Ingredient Glossary
Ingredient Glossary
At Bésame Cosmetics, we use clean, effective ingredients for all of our products. We do not use any polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS. Though each item is safe and designed for sensitive skin, the product label can be somewhat confusing.
For complete transparency about what ingredients we use to formulate our products, we've compiled an extensive glossary. Here, you'll find details on everything that goes into our items and onto your skin.
A
Acacia Catechu Gum: A natural gum that is extracted from the bark of the Acacia Tree, it is used as a stabilizer, binder, emulsifier and viscosity increasing agent that also has skin soothing properties.
Alanine (L-Alanine): Fundamental constituents of all proteins found in the body, amino acids act as water-binding agents, and some have antioxidant properties. Amino acids can be combined with other ingredients that have skin-restorative ability to work in unison to fight signs of aging.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract: Used for thousands of years, this extract from the aloe vera plant is known for its moisturizing, soothing, and healing properties. Shown to help heal wounds and regenerate skin, aloe does far more than ease the pain of a stubborn sunburn. Its anti-inflammatory abilities help ease redness and can treat conditions like dermatitis and psoriasis.
Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate: A complex carbohydrate made by plants, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate functions as an absorbent and anti-caking agent in cosmetics.
Argania Spinosa Kernel Argan Oil: Dubbed as the "liquid gold of Morocco", this oil comes from the kernel of the argan fruit that comes from the argan tree that grows only in Morocco. It contains several beneficial lipids and fatty acids for skin, including oleic acid, palmitic acid, and, especially, linoleic acid. It is also a good source of antioxidant vitamin E (tocopherol) and, like several other plant oils, a source of other antioxidant compounds.
Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil: Avena sativa is a member of the Poaceae, or “grasses” family. This nutrient-rich, ancient grass is rich in biologically active components such as tocopherols, phytosterols, phospholipids, and essential fatty acids such as Omega-6 and Omega-9. These components have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing characteristics which soothe, smooth and nourish skin. This lovely, rich oil is ultra conditioning and will leave skin feeling silky soft.
Arginine (L-Arginine): Fundamental constituents of all proteins found in the body, amino acids act as water-binding agents, and some have antioxidant properties. Amino acids can be combined with other ingredients that have skin-restorative ability to work in unison to fight signs of aging.
B
Beeswax (Cera Alba): This natural wax is produced in the hive of honey bees, made by the bees converting nectar they gather from flowers. It acts as an emulsifier in product formulations, helping preserve and slowly release active ingredients while creating a soft, silky texture.
Behenyl Alcohol: Also known as docosanol, it's a saturated fatty alcohol primarily used as an opacifying agent and a thickener. It can be added to clear or transparent formulations to render them more resistant to visible light. Its thickening property allows products to achieve a more desirable, spreadable texture, creating a thick, smooth, and creamy product.
Betaine: Betaine naturally occurs in skin and the body. It helps skin adapt to moisture losses and gains, essentially working to balance skin’s hydration.
Bis-diglyceryl polyacyladipate-2: Often used as a lanolin substitute, this semi-solid emollient is valued for its high water-binding properties, excellent adhesion to the skin, and glossy finish.
Borage (Starflower) Seed Oil: Also known as Borage oil, or Borago officinalis, it has incredibly high linolenic acid content. This fatty acid acts like a hormone in your body, helping reduce inflammation - calming and nourishing skin.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter: Extracted from nuts of the shea tree, this emollient powerhouse soaks into skin creating a smooth and soft barrier that seals in moisture. Significant levels of vitamins A and E promote strong antioxidant activity, protecting skin from free radicals.
C
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate: Typically used as an emollient and texture enhancing agent. This common ingredient is soluble in oil and oil-like ingredients, and can impart a lightly conditioning, silky finish to products. It has excellent solubility which helps keep the active ingredients dispersed throughout the formula.
C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside: A vegetable-based cleansing and emulsifying agent that works in tandem with C14-22 Alcohols to make formulas light and soft on the skin.
C14-22 Alcohols: Alcohol as a main ingredient in any skin care product is a problem. But there are other types of alcohols that don't dry out the skin. These fatty alcohols, typically derived from natural sources such as coconuts or nuts, are non-irritating and can be exceptionally beneficial. Rich in healthy fats, these alcohols are generally used as emulsifiers, to help create a thick, luxurious texture and bolster your skin’s defensive barrier, by locking in moisture and potentially protecting your skin from damage. C14-22 Alcohols work with C12-20 Alkyl Gluocoside to form a cleansing agent that's super light and soft on skin.
