Analysis of Cosmetic Formula Ingredient List

Question

Please analyze the following ingredient list for a cosmetic product and explain the function of each ingredient and the overall properties of the formula: Aqua (Water) Isopropyl Myristate C12-15 alkyl benzoate Glyceryl stearate Cetearyl Alcohol Stearyl Alcohol Benzyl Alcohol Sodium Polyacrylate Glycerin Moringa Pterygosperma Seed Extract Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract Cymbopogon Citratus (Lemongrass) Leaf Oil Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel Oil Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Oil Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract Citrus Aurantium Sinensis Peel Extract Carica papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract Psidium Guajava (Guava) Leaf Extract Tamarindus Indica (Tamarind) Fruit Extract Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract Ceteareth-20 PEG - 100 Stearate Laureth-7 sodium benzoate Dehydroacetic Acid Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil Citric Acid Benzoic Acid Sorbic Acid Citral limonene Linalool

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

This product contains a blend of ingredients designed to moisturize, soothe, and potentially offer some exfoliating and skin-brightening benefits.

Key ingredients and their functions include:

Emollients and Texture Enhancers:
- Isopropyl Myristate: A light oil that helps to soften and smooth the skin.
- Glyceryl Stearate SE / Glyceryl Monostearate SE (GMS SE) and Glyceryl Stearate and PEG-100 Stearate: These are emulsifiers and thickeners that help to create the cream's texture and ensure the oil and water parts of the formula stay mixed.
- Cetearyl Alcohol and Stearyl Alcohol: Fatty alcohols that contribute to the thickness and feel of the cream.
- Sodium Polyacrylate: Acts as a thickener and stabilizer, contributing to the gel-like or creamy texture.
Humectant:
- Glycerin: Helps the skin retain moisture, keeping it hydrated.
Plant Extracts:
- Cucumber Extract: Known for its soothing and softening properties.
- Orange Peel Extract (including forms like Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone and Alpha Glucosyl Hesperidin): Can help stimulate blood circulation, potentially reducing the appearance of dark circles, and may offer antioxidant benefits.
- Lemon Peel Bioferment: Works as a skin brightener by inhibiting melanin production and provides antioxidant protection.
- Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract: Provides soothing, hydrating, and healing benefits.
- Papaya, Guava, Tamarind, and Pineapple Fruit Extracts: These extracts contain natural enzymes and acids that can gently exfoliate the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and improve radiance.
- Moringa Pterygosperma Seed Extract: May offer purifying and protective benefits.
- Citrus Aurantium Amara Flower Extract: Likely included for its natural fragrance.
Preservatives:
- Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzoic Acid, Sorbic Acid (including blends like Zinc-Ben): These ingredients are crucial for preventing the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, ensuring the product remains safe and stable for use.
Fragrance Components:
- Various essential oils (Lemongrass, Mandarin Orange, Bergamot, Lavender, Spearmint) and isolated compounds (Citral, Limonene, Linalool) are included to provide the product's scent.
pH Adjuster:
- Citric Acid: Used to adjust and maintain the desired acidity level of the product.

This formulation appears to be a moisturizing cream or lotion with added botanical extracts for soothing, brightening, and gentle exfoliation, along with a system of emulsifiers and thickeners to create a pleasant texture and preservatives to ensure product safety.