Superoxide Dismutase: Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-aging, Hydration
Categories: Antioxidant, Humectant
Superoxide Dismutase Description
Superoxide dismutase (or SOD) is an enzyme found in the cells of living organisms. It breaks down potentially harmful oxygen molecules, defending the body from the effects of oxidative stress, which makes it a potent antioxidant. In the medical field, studies are underway to see if it can be used as a therapeutic treatment for numerous diseases. Topically, in addition to its antioxidant benefits, superoxide dismutase has shown promise for its calming properties for skin. Emerging science shows that superoxide dismutase extracted from certain plants might even have UV-protective abilities when applied to skin.
Sodium Dextran Sulfate:
Rating: GOOD
Categories: Cleansing Agent
Sodium Dextran Sulfate Description
Dextran Sulfate falls into the polysaccharide class. It is a decongestant, acting as an anti-inflammatory and anti-coagulant. It assist to drains the puffiness from the skin area around the eyes. It helps to increase blood flow in the topical area, therefore increasing drainage and decreasing the appearance sagging.
Watermelon Extract: Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-aging, Hydration
Categories: Antioxidant, Plant Extracts
Watermelon Fruit Extract Description
Extract from the fruit Citrullus lantus, commonly known as watermelon. This plant extract, like most types of melon, is a rich source of antioxidants, including lycopene.
Guava Extract: Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-Aging
Categories: Antioxidant, Plant Extracts
Guava Description
Guava extract is a rich source of bioactive antioxidants including gallic acid, quercetin, and tocopherol.
Glycerin:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-aging, Hydration
Categories: Humectant, Texture Solver, Solvent
Glycerin at a Glance
-Is a skin-restoring ingredient, meaning it is found naturally in skin
-Functions as a humectant, helping skin retain moisture
-A fundamental cornerstone of most moisturizers
-Typically used in concentrations of 5% or less
-Amounts of 10% or greater aid in skin healing
Glycerin Description
Glycerin, also called glycerol or glycerine, is a humectant that’s present in all natural lipids (fats), whether animal or vegetable. It can be derived from natural substances by hydrolysis of fats and by fermentation of sugars; it also can be synthetically manufactured, which is usually the case with modern-day skin care products, as doing so results in highly purified glycerin. Glycerin is a skin-replenishing and skin-restoring ingredient, meaning it is a substance found naturally in skin, helping to establish normal balance and hydration. It’s one of the many substances in skin that helps maintain a healthy look and feel, defending against dryness and working to maintain skin’s moisture level. Essentially, glycerin is a master at hydration, and works best when combined with other replenishing and emollient ingredients. Some people wonder whether using products with glycerin takes too much water from skin when there isn’t enough humidity in the air. This can occur with pure glycerin (that is, at a 100% concentration - an amount that’s never used in skin care products). Any humectant (including glycerin) used in pure form can increase water loss by attracting water from the lower layers of skin into the surface layers when the climate is too arid (low humidity). For this reason, glycerin and humectants are typically used in concentrations of 5% or less and always combined with other ingredients to soften skin. In fact, glycerin combined with other emollients and/or oils is a fundamental cornerstone of most moisturizers. However, amounts of 10% or greater can be used in clinical circumstances for skin healing.
Prickly Pear Extract: Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-aging, Soothing
Categories: Antioxidant, Plant Extracts
Prickly Pear Description: Antioxidant
Ferulic Acid:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-Aging
Categories: Antioxidant, Plant Extracts
Ferulic Acid at a Glance
-Antioxidant that helps defend skin from the signs of sun damage and environmental assault
-Improves stability and efficacy of other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E
-Research indicates ferulic acid can help inhibit discolorations
-Naturally found in plants, such as bran and bamboo
-As a raw material, ferulic acid is supplied as a crystalline powder
Ferulic Acid Description
Ferulic acid is a phenolic antioxidant (a type that intercepts damaging hydrogen radicals) that is naturally found in bran and bamboo shoots, among other plants. Research has shown that it provides its own benefits to skin while also enhancing the stability of other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, when paired with them. Of note, ferulic acid plays a significant photoprotective role, which is one of the reasons it’s a welcome addition in sunscreen formulations. Research also indicates that it has the ability to inhibit certain triggers of skin discolorations, making ferulic acid a nice complement to products that are intended for evening skin tone. In general, it also helps defend skin against environmental assault. Ferulic acid can be used in the types of high concentration chemical peels available in a dermatologist/esthetician setting, where it is usually combined with other acids, such as lactic, to address signs of photoaging. Ferulic acid’s soothing properties are believed to help reduce potential skin-irritating side effects of such peels. As a raw material, ferulic acid comes as a crystalline powder that is insoluble in water at room temperature but reaches solubility in higher water temps. It is also soluble in other types of solvents. Ferulic acid is shown to be most effective at boosting the results from other antioxidants when used in concentrations of 0.5% or greater. It is typically not used above 1%, as doing so can impart an undesirable color to a skin care formula.
