Moisturiser Ingredients

EMOLLIANTS
Emollients in moisturizers give a protective moisture barrier and help heal skin.

Natural | Plant oils are the most nourishing natural emollients. Apricot kernel oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, rosehip seed oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, and shea and cocoa butter are some of the best curative and moisturizing emollients.
Synthetic | Synthetic emollients work by forming a barrier on the skin, kind of like plastic wrap, to seal in moisture. However, these emollients don’t allow the skin to breathe and can clog pores and trap toxins, which can cause irritation and actually dehydrate the skin. They can also contain impurities from manufacturing that are anything but healthy. While synthetic emollients are generally derived from petroleum, others are silicone-based or pack synthetic alcohols.

EMULSIFIERS
Emulsifiers hold together substances that don’t naturally co-mingle, such as water and oil. Many moisturizers contain a balance of water-based and oil-based ingredients to maximize absorption of other ingredients.

Natural | Plant waxes are some of the most effective natural emulsifiers. Jojoba oil (which is technically a wax, not an oil), carnauba wax (derived from a tropical palm), and rice bran naturally forge an alliance between water and oil, and also condition skin.
Synthetic | Synthetic emulsifiers are typically a combination of petroleum and hydrocarbon derivatives, which is a formula probably better suited to put in your car than on your skin. Many of them are a customary cause for irritation and allergies and can be contaminated with potentially harmful compounds during manufacturing.

HUMECTANTS
Humectants help the skin hydrate itself. They draw moisture from the deeper layers of the skin to the surface and attract water from the air.

Natural | Glycerin, lecithing, panthenol, and sodium PCA are some of the best natural humectants to hold hydration in the skin where it’s needed most. Vegetable glycerin aids the skin in naturally shedding its outer layers so new, younger cells can emerge for a smoother, healthier surface. Lecithin (from soybeans) helps form natural phospholipids (like the ones that naturally occur in our skin) to hold hydration without synthetically sealing skin shut. Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) stabilizes the natural skin barrier to prevent moisture loss. Sodium PCA (derived from amino acids and is naturally found in our skin) is a great absorber that helps maximize moisture retention.
Synthetic | Synthetic humectants may prevent moisture loss, but most are occlusive, meaning they form an un-breathable barrier in the process, which can prevent normal skin function. Glycols—Propylene Glycol (PG), Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs), Butylene Glycol (BG), and Thylene Glycol (TG)—are common synthetic humectants made from petroleum derivatives, which are called into question for good reason. PG is not only a common skin irritant, but can cause allergic reactions and slowly depress the central nervous system. Plus, it’s a common ingredient in antifreeze, brake fluid, and even embalming fluid.

PRESERVATIVES
Preservatives are critical in protecting products from spoiling and keeping bacteria at bay.

Natural | Truly natural preservatives are only moderately affective. Essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, and thyme curb microbial growth, but aren’t typically enough to effectively preserve a moisturizer for an extended length of time. Vitamin E and C and extracts like grapefruit seed extract (GSE) can bolster the battle against bacteria, however, additional preservatives are typically used to ensure a safe extended shelf life. Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Benzoate are both very effective non-toxic preservatives that are “naturally derived,” though made in a lab.
Synthetic | Synthetic chemical preservatives may be highly effective in defending products from bacteria and microbes, but their toxicity may be cause for serious concern. Parabens (Methyl, Propyl, Butyl and Ethyl Paraben) are hands-down the most commonly used preservatives. They’re cheap and effective, but also linked to allergies, irritation, hormone disruption, developmental toxicity, and even breast cancer. Imidazolidinyl Urea and Diazolidinyl Urea are the second most commonly used preservatives after parabens. They often cause irritation and allergies, but the deeper concern is that they release formaldehyde, a known toxic chemical. Dimethylol Dimethyl (DMDM) Hydantoin and Quaternium-15 are also preservatives that release formaldehyde, so keep a bright eye out for those when reading ingredients lists.

FRAGRANCES


Natural | Natural fragrances from essential oils and plant extracts elicit sensuous aroma without potential dangers. Period.
Synthetic | Synthetic fragrances (often listed simply as “fragrance”) are often loaded with a slew of undisclosed ingredients, including phthalates, which are used to “fix” a fragrance so it lasts longer. Phthalates are linked to alarming side effects ranging from hormone disruption and neurodevelopment disorders to organ toxicity and even cancer. Look for moisturizers that define “fragrance” specifically in the ingredients list.

COLORANTS
Colorants may make a moisturizer look pretty, but they won’t enhance its performance.

Natural | Natural colorants such as beta-carotene (vitamin A) and mineral pigments are safe ingredients to enhance the color of products.
Synthetic | FDA-certified colors generally have names such as “FD&C Yellow No. 5” and “Yellow 5.” They are generally derived from coal tar and petroleum. These kinds of fake colors can cause a host of adverse skin reactions and are worth avoiding altogether.

Source : WH