Below is every ingredient in Elizabeth Arden Advance Ceramide Lift And Firm Night Cream explained, its standout actives, and the side effects reported in research for those actives — analysed for Indian skin.
Flags derived from the ingredient list using dermatology reference data (fungal-acne substrate, comedogenicity, EU allergens). General guidance, not a diagnosis.
Answers are derived from the printed ingredient list and dermatology reference data — general guidance, not a diagnosis or a therapeutic claim.
Calluna Vulgaris (heather) extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties, often included to soothe and protect the skin. It contains polyphenols and flavonoids that may help counteract oxidative stress.
Trifolium Pratense (red clover) flower extract is rich in isoflavones such as biochanin A and formononetin, used in skincare for its antioxidant and phytoestrogenic properties that may support skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging. It is also studied for soothing and conditioning effects.
Linoleic acid is an essential omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid and a key component of skin ceramides that helps maintain the epidermal barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is also studied for normalizing sebum composition and reducing comedone formation in acne-prone skin.
Linolenic acid is an omega-3 polyunsaturated essential fatty acid used in skincare to support the skin's lipid barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss, and provide emollient and soothing benefits. It is also studied for mild anti-inflammatory and comedolytic effects.
Ascorbyl palmitate is a lipid-soluble, more stable ester of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) used as an antioxidant in skincare formulations. It can help protect formulas from oxidation and may offer some skin antioxidant benefits, though its conversion to active ascorbic acid in skin is limited.
Retinyl palmitate is an ester of retinol and palmitic acid used as a vitamin A source and antioxidant in skincare. It is converted in the skin to retinol and then retinoic acid, offering milder anti-aging and skin-conditioning effects than stronger retinoids.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin dryness or barrier disruption with excessive contact | Uncommon | Frequent or prolonged exposure to water, especially hot or hard water, can disrupt the skin barrier and contribute to transepidermal water loss. |
| Irritation from impurities or hard water minerals | Rare | Reactions are attributed to contaminants, chlorine, or mineral content rather than water itself. |
| Mild skin irritation or redness | Rare | Generally considered non-irritating; occasional mild reactions reported. |
| Clogged pores / comedogenic-related breakouts | Uncommon | Often anecdotal; dimethicone is largely regarded as non-comedogenic but may trap debris if skin is not cleansed well. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | True silicone allergy is exceptionally uncommon. |
| Eye irritation on accidental contact | Rare | Transient stinging or discomfort if product enters the eyes. |
| Mild transient stinging or irritation | Uncommon | More likely on broken or compromised skin or at high concentrations. |
| Redness or itching | Rare | Typically resolves after discontinuation. |
| Comedogenicity (clogged pores/breakouts) | Uncommon | May contribute to comedones in acne-prone or oily skin types due to its rich, occlusive nature. |
| Skin irritation or redness | Rare | Mild irritation reported infrequently, often related to impurities or other formulation components. |
| Reaction in tree-nut allergic individuals | Very rare | Although derived from a nut, refined shea butter has minimal protein content; clinically significant reactions are exceedingly rare. |
| Tacky or sticky skin feel | Common | A cosmetic sensation rather than an adverse reaction, more noticeable at higher concentrations. |
| Contact dermatitis or allergic reaction | Rare | True allergy to glycerin is uncommon; patch-test positivity is infrequent. |
| Skin dehydration in very low humidity | Rare | In very dry environments humectants may draw water from deeper skin layers if not paired with an occlusive. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Water Solvent/vehicle | Water is the most common base ingredient in cosmetic formulations, serving as a solvent that dissolves other ingredients and forms the bulk of emulsions and aqueous solutions. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating. |