3-Glyceryl-Ascorbate:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-Aging, Dark Spot Fadining, Evens Skin Tone
Categories: Antioxidant
Glyceryl Ascorbate at a Glance
-Made by binding ascorbic acid with hydrating glycerin
-Helps visibly fade discoloration by inhibiting transfer of excess melanin
-Excellent skin penetration and easier to formulate with than ascorbic acid
-Not considered as potent an antioxidant as pure vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
-Most effective in a pH between 3–5 and more stable than ascorbic acid
Glyceryl Ascorbate Description
Glyceryl ascorbate is a water-soluble form of vitamin C made by binding ascorbic acid with the humectant glycerin. This compound is considered more stable and offers formulary flexibility because it isn’t beholden to the same narrow pH range for efficacy compared to pure vitamin C (ascorbic acid). This form shares many of the same benefits as regular vitamin C, including being an antioxidant, improving skin tone, helping to fade hyperpigmentation and post-breakout marks, and supporting skin’s firmness. A derivative of glyceryl ascorbate known as 3-O-Laurylglyceryl ascorbate (VC-3LG) has been shown to improve ceramide synthesis in skin which in turn helps strengthen skin’s surface against moisture loss. VC-3LG is also a formidable antioxidant and can help improve skin’s natural antioxidant defenses. Interestingly, although glyceryl ascorbate and its derivatives are very good antioxidants, they’re considered less potent than ascorbic acid, which is less stable in the presence of light and air. This is likely due to the molecular changes necessary to create vitamin C derivatives. There’s a trade-off between greater stability and reduced antioxidant potential. Concentration range of glyceryl ascorbate in skin care is between 1-10%; however, there are no studies showing which percentages are needed for results on discolorations, wrinkles, or skin tone improvement. Instead, some studies imply that the concentrations for such benefits are comparable to pure vitamin C.
Kakadu Plum:
Rating: GOOD
Benefits: Anti-Aging
Categories: Plant Extracts, Antioxidant
Plum Extract Description
Extract of Prunus americana that may have antioxidant activity when applied topically.
Niacinamide: Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-Aging, Pore Minimizer, Soothing
Categories: Antioxidant, Humectant
Niacinamide at a Glance
Famous for visibly reducing enlarged pores and improving dull, uneven skin tone
Boosts skin’s barrier strength and hydration
Helps mitigate negative effects of environmental stressors
Also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinamide
Stable in the presence of light (which is unique for an antioxidant)
Niacinamide Description
Niacinamide (also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinamide) is a unique skin-restoring ingredient that offers a multitude of benefits for skin. It is best known for its ability to help visibly reduce enlarged pores and improve uneven/dull skin tone. It also strengthens a weakened skin barrier. An advantage of niacinamide’s antioxidant power is that it can help visibly repair damage from UV light while offsetting other sources of environmental attack (including the negative impact of airborne pollutants). Another helpful benefit is that niacinamide helps fortify skin’s surface against moisture loss and dehydration by boosting its natural production of skin-strengthening ceramides. Studies have also shown niacinamide has a positive effect on reducing wrinkle depth. Unlike many superstar anti-aging ingredients, niacinamide is stable in the presence of heat and light. It is water soluble and presents as colorless needles or white crystalline powder in its raw material state. Niacinamide offers benefits for skin starting in concentrations as low 0.2%, and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded it is safe in concentrations all the way up to 20%. Myths about niacinamide’s incompatibility with other “bio-active” ingredients have been dispelled, and in fact, research overwhelmingly shows complementary effects of combining niacinamide with other key anti-aging ingredients.
