Ingredients

A pharmacist-led guide to cosmetic actives. Every ingredient explained with scientific evidence: what it does, how to use it and what to combine it with.

Fucus extract: when it makes sense in cosmetics
antioxidant
Fucus extract: when it makes sense in cosmetics
An interesting marine active ingredient for its moisturizing and antioxidant profile, although its more ambitious eff...
Published: 03 June 2026
Artichoke extract: when it fits into a routine for pores and shine
antioxidant
Artichoke extract: when it fits into a routine for pores and shine
An interesting botanical active for combination or oily skin, with important nuances if you are looking for less shin...
Published: 03 June 2026
Dimethicone for the skin: what it is, how it works, and when it's worth it
barrier
Dimethicone for the skin: what it is, how it works, and when it's worth it
Dimethicone is a cosmetic silicone widely used for its emollient and protective effects. I'll explain what it really ...
Published: 03 June 2026
Apricot seed in cosmetics: physical exfoliant
emollient
Apricot seed in cosmetics: physical exfoliant
A classic physical exfoliant that can smooth texture but doesn't suit all skin types or routines.
Published: 03 June 2026
Quina extract: when it's suitable for oily skin
acne
Quina extract: when it's suitable for oily skin
A botanical extract with a sebum-regulating profile that can be effective in formulas for combination or oily skin, w...
Published: 03 June 2026
Jojoba esters: when they make sense in cosmetics
emollient
Jojoba esters: when they make sense in cosmetics
An emollient and soothing ingredient that improves skin comfort without complicating your routine, especially when yo...
Published: 03 June 2026
Chondroitin Sulfate: Hydration and Elasticity in Cosmetics
emollient
Chondroitin Sulfate: Hydration and Elasticity in Cosmetics
A little-known ingredient primarily used to improve skin hydration, comfort, and flexibility in body and face care fo...
Published: 03 June 2026
Bamboo Stem Powder: when it fits into a facial exfoliation
exfoliant
Bamboo Stem Powder: when it fits into a facial exfoliation
Plant-based particles for mechanical exfoliation: I'll explain when they can make sense and when I prefer other options.
Published: 03 June 2026
Cornstarch (corn starch): benefits, uses, and combinations
soothing
Cornstarch (corn starch): benefits, uses, and combinations
Cornstarch acts primarily as an absorbent and soothing cosmetic. I'll explain when it can help, its limitations, and ...
Published: 03 June 2026
Serenoa serrulata extract: real functions and how to apply it
sebum-regulating
Serenoa serrulata extract: real functions and how to apply it
We analyze what Serenoa serrulata extract is, what it is used for in oily or acne-prone skin, and what its real limit...
Published: 03 June 2026
Laminaria extract: when it truly fits into a soothing routine
antioxidant
Laminaria extract: when it truly fits into a soothing routine
An interesting marine active for sensitive, dehydrated or altered skin, with more soothing than spectacular benefits.
Published: 03 June 2026
Ivy extract in cosmetics: when it can be beneficial
anti-inflammatory
Ivy extract in cosmetics: when it can be beneficial
It's not one of the most decisive botanical extracts, but it can fit into soothing and antioxidant formulas with real...
Published: 03 June 2026

What are cosmetic active ingredients

Cosmetic active ingredients are the components responsible for making a product do what it promises. Unlike excipients (which provide texture, preservation or fragrance), actives are the ones that produce a real, measurable effect on the skin: stimulating collagen, inhibiting melanin, strengthening the skin barrier or accelerating cell renewal.

The problem is that most brands do not explain which actives they use, at what concentration or why. This pharmacist-led guide to cosmetic ingredients was created to change that: each article analyses an active ingredient with the available scientific evidence, without exaggeration or empty promises.

How to use this ingredient guide

Each article in this guide includes a summary card with the INCI name, effective concentration, potency, recommended skin type, routine step and compatibility with other actives. You will also find information on use during pregnancy and verifiable scientific references.

All content is written and reviewed by a licensed pharmacist with over 20 years of experience. This is not a standard cosmetic ingredient list — it is a professional guide designed to help you make informed decisions about your skincare.

Arancha Grediaga
Author and reviewer
Pharmacist · Dermocosmetics Expert · COFA License #6497
+20 years of community pharmacy experience · Technical Lead at EVUE Cosmetics