollient, and skin protectant, and is marketed as a natural silicone alternative. It is frequently combined with diheptyl succinate under the trade name LexFeel N to create a blend that mimics the sensory feel of silicones (cyclomethicone or dimethicone) while being plant-derived and biodegradable.

Apricot Kernal Oil

Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil is a fixed plant oil cold-pressed from the kernel (seed) of the apricot fruit. It is rich in oleic acid (54–74%) and linoleic acid (12–35%), fatty acids that closely mimic the skin's own lipid profile, allowing it to absorb readily without leaving a greasy residue. It also contains vitamin E (tocopherol), which provides antioxidant protection and supports the skin barrier.

Avocado OIl

Persea Gratissima Oil (avocado oil) is a rich plant oil cold-pressed from the flesh of the avocado fruit. It is composed primarily of oleic acid (47–70%), along with palmitic acid, linoleic acid, and bioactive compounds including vitamins A, D, and E, beta-carotene, lecithin, and phytosterols. It functions as a deeply penetrating emollient that reinforces the skin barrier, softens and conditions skin, and delivers antioxidant protection through its vitamin E content.

Triolein

Triolein (INCI: Triolein) is a triglyceride composed of three oleic acid chains esterified to a glycerol backbone — chemically identical to the predominant triglyceride found in human sebum and many plant oils such as olive oil. It is used in cosmetics as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, forming a lightweight, occlusive film on the skin surface that reduces trans-epidermal water loss and softens the feel of a formulation. Commercial cosmetic-grade triolein is often derived from microalgae through an eco-friendly biofermentation process, though it may also be sourced from oleic acid-rich vegetable oils.

C15-19 Alkane

C15-19 Alkane is a mixture of straight-chain hydrocarbons with 15 to 19 carbon atoms. In modern cosmetic formulations it is typically derived from vegetable sources (sugarcane or coconut) rather than petroleum. It functions as a lightweight emollient and solvent, providing a fresh, gliding sensation on application with a powdery or soft after-feel. It is marketed as a natural, biodegradable silicone alternative.

Stearic Acid

Stearic acid is a common saturated fatty acid (C18:0) found naturally in many animal and vegetable fats. It is a multi-tasker in cosmetic formulations, functioning as an emollient that softens and smooths the skin, a viscosity controller that adds body and texture to creams, and an emulsion stabiliser that helps water and oil phases stay blended. It is one of the most widely used fatty acids in skincare and personal care products.

Pomegranate Seed Oil

Punica granatum seed oil (pomegranate seed oil) is a nutrient-rich plant oil cold-pressed from pomegranate seeds. Its primary fatty acid is punicic acid (approximately 60%), a rare conjugated fatty acid with three double bonds that gives the oil potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It also contains linoleic acid (2-10%) and oleic acid (3-12%). Approximately 7 kg of seeds are needed to produce 1 kg of oil.

Hydrogenated Lecithin

Hydrogenated lecithin is a chemically modified form of lecithin, a naturally occurring phospholipid found in soybeans and egg yolks. The hydrogenation process makes it more stable and better suited for cosmetic formulations. It functions as both an emollient and emulsifier, and is widely used to create liposomes that can deliver active ingredients deeper into the skin.

Shea Butter Ethyl Esters

Shea butter ethyl esters are produced by the transesterification of shea butter (Butyrospermum parkii) with ethyl alcohol, creating a lighter, more refined derivative. This process yields an emollient that retains shea butter's skin-conditioning benefits while providing a silky, non-greasy texture that absorbs more readily. It is valued as an eco-designed, sustainable alternative to traditional heavy emollients.

Copernicia Cerifera Cera

Copernicia cerifera cera (carnauba wax) is a vegetable wax derived from the leaves and leaf buds of the Brazilian tropical palm Copernicia cerifera. It is the hardest known natural wax with a high melting point of approximately 85 degrees C, making it ideal for stabilising solid-format products like lip balms, lipsticks, and stick formulations. It provides structure, gloss, and a protective film.

Octyldodecanol

Octyldodecanol (INCI: Octyldodecanol; IUPAC: 2-Octyldodecan-1-ol) is a long-chain fatty alcohol derived from natural fats and oils — typically coconut or palm — through reduction of fatty acid groups. It functions primarily as an emollient, filling gaps between skin cells to deliver a smooth, silky, non-greasy skin feel. It is also used as a solvent (particularly for UV filters and pigments) and as a masking agent in fragrance compositions.

Arachidyl Alcohol

Arachidyl alcohol is a long-chain (C20) fatty alcohol that functions as an emollient, viscosity controller, and emulsion stabiliser. Unlike short-chain drying alcohols (such as denatured alcohol), arachidyl alcohol is a non-drying fatty alcohol that thickens formulations, helps oil and water phases remain mixed, and provides moisturising properties.

