1% Vitamin A Retinol Serum

Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a versatile and widely used humectant in skincare formulations. This colorless, odorless, viscous liquid is derived from both natural and synthetic sources, including vegetable oils and petrochemicals. As a hygroscopic substance, glycerin attracts and retains moisture, making it highly effective in hydrating and moisturizing the skin.

In skincare products, glycerin typically comprises 0.5% to 5% of the formulation. It functions by drawing water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, enhancing skin hydration and improving barrier function. This moisture-binding property helps to reduce transepidermal water loss, leading to smoother, more supple skin.

Glycerin's low molecular weight allows it to penetrate the stratum corneum, providing hydration to deeper skin layers. It also exhibits emollient properties, helping to soften and smooth the skin's surface. Additionally, glycerin has been shown to enhance the penetration of other active ingredients in skincare formulations.

While generally well-tolerated, high concentrations of glycerin can potentially cause a tacky feel on the skin or draw out too much moisture in low-humidity environments. Therefore, it is often combined with other moisturizing agents for optimal efficacy and skin feel.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is a versatile and widely used ingredient in skincare and cosmetic formulations. This clear, odorless oil is derived from coconut oil and glycerin, combining medium-chain fatty acids (primarily caprylic and capric acids) with glycerol. Its molecular structure allows it to function as an excellent emollient and skin-conditioning agent, providing a smooth, non-greasy feel to products.

The ingredient's low viscosity and spreading properties make it an ideal carrier for other active ingredients, enhancing their penetration into the skin. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride exhibits good stability and resistance to oxidation, contributing to extended shelf life in formulations. It helps to form a protective barrier on the skin, reducing transepidermal water loss and improving hydration.

In skincare, this compound is valued for its ability to soften and smooth the skin without clogging pores. It's particularly beneficial for dry or sensitive skin types. The ingredient also possesses mild antimicrobial properties, which can be advantageous in certain formulations. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for use in a wide range of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, sunscreens, and makeup.

Isopentyldiol, also known as 3-methyl-1,3-butanediol, is a versatile synthetic ingredient gaining popularity in skincare formulations. This colorless, odorless liquid functions as a humectant and solvent, offering multiple benefits for skin health and product efficacy. Isopentyldiol's molecular structure allows it to attract and retain moisture, helping to hydrate the skin and improve its barrier function. Unlike some traditional humectants, it has a lighter feel on the skin, making it suitable for various product textures.

In formulations, Isopentyldiol enhances the solubility of active ingredients, potentially improving their penetration and effectiveness. It also exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can contribute to product preservation. Studies have shown that Isopentyldiol can boost the efficacy of other skincare ingredients, particularly in sun protection formulas, by improving the distribution of UV filters. Its low irritation potential makes it suitable for sensitive skin types.

Formulators appreciate Isopentyldiol for its stability across a wide pH range and compatibility with most cosmetic ingredients. It can be used in concentrations up to 5% in leave-on products and up to 10% in rinse-off formulations, offering flexibility in product development across various skincare categories.

Trioctyldodecyl Citrate is a versatile ester derived from citric acid and fatty alcohols, primarily used in cosmetic and skincare formulations. This colorless, odorless liquid functions as an emollient, skin conditioning agent, and solvent. Its molecular structure allows it to form a lightweight, non-greasy film on the skin, providing a smooth and silky feel upon application.

In skincare products, Trioctyldodecyl Citrate enhances spreadability and improves texture, making formulations more aesthetically pleasing and easier to apply. It exhibits excellent compatibility with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients, including both oil-soluble and water-soluble components. This property makes it valuable in creating stable emulsions and multifunctional products.

The ingredient is particularly beneficial in lip care formulations, where it helps to dissolve and disperse pigments evenly, resulting in smoother, more uniform color application. Additionally, Trioctyldodecyl Citrate can act as a mild plasticizer, improving the flexibility and durability of film-forming agents in makeup and sunscreen products.

While generally considered safe for topical use, it is always advisable to perform patch tests when introducing new skincare ingredients, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or known allergies.

Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Seed Oil is a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil extracted from the seeds of watermelon fruit. This natural ingredient has gained popularity in skincare formulations due to its impressive nutrient profile and beneficial properties for various skin types.