C15-19 Alkane: A plant-derived solvent that increases spreadability and lightness of product.
Calcium Pantothenate: Part of the Vitamin B family, derived from plants. Penetrates into lower skin layers and is easily absorbed into cells, where it turns into pantothenic acid. It adds essential moisture, which plumps up the skin, making it look hydrated and youthful. Also combats surface bacteria that contribute to facial acne while encouraging the building of skin cells.
Calendula Officinalis (Marigold) Flower Extract: Calendula officinalis, or marigold, is an herbaceous plant whose oil is scientifically tested to provide a continuous supply of discomfort-reducing compounds. Known to provide antioxidant protection, it is wonderful for soothing skin and improving complexion.
Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract: Green Tea extract comes from the Camellia sinensis, a species of evergreen shrub. The primary benefit of this extract is as an antioxidant — and it is one of the more powerful, due to a high concentration of Catechin which can penetrate a skin cell. This helps boost immune response and protects against environmental pollutants.
Caprylic/Capric triglyceride: A combination of coconut oil and glycerin, this popular ingredient is considered an excellent emollient and skin-replenishing agent. It’s included in cosmetics due to its mix of fatty acids that help rejuvenate skin and resist moisture loss. This ingredient’s value is made greater by the fact that it’s considered gentle, making it ideal for all skin types.
Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract: Especially known in Chinese medicine as a “miracle elixir of life", this perennial herb has been used for thousands of years for its skin healing abilities. It inhibits bacterial growth while stimulating the growth of new skin cells, helping to boost collagen production as well as soothing inflammation.
Cetearyl Alcohol: Quite different from skin-aggravating forms of alcohol, this fatty alcohol does not pose a risk of irritating skin. It is a mixture of gentle cetyl and stearyl alcohols. It’s used as an emollient, texture enhancer, foam stabilizer, and carrying agent for other ingredients. It is almost always combined with similar-feeling ingredients to create a product’s texture and influence its slip when applied to skin.
Cetearyl Glucoside: A blend of cetearyl alcohol and glucose, derived from plant sugars and fatty acids, that functions as an emulsifier.
Cetearyl Olivate: An oily, somewhat waxy ester of cetearyl alcohol and the fatty acids from olive oil. It is a non-ionic emulsifier that helps blend ingredients together. It helps soften the skin and gives products a smooth and luxurious feel.
Cetyl Palmitate: Comprised of naturally-occurring fatty acids, this ingredient acts as a lubricant on the skin's surface for a soft and smooth appearance. Often used in cosmetics as a thickener or binder.
Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower (Chamomile) Extract: Beloved for its relaxing properties in tea, Chamomile comes from the Asteraceae family, a group of daisy-like flowers. It not only reduces inflammation, but cleanses and moisturizes the skin while soothing irritation, which is invaluable when dealing with damaged skin.
Citric Acid: Found naturally in citrus fruits, especially lemons and limes, it is primarily used in small amounts to adjust the pH of products to prevent them from being too alkaline.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract: This extract is derived from sweet oranges, providing skin a significant amount of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that can protect the skin from free radical damage and stimulate collagen production, giving a healthy glow.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Juice: A powder form of coconut water, this natural ingredient hosts an array of skin benefits. Full of proteins, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, it supports cell growth, hydration, and elasticity of the skin.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Liquid Endosperm: The "meat" of young green coconuts. Found to be particularly high at this stage, these coconuts contain RNA-phosphorus (RNA-P). It hydrates, detoxifies, and protects against free radicals, preventing accelerated aging.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil: Traditionally made by extracting the oil from raw coconuts or dried coconut kernels, this popular oil has many beneficial properties for the skin. It is naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal which helps reduce breakouts and blemishes. It also locks in moisture, promoting smoother skin and improved texture.
Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax: Obtained from the leaves of the Brazilian tropical palm tree, Copernicia cerifera. Carnauba is known as the "queen of waxes", one of the hardest botanical waxes. Due to its high melting point, it is used for thermoresistance in cosmetics and prevents products from feeling sticky. It has water-repellent, protecting and film-forming properties.