Bis-PEG-12 Dimethicone

Bis-PEG-12 dimethicone is a water-soluble silicone (dimethicone end-blocked with an average of 12 moles of ethylene oxide). It functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, providing a smooth, silky feel without the heavy occlusive effect of traditional dimethicone. Its PEG modification allows it to blend easily with water-based formulations.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a fixed oil obtained by cold-pressing the kernel (copra) of the coconut palm. It is predominantly composed of saturated fatty acids, with lauric acid making up approximately 50% of its composition. It has demonstrated effectiveness comparable to mineral oil for treating xerosis and has shown superior results for mild-to-moderate paediatric atopic dermatitis.

Sphingolipids

Sphingolipids are a class of lipids naturally found in the skin's stratum corneum, where they play a critical role in maintaining the skin barrier. In cosmetics, they function as emollients and skin-conditioning agents that help replenish the lipid matrix between skin cells, reinforcing barrier integrity and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

Baobab Seed Oil

Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil (baobab oil) is cold-pressed from the seeds of the African baobab tree (Adansonia digitata L., Bombacaceae). It is rich in oleic, linoleic, and palmitic fatty acids, along with vitamins A and E. It absorbs quickly and provides excellent moisturising, nourishing, and skin-conditioning properties.

Mimosa Flower Wax

Acacia Decurrens Flower Wax is a natural wax obtained from the flowers of the mimosa tree (Acacia decurrens, Leguminosae). It provides emollient, skin-protecting, and film-forming properties, bringing softness to formulations. It is frequently combined with sunflower and jojoba waxes under the trade name Acticire.

Stearyl Alcohol

Stearyl alcohol is a white to light yellowish fatty alcohol (not a drying alcohol) with 18 carbon atoms. It works as an emollient, emulsion stabiliser, and viscosity controller in oil-in-water formulations. It is frequently combined with cetyl alcohol to form cetearyl alcohol and helps give products a smooth, rich texture.

Linoleic Acid

Linoleic acid is an essential polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid and the most abundant fatty acid in the epidermis, where it acts as a structural precursor for ceramide synthesis and plays a central role in maintaining the stratum corneum's permeability barrier. Because the body cannot synthesise it, linoleic acid must be supplied through diet or topical application. When applied to skin, it integrates into the lipid bilayer, reinforcing the barrier and reducing transepidermal water loss — and research shows that sebum in acne-prone skin is notably deficient in linoleic acid, making topical replenishment beneficial.

Phytosteryl Canola Glycerides

Phytosteryl Canola Glycerides are glycerides derived from canola oil that have been reacted with plant phytosterols. They function as a skin and hair conditioning agent, providing emollient and barrier-reinforcing properties. Phytosterols are structurally similar to cholesterol, a key component of the skin's lipid barrier.

Palmitic Acid

Palmitic acid is the most abundant saturated fatty acid found in both plants and animals, and it occurs naturally in human skin as a component of the lipid barrier. In cosmetics it functions as an emollient, emulsifying agent, and foam builder, making skin feel smooth and soft in moisturisers and providing rich lather in cleansers.

Cetyl Ethylhexanoate

Cetyl Ethylhexanoate is an odourless and colourless synthetic ester derived from cetyl alcohol and 2-ethylhexanoic acid. It provides a velvety, silky feel to the skin with excellent spreadability and minimal oily residue. It is also known by its chemical name hexadecyl 2-ethylhexanoate and is widely used as a texture-enhancing emollient in skincare and colour cosmetics.

Isodecyl Neopentanoate

Isodecyl Neopentanoate is a low molecular weight synthetic ester of isodecyl alcohol and neopentanoic (pivalic) acid. It functions as a dry, silky emollient that gives a light and non-greasy feel to formulations, helping to counteract heavy sensations from actives like sunscreen agents or pigments.

Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil

Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil is a plant-derived fat that has been processed through hydrogenation to convert unsaturated fatty acids into saturated ones, resulting in a more stable, solid or semi-solid texture. It functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, softening and smoothing the skin while providing occlusive moisture protection.

Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer

Dimethicone/Bis-Isobutyl PPG-20 Crosspolymer is a crosslinked silicone polymer formed from hydrogen dimethicone crosslinked with bis-methallyl PPG-20. It functions as an emollient and viscosity controlling agent, providing a smooth, silky skin feel while helping to adjust product texture and consistency. It is particularly common in sunscreens and primers where it creates an even, lightweight film on skin.

Rosehip Seed Oil

Rosa canina seed oil (rosehip seed oil) is a cold-pressed oil extracted from the seeds of the wild dog rose native to Europe, northwest Africa, and western Asia. It is rich in essential fatty acids (51% linoleic acid, 19% linolenic acid, 20% oleic acid), tocopherols (vitamin E), and carotenoids (pro-vitamin A), making it a nourishing emollient for skin.