Propanediol:
Rating: GOOD
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Solvent, Texture Enhancer
Propanediol at a Glance
-Also known as 1,3-propanediol
-Improves absorption of ingredients to their boost effectiveness in skin
-May also be used as an emollient, solvent or as support for the preservative system
-Can be derived naturally from corn or created synthetically
-Considered a safe, well-tolerated ingredient, not likely to cause sensitivity
Propanediol Description
Propanediol (also known as 1,3-propanediol) is a glycol that can increase the absorption of ingredients (such as salicylic acid) to improve their effectiveness. Additionally, it offers moisturizing properties that can result in a smooth, dewy finish as the formula sets. Propanediol is a considered a safe, well-tolerated ingredient, not likely to cause sensitivity. Propanediol is a versatile ingredient with additional properties that make it a favorable choice in skin care products, including its ability to boost the effectiveness of a preservative system within a formula. It can also serve as a solvent in a blend of ingredients. Propanediol can be derived naturally from corn or created synthetically. It is a colorless to pale yellow, viscous (somewhat sticky) liquid and is chemically similar to 1,2-propanediol (propylene glycol). In June 2018 the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board reevaluated propanediol’s use in personal care products and concluded that it is safe. For leave-on products it was recorded in up to a 39.9% concentration (for a deodorant) - skin care products generally contain lower amounts than that.
Tranexamic Acid:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-Aging, Dark Spot Fadining, Evens Skin Tone
Categories: Humectant
Tranexamic Acid at a Glance
-Fades discolorations by interrupting pathways in skin that trigger uneven tone
-Beneficial for reducing dark spots and brown/gray patches
-Rivals the results of over-the-counter concentrations of hydroquinone
-May also help reduce skin redness
-Works most effectively in formulas with oil-soluble ingredients designed to improve its penetration into skin
Tranexamic Acid Description
Tranexamic acid is a synthetic amino acid derived from lysine. Topically applied, it works by interrupting at least two pathways in skin that if left unchecked can lead to discolorations (e.g. dark spots, brown/gray patches). It is even suitable for melasma-prone skin. Tranexamic acid also appears to work within skin’s surface layers to make it less susceptible to UV light exposure, which ultimately helps skin retain its youthful appearance (though of course, sunscreen is still necessary for adequate protection). Double-blind and comparative research has shown that topical tranexamic acid in amounts between 2-5% rivals the results of over-the-counter concentrations of hydroquinone, long considered the gold standard for fading skin discolorations. Comparative studies also indicate tranexamic acid has greater tolerability than hydroquinone. Studies show consistent application of tranexamic acid is safe, and with topical concentrations between 2-5%, results typically show after two to three months of consistent use. Research also shows tranexamic acid may help reduce certain types of sensitivity-induced redness in skin. Note: Because tranexamic acid is a water-soluble ingredient, it works best in skin care products with oil-soluble ingredients (such as tocopherol or plant oils) designed to improve its penetration into skin. A new derivative of tranexamic acid known as cetyl tranexamate mesylate also shows promise for a reducing dark spots and redness. However, more research is needed before this can be assessed as thoroughly as tranexamic acid. It’s worth mentioning that tranexamic acid is sometimes prescribed for oral use in low doses to manage signs of melasma.
Tulip Extract Powder:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-Aging
Categories: Humectant
Tulips contain high levels of growth factors that allow the flower to continue to grow even after it has been picked. These growth factors serve as messengers to stimulate activity of skin cells to strengthen the skin foundation and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Mica:
Rating: GOOD
Categories: Coloring Agent/Pigment, Texture Enhancer
Mica at a Glance
-General term for a group of 37 earth-derived silicate minerals
-Often included in cosmetic formulations to impart iridescent or opalescent shine
-May also be used to impart varying degrees of opacity
-Light-reflective quality makes it highly desirable for giving skin a healthy-looking glow
-Mica is considered safe and can be ethically sourced through the Responsible Mica Initiative
Mica Description
Mica is the general term given for a group of 37 earth-derived silicate minerals that are often included in cosmetic formulations to impart sparkle in the form of an iridescent or opalescent shine. The amount and look of the shine depend on the exact mineral itself, how finely it’s milled for use in liquid, cream, or powder products, and how much is added to a given formula. Mica can also be used to impart varying degrees of opacity. Mica’s light-reflective quality makes it highly desirable for giving skin a healthy-looking glow and can even be used to brighten a shadowy under-eye area. Hues of mica cover a wide spectrum of the rainbow, though in cosmetics it is typically used in its pearlescent white form. It is often coated in titanium dioxide, which maximizes the color resulting from iridescence. Mica is considered safe for use in cosmetics, including those applied to the eyes and lips. Its usage concentration range is wide, going from 1% or less (depending on desired result) to upwards of 60%, although even higher concentrations are permitted. Mica can also be synthetically manufactured. In this form it is often referred to as synthetic fluorphlogopite mica or artificial mica—and takes on a different role as a bulking agent to thicken emulsions.
