Ingredients Dictionary
Oryza Sativa Extract
Commonly used in skincare products due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote smoother, more radiant-looking skin.
Plant based?
Yes, derived from the rice plant.
Concentration
Functional Process
Helps neutralize free radicals in the skin and reduces inflammation, which can lead to improved skin texture and appearance.
Side Effects
No commonly reported side effects.
p-Anisic Acid
Has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and is used in skincare products as a preservative and to improve the appearance of skin.
Plant based?
Naturally found in certain plants, but also produced synthetically for various industrial uses.
Concentration
Functional Process
Scavenges free radicals and inhibits the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
Side Effects
Generally considered safe for use in skincare products but may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals
PantheNol
A provitamin of B5 widely used in skincare and haircare products to help improve hydration, soothe irritated skin, and strengthen hair.
Plant based?
Serived from both plant and animal sources, but it is most commonly produced synthetically.
Concentration
Functional Process
Penetrates the skin or hair shaft and converts to pantothenic acid, which is an essential nutrient that helps to improve moisture retention and promote healthy cell function.
Side Effects
Side effects are generally mild and rare, but can include skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
Paraffin
Commonly used for therapeutic purposes to soothe and moisturize the skin, alleviate pain and stiffness in joints, and improve blood circulation.
Plant based?
A byproduct of petroleum refining, not plant-based.
Concentration
Functional Process
Paraffin wax is heated to a liquid state and applied to the skin, where it forms a warm, soothing layer that helps to increase blood flow and relax muscles.
Side Effects
Potential side effects include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and burns.
Peg-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate
Commonly used in skincare products as an emollient and thickening agent to help moisturize and soften the skin.
Plant based?
A synthetic ingredient derived from stearic acid and glucose, not considered to be plant-based.
Concentration
Functional Process
Forms a protective barrier on the skin to help lock in moisture and prevent dehydration.
Side Effects
While generally considered safe for use in skincare products, it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
Peg/Ppg-16/16 Dimethicone
A skin conditioning agent and emollient, which helps to improve the texture and feel of skincare and cosmetic products.
Plant based?
No, this is a synthetic ingredient derived from silicone.
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
Possible side effects may include skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Oil
May have benefits such as reducing inflammation, promoting relaxation, and improving skin health.
Plant based?
Yes, derived from the Pelargonium Graveolens plan
Concentration
Functional Process
May work by interacting with receptors in the body, such as the endocannabinoid and serotonin receptors, to produce various effects.
Side Effects
Potential side effects include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and interactions with certain medications.
Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil*
Commonly used in aromatherapy and skincare products due to its potential properties like anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant.
Plant based?
Yes, it is plant-based oil obtained from the leaves and stems of the Pelargonium Graveolens plant.
Concentration
Functional Process
Potentially reduces inflammation, fighting against harmful bacteria and scavenging free radicals that can damage the skin.
Side Effects
Side effects may include skin irritation or allergic reactions
Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate.
An antioxidant that helps prevent the oxidation of oils and fats in cosmetic products, prolonging their shelf life.
Plant based?
A synthetic compound not plant-based.
Concentration
Functional Process
Inhibiting the oxidation of oils and fats in cosmetic products, helps prevent them from going rancid or developing off-odors.
Side Effects
No known side effects at typical use levels in cosmetic products.
Petrolatum
A common ingredient in skincare products that helps to moisturize and protect the skin by creating a barrier that helps to retain moisture.
Plant based?
No, derived from petroleum.
Concentration
Functional Process
Creates a barrier on the skin’s surface, which helps to prevent moisture loss and protect the skin from irritants and environmental factors.
Side Effects
Some potential side effects include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and clogged pores.
Phenethyl Alcohol
Used as a fragrance ingredient in various personal care products due to its floral and sweet aroma
Plant based?
Can be both plant-based and synthetic.
Concentration
Functional Process
Works as a fragrance ingredient by binding to odorant receptors in the Nose, which produces the sensation of a floral and sweet scent.
