The Probiotic Concentrate

The base most products are built on. It carries the other ingredients and has no safety concern.

A probiotic-derived ferment lysate containing amino acids and polysaccharides. Limited published research suggests it may benefit skin hydration, though the cosmetic evidence base is smaller than for established ingredients.

A humectant that draws water into the skin. One of the best-studied, best-tolerated ingredients in personal care.

A fatty alcohol derived from arachis oil or synthesized, used as an emollient and emulsifier in creams and lotions. It is well tolerated and graded safe for cosmetic use.

A long-chain fatty alcohol used to thicken and stabilize creams and soften skin. It is a waxy emollient, not a drying solvent, and is graded low concern in published assessments.

An amino acid derived emulsifier made from stearic acid and glutamic acid that is increasingly used in natural and clean formulations. It is mild, biodegradable, and presents no known safety concerns for cosmetic use.

A sugar-derived emulsifier that bridges oils and water in skincare formulas. It is gentler and plant-sourced, making it popular in natural and gentle formulations. Well tolerated with no known safety concerns.

Used in tiny amounts to set a product to skin-friendly pH. No concern at those levels.

Sodium phytate is a plant-derived chelating agent used to bind trace metals and stabilize formulas, often as a preservative booster alongside other preservatives. Available safety reviews have not identified meaningful irritation or sensitization concerns at typical use levels.

A larger, gentler alpha hydroxy acid than glycolic acid, used to exfoliate and to draw in moisture. It can still cause stinging or increased sun sensitivity at higher concentrations, so daytime SPF use is sensible, but it is generally better tolerated than glycolic acid.

A widely used, gentle preservative also common in food. It is generally well tolerated, though it can occasionally cause mild, transient irritation in people with already-compromised or very reactive skin.

A beta hydroxy acid used to smooth texture and clear pores. Safe at cosmetic levels; can be mildly irritating if overused.

A common preservative and fragrance/solvent ingredient found naturally in many essential oils. It is well tolerated by most people at the levels used in cosmetics, but it is one of the 26 EU-designated fragrance allergens and can trigger reactions in people with an existing sensitivity.