Licorice Root:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Soothing, Dark Spot Fading, Anti-Aging
Categories: Antioxidant, Plant Extract
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract Description
Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root extract is a plant extract that offers skin-soothing properties. In addition, it can be effective in improving the look of an uneven skin tone. One of its components, known as glabridin, is a potent antioxidant and skin-soothing ingredient, which is why licorice often shows up in products meant for sensitive, reddened skin.
Preservative [Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol (and) Ethylhexylglycerin]:
Rating: GOOD
Categories: Preservative, Plant Extracts
Caprylyl Glycol at a Glance
Skin and hair conditioning agent
Can be synthetic or naturally derived
Has formula preservation properties
Ruled safe as used in cosmetics
Caprylyl Glycol Description
Caprylyl glycol is a skin and hair conditioning agent that may be plant-derived (from coconut, for example) or synthetic. It is a humectant, meaning it attracts and binds water to skin. Studies have also found that caprylyl glycol has some antibacterial properties, and that it can help boost the preservative blend used in some leave-on skin care products. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has found caprylyl glycol safe as used in cosmetics in amounts between 0.00003%–5%. Toxicologic testing did not reveal caprylyl glycol to be a skin or eye irritant in amounts commonly used in cosmetics.
Aloe Vera:
Rating: BEST
Categories: Plant Extracts, Humectant
Aloe Vera Description
Aloe vera (also listed by its Latin name of Aloe barbadenis) is a commonly used plant extract that has soothing properties, antioxidant qualities, and serves as a hydrating agent for skin due to its polysaccharide and sterol content. Aloe is a good ingredient, but its benefits tend to be over exaggerated in the cosmetics worlds and more research is needed in regards to its effectiveness for some of the more outlandish or miraculous-sounding claims. In pure form straight from the leaves, aloe vera’s benefits for skin include its lack of occlusion and the refreshing sensation it provides (hence, why it’s in common “after sun” products).
Emulsifying Wax:
Rating: GOOD
Categories: Emulsifier, Texture Enhancer
Emulsifier Description
In cosmetics, an emulsifier includes any ingredient that helps keep unlike ingredients (such as oil and water) from separating in an emulsion. Examples of cosmetics ingredients that function as emulsifiers include polysorbates, laureth-4, and potassium cetyl sulfate. Emulsifiers are widely used throughout the cosmetics industry and are the unsung heroes of many cosmetics formulas that blend and help to keep unlike ingredients together. There is also research showing they can help enhance the absorption of skincare ingredients and may be useful for prolonged topical delivery.
Shea Butter:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Soothing
Categories: Emollient, Antioxidant
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables at a Glance
The concentrated fatty acid and sterol portion from shea butter
A rich source of antioxidant vitamin E + skin-soothing compounds
Helps prevent moisture loss
Visibly repairs dry, compromised skin and lips
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables Description
Butyrospermum parkii (shea butter) unsaponifiables is an emollient, antioxidant, and skin-soothing ingredient consisting of the fraction of shea butter oil that is not saponified during the refining process. Saponification is a process where alkaline ingredients are combined with glycerin and fats to create soap. Generally, unsaponifiable portions of butters and oils are not included in soaps because they have greater value in products meant to be left on skin. The unsaponifiable compounds in shea butter include vitamin E (tocopherol), sterols, and potent antioxidant compounds research has shown have excellent soothing benefits. These qualities make Butyrospermum parkii (shea butter) unsaponifiables ideal for nurturing very dry or compromised skin and lips. The typical usage level of this concentrated ingredient is between 1-5%; however, skin care brands may use more or less depending on the desired aesthetics and benefits of a given formula. As an example, this form of shea butter lends a smooth texture to products which enhances application. This shea butter-derived ingredient is considered safe as used in cosmetics.
