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.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Sweet Almond Oil – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Sweet Almond Oil is a rich, time-tested emollient that sits perfectly between "light" and "heavy" oils. Its primary strength lies in its high concentration of Oleic Acid (Omega-9), which gives the oil its signature "cushiony" slip and deep softening ability. Unlike thinner oils that disappear instantly, Sweet Almond Oil provides a sustained moisture-locking barrier, making it ideal for skin that feels "papery" or loses hydration quickly. Furthermore, it is naturally rich in Vitamin E (tocopherol) and Phytosterols, which support the skin's structural integrity by mimicking the natural lipids found in the stratum corneum. This allows the oil to "fill in" the microscopic cracks of a dry barrier, leading to an immediate improvement in surface smoothness and light reflectivity.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Grapeseed Oil – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Grapeseed Oil is a byproduct of the winemaking process, but in skincare, it is a nutritional powerhouse. It is distinguished by its exceptionally high content of Linoleic Acid (Omega-6)—often comprising 65% to 75% of its total fatty acid profile. This specific lipid is vital because individuals with blemish-prone or combination skin are often found to have lower levels of Linoleic Acid in their surface sebum. By supplementing with Grapeseed Oil, you aren't just "oiling" the skin; you are providing the building blocks for a thinner, more fluid, and healthier sebum that is less likely to become sticky or congest pores. Furthermore, it contains Oligomeric Proanthocyanidin Complexes (OPCs)—antioxidants that are significantly more potent than Vitamin C and E in neutralizing the environmental triggers of early aging.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Hemp Seed Oil – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Hemp Seed Oil is extracted from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. It is widely recognized in dermatology as one of the most balanced botanical oils because it contains an ideal 3:1 ratio of Omega-6 (Linoleic Acid) to Omega-3 (Alpha-Linolenic Acid). This specific ratio closely mimics the skin’s natural lipid structure, allowing the oil to integrate into the intercellular "mortar" of the skin barrier without disrupting its natural flow. Unlike heavier oils that can sit on top of the skin, Hemp Seed Oil acts as a "fluidity regulator," ensuring the skin remains flexible and soft while simultaneously preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Sea Buckthorn Oil – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Sea Buckthorn Oil (SBO) is often referred to as a "multivitamin for the skin" due to its dense concentration of nutrients. It is the only plant source known to contain all four Omega fatty acids: Omega-3, -6, -9, and the incredibly rare Omega-7 (Palmitoleic Acid). While Omegas 3 and 6 repair the barrier, Omega-7 is a key component of human skin that helps promote the look of "plumpness" and speeds up the appearance of skin recovery. Chemically, it is also loaded with Beta-Carotene (which gives it that sunset-orange hue) and Vitamin E, making it a powerful biological shield against environmental stressors like pollution and UV-induced oxidation.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Evening Primrose Oil – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is a botanical oil extracted from the seeds of the Oenothera biennis plant. What sets it apart from other oils is its exceptionally high concentration of Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), an Omega-6 fatty acid that the human body cannot produce on its own. While most oils simply sit on the surface to prevent water loss, the GLA in Evening Primrose Oil is thought to integrate into the skin’s cell membranes. This helps "re-glue" the skin cells (corneocytes) together, significantly reducing the microscopic gaps that cause sensitivity, redness, and that signature "raw" feeling of a compromised barrier.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Jojoba Oil – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Jojoba Oil is a premium botanical lipid that functions as a biomimetic wax ester. While commonly referred to as an oil, it is chemically a liquid wax that mirrors approximately 25-30% of human sebum. This unique structural harmony allows Jojoba to penetrate the follicular openings and integrate with the skin's natural lipid mantle without the "heavy" occlusion of traditional triglyceride oils (like Coconut or Olive oil). By providing non-comedogenic emolliency, Jojoba Oil supports the skin's moisture barrier, smooths the stratum corneum, and provides a breathable protective seal that reduces Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL).