D
D & C Red 27 Lake (CI 45410): Used to pigment cosmetics - provides superior color purity and saturation.
D & C Red No. 6 Barium Lake (CI 15850:2): Used to pigment cosmetics - provides superior color purity and saturation.
Diisostearyl Malate: Created from isostearyl alcohol and malic acid, a natural metabolite of plants that is commonly found in unripe fruit, this ester functions as an emollient in cosmetics.
E
Echinacea Angustifolia (Coneflower) Extract: Also known as Echinacea, Coneflower Extract is an herb that contains an impressive variety of active compounds, most notably antioxidants which protect the skins barrier from free radicals and help combat breakouts.
Ethylhexyl Isononanoate: Formed by combining acid (often amino acid) and alcohol, this emollient ester is used to thicken and stabilize liquid products.
Ethylhexyl Stearate: A clear, almost colorless oily liquid that's used as a medium spreading emollient. It gives skin a nice and smooth after-feel and it's effective at reducing oiliness or greasiness coming from heavier oils in the formula.
Ethylhexylglycerin: A natural preservative derived from glycerin that also functions as a surfactant, a deodorizing agent, and a skin-conditioning agent. Often used instead of controversial parabens.
Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax: Combination of natural wax esters derived from the waxy leaf structure of Candelilla shrubs. It increases the residence time of natural emollients on the skin and helps provide a protective, moisture resistant environment. It also keeps emulsions intact, acting as a binder to prevent oils and liquids from separating.
Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Fruit Extract: Extracted from the acai berry, it has extremely high amounts of antioxidants. This powerful extract helps fight free radical damage and signs of aging.
F
FD&C Black No 2 (CI 77266): Deep black pigment used as coloring for cosmetic products like mascara.
FD&C Red 7 Calcium Lake (CI 15850:1): Used to pigment cosmetics - provides superior color purity and saturation.
FD&C Yellow No 5 Aluminum Lake (CI 19140): Used to pigment cosmetics - provides superior color purity and saturation.
G
Glutamic Acid (L-Glutamic Acid): An amino acid that acts as a humectant moisturizer and skin-conditioning agent, aiding in skin hydration.
Glycerin: A colorless, odorless, liquid that is non-toxic. Glycerin is considered a humectant, which means it helps skin cling to water, retaining its own natural moisture for an overall hydrated feel. It's non-allergenic and suitable for breakout-prone skin.
Glyceryl Stearate: Acts as a lubricant on the skin's surface, giving a soft and smooth appearance. It slows the loss of water by forming a barrier on the skin's surface.
Glyceryl Triacetyl Hydroxystearate: Commonly referred to as Glyceryl Triesters, prepared from glycerin and the corresponding fatty acid. This is used as an emollient and to help condition skin.
Glycine: An amino acid that is primarily used for anti-aging because of its ability to improve moisture retention, increase collagen production, and promote skin repair and regeneration.
H
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil: Sunflower oil is made by pressing the seeds of the Helianthus annuus plant. It contains Linoleic acid which helps maintain the skin’s natural barrier. Supporting its ability to retain moisture and protect elasticity, sunflower oil helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is also rich in vitamins A, C, and D and fatty acids. These act as antioxidants to regenerate new skin cells and help get rid of acne-causing bacteria.
Hexylene Glycol: A solvent and viscosity agent used to thin out heavy compositions and create a thinner, more spreadable product.
Hydrogenated Castor Oil: Derived from castor beans (Ricinus communis) and also known as castor wax. Normally a liquid, this oil is processed by adding hydrogen to make it more stable and raises its melting point so that it is a solid at room temperature.
Hydrogenated Farnesene: Silicone free, plant-based hydrogenated farnesene works to reduce water loss in the skin.
Hydroxyacetophenone: This synthetic antioxidant is capable of neutralizing several different types of free radicals. Its secondary benefit is boosting the preservation system in formulations. This is advantageous because it allows chemists to use a lower amount of preservatives without losing efficacy and reducing the risk of an allergic reaction. Because it can inhibit an enzyme in skin’s surface, it soothes and reduces signs of irritation.
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer: A gelling agent that thickens, emulsifies, and stabilizes formulations. Provides a sensation of freshness followed by a melting effect on contact with the skin, for a velvety soft feel.
I
Iron Oxides: Iron oxides are inorganic compounds of iron and oxygen, synthetic ingredients that function as colorants in cosmetics. There are three basic shades: black (CI 77499), yellow (CI 77492) and red (CI 77491).