Ethyl Linoleate

Ethyl linoleate is the ethyl ester of linoleic acid (vitamin F), an essential fatty acid. It functions as an oil-soluble emollient and skin-conditioning agent, delivering the skin-replenishing benefits of linoleic acid in a more stable, easily absorbed ester form. Linoleic acid is a key component of the skin barrier.

Cetearyl Isononanoate

Cetearyl isononanoate is a synthetic ester formed from cetearyl alcohol and isononanoic acid, typically derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. It is a clear, slightly yellowish oil that functions as a medium-spreading emollient, providing a smooth, non-greasy skin feel and enhancing product texture.

Cetyl Palmitate

Cetyl palmitate is a waxy ester formed from cetyl alcohol and palmitic acid, both naturally occurring fatty acids commonly derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. It functions as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, giving body and structure to cosmetic formulations while softening and smoothing the skin surface.

Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides

Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides is a polyglyceride complex derived from sunflower oil, created by esterifying glycerin polymers with oleic, linoleic, and linolenic fatty acids. Unlike standard plant oils, it functions both as an emollient and as a water-binding, skin-plumping active with excellent gloss and adherence properties.

Hexyldecanol

Hexyldecanol (2-hexyldecan-1-ol) is a branched-chain fatty alcohol that functions as a medium-spreading emollient. It is a yellowish oily liquid that provides a smooth, non-greasy skin feel and is stable across a wide pH range, making it versatile in cosmetic formulations.

Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide

Cetylhydroxyproline palmitamide is a synthetic pseudo-ceramide that is structurally and functionally similar to Ceramide 2 (ceramide NG). It reinforces the skin's lipid barrier by mimicking the natural ceramides found in the stratum corneum, helping to repair and strengthen the skin barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss.

Brassica Campestris Sterols

Brassica campestris sterols are a mixture of plant sterols (phytosterols) derived from rapeseed (Brassica campestris). Phytosterols are structurally similar to cholesterol in human skin and help reinforce the lipid barrier. They function as emollients and skin-conditioning agents, softening the skin and supporting barrier integrity.

Algae Extract

Algae extract is a broad-category ingredient derived from any of approximately 20,000 species of algae. These extracts contain biologically active metabolites including antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, polysaccharides, and carotenoids. The actual composition varies significantly depending on the algae species and extraction method used.

Ethylhexyl Olivate

Ethylhexyl olivate (also known as 2-ethylhexyl olivate) is an ester derived from olive oil fatty acids and 2-ethylhexanol. It functions as a skin-conditioning emollient that provides a smooth, non-greasy feel. It is olive-derived and commonly used in natural and clean beauty formulations as a lightweight alternative to silicones.

Isononyl Isononanoate

Isononyl isononanoate (chemically 3,5,5-trimethylhexyl 3,5,5-trimethylhexanoate) is a synthetic emollient ester that provides a rich, creamy yet non-greasy skin feel. It functions as an emollient, skin-conditioning agent, and antistatic agent. It is widely used across premium skincare, colour cosmetics, lip care, and sun protection products.

Argan Oil

Argania spinosa kernel oil (argan oil) is a fixed oil expressed from the kernels of the argan fruit, native to Morocco. Rich in oleic acid (38-50%), linoleic acid (28-38%), and vitamin E (600-900 mg/kg, approximately double that of olive oil), it also contains phenolic compounds including caffeic acid and ferulic acid. It provides excellent emollient, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning benefits.

Marula Oil

Sclerocarya birrea seed oil (marula oil) is extracted from the kernels within the stone of the marula fruit, native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is rich in oleic acid (73%), palmitic acid (15%), and linoleic acid (9%), along with high levels of vitamin E and other natural antioxidants. It has notable oxidative stability and has been traditionally used in South Africa for infant massage and body care.

Oryza Sativa Lipids

Oryza Sativa Lipids are the lipid fraction isolated from rice (Oryza sativa L.), primarily composed of fatty acids including oleic acid (~38%), linoleic acid (~34%), palmitic, and stearic acids, along with antioxidants such as gamma-oryzanol, tocopherols, and tocotrienols. They function as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, softening and smoothing the skin while reinforcing the lipid barrier to reduce transepidermal water loss. The balanced fatty acid profile closely resembles skin's natural lipids, making them well tolerated and readily absorbed.

Safflower Seed Oil

Carthamus tinctorius seed oil (safflower seed oil) is a plant-derived oil extracted from the seeds of the safflower plant. It is particularly valued in skincare for its high linoleic acid content (approximately 70%), which makes it lightweight, non-greasy, and potentially beneficial for acne-prone skin. It also contains vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) providing antioxidant support.