Cosmetic and Skincare Ingredients Overview

Introduction

• Host: Kenna from YouTube channel.
• Topic: Understanding ingredients in cosmetic and skincare formulations.
• Purpose: Learn what ingredients do, why they're included, and check your own product labels.

Active Ingredients

• Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids

  • Examples: Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, Citric acid, Salicylic acid.
  • Function: Chemical exfoliants; clear pores, remove top skin layer.

• Anti-Aging Ingredients

  • Examples: Retinol, Ceramides, Coenzyme Q10, Peptides, Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide.
  • Function: Wrinkle reduction, skin brightening, promote collagen and elastin production, stimulate cell turnover.

• Antioxidants

  • Examples: Ferulic acid, Resveratrol, Vitamins A, C, and E.
  • Function: Scavenge free radicals, prevent damage to skin proteins and DNA.

• Skin Lightening Agents

  • Examples: Alpha Arbutin, Kojic acid, Resveratrol, Vitamin A, Niacinamide, Vitamin C.
  • Function: Reverse or prevent pigmentation, inhibit melanin production.

• Humectants

  • Examples: Algae extract, Hyaluronic acid, Aloe vera, Glycerin, Honey.
  • Function: Draw moisture, prevent trans-epidermal water loss.

• Over-the-Counter Drug Ingredients

  • Examples: Antiperspirants, Anti-acne, Sunscreen, Anti-dandruff.

Surfactants

• Definition: Surface active ingredients; cleanse and foam.
• Examples: Soap, Coco betaine, Sodium lauryl sulfate.
• Found in: Cleansers, soaps, makeup removers, shampoos.

Physical Exfoliants

• Examples: Walnut shell powder, Apricot shell powder, Jojoba beads.
• Function: Physically exfoliate skin.

Emulsifiers

• Function: Suspend and hold water and oil together.
• Water in Oil Systems
  • Examples: Glycerol stearate, Lecithin.
• Oil in Water Systems
  • Examples: PEG-7 glyceryl cocoate, Polysorbate 20.
• Note: Some emulsifiers named 'alcohol' are actually waxes.

Preservatives

• Function: Prevent microbial growth.
• Examples: Benzyl alcohol, Parabens, Phenoxyethanol.

Stabilizers

• Function: Prevent discoloration, rancidity, protect preservative system.
• Examples: EDTA, BHT, Sodium gluconate.

Emollients

• Function: Soften and smooth skin.
• Examples: Shea butter, Jojoba oil, Silicones.

Thickeners

• Function: Thicken formulations.
• Examples: Carbomer, Xanthan gum, Beeswax.

Solvents

• Function: Dissolve active ingredients, aid absorption.
• Examples: Glycerin, Propylene glycol.

pH Adjusting Ingredients

• Function: Adjust pH level of formulations.
• Examples: Triethanolamine, Citric acid.

Fragrance and Aroma Ingredients

• Listed as: Essential oils, "Fragrance" or "Perfume".
• Note: Components often proprietary and not fully disclosed.

Conclusion

• If you enjoyed the video, like and subscribe to the channel.
• Join the community of "science babes."
• Questions can be asked in comments or via Instagram DM.
• Teaser: Potential merchandise drop soon.