| Dimethicone Emollient/occlusive (silicone) | Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer used in skincare to soften skin, smooth texture, and form a breathable protective barrier that reduces transepidermal water loss. It is widely used as a base/formulation ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Butylene Glycol Humectant / solvent | Butylene glycol is a small diol commonly used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and viscosity-reducing agent that helps dissolve other ingredients and improve skin feel. It is widely regarded as safe and non-sensitizing for the majority of users at cosmetic concentrations. |
| Butyrospermum Parkii Emollient/occlusive | Butyrospermum Parkii (shea butter) is a plant-derived fat used in skincare to moisturize, soften, and protect the skin barrier. It functions primarily as an emollient and occlusive agent rich in fatty acids and unsaponifiables. |
| Glycerin Humectant | Glycerin is a widely used humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin, helping to hydrate the stratum corneum and support barrier function. It is considered safe and well-tolerated across most skin types and concentrations. |
| Cetearyl Alcohol Emollient/emulsifier | Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol blend (cetyl and stearyl alcohol) used in skincare as an emollient, emulsion stabilizer, and thickening agent. It helps soften skin and keep oil and water phases blended in creams and lotions. |
| Isostearyl Alcohol Emollient/Co-emulsifier | Isostearyl alcohol is a branched-chain fatty alcohol used in cosmetic formulations as an emollient, thickener, and co-emulsifier to improve texture and skin feel. Its branched structure makes it liquid and non-greasy, helping to condition skin and stabilize emulsions. |
| Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a lightweight emollient derived from coconut or palm oil and glycerin, used to soften skin, improve spreadability, and act as a solvent for oil-soluble ingredients. It is well-tolerated and serves primarily as a base ingredient rather than an active. |
| Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter Emollient/occlusive | Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter (cocoa butter) is a fat-rich plant butter used in skincare as an emollient and occlusive agent to soften skin and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is solid at room temperature and commonly used in moisturizers, balms, and lip products. |
| Ceteth-20 Phosphate Emulsifier / surfactant | Ceteth-20 Phosphate is a phosphate ester nonionic emulsifier and surfactant used to blend oil and water phases and stabilize creams and lotions. It functions as a formulation base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Butylene Glycol Cocoate Emollient/skin-conditioning agent | Butylene Glycol Cocoate is an ester of butylene glycol and coconut-derived fatty acids used in cosmetic formulations as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. It improves spreadability and imparts a smooth, soft feel to skin without a heavy oily residue. |
| Isodecyl Salicylate Emollient / skin-conditioning agent | Isodecyl Salicylate is an ester of salicylic acid and isodecyl alcohol used primarily as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent in cosmetic formulations. It imparts a smooth, lightweight feel and may offer minor solvent and texture-enhancing properties rather than active exfoliation. |
| Ceramide 1 Skin barrier lipid / moisturizer | Ceramide 1 (Ceramide EOP) is a naturally occurring epidermal lipid used in skincare to help restore and reinforce the skin's barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is commonly combined with other ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids to mimic the skin's natural lipid matrix. |
| Ceramide 3 Skin barrier replenisher / emollient | Ceramide 3 (also called Ceramide NP) is a lipid naturally found in the skin's stratum corneum that helps restore and maintain the skin barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is widely used in moisturizers and barrier-repair formulations to improve hydration and skin integrity. |
| Ceramide 6 II Skin-barrier lipid / emollient | Ceramide 6 II (a phytosphingosine-based ceramide, also known as ceramide AP) is a naturally occurring skin lipid used in skincare to help restore and reinforce the stratum corneum barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is typically incorporated as part of physiological lipid blends to support hydration and skin barrier function. |
| Calluna Vulgaris Extract Key active Antioxidant / soothing botanical extract | Calluna Vulgaris (heather) extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties, often included to soothe and protect the skin. It contains polyphenols and flavonoids that may help counteract oxidative stress. |
