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

Ethylhexylglycerin – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Ethylhexylglycerin – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Ethylhexylglycerin helps boost the feel of hydration and comfort, supporting a supple-looking barrier. Key Benefits Hydration & comfort Softens look of dryness Supports barrier-feel Who Should Use It?Dry, dehydrated or sensitised-feeling skin Who Should Avoid It?Few; patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a Routine Use AM/PM after watery serums Seal 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 Ethylhexylglycerin suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Ethylhexylglycerin 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

Phenoxyethanol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Phenoxyethanol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Phenoxyethanol supports product freshness/stability as part of a preservation system. Key Benefits Helps keep formulas fresh Protects against spoilage Improves longevity Who Should Use It?Applies to product stability, not skin type Who Should Avoid It?Specific sensitivities—patch test new products How to Use It in a RoutineFollow product directions VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Phenoxyethanol suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Phenoxyethanol 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 Stearoyl Lactylate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate 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 Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate 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

Glyceryl Stearate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Glyceryl Stearate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Glyceryl Stearate 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 Glyceryl Stearate suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Glyceryl Stearate 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 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

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate 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 Lauroyl Glutamate suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate 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 – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Coco-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 Coco-Glucoside suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Coco-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

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