Jojoba Oil:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Hydration, Anti-Aging
Categories: Emollient, Plant Extracts, Antioxidant
Jojoba Oil Description
Emollient, non-fragrant oil (technically, a polyunsaturated wax) extracted from the seeds of a perennial shrub. Jojoba oil has been shown to enhance skin’s restorative properties. A plant oil that’s a rich source of numerous fatty acids, jojoba oil can also provide topical skin-soothing benefits. Its texture is similar to the oil (sebum) human skin produces, one more reason it’s a brilliant ingredient for dry skin and potentially problematic for those with oily skin prone to clogged pores and breakouts. Note that jojoba wax is considered more of an issue for breakout-prone skin than jojoba oil. Jojoba oil has the distinction of feeling lighter and less greasy than many other oils, particularly highly saturated oils such as coconut. Jojoba oil is also one of the more stable plant oils in use today.
Avocado Oil:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Hydration, Anti-Aging
Categories: Emollient, Antioxidant
Avocado Oil Description
Emollient oil similar to other non-fragrant plant oils. It has antioxidant properties and is a good source of skin-replenishing fatty acids.
Sunflower Oil:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-Aging
Categories: Emollient, Plant Extracts, Antioxidant
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil Description
Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil is a non-volatile, non-fragrant plant oil used as an emollient in cosmetics. Sunflower seed oil’s 60% (on average) linoleic acid content has the ability to help replenish, strengthen, and soothe skin. This oil also contains other beneficial fatty acids skin can use, including oleic, palmitic, stearic, and a small amount of omega-3 linolenic acid. Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil is particularly beneficial for dry, dehydrated, or environmentally compromised skin because its linoleic acid content helps skin synthesize its own lipids (fats), including ceramides, visibly repairing its barrier and leading to smoother, healthier-looking skin. Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil also has a natural calming effect on skin, so can be helpful for reducing signs of skin stress or irritation. In fact, research on infants with atopic dermatitis has shown that topical sunflower oil is a viable ingredient to alternate with topical steroids normally prescribed to control symptoms of this skin disorder.
Hyaluronic Acid:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-Aging, Hydration
Categories: Humectant, Antioxidant, Texture Enhancer
Hyaluronic Acid Description
Component of skin tissue. Synthetic variations are used in skin care products to function as a superior skin-replenishing ingredient. Hyaluronic acid has restorative abilities and can boost skin’s moisture content, soothe, and defend against moisture loss. It is capable of holding up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, making it an optimal hydrator for all skin types. In addition to its function as a superior skin-restoring ingredient, hyaluronic acid also provides an antioxidant defense against environmental assault. Consumed orally via supplements, hyaluronic acid (both low and high molecular weights) can improve skin’s ability to stay hydrated, visibly decrease wrinkle depth and surface roughness, and help reinforce skin’s protective barrier.
Palmitoyl Peptide-19:
Rating: GOOD
Benefits: Anti-Aging
Categories: Peptides
Argireline at a Glance
Also known as acetyl hexapeptide-8 and acetyl hexpeptide-3
Synthetically derived
Has water-binding abilities and skin-restoring properties
Is considered a neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptide
Argireline Description
Argireline is a synthetically derived peptide that is used in a wide range of skin care and makeup products. Like all peptides, has water-binding properties and skin-restoring abilities. It is considered a neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptide, meaning it could have the ability to target expression wrinkles; however, that benefit has been overstated in certain cosmetics claims (it doesn’t replace in-office wrinkle-smoothing injectable procedures). Studies on topical use of a moisturizer containing a 10% concentration of argireline have shown it does not penetrate beyond the uppermost layers of skin, even after several hours. That means it cannot affect factors in the underlying layers that lead to the formation of expression lines. On the other hand, research has shown this peptide can penetrate further into skin if specific formulary steps are followed, including the type of emulsion (a higher water content showed greater penetration). As always, this demonstrates the importance of selecting well-formulated skin care products to add to your routine.
Palmitoyl Peptide-5:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Anti-Aging
Categories: Peptides
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 Description
A synthetic peptide that is believed to play a role in the appearance of skin firmness.