| Chondrus Crispus Skin-conditioning agent / thickener | Chondrus Crispus (Irish moss) is a red algae extract used in skincare as a natural thickening, hydrating, and film-forming agent that provides emollient and moisturizing benefits. It is rich in polysaccharides (carrageenan) that help bind water to the skin and improve product texture. |
| Dioscorea Villosa Root Extract Skin-conditioning / botanical extract | Dioscorea Villosa (wild yam) root extract is a plant-derived ingredient containing diosgenin and is used in skincare for its purported soothing, antioxidant, and conditioning properties. It is sometimes marketed in connection with phytoestrogen-like effects, though topical hormonal activity is not well established. |
| Glycine Soja Sterols Emollient / skin-conditioning | Glycine Soja Sterols are a soybean-derived blend of plant sterols used in skincare to soften skin and reinforce the lipid barrier. They function primarily as emollients and emulsion stabilizers, helping improve skin smoothness and reduce moisture loss. |
| Hibiscus Abelmoschus Seed Extract Skin-conditioning / emollient | Hibiscus Abelmoschus Seed Extract (often called ambrette seed extract) is derived from the seeds of Abelmoschus moschatus and is used in skincare as a skin-conditioning, emollient, and fragrance-related ingredient. It is sometimes promoted for moisturizing and smoothing properties, though robust clinical efficacy data are limited. |
| Trifolium Pratense Flower Extract Key active Antioxidant / phytoestrogen | Trifolium Pratense (red clover) flower extract is rich in isoflavones such as biochanin A and formononetin, used in skincare for its antioxidant and phytoestrogenic properties that may support skin elasticity and reduce signs of aging. It is also studied for soothing and conditioning effects. |
| Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant / hydrator | Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid, a glycosaminoglycan that attracts and binds water to the skin to improve hydration and surface plumpness. Its lower molecular weight allows better penetration than native hyaluronic acid. |
| Linoleic Acid Key active Skin-barrier lipid / emollient | Linoleic acid is an essential omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid and a key component of skin ceramides that helps maintain the epidermal barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. It is also studied for normalizing sebum composition and reducing comedone formation in acne-prone skin. |
| Linolenic Acid Key active Skin-conditioning / barrier-repair fatty acid | Linolenic acid is an omega-3 polyunsaturated essential fatty acid used in skincare to support the skin's lipid barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss, and provide emollient and soothing benefits. It is also studied for mild anti-inflammatory and comedolytic effects. |
| Ascorbyl Palmitate Key active Antioxidant / Vitamin C derivative | Ascorbyl palmitate is a lipid-soluble, more stable ester of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) used as an antioxidant in skincare formulations. It can help protect formulas from oxidation and may offer some skin antioxidant benefits, though its conversion to active ascorbic acid in skin is limited. |
| Retinyl Palmitate Key active Antioxidant / retinoid (vitamin A derivative) | Retinyl palmitate is an ester of retinol and palmitic acid used as a vitamin A source and antioxidant in skincare. It is converted in the skin to retinol and then retinoic acid, offering milder anti-aging and skin-conditioning effects than stronger retinoids. |
| Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate Key active Antioxidant / Vitamin C derivative | Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is a stable, oil-soluble derivative of vitamin C used as an antioxidant that can be converted to ascorbic acid in the skin, supporting collagen synthesis and helping reduce signs of photoaging and hyperpigmentation. It is favored for its stability and ability to penetrate the skin's lipid barrier compared with pure ascorbic acid. |
| Tocopherol Key active Antioxidant | Tocopherol (vitamin E) is a lipid-soluble antioxidant used in skincare to protect skin and formulations from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and UV exposure. It also functions as a skin-conditioning and emollient agent and can stabilize oils against rancidity. |
| Tocopheryl Acetate Key active Antioxidant | Tocopheryl acetate is a stable, esterified form of vitamin E used in skincare as an antioxidant and conditioning agent. It is converted to active tocopherol in the skin, helping protect against oxidative stress and supporting the skin barrier. |
| Erythritol Humectant | Erythritol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) used in skincare as a humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. It also imparts a mild cooling sensation and can enhance the texture and stability of formulations. |
