C.E.O. Afterglow Brightening Vitamin C Gel Cream

Xanthophyll is a class of carotenoid pigments found naturally in various plants and algae. These yellow to orange-colored compounds play a crucial role in photosynthesis and offer significant benefits when incorporated into skincare formulations. Xanthophylls, including lutein and zeaxanthin, are potent antioxidants that protect the skin from oxidative stress and free radical damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants.

In skincare products, xanthophylls demonstrate photoprotective properties, helping to shield the skin from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of premature aging. They also exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe irritated skin and alleviate redness. Xanthophylls have been shown to improve skin hydration and elasticity, contributing to a more youthful appearance.

These compounds are particularly beneficial for the delicate eye area, as they accumulate in the macula of the eye and may help protect against age-related macular degeneration. When applied topically, xanthophylls can enhance the skin's natural defense mechanisms and promote overall skin health. Their stability and compatibility with various formulation bases make them versatile ingredients in a wide range of skincare products, from serums to moisturizers.

Dimethicone, also known as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), is a versatile silicone-based polymer widely used in skincare and cosmetic formulations. This synthetic ingredient is prized for its ability to create a smooth, silky texture and form a protective barrier on the skin's surface. Dimethicone is characterized by its clear, colorless appearance and its unique ability to spread easily without feeling greasy or heavy.

In skincare products, dimethicone functions as an emollient and occlusive agent, helping to reduce transepidermal water loss and maintain skin hydration. It also acts as an effective skin protectant, shielding against environmental stressors and irritants. Dimethicone's film-forming properties contribute to the temporary filling of fine lines and wrinkles, creating a smoother skin appearance.

This ingredient is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin, and is non-comedogenic. It's commonly found in moisturizers, serums, primers, and foundations. Dimethicone's molecular structure allows it to blend well with other ingredients, enhancing the overall texture and performance of skincare formulations. While some concerns have been raised about its potential environmental impact, dimethicone remains a staple in many skincare products due to its efficacy and versatility.

Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate is a versatile synthetic ester widely used in cosmetic and skincare formulations. This colorless, odorless liquid functions primarily as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, providing a smooth, non-greasy feel to products. Its low molecular weight allows for quick absorption into the skin, making it an excellent choice for lightweight formulations.

The ingredient's structure consists of neopentyl glycol esterified with 2-ethylhexanoic acid, resulting in a stable compound resistant to oxidation and hydrolysis. This stability contributes to extended shelf life in cosmetic products. Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate exhibits excellent spreadability and helps improve the texture of various skincare formulations, including lotions, creams, and sunscreens.

In addition to its emollient properties, this ingredient acts as a solvent for other cosmetic components, enhancing the overall efficacy of formulations. It is particularly useful in sunscreen products, as it can help solubilize and disperse UV filters more effectively. Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate is generally well-tolerated by most skin types and is considered safe for use in cosmetic applications at typical concentrations. Its multifunctional nature makes it a valuable ingredient in modern skincare formulations, contributing to both performance and sensory attributes.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate is a potent, oil-soluble form of Vitamin C that has gained significant attention in advanced skincare formulations. This stable derivative of ascorbic acid offers superior penetration through the skin's lipid barrier compared to its water-soluble counterparts. Its molecular structure allows for enhanced absorption and efficacy in targeting various skin concerns.

As a powerful antioxidant, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate neutralizes free radicals, protecting the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage. It plays a crucial role in stimulating collagen synthesis, promoting skin firmness and elasticity. This ingredient has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate exhibits a gentler profile than pure ascorbic acid, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Its stability in formulations ensures a longer shelf life and consistent potency. Research indicates that this ingredient may also have photoprotective properties, complementing sunscreen efficacy.

Typically used in concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 2%, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate can be incorporated into various skincare products, including serums, moisturizers, and facial oils. Its compatibility with other active ingredients makes it a versatile component in comprehensive skincare regimens.

Polyglycerin-6 is a versatile and effective humectant and emollient widely used in skincare and cosmetic formulations. This synthetic polymer is derived from glycerin, a naturally occurring compound known for its moisture-retaining properties. Polyglycerin-6 consists of six glycerin molecules linked together, creating a larger, more complex structure that enhances its performance in various applications.

