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

Micellar Water – What It Is, Benefits & How to Use It

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 11, 2025
Micellar Water gently removes dirt, oil, sunscreen, and makeup without stripping the skin. Learn its benefits, side effects, types, usage tips, and FAQs.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Polysorbate 80 – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Polysorbate 80 – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Polysorbate 80 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 Polysorbate 80 suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Polysorbate 80 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

Polysorbate 20 – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Polysorbate 20 – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Polysorbate 20 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 Polysorbate 20 suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Polysorbate 20 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

Lauryl Glucoside – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Lauryl Glucoside – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Lauryl Glucoside 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 Lauryl Glucoside suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Lauryl Glucoside 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

Decyl Glucoside – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Decyl Glucoside – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Decyl Glucoside 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 Decyl Glucoside suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Decyl Glucoside 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

Coco-Glucoside – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Coco-Glucoside is a mild, non-ionic surfactant derived from coconut oil and fruit sugars (glucose). In the world of cleansing, it is considered a "gentle workhorse" because it effectively lifts oil and debris without the aggressive protein-stripping associated with traditional sulfates. Its molecular structure allows it to create a soft, creamy foam that rinses cleanly, making it a staple in sensitive skin and baby care formulations. While it is significantly less irritating than ionic surfactants, it remains a wash-off agent; its "gentleness" is ultimately determined by the total surfactant blend and the user's cleansing technique. When used correctly—with lukewarm water and followed immediately by a moisturiser—Coco-Glucoside supports a stable skin barrier by ensuring that daily impurities are removed without triggering a cycle of dryness or "oil rebound."

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

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
As we move through 2026, Phytosphingosine has moved from a "hidden support ingredient" to a headline hero for those navigating the "Active Age." Because modern routines are often saturated with high-strength retinoids and exfoliating acids, skin frequently enters a state of "chronic micro-inflammation." Phytosphingosine is unique because it acts as a metabolic signaling molecule. Beyond just sitting on the surface like a wax, it signals to your skin cells to produce more of their own natural ceramides. Emerging data from late 2025 also suggests it plays a role in regulating the skin’s antimicrobial peptides, meaning it doesn’t just fix the barrier—it helps the skin defend itself against external pathogens and environmental stressors more effectively.