Panthenol:
Rating: BEST
Panthenol at a Glance
Hydrating ingredient famous for its ability to attract/retain moisture
May also help reduce sensitivity-induced redness in skin
Often referred to as pro-vitamin B5
Converts into pantothenic acid when applied topically
White, crystalline powder in its raw material state
Panthenol Description
Panthenol (sometimes referred to as pro-vitamin B5) is a popular humectant in personal care products due to its ability to attract and hold moisture. When topically applied, it converts to pantothenic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance within the body. Studies show that 1% panthenol quickly increase skin’s hydration, while decreasing transepidermal water loss (the amount of water that evaporates through skin). The overall result is an improvement in the way skin feels and looks, including a more supple appearance. Research also shows promise for panthenol’s ability to reduce sensitivity-induced redness in skin. Topically applied panthenol in amounts between 1-5% has been reported to aid in healing and barrier repair. It’s important to clarify that even though panthenol is the alcohol derivative of pantothenic acid, but it is a completely gentle and non-drying form of alcohol, unlike SD or denatured alcohol, which are known to be damaging to skin. Panthenol is water soluble and “plays well” with many different types of ingredients, making it easy to formulate with for moisturizers, serums, toners, etc. It is also widely used in hair care products and can be found in makeup products, such as powders, mascara, and lipstick. As a raw material, two forms of panthenol can be incorporated in personal care product formulas: D-panthenol is a viscous oil and DL-panthenol comes in the form of a white, crystalline powder.
Red Algae:
Rating: BEST
Categories: Plant Extracts, Humectant
Hydrolyzed Rhodophycea (Red Algae) Extract Description
Hydrolyzed rhodophycea is a type of red algae that, like most other types used in skin care products, helps improve skin's hydration and ability to look healthy while also being a good source of antioxidants. Research has shown the antioxidants in many types of algae, including red algae, help offset the oxidative damage UVB light exposure triggers. Red algae is a rich source of carrageenan, which in cosmetics serves as a natural thickening and gelling ingredient. Interestingly, the structure of carrageenan closely resembles glycosaminoglycans, which are a key part of skin's barrier. In this capacity, the carrageenan in red algae can help deliver other ingredients throughout skin's uppermost layers. Along with carrageenan, red algae is a source of plant cholesterol, whose fatty acid compounds benefit skin.
Glycine:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Humectant
Glycine at a Glance
Amino acid that helps the body create proteins
Produced by the body
Is a skin replenishing ingredient
Chemically is considered the simplest amino acid
Glycine Description
Glycine is an amino acid that helps the body create proteins. Chemically, it is considered the simplest amino acid and is found in many peptides. The body produces its own glycine, but it also can be consumed as part of a person’s diet. Applied topically, glycine (as with all amino acids) is a skin replenishing and hydrating ingredient, meaning it helps skin retain moisture for a more youthful look and feel.
Lysine:
Rating: GOOD
Benefits: Hydration
Categories: Humectant
Lysine Description
An amino acid that limited yet potentially exciting research has shown has the potential to improve the look of multiple signs of aging.
Arginine:
Rating: BEST
Benefits: Hydration, Anti-Aging
Categories: Antioxidant, Humectant
Arginine at a Glance
Amino acid naturally present in the body, considered essential to human development
Offers antioxidant benefits when used as a skin care ingredient
Has hydrating properties
Derivatives of arginine can be used to create cosmetic surfactants
Proven track record of safety in personal care product formulas
Arginine Description
Arginine is an amino acid naturally present in the body, considered essential to human development. As a skin care ingredient, it delivers antioxidant benefits and plays a role in repairing visible skin damage. Additionally, arginine’s hydration properties have been studied in depth. This essential amino acid plays a key role in skin’s natural production of replenishing substances such as proline and urea. Arginine may be animal-derived or synthetic; both are equivalent in terms of benefits for skin, and Paula’s Choice uses the latter. Researchers are currently exploring the use of cosmetic surfactants derived from arginine as a more “biocompatible” alternative to traditional forms. In the realm of hair care, arginine has been shown to decrease damage from oxidative coloring or bleaching processes.
Seaweed:
Rating: GOOD
Benefits: Anti-Aging, Hydration, Soothing
Categories: Plant Extracts, Antioxidant, Texture Enhancer
Seaweed Description
Group of sea plants (scientific name: algae) of all sizes and shapes, and having a gelatin-like consistency. Many seaweeds have antioxidant and skin-soothing properties
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