Glycerin
Benefits
Excellent skin moisturiser and conditioner: Moisturisers containing glycerin can produce long-lasting moisturisation by minimising water loss1 .
Helps protect against dehydration effects of washing: Glycerin in a topical emulsion has been shown to help prevent the dehydration effects of washing the skin, including when Sodium Lauryl Sulphate is used as the detergent1.
Helps to retain moisture in the skin: At high humidity, Glycerin acts as a humectant, while at low humidity it acts as a skin moisturiser and conditioner by inhibiting lipid phase transition2.
Products that contain Glycerin
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Benefits
Helps maintain skin barrier function: Niacinamide has been shown to help maintain the skin barrier function3.
Helps to moisturise dry skin: The topical application of Niacinamide is shown to reduce transepidermal water loss4.
Helps to improve the appearance of skin tone and texture: Topical application of Niacinamide was shown to improve the appearance of aged and photodamaged skin and a reduction in the appearance of hyperpigmentation5.
Products that contain Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3)
Panthenol
Benefits
Hydrating: Dexpathenol when applied topically functions like a moisturiser which can help improve skin hydration, reduce transepidermal water loss and help maintain skin softness and elasticity6.
Products that contain Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5)
References
6. Ebner F, Heller A, Rippke F, Tausch I. Topical use of dexpanthenol in skin disorders. Am J Clin Dermatol 2002; 3(6): 427-433.37.
Paraffinum Liquidum
Benefits
Suitable for everyday use: A review of the available literature has shown topical Paraffinum Liquidum is well tolerated and can be used daily7.
Non-comedogenic: Highly refined and purified mineral oils, such as Paraffinum Liquidum found in cosmetic and skincare products are non-comedogenic8 (does not clog pores).
Excellent moisturising ingredient: Paraffinum liquidum keeps the skin moist and supple by providing an emollient film and reducing the transepidermal water loss9.
Products that contain Paraffinum Liquidum
References
7. Nash JF, Gettings SD, Diembeck W, Chudowski M, Kraus AL. A toxicological review of topical exposure to white mineral oils. Food Chem Toxicol 1996; 34(2): 213-225.
8. DiNardo JC. Is mineral oil comedogenic? J Cosmet Dermatol 2005;4(1):2–3.
9. Rawlings AV and Lombard KJ. A review on the extensive benefits of mineral oil. International Journal of Cosmetic Science 2012; 34: 511-518.
Petrolatum
Benefits
Reduces transepidermal water loss:The topical application of petroleum helps hydrate the skin by forming an occlusive layer on the skin which reduces transepidermal water loss10.
Products that contain Petrolatum
Squalane
Benefits
Well tolerated: An ingredient included in various cosmetics at a range of concentrations12.
Moisturising: Squalane possesses emollient, lubricant and humectant properties13. It can also contribute to skin suppleness13.
Products that contain Squalane
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
Benefits
Helps hydrate skin: Vitamin E helps hydrate the skin15, increase elasticity and skin barrier function16, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles17.
Antioxidant: Vitamin E is an antioxidant.
Products that contain Tocopherol
References
14. Keen MA, Hassan I. Vitamin E in dermatology. Indian Dermatol Online J 2016;7(4):311–5.
15. Möller H, Ansmann A, Wallat S. The effects of Vitamin E on the skin in topical applications. Lecture presented at the DGF Vitamin E symposium in Bochum, March 4,1989.
16. Idson B. Vitamins in emolliency and moisturizing preparations. Cosmetics and Toiletries 1976;93(8):77-79.
17. Mayer P. The effects of vitamin E on the skin. Cosmetics & Toiletries 1993;108:99–109.
Zinc Oxide
Benefits
Skin Protectant: Zinc oxide possesses barrier properties and can be used to help protect the skin against irritation.