As a potent humectant, Polyglycerin-6 attracts and binds water molecules from the environment to the skin, helping to maintain optimal hydration levels. This property makes it particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin types. Additionally, its emollient characteristics contribute to a smoother, softer skin texture by forming a protective barrier that reduces transepidermal water loss.

Polyglycerin-6 is valued for its low irritation potential and compatibility with a wide range of skin types. It functions effectively in both water-based and oil-based formulations, making it a versatile ingredient for various skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and lotions. Its ability to enhance the stability and texture of formulations also makes it a popular choice among cosmetic chemists for improving product performance and user experience.

Propanediol, also known as 1,3-propanediol, is a versatile and increasingly popular ingredient in skincare formulations. This clear, colorless liquid is derived from corn sugar through a fermentation process, making it a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based glycols. Propanediol functions as a solvent, humectant, and emollient in skincare products, offering multiple benefits for the skin.

As a humectant, propanediol attracts and retains moisture, helping to keep the skin hydrated and plump. Its low molecular weight allows for efficient penetration into the skin, enhancing the delivery of other active ingredients. This property makes it an excellent choice for improving the efficacy of various skincare formulations.

Propanediol also acts as a preservative booster, helping to maintain product stability and extend shelf life. It has a low irritation potential, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Additionally, this ingredient can improve the texture and spreadability of products, enhancing the overall user experience.

In cosmetic formulations, propanediol is commonly used in concentrations ranging from 1% to 10%, depending on the product type and desired effects. Its multifunctional nature and skin-friendly profile make it a valuable addition to a wide range of skincare products, from serums and moisturizers to toners and masks.

Phenyl trimethicone is a versatile silicone-based ingredient widely used in cosmetic and skincare formulations. This clear, colorless fluid is a modified form of trimethicone, featuring phenyl groups attached to the silicone backbone. Its unique molecular structure imparts enhanced properties compared to standard silicones, making it a valuable component in various beauty products.

The ingredient exhibits excellent spreadability and provides a smooth, silky feel when applied to the skin or hair. Phenyl trimethicone forms a protective barrier on the surface, helping to reduce moisture loss and improve skin hydration. It also offers superior heat protection, making it ideal for use in hair care products designed to shield against thermal styling damage.

In skincare formulations, phenyl trimethicone contributes to a lightweight, non-greasy texture while enhancing the product's ability to adhere to the skin. This characteristic makes it particularly useful in long-wearing makeup and sunscreen formulations. The ingredient also demonstrates good compatibility with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients, including oils, waxes, and other silicones, allowing for versatile product development.

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.

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a versatile synthetic polymer widely used in skincare and cosmetic formulations. This multifunctional ingredient serves as an emulsifier, thickener, and stabilizer, contributing to the overall texture and performance of various products. Its unique chemical structure allows it to form stable emulsions and gels, even at low concentrations, making it particularly valuable in creating lightweight, non-greasy formulations.

The copolymer exhibits excellent compatibility with a wide range of active ingredients and is effective in both oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions. It provides a smooth, silky feel to products and helps enhance their spreadability on the skin. Additionally, this ingredient demonstrates resistance to electrolytes and pH changes, ensuring product stability across diverse formulations.

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is known for its ability to create clear gels and lotions, making it suitable for a variety of skincare applications, including serums, moisturizers, and sunscreens. Its film-forming properties contribute to improved product adherence to the skin, potentially enhancing the efficacy of active ingredients. This copolymer is generally well-tolerated and is considered safe for use in cosmetic products.

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer is an advanced skincare ingredient derived from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the human body known for its exceptional moisture-retaining properties. This innovative compound is created through a crosslinking process that enhances its stability and efficacy. The crosslinking modifies the hyaluronic acid molecule, creating a three-dimensional network that allows for sustained hydration and improved skin penetration.

This ingredient boasts a lower molecular weight compared to standard hyaluronic acid, enabling it to penetrate deeper into the skin layers. Its unique structure allows it to form a protective film on the skin's surface, reducing trans-epidermal water loss while simultaneously delivering hydration to deeper skin levels. Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer demonstrates superior water-binding capacity, capable of holding up to 1000 times its weight in water.

In skincare formulations, it provides long-lasting hydration, helps to plump fine lines and wrinkles, and improves skin elasticity. It's particularly effective in products designed for dry, dehydrated, or mature skin types. This ingredient is well-tolerated and can be incorporated into various skincare products, including serums, moisturizers, and masks.