Skincare Ingredients Glossary
Honesty and transparency are at the heart of Clǣne Skincare. We provide realistic claims about our products’ efficacy and clear, factual information about the ingredients we use. This clarity ensures that you can make informed decisions about your skincare, with trust and confidence in our products.
Creating a skincare ingredients glossary with ratings for efficacy and safety provides our customers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. This Skincare Ingredients Glossary list takes into consideration both scientific studies and expert opinions to then rate 100 of the most commonly used skincare ingredients for efficacy and safety on a scale from 1 to 10.
Efficacy is how effective they are when applied topically to skin.
Safety denotes their effect on skin health.
Collapsible content
Aloe Vera
Description: A soothing plant extract with hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Alpha Arbutin
Description: A skin-brightening agent that reduces hyperpigmentation.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Description: Exfoliating acids that improve skin texture and tone.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 7/10
(can cause irritation for sensitive skin)
Arnica
Description: A plant extract with anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 6/10
Safety: 8/10
Artemisia (Mugwort)
Description: A calming and soothing plant extract.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
Description: An antioxidant that brightens skin and boosts collagen production.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 8/10
Astaxanthin
Description: A powerful antioxidant derived from algae.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Azelaic Acid
Description: A dicarboxylic acid that treats acne and rosacea.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Bakuchiol
Description: A plant-based alternative to retinol with regenerative benefits.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Bearberry Extract
Description: A natural source of arbutin that brightens skin.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Benzoyl Peroxide
Description: An antibacterial agent used to treat acne.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 7/10
(may cause dryness and irritation)
Beta Hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid)
Description: An oil-soluble acid that exfoliates and unclogs pores.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 8/10
Bisabolol
Description: A soothing agent derived from chamomile.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 10/10
Borage Oil
Description: An oil rich in gamma-linolenic acid that hydrates and soothes skin.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Caffeine
Description: An antioxidant that reduces puffiness and tightens skin.
Efficacy: 6/10
Safety: 9/10
Calendula
Description: A plant extract with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Camellia Oil
Description: A lightweight oil that hydrates and nourishes skin.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Description: A fatty acid-derived emollient that hydrates and smooths skin.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 10/10
Ceramides
Description: Lipid molecules that restore and maintain skin barrier function.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 10/10
Carbomer
Description: A thickening agent used to stabilize emulsions.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Carnosine
Description: A dipeptide with antioxidant properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Centella Asiatica (Cica)
Description: A plant extract with healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Cetearyl Alcohol
Description: A fatty alcohol that acts as an emollient and stabilizer.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Chamomile
Description: A plant extract with anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Charcoal
Description: An adsorbent that removes impurities and excess oil.
Efficacy: 6/10
Safety: 9/10
Chia Seed Oil
Description: A nourishing oil rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Chitosan
Description: A biopolymer with film-forming and moisturising properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Citrus Extracts (e.g., Orange, Lemon)
Description: Natural sources of vitamin C with brightening properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 7/10
(may cause irritation for sensitive skin)
Coconut Oil
Description: A moisturizing oil with antibacterial properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 8/10
(can clog pores for some skin types)
Coenzyme Q10
Description: A regenerative antioxidant.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Collagen
Description: A protein that improves skin elasticity and hydration.
Efficacy: 6/10
Safety: 9/10
Colloidal Oatmeal
Description: A soothing agent that relieves irritation and dryness.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 10/10
Collodial Silver
Description: An antimicrobial agent used for its antibacterial properties.
Efficacy: 6/10
Safety: 7/10
(use with caution)
Copper Peptides
Description: Peptides that promote collagen production and wound healing.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Dimethicone
Description: A silicone-based ingredient that provides a smooth finish and reduces water loss.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol)
Description: A compound that firms and tightens skin.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 8/10
Echinacea
Description: A plant extract with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Elderberry Extract
Description: An antioxidant-rich extract with anti-inflammatory benefits.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Eucalyptus Oil
Description: An essential oil with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 7/10
(can cause irritation for sensitive skin)
Evening Primrose Oil
Description: An oil rich in gamma-linolenic acid that hydrates and soothes skin.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Ferulic Acid
Description: An antioxidant that enhances the stability of vitamin C and E.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Flavonoids
Description: Plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Ginkgo Biloba Extract
Description: An antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Glycerin
Description: A humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 10/10
Glycolic Acid
Description: An AHA that exfoliates and brightens skin.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 7/10
(can cause irritation for sensitive skin)
Gotu Kola
Description: A plant extract with healing and regenerative benefits.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Grape Seed Extract
Description: An antioxidant-rich extract with regenerative benefits.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Green Tea Extract
Description: An antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Guava Extract
Description: A source of vitamin C with brightening and antioxidant properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Collapsible content
Hemp Seed Oil
Description: A nourishing oil rich in omega fatty acids.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Honey
Description: A natural humectant with antibacterial properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Horse Chestnut Extract
Description: An extract with anti-inflammatory and venotonic properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Hyaluronic Acid
Description: A powerful humectant that hydrates and plumps skin.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 10/10
Hydroquinone
Description: A skin-lightening agent that reduces hyperpigmentation.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 6/10
(can cause irritation and has usage restrictions)
Indigo Extract
