Ingredients Dictionary
Coco-Glucoside
A mild, non-ionic surfactant used as a foaming and cleansing agent in personal care and cleaning products.
Plant based?
Yes. Typically plant-based and derived from coconut oil and glucose.
Concentration
Functional Process
Reduces the surface tension of water, allowing it to spread more easily and penetrate into soils and stains.
Side Effects
No known side effects are associated with using coco-glucoside in personal care and cleaning products.
Copper Gluconate
A dietary supplement that may support the immune system, contribute to the maintenance of healthy bones and cartilage, and aid in the production of energy.
Plant based?
Can be derived from both plant and animal sources, but the supplement itself is not plant-based or vegan, as it often contains animal-derived ingredients.
Concentration
Functional Process
An essential mineral that helps with various functions in the body, such as forming red blood cells, maintaining nerve cells, and supporting the immune system.
Side Effects
Side effects of taking in excess may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, and liver damage.
Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract
Used in skincare as a soothing and hydrating ingredient.
Plant based?
Yes. Derived from the cucumber fruit.
Concentration
Functional Process
Provides hydration and soothing to the skin. It also contains antioxidants that can help protect against environmental stressors.
Side Effects
Generally considered safe and does not have any known side effects.
CyaNocobalamin
A form of Vitamin B12 commonly used to treat and prevent Vitamin B12 deficiency, pernicious anemia, and other related conditions.
Plant based?
Not plant-based, as it is produced by bacteria in the soil and synthesized for use in supplements and fortified foods.
Concentration
Functional Process
Converts into the active form of Vitamin B12, which plays a crucial role in many processes in the body, including red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis.
Side Effects
Common side effects include diarrhea, itching, and swelling, while more serious side effects can include anaphylaxis and pulmonary edema.
Cyclohexasiloxane
A widely used silicone ingredient in personal care and cosmetic products that provides a smooth and silky feel to the skin.
Plant based?
A synthetic compound. Not plant-based.
Concentration
Functional Process
Creates a barrier on the skin, which helps to trap moisture and prevent water loss.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and environmental concerns due to its non-biodegradable nature.
Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract
A natural source of vitamins and antioxidants that can help nourish and protect the skin.
Plant based?
Yes, carrot root extract is plant-based.
Concentration
Functional Process
Provides antioxidants and nutrients to the skin, helping to improve its overall health and appearance.
Side Effects
Side effects are rare but may include skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
Decyl Oleate
A commonly used cosmetic ingredient that acts as an emollient, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth.
Plant based?
Ccan be derived from both plant and animal sources, with plant-based versions typically preferred in natural and vegan formulations.
Concentration
Functional Process
Forms a thin, protective layer on the surface of the skin to prevent moisture loss, while also providing a lubricating effect to help smooth and soften the skin.
Side Effects
No known side effects in cosmetic formulations.
Dehydroacetic Acid
A preservative used in cosmetics to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Plant based?
Can be plant-derived or synthetically produced.
Concentration
Functional Process
Disrupts the metabolic processes of microorganisms, preventing their growth and proliferation.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Dextrin
A source of dietary fiber and may aid in digestion and weight management.
Plant based?
Yes, dextrin is plant-based.
Concentration
Functional Process
Absorbs water in the digestive tract, adding bulk to stool and promoting regular bowel movements.
Side Effects
Side effects of consuming dextrin may include bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Dicaprylyl Ether
A lightweight and non-greasy emollient that helps improve the texture and feel of skin and hair products. It provides a silky smooth finish and enhances the spreadability of formulations.
Plant based?
Derived from both synthetic and natural sources. However, it is predominantly derived from natural sources like coconut oil.
Concentration
Functional Process
Works as an emollient by forming a thin layer on the skin or hair, which helps to reduce water loss and increase hydration. It also improves the solubility and delivery of other active ingredients in the formulation.
Side Effects
Considered safe for use in cosmetic products and is generally well-tolerated. However, in rare cases, it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Dimethicone
A silicone-based ingredient commonly used in personal care products to provide a protective barrier on the skin, improve texture, and enhance product spreadability.