Side Effects
Some possible side effects include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and eye irritation.
PheNoxyethaNol
A preservative commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms.
Plant based?
A synthetic compound typically derived from petroleum.
Concentration
Functional Process
Disrupts the cell membranes of microorganisms, preventing them from growing and reproducing.
Side Effects
Some potential side effects include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and contact dermatitis.
PheNoxyethaNol
A widely used preservative in cosmetic and personal care products, which helps to inhibit bacterial growth and extend the shelf life of products.
Plant based?
Can be synthetically produced and is not plant-based.
Concentration
Functional Process
Disrupts the outer cell membrane of bacteria, preventing their growth and proliferation.
Side Effects
Side effects can include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and potential toxicity when ingested or applied in high concentrations.
Phenylalanine
An amino acid important for the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and Norepinephrine. It is sometimes used as a dietary supplement to improve mood, focus, and memory.
Plant based?
Can be found in plant and animal-based foods, such as soybeans, milk, eggs, chicken, beef, and fish.
Concentration
Functional Process
Increases the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help improve mood, focus, and cognitive function.
Side Effects
Some possible side effects include headaches, high blood pressure, and anxiety. Additionally, people with a rare genetic disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU) cannot properly metabolize phenylalanine and should avoid it.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6
Commonly used as a thickener and stabilizer in personal care products, such as lotions and creams, to improve their texture and consistency.
Plant based?
A synthetic polymer, not plant-based.
Concentration
Functional Process
Absorbs and holds onto water, which helps to increase the viscosity and stability of the product it is used in.
Side Effects
Some potential side effects may include skin irritation or allergic reactions, although these are rare.
Polyethylene
A versatile material that is lightweight, durable, and resistant to moisture, chemicals, and impact. It is commonly used in packaging, plastic bags, and as a component in various products.
Plant based?
A synthetic polymer that is derived from petroleum.
Concentration
Functional Process
A thermoplastic material that can be easily molded and shaped when heated. It is commonly used in manufacturing due to its low melting point and high ductility.
Side Effects
Prolonged exposure may cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and eye irritation. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal blockages.
Polymethylsilsesquioxane
A common ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products due to its ability to provide a silky, smooth texture and improve product spreadability.
Plant based?
A synthetic polymer.
Concentration
Functional Process
Forms a thin film on the skin or hair, providing a smooth, silky texture and improving the spreadability of products. It can also help to absorb excess oil and provide a matte finish.
Side Effects
Generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products and does not have any known serious side effects. However, some individuals may experience mild irritation or allergic reactions.
Polyphosphorylcholine Glycol Acrylate
Used in medical and cosmetic products for its biocompatibility, water-holding capacity, and ability to reduce inflammation.
Plant based?
A synthetic polymer.
Concentration
Functional Process
Forms a protective barrier on the skin or in the body, which helps to reduce inflammation and prevent infections.
Side Effects
Some potential side effects include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and inflammation at the site of application.
Polysilicone-11
A silicone-based ingredient commonly used in skincare and haircare products for its ability to provide a silky, smooth feel to the skin or hair.
Plant based?
A synthetic ingredient derived from silicon, a natural element commonly found in rocks and sand.
Concentration
Functional Process
Forms a thin film on the surface of the skin or hair, which helps to smooth out texture and provide a soft, silky feel
Side Effects
Generally considered to be safe and well-tolerated, but some people may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation as a result of using products containing this ingredient.
Polyvinyl Alcohol
Used as a thickening agent, emulsifier, and adhesive in a variety of products, including paper, textiles, and personal care items.
Plant based?
A synthetic polymer.
Concentration
Functional Process
Works as a binder, emulsifier, and thickening agent by forming a film or coating when mixed with water. This film can adhere to surfaces or encapsulate other materials, providing stability and structure.
Side Effects
Generally considered safe for use, but in rare cases, it may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Prolonged or excessive exposure to polyvinyl alcohol can also cause eye irritation and respiratory problems.