Description: A plant extract with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Jojoba Oil
Description: A moisturizing oil that mimics skin’s natural sebum.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 10/10
Kalahari Melon Oil
Description: A lightweight oil rich in omega fatty acids.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Kojic Acid
Description: A skin-brightening agent that inhibits melanin production.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 7/10
(can cause irritation)
Kaolin Clay
Description: A gentle clay that absorbs excess oil and purifies skin.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Lemon Balm Extract
Description: A soothing and antioxidant-rich extract.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Lactic Acid
Description: An AHA that exfoliates and hydrates skin.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 8/10
Licorice Extract
Description: A skin-soothing and brightening agent.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Linoleic Acid
Description: An essential fatty acid that supports skin barrier function.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Magnolia Bark Extract
Description: An antioxidant-rich extract with anti-inflammatory benefits.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Mallow Extract
Description: A soothing plant extract with hydrating properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Mandelic Acid
Description: An AHA that exfoliates and is suitable for sensitive skin.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Manuka Honey
Description: A type of honey with antibacterial and healing properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Marula Oil
Description: A lightweight oil that hydrates and nourishes skin.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Matrixyl
Description: A peptide that stimulates collagen production and smooths skin.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Meadowfoam Seed Oil
Description: A moisturizing oil that forms a protective barrier on the skin.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Moringa Oil
Description: A nourishing oil with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Myrtle Extract
Description: An antioxidant-rich extract with regenerative benefits.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Neem Oil
Description: An oil with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 8/10
(can cause irritation for sensitive skin)
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Description: A multi-functional ingredient that brightens, hydrates, and reduces inflammation.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 10/10
Olive Oil
Description: A moisturising oil with antioxidant properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Peptides
Description: Short chains of amino acids that stimulate collagen production.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 10/10
Pomegranate Extract
Description: An antioxidant-rich extract with regenerative benefits.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Polyglutamic Acid
Description: A humectant that boosts skin hydration.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Collapsible content
Propolis
Description: A bee-derived ingredient with healing and antimicrobial properties.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Pyrithione Zinc
Description: An antimicrobial agent used to treat dandruff and acne.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Raspberry Seed Oil
Description: An oil rich in omega fatty acids and antioxidants.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Red Algae Extract
Description: An extract with hydrating and antioxidant properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Resveratrol
Description: An antioxidant with regenerative benefits.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Retinoids (Retinol, Retinaldehyde)
Description: Vitamin A derivatives that promote cell turnover and reduce wrinkles.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 7/10
(can cause irritation and sensitivity)
Rosehip Oil
Description: An oil rich in vitamin A and omega fatty acids.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Rosemary Extract
Description: An antioxidant-rich extract with anti-inflammatory benefits.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 9/10
Sea Buckthorn Oil
Description: An oil rich in omega fatty acids and antioxidants.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Shea Butter
Description: A rich moisturiser that nourishes and softens skin.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 9/10
Sodium Hyaluronate
Description: A form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeply to hydrate skin.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 10/10
Squalane
Description: A lightweight oil that hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 10/10
Sulfur
Description: An antimicrobial and exfoliating agent used to treat acne.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 8/10
Tartaric Acid
Description: An AHA that exfoliates and improves skin texture.
Efficacy: 7/10
Safety: 8/10
Tea Tree Oil
Description: An essential oil with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 7/10
(can cause irritation for sensitive skin)
Tranexamic Acid
Description: A skin-brightening agent that reduces hyperpigmentation.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Tripeptides
Description: Peptides that enhance skin firmness and elasticity.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 10/10
Turmeric
Description: A plant extract with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Urea
Description: A humectant and exfoliant that hydrates and smooths skin.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
Description: An antioxidant that protects skin from free radical damage.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Willow Bark Extract
Description: A natural source of salicylic acid that exfoliates and soothes skin.
Efficacy: 8/10
Safety: 9/10
Zinc Oxide
Description: A mineral sunscreen agent that provides broad-spectrum UV protection.
Efficacy: 9/10
Safety: 10/10
*This glossary provides a general overview of each ingredient's potential benefits and risks.
It's important to consider individual skin types and concerns when selecting products containing these ingredients.
A list of sources and references used to gather information on the efficacy and safety of the skincare ingredients listed in the glossary:
Scientific Journals and Articles:
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
- The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology
- International Journal of Cosmetic Science
- Dermatologic Therapy
- Journal of Drugs in Dermatology
Books:
"Cosmeceuticals and Cosmetic Ingredients" by Leslie Baumann
"Skin Moisturization" by James J. Leyden and Anthony V. Rawlings
"Handbook of Cosmetic Science and Technology" by André O. Barel, Marc Paye, and Howard I. Maibach
Websites and Databases:
The Derm Review: Provides expert opinions and reviews on skincare ingredients.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR): A scientific body that assesses the safety of skincare ingredients.
Environmental Working Group (EWG) Skin Deep Database: A database that rates skincare ingredient safety.
Dermatologist and Expert Opinions:
Interviews and articles from dermatologists and skincare experts available through reputable health and beauty publications like Allure, Byrdie, and Dermstore.
Research Reports:
Reports and reviews on individual ingredients from organizations like The American Academy of Dermatology and The British Journal of Dermatology.
These sources provide a blend of scientific research, expert reviews, and safety assessments to inform the efficacy and safety ratings of the skincare ingredients. If you need specific details or studies on any particular ingredient, feel free to ask!