Isododecane: Used as a solvent, it enhances the spreadability of products and has a weightless feel on skin. It also helps prevent the evaporation of water from skin.
Isopropyl Myristate: An emollient ingredient, though it typically acts as a thickening agent and lubricant in beauty products. It gives products a denser texture and also improves the overall texture of those with a high oil content to be silky rather than greasy.
K
Kaolin: This naturally occurring soft white clay has strong absorbancy qualities and is the perfect ingredient to balance excessive oils, creating a mattifying effect.
L
Lactobacillus Ferment: A lab-created, non-living probiotic ingredient made by fermentation of the microorganism Lactobacillus. It is shown to have a soothing effect on skin that in turn strengthens its ability to defend itself from aggressors.This ferment may play a role in helping skin’s microbiome to maintain a healthy mix of flora, a benefit that may reduce the risk or visible severity of several common, often uncomfortable skin conditions.ingredient to balance excessive oils, creating a mattifying effect.
Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf Extract: Belonging to the mint family, this powerful botanical has strong anti-inflammatory properties and is naturally anti-bacterial, making it a superstar in preventing breakouts.
Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil: Cold pressed from the tiny seeds of Limnanthes alba, Meadowfoam Seed Oil has the superior ability to balance your complexion due to its strikingly similar composition of your own skin oils. It also soothes inflammation while boasting a strong antioxidant profile that lends it anti-aging properties and the ability to tackle fine lines, wrinkles, and dryness.
Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil: Also known as flaxseed oil, this oil holds an incredible amount of healthy omega fatty acids. Helps deliver Vitamin E to the skin and improves overall hydration and moisture retention.
Lonicera Caprifolium Extract: Italian Honeysuckle Flower, when combined with Lonicera Japonica Extract (Japanese Honeysuckle Flower), serves as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative.
Lonicera Japonica Extract: Japanese Honeysuckle Flower, when combined with Lonicera Japonica Extract (Italian Honeysuckle Flower), serves as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative.
Lysine HCl (L-Lysine HCL): An amino acid salt. Like all amino acids and derivatives, lysine HCI plays a role in keeping skin hydrated by aiding the balanced transport of water through skin’s layers. Lysine also plays a role in helping skin produce supportive substances that keep it looking smooth and youthful.
M
Maltodextrin: A plant-based sugar created by hydrolyzing a saccharide with starch from corn, potato, or rice. Typically functions as an absorbent and binding agent. It also reflects the composition of Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) found within the skin’s epidermis, drawing in moisture to maintain skin hydration.
Marshmallow/Althea Extract: The roots and stem of the marshmallow plant, or Althaea officinalis, secrete mucilage. This forms a coating over skin, infusing it with hydration while at the same time improving its ability to retain moisture. Also a powerful anti-inflammatory, it can help reduce skin irritation.
Mica: Mica is the name given to a group of silicate minerals which can be ground down into a sparkling powder for use in beauty products, often referred to as "nature's glitter".
Microcrystalline Wax: This specific type of wax is produced by de-oiling petroleum. Commonly used in cosmetics as viscosity agent, binder and emollient, and is a more 'flexible' alternative to paraffin wax.
Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil: Culled from the vegetable tree Moringa oleifera, this oil is easily absorbed into the skin. This supports skin's barrier to protect against environmental toxins and seal in moisture, creating an overall radiant complexion. Its high concentration of Vitamin E gives it strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
N
Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate: An emollient ester with a light, elegant and silky feel. It gives a matte finish to the products.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): This specific form of vitamin B3 (an amide) called nicotinamide (also known as niacinamide) helps restore cellular energy, repair damaged DNA, and reduce the immunosuppressive effects of sun-induced UV rays. Also, it fights off internal and external stressors that can ultimately lead to the deterioration of skin and premature signs of aging like discoloration and wrinkles.
Nymphaea Alba Flower (Lily) Extract: Belonging to the Liliaceae family, the lily is a perennial plant whose extract has soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. This astringent herb is known to heal damaged, irritated skin while purifying and detoxifying, and also providing a conditioning and moisturizing effect.
O
Octyldodecanol: This clear colorless liquid is considered a long-chain fatty acid and is often used as a texture enhancer in lip products due to its lubricating and emollient properties. It also helps prevent a formula from separating into its oil and liquid components.
