Pilgrim 5% Niacinamide Oil-Free Super Light Gel Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++ With Korean White Lotus

Alcohol, specifically ethanol or denatured alcohol, is a widely used ingredient in skincare formulations. This colorless, volatile liquid serves multiple purposes in cosmetic products. Its primary functions include acting as a solvent, enhancing the penetration of other active ingredients, and providing a quick-drying effect on the skin.

In skincare, alcohol can help create lightweight textures and improve the spreadability of products. It's particularly useful in formulations like toners, astringents, and some serums. Alcohol's antimicrobial properties can also contribute to product preservation.

However, the use of alcohol in skincare is controversial. At high concentrations, it can be drying and potentially irritating to the skin, particularly for those with sensitive or dry skin types. It may disrupt the skin's natural barrier function, leading to increased transepidermal water loss.

Despite these concerns, when used in appropriate concentrations and formulations, alcohol can be a beneficial ingredient. It's crucial to consider the overall product formulation, concentration of alcohol, and individual skin needs when evaluating its presence in skincare products. Some cosmetic-grade alcohols, like cetyl and stearyl alcohol, are fatty alcohols with emollient properties, distinct from ethanol.

Coco-Caprylate/Caprate is a versatile, plant-derived emollient widely used in skincare and cosmetic formulations. This lightweight, non-greasy ingredient is composed of esters derived from coconut oil fatty acids, specifically caprylic and capric acids. It functions as an excellent alternative to silicone-based ingredients, providing similar sensory benefits without the potential drawbacks associated with silicones.

The ingredient offers multiple benefits in skincare products, including improved spreadability, enhanced skin feel, and increased product stability. Coco-Caprylate/Caprate exhibits rapid absorption into the skin, leaving a smooth, non-tacky finish. Its low viscosity makes it an ideal choice for lightweight formulations such as serums, lotions, and facial oils.

In addition to its emollient properties, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate acts as a solvent for other oil-soluble ingredients, enhancing their delivery and efficacy. It is compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients and is suitable for various skin types, including sensitive skin. The ingredient is biodegradable and environmentally friendly, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable cosmetic formulations.

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.

Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional synthetic ingredient widely used in cosmetic and personal care products. This clear, colorless liquid acts primarily as a preservative enhancer, working synergistically with other preservatives to improve their efficacy and extend product shelf life. Derived from glycerin, ethylhexylglycerin exhibits gentle antimicrobial properties, helping to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi in formulations.

Beyond its preservative-boosting capabilities, ethylhexylglycerin serves as an effective emollient and skin conditioning agent. It helps improve the texture and spreadability of products while providing a smooth, non-greasy feel on the skin. This ingredient also functions as a deodorant agent, helping to reduce body odor by inhibiting the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

Ethylhexylglycerin is generally well-tolerated by most skin types and is considered safe for use in concentrations typically found in cosmetic products. Its versatility makes it a valuable ingredient in a wide range of formulations, including moisturizers, sunscreens, makeup, and hair care products. While some individuals may experience mild irritation, adverse reactions to ethylhexylglycerin are rare, contributing to its popularity in the cosmetics industry.

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.

Homosalate is a widely used organic compound in sunscreen formulations, functioning as an effective UVB filter. This oil-soluble ingredient absorbs ultraviolet radiation in the 295-315 nm range, providing crucial protection against sunburn and DNA damage. Chemically, homosalate is a salicylate ester, structurally related to salicylic acid but with distinct properties optimized for sun protection.

In sunscreen products, homosalate typically comprises 1-15% of the formulation, often working synergistically with other UV filters for broad-spectrum coverage. Its popularity stems from its stability, efficacy, and ability to enhance the water resistance of sunscreen formulations. Homosalate also exhibits mild antioxidant properties, potentially offering additional skin benefits.

Safety assessments by regulatory bodies have deemed homosalate safe for use in cosmetic products at current concentrations. However, some studies suggest it may have weak estrogenic effects, prompting ongoing research. Environmental concerns have also been raised due to its potential impact on aquatic ecosystems.

