Cosmetic Ingredients

Years ago, cosmetic ingredients and cosmeceuticals were considered alow priority for the cosmetic industry. Cosmetic lines were very limited in their offerings, so we were preoccupied with the fact that there weren’t enough suitable shades for all women, and we learned to live with the undesirable results. Things have changed now that the public is interested in learning more about their skin and its functions. Today many cosmetic lines offer an array of shades for foundation, eyeshadow and blush, and we are now interested in gaining knowledge about our skin type and how products affect our skin.

The list below contains information about the main cosmetic ingredients found in products, which can help you understand if a product is moisturizing, drying, irritating, or if it will benefit your skin at all.

◈ Acetone: Commonly used as a solvent in nail care products, such as removers and finishes. Also used to remove acrylic from nails.

◈ SD Alcohol SD: A denatured alcohol that is usually followed by a number and a letter, specifying the class of the denatured substance. Used as a cooling agent and disinfectant for the skin.

◈ Algae/Seaweed Extract: Claims to moisturize the skin and prevent wrinkles. Non-irritating and nontoxic.

◈ Caffeine: Reduces puffiness under the eyes.

◈ Sulfur: An antiseptic used in shampoos, ointments, and some hair care products. May cause irritation of the skin.

◈ Titanium Dioxide: Gives white pigment it’s color in products such as eyeshadows, nail whites, face powder. Blocks UVA/UVB rays.

◈ Triclosan: An antibacterial agent used as a preservative. Used in deodorant products, cosmetic products, and household products.

◈ Vitamin A: Contains skin healing properties, and is used to moisturize the skin. Included in lubricating creams and oils.

◈ Vitamin C: A antioxidant and preservative used in cosmetic products. Necessary for the formation of teeth and bones.

◈ Vitamin D: Contains skin healing properties.

◈ Vitamin E: Also known as Tocopherol, it is an antioxidant used in deodorants and grooming products. Helps prevent sun damage to the skin, as well as a skin moisturizer.

◈ Witch Hazel: One of the most widely used cosmetic ingredients in cosmetic products, it is used as an astringent or skin freshener.

◈ Xanthan Gum: Used as a thickening agent.

◈ Polybutene: Derived from petroleum oils, and is used in lubricating oils and certain adhesives.

◈ Alpha Hydroxy Acid: Removes the signs of skin aging by minimizing discolorations, roughness, and wrinkles. Causes chemical exfoliation of the skin, exposing a fresh layer of skin. Included (to a lesser degree) in skin care products, but higher concentrations have to be obtained with a prescription from a doctor.

◈ Glycerin: Absorbs moisture from the air, so it helps keep moisture in certain products, such as creams and gels.

◈ Hydroquinone: Used in skin whiteners and other skin lightening products, and isn’t sold at more than 2% concentration for over the counter products. Must obtain a prescription to get access to higher concentrated products.

◈ Lanolin: Obtained from sheep oil glands, this material absorbs water and holds it to the skin. A waxy substance that penetrates the skin better than other oils.

◈ Silica: A white powder that is soluble in water, and absorbs oils.

◈ Silk Powder: Used in cosmetic powders as a coloring ingredient to absorb oils and moisture on the skin.

◈ Kojic acid: An antibiotic cosmetic ingredient that is also used as an antioxidant produced by many species of fungi.

◈ Parabens: Preservatives used in cosmetic products that are nonirritating and nonpoisonous.

◈ Triethanolamine: A coating found on the outside of fresh fruit and vegetables that is used in body lotions, soaps, shampoos, and surfactants.

Date: 2016-01-14; view: 788