Octyldodecyl Stearoyl Stearate: A naturally occurring fatty acid. Slows water loss from by forming a barrier on the skin's surface. It is also used to increase the thickness of the lipid (oil) portion of cosmetics.
Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil: Created from a small yellow flower grown across North America, this oil is rich with healthy fatty acids. It penetrates the top layers of the skin and promotes balance, which improves skin barrier function. This helps soothe dryness, improve overall hydration, and leave skin feeling plump and youthful.
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil: Oil extracted from the fruit of an olive tree, or as we know it: olive oil. It is beneficial for dry skin because of its fatty acid content, some of which comes from the emollient squalene. Olive oil contains essential fatty acids dry skin needs, including oleic, palmitic, and linoleic acids. It also contains phenolic compounds that provide antioxidant benefit. Can protect against environmental damage.
Ozokerite Wax: This naturally occurring fossil wax is found near soft shale and manufactured from blends of petroleum wax. It assures color uniformity in color cosmetics and lessens the brittleness of stick products, adding strength and stability to lipsticks.
P
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5: A synthetic peptide that can play an important role in the appearance of skin firmness. Peptides consist of specific amino acids and when combined is certain ways, they create a protein, which is a fundamental building block of the skin. Without peptides, skin doesn’t remain intact and the result is loss of firmness, appearance of wrinkles, texture changes, and skin that doesn’t bounce back as it once did.
Panthenol: Alcohol form of the B vitamin pantothenic acid. Used as a humectant because of its ability to attract and hold moisture. Sometimes called pro-vitamin B5, it mixes readily with many different types of ingredients, improving the look and feel of skin.
PCA: Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid is an ingredient derived from amino acids that serves as a humectant and is part of the natural moisturizing factor, drawing in moisture to maintain skin hydration.
PEG-100 Stearate: This emollient gives the skin a softer feel by strengthening its moisture barrier. This forms a thin fatty layer on the surface, preventing moisture loss and increasing hydration. Softer, healthier skin is the overall result.
Pentylene Glycol: Commonly used as a skin conditioning agent due to its ability to help the skin attract and retain moisture. It also has antibacterial and preservative effects, helping other active ingredients perform better on the skin.
Phenoxyethanol: Purified before use in cosmetics, this ingredient is completely safe at concentrations below 1%. It has broad spectrum activity against many pathogens you don’t want multiplying in products, is stable, and is compatible with many other preservatives used in cosmetics. Although the phenoxyethanol used in cosmetic products is synthetic, this chemical occurs naturally in green tea.
Phytantriol: Commonly used in haircare and skincare, this ingredient improves the moisture retention properties of hair and skin and acts as a penetration enhancer to increase the effects of panthenol, vitamins, and amino acids.
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6: A synthetic powder ingredient that helps stabilize and thicken water-based emulsions. It works particularly well to create gel textures that leave skin with a rich, elegant feel.
Polyamide-5: A conditioning agent that increases stability of the formula while improving the hydration of the skin.
Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate/Succinate: A plant-derived emulsifier that helps bind ingredients and works as a gentle cleansing agent.
Polysorbate 20: Used to emulsify and bind together oil and solid ingredients.
Proline: An amino acid that helps increase collagen production and improve skin elasticity. Fundamental constituents of all proteins found in the body, amino acids act as water-binding agents, and some have antioxidant properties. Proline can be combined with other ingredients that have skin-restorative ability to work in unison to fight signs of aging.
Propanediol: A glycol that can enhance the absorption of ingredients into the skin. It has hydrating properties that may leave a smooth, dewy finish. It's a well-tolerated ingredient, not likely to cause sensitivity.
Propylene Carbonate: Typically used as a solvent in cosmetics, this clear and odorless ingredient is meant to dissolve other substances.
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil: Not only for snacking, almonds can be made into a oil that offers many benefits to your skin. Full of Vitamin A to stimulate production of new skin cells and smoothe fine lines, with highly emollient properties to soften skin for an overall healthy complexion.
Pyridoxine HCl: The scientific name for vitamin B6, it has been shown to have antioxidant benefits for the skin.
Q
Quaternium-18 Hectorite: A mixture of quaternary ammonium chloride salts made from fatty acids of tallow. When used in the formulation of creamy cosmetics, it helps keep the product from separating into its oil and liquid components.
