Ingredient Encyclopedia

Welcome to the Ingredient Encyclopedia

Discover what’s inside your skincare — from retinol to aloe vera — with clear guides on benefits, uses, and safety.

All articles active aha alcohol-free alias allantoin almond aloe-vera alpha-arbutin am-routine anti-ageing antioxidant ascorbic-acid avocado azelaic-acid b5 bakuchiol barrier benzoyl-peroxide beta-glucan bha botanical castor castor oil centella ceramides cica cleanser coffee coffee seed oil comparison dry-skin egcg emollient ferment general gluconolactone glycerin glycolic-acid green-tea guide humectant hyaluronic-acid hydration ingredient k-beauty keratolytic kojic-acid lactic-acid licorice-root mandelic-acid matrixyl micellar water moisture niacinamide Nicotinamide panthenol peptides pha plant oil pm-routine preservative retinal retinol rice routine salicylic-acid sensitive skin sensitive-skin skincare squalane surfactant toner tranexamic-acid urea uv uv-filter vitamin-a vitamin-b3 vitamin-c witch hazel zinc-pca

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate is a cleansing/foam-modulating surfactant aiding impurity removal while aiming for comfort. Key Benefits Removes impurities Can be mild depending on formula Common in cleansers Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on formulation Who Should Avoid It?Very dry/compromised barriers—prefer very mild systems How to Use It in a RoutineUse as rinse-off; follow with moisturiser VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Cocamidopropyl Betaine – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Cocamidopropyl Betaine – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a cleansing/foam-modulating surfactant aiding impurity removal while aiming for comfort. Key Benefits Removes impurities Can be mild depending on formula Common in cleansers Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on formulation Who Should Avoid It?Very dry/compromised barriers—prefer very mild systems How to Use It in a RoutineUse as rinse-off; follow with moisturiser VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Cocamidopropyl Betaine suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Cocamidopropyl Betaine with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Sodium Alginate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Sodium Alginate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Sodium Alginate appears in skincare for supportive benefits and texture, contributing to overall product feel. Key Benefits Enhances product performance Texture support Pairs within balanced routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on product type Who Should Avoid It?Patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a RoutineUse as directed VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Sodium Alginate suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Sodium Alginate with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Pullulan – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Pullulan – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Pullulan appears in skincare for supportive benefits and texture, contributing to overall product feel. Key Benefits Enhances product performance Texture support Pairs within balanced routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on product type Who Should Avoid It?Patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a RoutineUse as directed VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Pullulan suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Pullulan with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Hydroxyethylcellulose – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Hydroxyethylcellulose – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Hydroxyethylcellulose is a cleansing/foam-modulating surfactant aiding impurity removal while aiming for comfort. Key Benefits Removes impurities Can be mild depending on formula Common in cleansers Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on formulation Who Should Avoid It?Very dry/compromised barriers—prefer very mild systems How to Use It in a RoutineUse as rinse-off; follow with moisturiser VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Hydroxyethylcellulose suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Hydroxyethylcellulose with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Xanthan Gum – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Xanthan Gum – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Xanthan Gum is a cleansing/foam-modulating surfactant aiding impurity removal while aiming for comfort. Key Benefits Removes impurities Can be mild depending on formula Common in cleansers Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on formulation Who Should Avoid It?Very dry/compromised barriers—prefer very mild systems How to Use It in a RoutineUse as rinse-off; follow with moisturiser VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Xanthan Gum suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Xanthan Gum with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Carbomer – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Carbomer – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Carbomer is a cleansing/foam-modulating surfactant aiding impurity removal while aiming for comfort. Key Benefits Removes impurities Can be mild depending on formula Common in cleansers Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on formulation Who Should Avoid It?Very dry/compromised barriers—prefer very mild systems How to Use It in a RoutineUse as rinse-off; follow with moisturiser VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Carbomer suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Carbomer with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Succinic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Succinic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Succinic Acid is a targeted active that addresses tone, texture, or breakouts while supporting overall skin appearance. Key Benefits Improves look of tone/texture Targets fine lines/blemishes appearance Pairs with daily SPF Who Should Use It?Those with specific concerns like dullness, spots or texture Who Should Avoid It?Very sensitive or compromised barriers—introduce gradually How to Use It in a Routine Start 2–3x/week Apply after cleansing, before creams Use SPF daily VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Succinic Acid suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Succinic Acid with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Phytosphingosine – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Phytosphingosine – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Phytosphingosine appears in skincare for supportive benefits and texture, contributing to overall product feel. Key Benefits Enhances product performance Texture support Pairs within balanced routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on product type Who Should Avoid It?Patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a RoutineUse as directed VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Phytosphingosine suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Phytosphingosine with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Cholesterol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Cholesterol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Cholesterol appears in skincare for supportive benefits and texture, contributing to overall product feel. Key Benefits Enhances product performance Texture support Pairs within balanced routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on product type Who Should Avoid It?Patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a RoutineUse as directed VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Cholesterol suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Cholesterol with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate appears in skincare for supportive benefits and texture, contributing to overall product feel. Key Benefits Enhances product performance Texture support Pairs within balanced routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on product type Who Should Avoid It?Patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a RoutineUse as directed VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Colloidal Oatmeal – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Colloidal Oatmeal – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Colloidal Oatmeal is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Colloidal Oatmeal suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Colloidal Oatmeal with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Oat (Avena Sativa) Kernel Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Oat (Avena Sativa) Kernel Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Oat (Avena Sativa) Kernel Extract is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Oat (Avena Sativa) Kernel Extract suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Oat (Avena Sativa) Kernel Extract with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Black Tea Ferment (Kombucha) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Black Tea Ferment (Kombucha) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Black Tea Ferment (Kombucha) is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Black Tea Ferment (Kombucha) suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Black Tea Ferment (Kombucha) with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

White Tea Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

White Tea Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses White Tea Extract is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is White Tea Extract suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine White Tea Extract with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Willow Bark Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Willow Bark Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Willow Bark Extract is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Willow Bark Extract suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Willow Bark Extract with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Chlorella Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Chlorella Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Chlorella Extract is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Chlorella Extract suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Chlorella Extract with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Spirulina Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Spirulina Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Spirulina Extract is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Spirulina Extract suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Spirulina Extract with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Sea Kelp Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Sea Kelp Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Sea Kelp Extract is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Sea Kelp Extract suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Sea Kelp Extract with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Algae Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Algae Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Algae Extract is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Algae Extract suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Algae Extract with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid