Common Cosmetic Ingredients and Their Functions

Here is a breakdown of the common cosmetic ingredients you listed and their typical functions in formulations:

• Allantoin: This ingredient is known for its soothing and anti-irritating properties. It helps reduce skin irritation and supports the regeneration of new tissue. It can be used in various skincare products, including those for sensitive skin and baby products, as well as in hair and scalp care.

• Benzophenone-3: Also known as Oxybenzone, this is a chemical sunscreen agent that absorbs UV radiation to protect the skin from sun damage.

• C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate: This functions as an emollient, providing a smooth feel to the skin. It also acts as a solvent, helping to dissolve other ingredients in a formulation. Some forms are available as a gel base.

• Glyceryl Stearate and PEG-100 Stearate: This combination is commonly used as an emulsifier. Emulsifiers help to mix oil and water phases in a formulation, creating stable creams and lotions.

• Hydrogenated Polydecene: This is an emollient that provides a smooth texture, similar to mineral oil, but is often used as an alternative. It is stable and resistant to oxidation, making it suitable as a solvent or dispersant in various formulations.

• Phenoxyethanol: This is a widely used preservative in cosmetics. It helps prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, extending the shelf life of products. It is often used as an alternative to parabens and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.

• Propylene Glycol: This ingredient serves multiple purposes, including acting as a humectant (helping the skin retain moisture), a lubricant, and a solvent. It helps to improve the texture of products and stabilize formulations.

• Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate: This functions as a thickener and stabilizer in cosmetic formulations, helping to create desired textures in creams, lotions, and gels.

• Stearic Acid: A common fatty acid used in skincare products like creams and lotions. It acts as a thickening agent and an emulsifier, contributing to the texture and stability of the product.

• Titanium Dioxide: This mineral is used as both a white pigment and a UV filter in sunscreens and makeup. Different particle sizes and coatings can affect its transparency and ease of dispersion.

• Trideceth-10: This ingredient is typically used as an emulsifier or surfactant, helping to blend ingredients and improve product texture.

• CI 77492 (Iron Oxides Yellow) and CI 77491 (Iron Oxides Red): These are colorants derived from iron oxides, commonly used in makeup products like foundations and powders to provide color.

• Dimethicone: A type of silicone that acts as an emollient, providing a smooth and silky feel to the skin. It is often used in creams, lotions, and hair conditioners.

• CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide): This is another designation for Titanium Dioxide when used as a white pigment or colorant in cosmetics, in addition to its use as a UV filter.