Rich in essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid and oleic acid, watermelon seed oil helps maintain skin barrier function and improve overall skin health. It contains high levels of antioxidants, including vitamin E and lycopene, which protect the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors.

The oil's composition allows for quick absorption without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. Its moisturizing properties help balance sebum production and hydrate the skin without clogging pores. Watermelon seed oil also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, potentially soothing irritated skin and reducing redness.

In skincare formulations, this oil can be used in facial serums, moisturizers, and hair care products. Its light texture and skin-nourishing benefits make it an excellent choice for those seeking natural, plant-based ingredients in their skincare routine.

1,2-Hexanediol is a multifunctional ingredient widely used in skincare and cosmetic formulations. This clear, colorless liquid is a member of the alkanediol family and serves as both a preservative enhancer and a solvent. Its molecular structure allows it to penetrate the skin barrier effectively, making it an excellent carrier for other active ingredients.

As a preservative booster, 1,2-Hexanediol works synergistically with traditional preservatives, enhancing their efficacy and allowing for lower concentrations of potentially irritating antimicrobial agents. This dual-action compound also exhibits mild antimicrobial properties on its own, contributing to product stability and shelf life.

In addition to its preservative functions, 1,2-Hexanediol acts as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin. This property helps to improve overall skin hydration and texture. Its solvent capabilities make it valuable for dissolving and stabilizing various cosmetic ingredients, ensuring uniform product consistency.

1,2-Hexanediol is generally well-tolerated by most skin types and is considered safe for use in concentrations typically found in cosmetic products. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a valuable component in a wide range of skincare formulations, from serums to moisturizers.

Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil is a natural, nutrient-rich oil extracted from the seeds of red raspberries. This lightweight, golden oil is prized for its high content of essential fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6, which are crucial for maintaining skin barrier function and hydration. The oil is also abundant in vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors.

Raspberry seed oil exhibits natural sun protective properties, with studies indicating an SPF range of 28-50 against UVB rays and significant protection against UVA rays. This makes it a valuable addition to skincare formulations, though it should not replace dedicated sunscreens. The oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.

In skincare formulations, raspberry seed oil is often used as an emollient and moisturizer. Its light texture allows for quick absorption without leaving a greasy residue. The oil can help improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and promote overall skin health. Its versatility makes it suitable for various skincare products, including facial oils, serums, and moisturizers.

Panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5, is a versatile and widely used ingredient in skincare and cosmetic formulations. This alcohol form of pantothenic acid readily converts to vitamin B5 when absorbed by the skin, offering numerous benefits for skin health and appearance.

As a humectant, panthenol attracts and retains moisture, helping to hydrate the skin and improve its barrier function. This property makes it particularly effective in treating dry, flaky, or irritated skin conditions. Panthenol also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, soothing redness and promoting skin healing.

In hair care products, panthenol can penetrate the hair shaft, improving moisture retention and enhancing shine and manageability. Its ability to form a protective film on the skin and hair makes it valuable in leave-on and rinse-off formulations alike.

Panthenol is generally well-tolerated by most skin types and is often used in concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 5%. Its stability in various pH environments and compatibility with other common skincare ingredients make it a versatile choice for formulators. Regular use of panthenol-containing products can contribute to improved skin texture, reduced signs of irritation, and enhanced overall skin health.

Triolein is a naturally occurring triglyceride composed of three oleic acid molecules attached to a glycerol backbone. This colorless, odorless oil is widely distributed in both plant and animal fats, making it a common component in many natural oils such as olive oil, sunflower oil, and human adipose tissue.

In skincare formulations, triolein serves multiple purposes. It functions as an effective emollient, helping to soften and smooth the skin by forming a protective barrier that reduces transepidermal water loss. This property makes it valuable in moisturizers and anti-aging products. Triolein also acts as a skin-conditioning agent, improving the overall texture and appearance of the skin.

Due to its similarity to human sebum, triolein is well-tolerated by most skin types and easily absorbed. It can aid in the delivery of active ingredients, enhancing their penetration into the skin. Additionally, triolein exhibits antioxidant properties, potentially offering protection against free radical damage.

In cosmetic manufacturing, triolein is utilized as a thickening agent and viscosity controller, contributing to the desired texture and consistency of various skincare products. Its stability and compatibility with other ingredients make it a versatile component in skincare formulations.