When formulating with homosalate, care must be taken to ensure proper solubilization and compatibility with other ingredients to maximize its sun protection efficacy while maintaining product stability and sensory appeal.

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide or vitamin B3, is a versatile and well-researched skincare ingredient with numerous benefits for various skin types and concerns. This water-soluble vitamin plays a crucial role in cellular energy production and repair processes within the skin.

Niacinamide is renowned for its ability to improve skin barrier function by increasing ceramide production, which helps retain moisture and protect against environmental stressors. It has been shown to regulate sebum production, making it beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin. The ingredient also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe irritated skin and reduce redness associated with conditions like rosacea.

Furthermore, niacinamide has demonstrated efficacy in improving skin tone and texture by inhibiting melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, thus reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots. It can also stimulate collagen production, contributing to improved skin elasticity and reduction of fine lines.

Typically used in concentrations between 2% and 5%, niacinamide is well-tolerated by most skin types and can be easily incorporated into various skincare formulations, including serums, moisturizers, and toners.

Octocrylene is a widely used organic compound in sunscreen formulations, known for its excellent UV-absorbing properties. This oil-soluble ingredient primarily functions as a UVB filter but also provides some protection against UVA rays. Its chemical structure allows it to effectively absorb and dissipate harmful ultraviolet radiation, helping to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin damage.

One of octocrylene's key advantages is its stability in sunlight, which enhances the overall photostability of sunscreen formulations. It synergizes well with other UV filters, particularly avobenzone, improving their effectiveness and longevity on the skin. Octocrylene also possesses emollient properties, contributing to the smooth application and feel of sunscreen products.

Typically used in concentrations ranging from 1% to 10%, octocrylene is approved by regulatory bodies worldwide, including the FDA and EU Commission. While generally considered safe for topical use, some studies suggest potential concerns about its environmental impact and rare cases of contact allergies in sensitive individuals. Ongoing research continues to evaluate its long-term effects and potential alternatives. Despite these considerations, octocrylene remains a valuable ingredient in broad-spectrum sun protection formulations due to its efficacy and versatility.

Phenoxyethanol is a widely used preservative in cosmetic and personal care products. This synthetic compound, derived from phenol and ethylene oxide, plays a crucial role in preventing microbial growth and extending product shelf life. With its chemical formula C8H10O2, phenoxyethanol appears as a colorless, oily liquid with a faint rose-like odor.

Effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, yeasts, and molds, phenoxyethanol is particularly valuable in water-based formulations. It functions optimally at pH levels between 3 and 8.5, making it compatible with a wide range of skincare and cosmetic products. Typically used at concentrations of 0.5% to 1%, phenoxyethanol is considered safe for most individuals when used as directed.

While phenoxyethanol offers excellent preservation properties, it is often combined with other preservatives for enhanced efficacy. Its stability in the presence of sunlight and compatibility with other cosmetic ingredients contribute to its popularity among formulators. However, some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions, particularly at higher concentrations. Regulatory bodies, including the FDA and EU Cosmetics Regulation, have approved phenoxyethanol for use in cosmetics within specified limits, reflecting its established safety profile when used appropriately.

Polyacrylate-13 is a synthetic polymer widely utilized in skincare and cosmetic formulations for its versatile functional properties. This ingredient acts primarily as a thickening agent and emulsion stabilizer, contributing to the texture, consistency, and overall stability of various products. Its ability to form a protective film on the skin's surface makes it valuable in formulations designed to provide hydration and reduce transepidermal water loss.

In skincare applications, Polyacrylate-13 enhances the spreadability of products, allowing for smooth and even application. It also aids in the suspension of active ingredients, ensuring their uniform distribution throughout the formulation. This polymer is particularly effective in oil-in-water emulsions, where it helps maintain the dispersion of oil droplets in the aqueous phase.

Polyacrylate-13 is generally well-tolerated by most skin types and is considered safe for use in cosmetic products. It is often found in moisturizers, serums, sunscreens, and foundations. The ingredient's film-forming properties can contribute to the long-lasting effects of skincare and makeup products, improving their wear time and resistance to environmental factors. Its use in formulations can result in products with a silky, non-greasy feel on the skin.