| Glycine Soja Oil Emollient / antioxidant | Glycine Soja (soybean) Oil is a plant-derived oil rich in fatty acids, tocopherols, and phytosterols, used in skincare as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent. It helps soften skin, support the moisture barrier, and provides mild antioxidant benefits. |
| Caprylyl Glycol Humectant / skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster | Caprylyl glycol is a multifunctional emollient and humectant derived from caprylic acid that helps hydrate skin and enhance the efficacy of preservatives in formulations. It is widely used as a stabilizing and conditioning base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Isohexadecane Emollient / solvent | Isohexadecane is a synthetic, branched-chain hydrocarbon (saturated isoparaffin) used as a lightweight emollient, solvent, and spreading agent in cosmetic formulations. It imparts a silky, non-greasy feel and helps disperse pigments and other ingredients. |
| Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil Emollient / skin-conditioning oil | Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil is a plant-derived emollient rich in oleic and palmitoleic fatty acids, used to soften skin, reduce moisture loss, and provide a lightweight occlusive layer. It serves primarily as a base/conditioning ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Solubilizer/emulsifier | PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a nonionic surfactant derived from hydrogenated castor oil reacted with ethylene oxide, widely used to dissolve fragrances and oils into water-based formulations and to stabilize emulsions. It functions as a base/formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Acetyl Octapeptide-3 Key active Anti-wrinkle peptide | Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (SNAP-8) is a synthetic peptide used in topical cosmetics to reduce the appearance of expression lines by modulating neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction. It is marketed as a topical alternative to injectable muscle-relaxing treatments. |
| Sodium PCA Humectant | Sodium PCA (sodium pyrrolidone carboxylic acid) is the sodium salt of pyroglutamic acid and a component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF). It is widely used in cosmetics as a water-binding humectant to hydrate and soften the skin. |
| Trehalose Humectant / moisturizer | Trehalose is a naturally occurring disaccharide used in skincare as a humectant and protective agent, helping retain moisture and stabilize cell membranes and proteins against dehydration and oxidative stress. It is well tolerated and commonly used to support skin barrier hydration. |
| Urea Key active Humectant / keratolytic | Urea is a naturally occurring component of the skin's natural moisturizing factor that hydrates by attracting and retaining water; at higher concentrations it also softens and exfoliates thickened or scaly skin. It is widely used to treat dry skin conditions such as xerosis, ichthyosis, and hyperkeratosis. |
| Homarine HCl Key active Osmolyte / skin-conditioning agent | Homarine HCl is a small zwitterionic osmolyte (a betaine-like compound) used in skincare to help maintain cellular hydration and protect skin cells against osmotic and environmental stress. It functions primarily as a moisturizing and conditioning ingredient that supports the skin's natural water balance. |
| Hydrogenated Lecithin Emollient / Emulsifier | Hydrogenated lecithin is a phospholipid derived from lecithin through hydrogenation, used in skincare as an emulsifier, emollient, and skin-conditioning agent. It also helps stabilize formulations and form liposomes that can aid delivery of other ingredients. |
| Hydrolyzed Potato Protein Conditioning agent / film-former | Hydrolyzed potato protein is a plant-derived protein fragment used in skincare and haircare to form a temporary film that improves moisture retention, surface smoothness, and conditioning. It is valued as a botanical alternative to animal-derived hydrolyzed proteins. |
| Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Conditioning/film-forming agent | Hydrolyzed soy protein is a soy-derived protein broken into smaller peptides and amino acids, used in skincare and haircare for its moisturizing, conditioning, and film-forming properties that can temporarily improve skin smoothness and hair manageability. It is valued for its water-binding capacity and substantivity to skin and hair surfaces. |
| Hydrolyzed Yeast Protein Conditioning/film-forming agent | Hydrolyzed Yeast Protein is a yeast-derived protein broken into smaller peptides and amino acids, used in skincare for its skin-conditioning, moisturizing, and film-forming properties. It can help improve skin hydration and surface smoothness. |
| Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone Emulsifier | Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone is a silicone-based surfactant and emulsifier used to stabilize water-in-silicone (W/Si) emulsions in cosmetic formulations. It helps create smooth, lightweight textures and is common in sunscreens, foundations, and color cosmetics. |
| Lecithin Emollient / Emulsifier | Lecithin is a naturally occurring phospholipid (commonly derived from soybean or egg) used in skincare as an emulsifier, emollient, and penetration enhancer. It helps stabilize oil-and-water formulations and supports the skin barrier by mimicking natural lipids. |
| Phospholipids Emollient / skin-conditioning agent and liposome-forming emulsifier | Phospholipids are amphiphilic lipids (commonly derived from soy or egg lecithin) used in skincare to form liposomes, stabilize emulsions, and reinforce the skin barrier. They also enhance penetration and delivery of other actives. |
| Phytosphingosine Key active Skin-conditioning agent / barrier-supporting lipid | Phytosphingosine is a naturally occurring sphingolipid that helps maintain the skin barrier and also exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly incorporated into moisturizers and barrier-repair formulations to support ceramide synthesis and skin integrity. |
| Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer Rheology modifier / thickener | Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer is a synthetic crosslinked copolymer used to thicken, stabilize, and emulsify aqueous cosmetic formulations. It provides smooth texture and suspension properties in creams, gels, and lotions. |
| Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer Thickener/stabilizer | Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer is a synthetic acrylic copolymer used in skincare to thicken, gel, and stabilize emulsions, providing viscosity control and a smooth texture. It functions as a rheology modifier and film former rather than a biologically active treatment ingredient. |
| Ceteth-20 Surfactant/emulsifier | Ceteth-20 is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of cetyl alcohol used as a nonionic surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer to stabilize oil-in-water formulations. It helps blend water and oil phases and improve product texture rather than providing a therapeutic skin benefit. |
| Cholesterol Skin barrier lipid / emollient | Cholesterol is a naturally occurring lipid found in the skin's stratum corneum that, alongside ceramides and fatty acids, helps maintain the skin barrier and prevent transepidermal water loss. In skincare formulations it functions as an emollient and barrier-repair agent that improves hydration and skin resilience. |
| Oleic Acid Emollient / penetration enhancer | Oleic acid is a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid used in skincare as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent that softens skin and can enhance the penetration of other compounds. It is naturally present in many plant oils and in human sebum. |
| Oleyl Alcohol Emollient / co-emulsifier | Oleyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol derived from oleic acid, used in skincare as an emollient, thickener, and co-emulsifier to improve texture and stability. It softens skin and helps blend oil and water phases in creams and lotions. |
| PEG-100 Stearate Emulsifier/surfactant | PEG-100 Stearate is a polyethylene glycol ester of stearic acid used as a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier to stabilize oil-in-water formulations and improve skin feel. It functions as a formulation base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate Emulsifier/surfactant | Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate is a mild, lactic acid-derived anionic surfactant and emulsifier used to stabilize oil-in-water formulations and improve skin feel. It also has some reported conditioning and antimicrobial-boosting properties. |
| Dicetyl Phosphate Emulsifier / co-emulsifier | Dicetyl Phosphate is an anionic phosphate ester used in cosmetic formulations primarily as an emulsifier and stabilizer, often paired with Ceteth-10 Phosphate to form oil-in-water emulsions. It helps maintain emulsion stability and texture rather than providing a direct skin treatment effect. |
| Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer Emulsifier/stabilizer (thickener) | Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a synthetic acrylate-based polymer used to thicken, stabilize, and emulsify cosmetic formulations, creating smooth gel and cream textures. It is widely employed as a rheology modifier and is not a therapeutic active. |