Plant based?
Dimethicone is a synthetic compound derived from silica, not plant-based.
Concentration
Functional Process
Forms a barrier on the skin’s surface, which helps to prevent moisture loss and protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Side Effects
Side effects of using products containing dimethicone are rare but can include skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
A skin conditioning agent commonly used in cosmetics for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe and hydrate the skin.
Plant based?
Yes. Derived from licorice root, making it a plant-based ingredient.
Concentration
Functional Process
Inhibits the production of enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, thereby promoting skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to calm and soothe irritated skin.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and skin discoloration with prolonged use.
Disodium Edta
Used as a preservative and chelating agent in food, cosmetics, and personal care products to improve their stability and shelf life.
Plant based?
No, this is a synthetic compound.
Concentration
Functional Process
Binds with metal ions such as calcium and magnesium, which can cause deterioration and discoloration in products. By chelating these metal ions, disodium EDTA helps improve the stability and appearance of the products.
Side Effects
Generally considered safe when used in the recommended concentrations, but it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people.
Dunaliella Salina Extract
Known for its antioxidant properties and is used in various cosmetic products to protect the skin from environmental stressors and promote anti-aging effects.
Plant based?
Yes. A plant-based extract derived from a type of algae that grows in high-salt environments.
Concentration
Functional Process
Provides antioxidant protection to the skin, helping to prevent damage caused by free radicals and environmental stressors. It can also help to promote the production of collagen, a protein that is essential for maintaining healthy skin.
Side Effects
No known side effects are associated with the use of dunaliella salina extract in cosmetic products.
Eucalyptus Globulus (Eucalyptus) Leaf Oil
Has potential benefits in aromatherapy, as a natural insect repellent, and as an anti-inflammatory agent for respiratory ailments.
Plant based?
Yes. Plant-based and extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree.
Concentration
Functional Process
Releases a strong, pleasant scent and providing anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects when used topically or inhaled.
Side Effects
Side effects may include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and respiratory distress if ingested or inhaled in excessive amounts.
Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Bud Oil*
Has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. It can be used to treat dental pain, respiratory infections, and skin issues.
Plant based?
Yes. Plant-based as it is extracted from the buds of the clove plant.
Concentration
Functional Process
Contains eugenol, a compound that has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It works by numbing the area and reducing inflammation.
Side Effects
Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, and can be toxic if ingested in large amounts.
Farnesol
Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it useful in personal care and cosmetic products.
Plant based?
A naturally occurring compound found in plants such as jasmine, ylang-ylang, and orange blossom.
Concentration
Functional Process
Inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi on the skin’s surface, preventing unpleasant odors and infections.
Side Effects
Side effects are rare, but can include skin irritation, redness, and allergic reactions in some individuals.
Fragrance (Parfum)
Fragrance adds a pleasant scent to products and can improve their overall experience. It can also evoke emotions and memories.
Plant based?
Can be plant-based or synthetic and often a combination of both.
Concentration
Functional Process
Evaporates into the air and is detected by the olfactory system in the nose, which sends signals to the brain to perceive a scent.
Side Effects
Possible side effects of fragrance include allergies, skin irritation, and respiratory irritation.
Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf Extract
Commonly used in topical pain relievers due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Plant based?
Yes. A plant-based ingredient derived from the wintergreen plant.
Concentration
Functional Process
Inhibits the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing inflammation and pain in the body.
Side Effects
Side effects may include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and stomach upset if ingested.
Geraniol
Shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It may also have potential as a cancer-fighting agent.
Plant based?
Yes. A naturally occurring compound found in many plants, including rose, geranium, and lemon.
Concentration
Functional Process
Interacts with cell membranes and inhibits the growth of certain bacteria and fungi. It may also help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
Side Effects
Some reported side effects include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and respiratory irritation when inhaled in high concentrations. However, these side effects are rare and generally mild.