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Cocoa Butter – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Cocoa Butter is a dense, plant-derived lipid renowned for its high concentration of saturated fatty acids, specifically stearic and palmitic acids. Unlike lightweight oils that absorb instantly, Cocoa Butter functions as a semi-occlusive emollient, creating a breathable "lipid seal" on the skin's surface. This seal mimics the skin’s natural barrier to significantly reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), making it a classic remedy for chronic dryness, flaking, and environmental damage. While it is incredibly stable and protective, its rich molecular weight makes it best suited for Dry to Very Dry skin types; those with oily or acne-prone skin should reserve it for body care to avoid potential congestion.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Shea Butter – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Shea Butter is a complex botanical lipid extracted from the nuts of the African Shea tree. Unlike simple oils, it contains a significant unsaponifiable fraction—rich in phytosterols and tocopherols—that provides deep skin-conditioning benefits beyond basic moisture sealing. It functions as a high-performance emollient and occlusive, mimicking the skin’s natural lipid matrix to "plug" gaps in the stratum corneum. This makes it an essential tool for repairing a compromised barrier, particularly after over-exfoliation or exposure to harsh, drying climates. While it is a "gold standard" for Dry, Sensitive, and Mature skin, its rich concentration of stearic and oleic acids means it should be used strategically—prioritizing hydration underneath to ensure moisture is trapped rather than just sitting on a dry surface

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Tocopherol (Vitamin E) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Tocopherol, widely known as Vitamin E, is a fat-soluble antioxidant that serves two critical roles in skincare: protecting the product and protecting the skin. In the bottle, it prevents oils from oxidizing (turning rancid), ensuring the formula remains stable and non-irritating. On the skin, it integrates into the lipid barrier to provide antioxidant defense and a "cushioned" emollient feel. Because it is lipid-soluble, it excels at reducing the "stressed, tight" sensation common in barrier-impaired routines. It is rarely the star of the show, but it is the ultimate "supporting actor," making high-potency actives like Retinol and Vitamin C easier to tolerate by reinforcing the skin’s natural comfort levels and preventing oxidative stress.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Dimethicone – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Dimethicone is a high-molecular-weight silicone polymer that serves as one of the most effective, non-reactive skin protectants in modern dermatology. Unlike oils that may soak into the upper layers, Dimethicone remains on the skin's surface to form a breathable, flexible film. This microscopic "shield" performs three vital functions: it fills in the gaps between flaky skin cells for an instant smoothing effect, significantly reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by trapping moisture, and lowers surface friction to prevent mechanical irritation from clothing or touch. Because it is chemically inert and too large to penetrate the skin, it is exceptionally well-tolerated by Sensitive and Reactive skin types, providing the comfort of an occlusive without the heavy, "suffocating" feel of traditional waxes or petrolatum.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Cetearyl Alcohol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Cetearyl Alcohol is a waxy, solid fatty alcohol that bears no biological or chemical resemblance to drying, volatile alcohols like Ethanol or Isopropyl. It is a dual-purpose ingredient: it acts as an emollient to soften the skin and as an emulsifier to keep oil and water phases from separating. By reinforcing the formula's structure, it provides a "cushiony" slip that reduces surface friction during application—a critical benefit for sensitive or "raw" skin. Rather than stripping the barrier, Cetearyl Alcohol integrates into the skin's surface to help trap moisture and improve the overall spreadability of a routine, ensuring that active ingredients are delivered in a comfortable, non-irritating base.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a specialized ester derived from glycerin and coconut or palm kernel fatty acids. Often confused with coconut oil, it is structurally distinct—all the heavy, potentially pore-clogging components of the oil have been removed, leaving a purified, low-viscosity lipid. It functions as a "dry" emollient, providing the skin with a silky, cushioned feel without the lingering oiliness or shine of raw plant oils. Because it closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum lipids, it integrates seamlessly into the stratum corneum, filling in gaps between dry cells to instantly restore softness and flexibility. It is the ultimate "texture balancer," allowing rich barrier creams to spread effortlessly and sunscreens to lose their traditional "greasy" finish.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Sorbitol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol-derived humectant that serves as a foundational hydration-support ingredient. While more famous humectants like Hyaluronic Acid grab the headlines, Sorbitol is prized by formulators for its unique "cushioning" effect. It works by attracting water molecules to the skin's surface, but unlike some humectants that can feel tacky or "tight" as they dry, Sorbitol maintains a smooth, silky slip. It is particularly effective in cleansers and rinse-off products, where it helps prevent the "squeaky-clean" stripped feeling by leaving a microscopic veil of moisture behind. Because it is chemically stable and non-reactive, it is an ideal companion for sensitive skin and acts as a texture-smoother in layered routines.