R
Rosa Canina (Dog Rose) Fruit Oil: Derived from the rosa canina rose bush, this is also known as rosehip oil. This oil contains rich omega fatty acids to keep skin cell walls strong so they retain moisture, creating an overall nourishing, hydrated feel. Astringent properties in rosehip oil help tighten your pores and brighten your skin.
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Juice: Raspberry fruit contains a broad mix of antioxidants, including ascorbic acid (vitamin C) beta-carotene, glutathione, quercetin, and vitamin E. Applied to skin, red raspberry can inhibit enzymes that lead to signs of discolorations and loss of firmness. It also helps skin defend itself in the presence of UVB light.
S
Saccharide Isomerate: A natural and plant-derived moisturizer. It locks on to the surface to keep skin hydrated much longer than other moisturizing ingredients.
Sea Whip Extract: An anti-inflammatory ingredient that helps calm redness and sensitive skin. This natural, renewable resource comes from deep in the sea and counteracts enzymes that are known to cause skin irritation.
Serine (L-Serine): A naturally occurring proteinogenic amino acid that is derived from silk proteins. Amino acids have the ability to aid in collagen production, boost skin's elasticity, and replenish moisture.
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil: Made from raw, pressed sesame seeds, this nutrient-rich oil contains sesamol and sesaminol, two powerful antioxidants that help reduce cell damage caused by free radicals. The presence of fatty acids like oleic, palmitic, stearic, and linoleic acid, make it an ideal moisturizer, keeping skin supple and soft.
Shea Butter Ethyl Ester: A natural fat obtained from the fruit of the shea (or karate) tree, which grows in the savannah of Western Africa. Shea butter, in its pure form, is often very thick, greasy and can clog pores. The ethyl esters of the shea butter is an extraction with a beautifully light, silky soft feel, designed to effortlessly absorb into the skin and leave a non-greasy finish.
Silica: Another name for the natural compound silicon dioxide (SiO2), silica is one of the most common minerals on earth. It's a dexterous and versatile substance, used in cosmetics as Hydrated Silica, meaning it has additional water atoms attached, making it a completely safe additive. It acts as a thickening agent as well as helping spreadability of the product.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil: Long used by Native Americans for its many beneficial properties, Jojoba Oil is the liquid produced from the Simmondsia chinensis plant. Since it's very similar to human skin oils, its use can trick the skin into thinking it has produced enough oil and thus balance oil production. All without promoting acne or other skin problems. It is deeply hydrating for long-lasting moisture and full of antioxidants to nourish and protect.
Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate: A stable, water-soluble form of vitamin C that functions as an antioxidant and is effective for brightening uneven skin tone.
Sodium Citrate: The sodium salt of citric acid, an organic acid that is naturally found in both plants and animals, particularly in citrus fruits. Used primarily to control the pH level of a product, this ingredient also has antioxidant and preservative properties.
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid): A naturally occurring element found in the skin, hyaluronic acid works well for all skin types. It has the ability to penetrate into the deeper layers, attracting and binding water which draws moisture to the surface of the skin for an overall hydrating feel. The results are a plump, glowing look which reduces the appearance of fine lines.
Sodium Lactate: Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, used to strengthen the skin moisture barrier.
Sodium Palmitoyl Proline: Combines fatty acid palmitic acid with the amino acid proline. On skin, palmitoyl proline acts as a surface treatment by contributing a soft feeling. The proline component can help shore up skin’s natural supportive elements while the palmitic acid portion prevents moisture loss.
Sodium PCA: A natural ingredient that is derived from plants, fruits, and coconut oil. Considered an important humectant due to the fact that it is extremely water-absorbent and can hold several times its weight in water, helping to reduce the loss of moisture through evaporation.
Sodium Phytate: The salt form of the corn-derived plant component phytic acid, modified to become a synthetic ingredient and used as a chelating agent in cosmetics. Typically used in combination with typical antioxidants (tocopherol, ascobyl palmitate) in all types of formulations that are susceptible for oxidation reactions to protect valuable ingredients like unsaturated oils.
Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate: An absorbent modified starch that helps control the viscosity of the product and keep it stable.
Sorbitan Olivate: A mixture of the fatty acids from olive oil plus a dehydrated sugar known as sorbitol. It functions as an emulsifier and mild cleansing agent.
Sorbitan Stearate: An essential ingredient in skin-care products, it acts as a humectant to bind moisture, thicken the product, and stabilize the mixture of water and oils. Also known as an emulsifier — it allows two liquids, which normally would not blend, to form a stable mix called an emulsion.
Squalane: A hydrogenated version of squalene (with an “e”). This lipid is produced naturally by your own skin cells, making it an excellent emollient for an overall hydrated and healthy feel.
Stearic Acid: Plant-derived saturated fatty acid used as a stabilizer and thickener.
T
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C Ester): A stable derivative of vitamin C that penetrates deep into the skin without irritation, this fat-soluble powerhouse reduces redness and inflammation, brightens and smoothes skin tone, minimizes discoloration, and promotes skin elasticity to reduce signs of aging.
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate: A synthetic chelating agent with natural origin, it can also boost the effectiveness of preservatives, allowing for the use of lower amounts without compromising effectiveness.
Threonine (L-Threonine): Fundamental constituents of all proteins found in the body, amino acids act as water-binding agents, and some have antioxidant properties. Amino acids can be combined with other ingredients that have skin-restorative ability to work in unison to fight signs of aging.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891): When used with other pigments, TiO2 amplifies the intensity and brightness of color. A mainstream staple, it is also one of the most important ingredients for people with sensitive skin because TiO2 is inert – which means it will not react with other ingredients, allowing it to be used in products applied to the most sensitive areas of the body.
Tocopherol: One of the basic forms of the vitamin E molecule, it assists in various kinds of cellular restoration. It helps fight off free radicals, which are a result of daily environmental stressors like unprotected sun exposure and air pollution, protecting the skin from damage.used in products applied to the most sensitive areas of the body.
Tridecyl Stearate: A clear, colorless oily liquid that works as an emollient. It absorbs very quickly into the skin, leaves no shine and gives a nice, velvety after-feel.
Trihydroxystearin: A triester of glycerin and hydroxystearic acid, this ingredient increases the thickness of the lipid (oil) portion of cosmetics, which controls the flow of the product. It promotes emulsion stability in fluid systems and acts as a stiffening agent.
Tromethamine: Helps to set the pH of cosmetic products, neutralizing acidic ingredients. It's important to maintain the skin’s normal pH as closely as possible. If a product is too acidic it may irritate the skin or cause a stinging sensation. If a product is too alkaline, it is detrimental because it depletes your skin of vital, natural fats (or “lipids”). This is why pH adjusters like tromethamine are useful in the formulation of cosmetic products.
V
Vanillin: The primary component of the extract of the vanilla bean, often used as a flavoring in cosmetic products.
Vitamin A (Retinyl Acetate): One of the most effective skin-transforming ingredients, Retinol is the main compound of Vitamin A. It stimulates production of new skin cells which reduces fine lines and shrinks the look of enlarged pores, reigniting a feeling of firmness. It also contains powerful antioxidants that help reverse free radical damage.
VP/VA Copolymer: Used a film former because of its ability to inhibit the hair (or lashes) from absorbing moisture; it dries and forms a thin barrier on hair. This allows the hair to hold a style longer by preventing moisture from entering the hair shaft. Also used to hold together the ingredients of a compressed tablet or cake and helps to distribute or to suspend an insoluble solid in a liquid.
X
Xanthan Gum: A sugar-based polymer produced by bacteria, it has the ability to increase the viscosity of liquids and is added to for optimal texture. It can also bind other skin ingredients together, as well as being used in oil-and-water emulsions to keep the two phases separate.
Y
Yogurt Extract: This lactic acid bacteria derived ingredient is capable of enhancing cellular renewal while simultaneously optimizing hydration levels on the skin.
DISCLAIMER: All Bésame Cosmetics products are produced with ethically-sourced ingredients, from the US when possible, and do not contain ingredients that are harmful or toxic. Some products contain naturally-derived ingredients from nuts, seeds, and fruit. If you have any allergies, please read the product label carefully. In rare cases, these ingredients may cause sensitivity in certain individuals. We recommend those with sensitive skin or those uncertain about possible sensitivity first perform a patch test to ensure there is no reaction or consult your healthcare professional. Discontinue use if irritation or sensitivity occurs. Products and advice by Bésame make no claim to cure or prevent any disease or medical problem and is not intended to substitute other therapy or medical advice. In the case of pregnancy, please consult with your health care professional. All products are for external use only.