When purchasing cosmetics, we often pay attention to brands and efficacy, but ignore the key that really affects the product effect and safety - ingredient formula. Understanding the main ingredients of cosmetics can not only help consumers choose products more rationally, but also effectively avoid common problems such as skin allergies and irritation. This article will take you to a comprehensive understanding of the common core ingredients in cosmetics and reveal the scientific secrets behind beauty.
1. Water-based base: the basic ingredient of cosmetics
In most skin care products, water is the most basic and main solvent ingredient, usually marked as "purified water" or "water". The role of water is to dissolve other active substances, make the formula uniform, light and thin, and suitable for all skin types. In products such as toners, essences, and lotions, the proportion of water is usually above 70%.
2. Moisturizing ingredients: the key to keeping skin hydrated
Glycerin, propylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, etc. are common moisturizers. They have hygroscopicity and water-locking ability, which can help the skin maintain moisture balance and avoid dryness and tightness. These ingredients are particularly important for dry skin and are essential basic ingredients in daily skin care.
3. Oils and lipids: important ingredients for building skin barriers
Lipid substances such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, squalane in cosmetics can form a protective film on the skin surface to prevent water loss, while moisturizing and repairing damaged barriers. In skin creams, body lotions, hand creams and other products, the proportion of oil ingredients is usually high, which is suitable for medium and dry skin.
4. Active ingredients: the core that determines the efficacy of cosmetics
If you are looking for functional products such as whitening, anti-aging, and repair, the key lies in the active ingredients in the formula. Such as:
Vitamin C: Anti-oxidation, brightening skin tone
Niacinamide: Improve dullness and fine pores
Retinol: Promote collagen production, anti-wrinkle and firming
Although these ingredients are used in small amounts, they are powerful and are important factors in determining the differentiation of cosmetics.
5. Preservatives: Ensure product safety and stability
Any water-containing skin care products must add preservatives to prevent bacterial growth. Commonly used ones include phenoxyethanol, potassium sorbate, parabens, etc. The preservative content in compliant formulas is within the international safety standards and is safe for most skin types.
6. Emulsifiers and surfactants: balance oil and water and ensure stability
In lotions and creams, the role of emulsifiers is to evenly mix oily and aqueous ingredients to prevent product stratification. Surfactants are mostly used in cleansing products to help remove grease and dirt. High-quality products often use mild emulsifiers and non-irritating cleaning ingredients to reduce damage to the skin.
7. Fragrances and pigments: auxiliary ingredients to enhance product experience
The smell and color of cosmetics are mostly given by flavors and pigments, especially in perfumes and makeup products. When choosing products, users with sensitive skin should pay attention to whether they are "fragrance-free" and "pigment-free" formulas to reduce the risk of allergies.
8. Thickeners and stabilizers: Optimize texture and use experience
Common thickeners include carbomer, xanthan gum, stearate, etc. They are used to adjust the viscosity of cosmetics, improve the smoothness and texture when applied, and make the products more delicate and easy to spread.
After understanding the basic composition of cosmetics, it is recommended that consumers pay attention to the following points when purchasing products:
Check whether the ingredient list is clearly marked, and pay attention to the ranking and concentration of active ingredients
For sensitive skin, give priority to formulas with simple ingredients, no fragrance and no alcohol
Understand your skin characteristics, such as dry skin needs to focus on oils and moisturizers, while oily skin is more suitable for refreshing and non-acne-causing formulas
Judging products by ingredients is far more scientific and reliable than choosing based on advertisements or brands alone
In modern skin care concepts, paying attention to the ingredients of cosmetics has become a mainstream trend. Whether it is daily basic care or highly functional beauty products, they are inseparable from the composition of raw materials with reasonable proportions and safe control.
Mastering the knowledge of the main ingredients of cosmetics can help manage skin health more safely and help brands and consumers establish a more transparent trust relationship. We insist on science, nature and safety as the core to provide customers with trustworthy cosmetic product solutions.
For more information on ingredient list interpretation, product customization services or industry standards, please contact our professional team, and we will provide you with one-to-one support and advice.
