Ingredient Analysis of Multi-Functional Skincare Formulation
Question
Based on the following ingredient list, what are the functions of each ingredient and what type of product is this formulation likely to be?
- Aqua
- Zinc Oxide
- Titanium Dioxide
- Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice
- Dicaprylyl Ether
- Glycerine
- Caprylic/capric triglycerides
- Squalane
- Triisostearin
- Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
- Sorbitan Isostearate
- Betaine
- Glyceryl Caprylate
- Gluconolactone
- Sodium Hyaluronate
- Leontopodium Alpinum Callus Culture Extract
- Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract
- Malva Sylvestris Leaf Extract
- Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
- Mentha Piperita Leaf Extract
- Veronica Officinalis Leaf Extract
- Achillea Millefolium Extract
- Primula Veris Extract
- Epilobium Fleischeri Extract
- Ceramides 3
- Ceramides 6
- Phytosphingosine
- Tocopherol
- Bisabolol
- Isostearic Acid
- Stearic Acid
- Alumina
- Glyceryl Tribehenate
- sodium benzoate
Answer
This product appears to be a multi-functional skincare formulation, likely a serum, cream, or lotion, designed to provide hydration, support the skin barrier, soothe irritation, and offer some level of protection.
Here's a breakdown of some key ingredients and their functions:
UV Filters:
- Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are mineral UV filters that help protect the skin from the sun's rays.
Skin Barrier Support & Moisturizers:
- Ceramides (Ceramides 3, Ceramides 6, and those in Ceracare™ Liposome-3) and Phytosphingosine are crucial components of the skin's natural barrier. They help to strengthen the barrier, reduce moisture loss, and protect against external irritants. Ceracare™ Liposome-3 specifically uses a liposomal structure to enhance the delivery and effectiveness of ceramides and phytosphingosine.
- Squalane (Olive) is an antioxidant and emollient that mimics the skin's natural sebum, providing moisture and improving skin flexibility without feeling greasy.
- Glycerine, Betaine, and Sodium Hyaluronate are humectants that draw moisture into the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and plump.
- Caprylic/capric triglycerides, Dicaprylyl Ether, Triisostearin, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Isostearic Acid, Stearic Acid, and Glyceryl Tribehenate act as emollients and emulsifiers, providing a smooth texture, preventing water loss, and helping the oil and water phases of the product mix together.
Soothing & Anti-inflammatory:
- Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice is well-known for its soothing, moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Bisabolol (Alpha Bisabolol), derived from chamomile, is effective at reducing irritation and redness.
- Several Plant Extracts (Leontopodium Alpinum Callus Culture Extract, Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract, Malva Sylvestris Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Mentha Piperita Leaf Extract, Veronica Officinalis Leaf Extract, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Primula Veris Extract, Epilobium Fleischeri Extract) likely contribute various benefits, including soothing, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning effects.
Gentle Exfoliation/Skin Renewal:
- Gluconolactone is a Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) that provides gentle exfoliation, helping to improve skin texture and tone, and also acts as a humectant and antioxidant.
Antioxidant:
- Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage.
Other Ingredients:
- Aqua is the base solvent.
- Glyceryl Caprylate is an emollient with some antimicrobial properties.
- Alumina can be used for texture or stability.
- Sodium Benzoate is a preservative.
Overall, this formulation is designed to hydrate, repair and strengthen the skin barrier, calm irritation, and provide antioxidant protection, making it suitable for sensitive, dry, or aging skin, and potentially offering some protection from UV exposure.
Related Products Mentioned
Squalane (Olive)
Vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopherol)
Natural PHA (Gluconolactone)
Phytosphingosine (90% Purity)