The most commonly used ingredient in hair care, frequently occupying the first position in product ingredient lists. It serves as a solvent.

Gentle coconut-derived surfactant frequently employed in cleansers to achieve a creamy foam.

A mild cleansing component known for enhancing lather, cocamidopropyl betaine can be derived naturally from coconut oil or synthetically produced. While considered low risk for skin sensitization, poor manufacturing practices (and not cocamidopropyl betaine itself) can result in potential impurities and sensitization, highlighting the importance of selecting well-formulated hair care products.

Commonly recognized as salt, this ingredient is primarily employed to thicken hair care formulations and also serves as a binding agent. Despite the potential for salt to dehydrate the skin, the minimal amounts utilized in hair care formulations negates this issue. Therefore, sodium chloride is widely acknowledged as non-irritating and non-drying when incorporated into hair care products.

Gentle soap-free cleanser recognized for its ability to prevent skin barrier disruption. Derived from coconut, it is very compatible with sensitive skin.

Used for moisture retention, glycerin is a naturally occurring substance in our skin. It is utilized in skincare formulations to prevent dryness. It can be obtained from natural sources or produced synthetically. Functioning as a skin-replenishing and skin-restoring ingredient, it plays a crucial role in preserving the skin's moisture level.

A naturally-sourced cleansing agent recognized in many studies for its gentleness on the skin.

Renowned for its exceptional ability to be compatible with other ingredients, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate is a preferred choice in many body washes, facial cleansers, and shampoos.

A polymer that works as an antistatic agent, film former, and hair fixative across many cosmetics. Functioning as a conditioning agent, it creates a protective barrier around the hair.

A synthetic preservative providing protection against undesired microbes in cosmetics, phenoxyethanol is well-tolerated by sensitive skin. It holds global approval for use in concentrations up to 1% in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetic products. Despite its recent negative reputation, the controversial research does not pertain to cosmetic-grade phenoxyethanol (which undergoes purification before integration into formulations, ensuring its safety).

According to research, when compared to many other preservatives, the occurrence of sensitization or allergic reactions to phenoxyethanol from cosmetics is very rare. Preservatives are designed to kill mold, fungus, and other bacteria, therefore all preservatives (even natural ones) carry a small risk of skin sensitization. Natural preservatives are not considered a better option, since natural preservatives require higher amounts (up to 10% to be effective) potentially leading to skin irritation or sensitization, making them less ideal substitutes for synthetic preservatives.

Used as a product thickener and hair moisturizer. It contains a mixture of amino acids and peptides of varying lengths that are derived from wheat sources.

Functioning as a hydrator, conditioning agent, and film-forming agent for hair, hydrolyzed wheat protein is derived from wheat that has undergone hydrolysis.

A humectant used to condition hair while serving as a moisturizing component. Its potent antibacterial properties also make it an effective preservative in cosmetics. 

Derived from citrus fruits, this ingredient is incorporated into hair care products to regulate the formula's pH. It is typically used in minimal quantities to adjust the pH and prevent products from becoming excessively alkaline or basic.

Among the most extensively employed synthetic cationic polymers in the cosmetics industry, it not only conditions the skin and hair but also facilitates the deposit of active ingredients on the skin and/or hair. It also contributes anti-static properties without causing hair to feel heavy.

Commonly referred to as lye, this ingredient possesses high alkalinity, positioning it on the basic side of the pH range with a natural pH of 13. It is incorporated in limited quantities in cosmetics to fine-tune their pH levels.

Also referred to as pro-vitamin B5, panthenol functions as a humectant, significantly boosting hydration by attracting and retaining moisture. Research indicates that a 1% concentration of panthenol rapidly enhances skin hydration while reducing transepidermal water loss, resulting in an overall improvement in the skin's texture and appearance. In concentrations ranging from 1-5%, panthenol has been reported to contribute to healing and repairing the skin barrier. Studies also suggest that panthenol visibly diminishes redness caused by sensitivity. Panthenol is an alcohol derivative, but it is a very gentle and non-drying form of alcohol suitable for sensitive skin.

A chelating agent that holds a crucial role in ensuring the stability, appearance, and effectiveness of a formulation, this ingredient is widely utilized in body washes, cleansers, and shampoos. It is incorporated into cosmetic formulations to bind with metal ions or metallic compounds, preventing their adherence to surfaces such as skin or hair and averting contamination. It also contributes to fortifying a product's preservative system by preventing metal ions from destabilizing essential components in water-based formulas.

Derived from the aloe vera plant, this ingredient provides skin-soothing and hydrating benefits along with antioxidant properties. Originating from the leaves of the aloe vera plant, this ingredient contains vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols. Acts as a humectant.