| Polysorbate 60 Emulsifier / surfactant | Polysorbate 60 is a nonionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol and stearic acid, used to blend oil and water phases and stabilize emulsions in creams and lotions. It functions as a formulation aid rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Polysorbate 80 Emulsifier / surfactant / solubilizer | Polysorbate 80 is a nonionic surfactant derived from sorbitol and oleic acid, used to emulsify oil and water phases and solubilize fragrances and oils in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. It functions as a formulation aid rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Polyquaternium-51 Humectant / moisturizer | Polyquaternium-51 (also known as Lipidure) is a synthetic phospholipid-mimicking polymer used in cosmetics to attract and bind water to the skin, enhancing hydration and providing a smooth, conditioned feel. It is valued for its strong moisture-retention and skin-compatibility, and is often included in moisturizers, serums, and hair care products. |
| Ethylcellulose Film former / binder | Ethylcellulose is a cellulose-derived polymer used in cosmetic and topical formulations as a film-forming agent, binder, viscosity modifier and to encapsulate or control the release of other ingredients. It is considered an inert formulation excipient rather than a treatment active. |
| Beta-Glucan Key active Hydrating soothing agent | Beta-glucan is a polysaccharide derived from sources such as oats, yeast, and mushrooms that functions as a humectant and skin-soothing ingredient. It supports hydration, helps reinforce the skin barrier, and has been studied for antioxidant and wound-healing properties. |
| Hexylene Glycol Solvent / humectant | Hexylene glycol is a small glycol used in cosmetic formulations primarily as a solvent, viscosity-reducer, and mild humectant. It helps dissolve other ingredients and improve product texture rather than providing a direct therapeutic skin benefit. |
| Xanthan Gum Thickener/stabilizer | Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation, used in skincare as a thickening, gelling, and emulsion-stabilizing agent. It improves product texture and suspension of ingredients without contributing active treatment effects. |
| Sodium Hydroxide pH adjuster | Sodium hydroxide (lye) is a strong alkaline compound used in small amounts to adjust and stabilize the pH of cosmetic formulations. At regulated low concentrations in finished products it is considered safe, though it is corrosive in concentrated form. |
| Thioctic Acid Key active Antioxidant | Thioctic acid (alpha-lipoic acid) is a sulfur-containing antioxidant used in topical skincare for its free-radical scavenging and skin-conditioning properties. It is both water- and fat-soluble, allowing it to function across cellular environments. |
| Ubiquinone Key active Antioxidant | Ubiquinone (Coenzyme Q10) is a fat-soluble, naturally occurring antioxidant used in skincare to neutralize free radicals and support cellular energy production. It is commonly included in anti-aging formulations to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and oxidative skin damage. |
| Disodium EDTA Chelating agent | Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent used in cosmetics to bind metal ions, improving product stability, preventing rancidity, and enhancing the efficacy of preservatives. It is a formulation/base ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Cyclohexasiloxane Emollient / silicone solvent | Cyclohexasiloxane (D6) is a cyclic silicone used in cosmetics as a volatile carrier and emollient that imparts a smooth, silky feel and helps spread other ingredients before evaporating. It is a formulation aid rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Cyclopentasiloxane Emollient/silicone | Cyclopentasiloxane is a volatile cyclic silicone widely used in skincare and cosmetics to impart a smooth, silky feel and spreadability before evaporating, leaving no greasy residue. It also serves as a carrier and helps reduce tackiness in formulations. |
| Parfum Fragrance | Parfum (fragrance) is a blend of aromatic compounds added to cosmetic products to impart a pleasant scent or mask the base odor of other ingredients. It serves a sensory/formulation purpose rather than providing any skin benefit. |
| Benzyl Salicylate Fragrance/UV-absorber | Benzyl salicylate is an aromatic ester used primarily as a fragrance ingredient and, to a lesser extent, as a UV-light absorber in cosmetic formulations. It imparts a faint floral, balsamic scent and helps stabilize fragrance compositions. |
