Daily Microfoliant

A refined cellulose derivative processed from plant sources, used as a thickener and texturizing agent in cosmetics. It is an inert polysaccharide with no known sensitization or irritation potential and is widely used in personal care and pharmaceutical formulations.

A coconut-derived mild surfactant best known as the main cleansing agent in syndet ("soap-free") bars and gentle body washes. It has a good tolerability record and is often chosen specifically for sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

Finely milled oat that the FDA recognizes as an over-the-counter skin protectant for temporary relief of minor itching and dryness. Well tolerated, including on eczema-prone skin, with rare contact allergy in people with pre-existing oat or cereal sensitivity.

A mild anionic surfactant formulated as a gentler alternative to traditional sulfates, commonly used in sulfate-free shampoos and cleansers. It is well tolerated and designed to clean effectively while minimizing scalp or skin irritation.

A water or bran extract of rice containing ferulic acid, small peptides and starches. It is a traditional East Asian skincare staple with some supporting antioxidant and mild-brightening data, but most of that evidence comes from cell or animal studies rather than large human trials, so the "brightening" claims on finished products go further than the direct evidence.

A soothing, skin-conditioning compound (also found in comfrey root) commonly added to calm and hydrate irritated or sensitive skin. It has a long history of safe use with very low irritation potential.

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

Green tea extract is a well-studied topical antioxidant with a long history of use in serums and moisturizers, generally well tolerated at cosmetic concentrations. Panel safety reviews of Camellia sinensis-derived ingredients have not identified meaningful topical hazard.

A soothing plant extract traditionally used in skincare, valued for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. Published assessments note it is generally well tolerated in cosmetic formulations, though people with sensitivities to botanicals may want to patch test.

A cyclic oligosaccharide derived from corn starch that acts as a solubilizer and delivery vehicle for other ingredients. It is chemically inert, well tolerated, and has extensive use in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

A sulfate-free surfactant that provides gentle cleansing with a low irritation profile, making it suitable for sensitive skin formulations. It is milder than both sulfate and sulfonate alternatives while remaining effective at removing oils and dirt.

A starch derivative used in cosmetics to thicken formulations and improve texture. It has been used safely in food and cosmetics for decades and shows low irritation potential across rinse-off and leave-on products.

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

A citrus-scented fragrance component. Fine for most, but it oxidizes over time into a known contact allergen, so it must be labelled in the EU.

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

An antioxidant that helps protect a formula and condition skin. Well tolerated.