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Trehalose – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Trehalose is a naturally occurring disaccharide (sugar) renowned for its remarkable ability to mimic the "Anhydrobiosis" process—the survival mechanism used by desert plants to endure extreme drought. In skincare, Trehalose acts as a high-performance humectant that goes beyond simple hydration. It forms a protective complex that stabilizes cell membranes and proteins, effectively "locking" the skin’s structure in place when faced with dehydration, heat, or cold. This makes it an essential ingredient for environmental protection, ensuring that skin remains flexible and "cushioned" even in harsh conditions like dry air conditioning or winter winds.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Sodium PCA – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Sodium PCA (Sodium Pyrrolidone Carboxylate) is a high-performance humectant that serves as a cornerstone of your skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). While most humectants are foreign molecules that attract water from the outside, Sodium PCA is "skin-identical"—it is already naturally present in your skin cells to maintain hydration and elasticity. It is exceptionally hygroscopic, meaning it can hold several times its weight in water, yet it possesses a unique, non-sticky finish that makes it superior to traditional glycerin for those who dislike a heavy feel. By replenishing the NMF, Sodium PCA doesn't just "wet" the surface; it restores the skin's internal ability to remain flexible and resilient against environmental stress.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Pentylene Glycol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Pentylene Glycol is a high-performance diol (a liquid humectant) that serves as a cornerstone for "elegant" skincare formulations. Unlike glycerin, which can sometimes feel heavy or sticky, Pentylene Glycol provides a weightless, silky finish while effectively binding moisture to the skin. Its unique molecular structure makes it a dual-threat: it acts as a penetration enhancer, helping other active ingredients reach deeper into the skin, and as a preservative booster. By making the environment hostile for bacteria, it allows brands to use fewer traditional preservatives, making it a favorite for Sensitive-Skin and minimalist formulas.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Butylene Glycol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Butylene Glycol is a versatile, water-soluble diol (humectant) that serves as the structural backbone of high-performance skincare. While it lacks the "marketing buzz" of fancy botanicals, it is essential for ingredient solubility—ensuring that actives like Niacinamide or Salicylic Acid are dissolved evenly throughout a formula rather than clumping. It provides a weightless, non-greasy "slip" that eliminates the tackiness found in cheaper glycerin-heavy products. By acting as a penetration enhancer, Butylene Glycol helps water-based actives bypass the skin’s oily surface layer, delivering hydration and treatment exactly where they are needed most.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Propylene Glycol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Propylene Glycol is a versatile, low-molecular-weight diol (humectant) that serves as one of the most reliable multi-taskers in skincare. While it is often unfairly scrutinized, its primary role is to act as a solvent and delivery vehicle, ensuring that active ingredients remain stable and are distributed evenly across the skin. Its small molecular size allows it to penetrate the surface layer more efficiently than larger humectants, carrying hydration and actives deeper into the stratum corneum. It provides a "slippery" glide that makes products feel effortless to apply, and unlike drying alcohols, it leaves behind a subtle, hydrated finish that prevents the "tight" sensation common in treatment-heavy routines.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Amino Acids Complex – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Amino Acids Complex is a biomimetic blend of the skin's natural "micro-sponges." While other ingredients force change, amino acids provide infrastructure support by replicating the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). Functioning as osmolytes, these molecules help skin cells maintain water balance under environmental stress—such as dry air-conditioning or harsh winds. Rather than a heavy coating, they provide a weightless, "skin-identical" hydration that restores flexibility to the stratum corneum. For those using high-strength retinoids or acids, an Amino Acids Complex acts as a biological buffer, improving skin tolerance and reducing the "reactive sting" often associated with active-heavy routines.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Polyglutamic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Polyglutamic Acid (PGA) is a high-performance biopolymer produced via fermentation that has revolutionized the "surface-glow" category of skincare. While Hyaluronic Acid is famous for pulling moisture into the skin, PGA is valued for its ability to form a breathable, hydration-preserving film that prevents water from escaping. With a molecular size typically larger than HA, it sits primarily at the surface to smooth micro-texture and provide an immediate "cushiony" bounce. Beyond simple hydration, PGA has been shown to inhibit the enzyme (hyaluronidase) that breaks down the skin's natural hyaluronic acid, effectively acting as a hydration stabilizer that makes your entire routine last longer.