| Butylphenyl Methylpropional Fragrance/synthetic fragrance ingredient | Butylphenyl Methylpropional (also known as Lilial) is a synthetic fragrance compound historically used to impart a floral, lily-of-the-valley scent to cosmetics and personal care products. It has been restricted or banned in some markets (e.g., the EU) due to safety concerns regarding skin sensitization and reproductive toxicity. |
| Hexyl Cinnamal Fragrance ingredient | Hexyl Cinnamal is a synthetic aromatic compound used as a fragrance and masking agent in cosmetic and skincare formulations, valued for its mild floral, jasmine-like scent. It is one of the 26 fragrance allergens required to be labeled in the EU. |
| Hydroxycitronellal Fragrance ingredient | Hydroxycitronellal is a synthetic aromatic aldehyde used as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products, valued for its sweet, floral, lily-of-the-valley scent. It serves no skin-treatment purpose and functions purely to add fragrance. |
| Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde Fragrance ingredient | Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde (also known as Lyral) is a synthetic fragrance compound formerly widely used in perfumes and cosmetics for its floral, lily-of-the-valley scent. Due to its high sensitizing potential, it has been restricted or banned in cosmetic products in the European Union. |
| Limonene Fragrance/solvent | Limonene is a naturally occurring monoterpene derived from citrus peel oils, commonly used as a fragrance component and solvent in cosmetic formulations. On exposure to air it oxidizes, forming compounds with greater sensitizing potential. |
| Linalool Fragrance/masking agent | Linalool is a naturally occurring terpene alcohol found in lavender, coriander, and many other plants, used in skincare primarily as a fragrance component. It readily oxidizes upon exposure to air, forming sensitizing hydroperoxides. |
| Isopropylbenzyl Salicylate Fragrance/skin-conditioning agent | Isopropylbenzyl salicylate is a synthetic salicylate ester used primarily as a fragrance and skin-conditioning component in cosmetic formulations. It contributes scent and mild emollient properties rather than acting as a therapeutic active. |
| Benzoic Acid Preservative | Benzoic acid is an organic acid used primarily as an antimicrobial preservative in cosmetic and skincare formulations, most effective in acidic products (pH below ~5). It helps inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold to extend product shelf life. |
| Methylparaben Preservative | Methylparaben is a paraben-class antimicrobial preservative widely used in cosmetics and skincare to prevent microbial growth and extend product shelf life. It is effective primarily against fungi and yeasts, often combined with other parabens for broader protection. |
| Phenoxyethanol Preservative | Phenoxyethanol is a widely used broad-spectrum preservative that protects cosmetic and skincare formulations from bacterial and fungal contamination. It is typically used at concentrations up to 1% and serves as a formulation/base ingredient rather than an active treatment. |
| Potassium Sorbate Preservative | Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, used as a mild preservative to inhibit mold, yeast, and some bacterial growth in cosmetic formulations. It is most effective at acidic pH and is often combined with other preservatives for broad-spectrum protection. |
| Sodium Benzoate Preservative | Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid used as a preservative in cosmetic and skincare formulations to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and fungi, particularly in acidic products. It is most effective at a pH below 5. |
| Sorbic Acid Preservative | Sorbic acid is a weak organic acid used in cosmetics primarily as an antimicrobial preservative, especially effective against molds and yeasts at acidic pH. It is typically used at low concentrations (around 0.1-0.2%) to extend product shelf life. |
| Triacetin Solvent/humectant/plasticizer | Triacetin (glyceryl triacetate) is a colorless ester of glycerin and acetic acid used in cosmetics as a solvent, humectant, carrier, and plasticizer in film-forming formulations. It functions primarily as a formulation aid rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Chlorphenesin Preservative / antimicrobial | Chlorphenesin is a synthetic antimicrobial agent used in cosmetics and skincare as a preservative to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. It is also occasionally used for its mild muscle-relaxant and antifungal properties in topical formulations. |
Key active = does the main work. Ingredient explanations are drawn from public databases & literature.
Peer-reviewed papers on the active ingredients in this product, via PubMed.