The Derma Co. 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum with Witch Hazel & Willow Bark For Active Acne 8 ml

Citric acid is a naturally occurring alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) found in citrus fruits and widely used in skincare formulations. This versatile ingredient serves multiple purposes in dermatological products, primarily as a pH adjuster and mild exfoliant. Its ability to lower the pH of formulations helps stabilize other active ingredients and enhance product efficacy.

As an exfoliant, citric acid gently removes dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and improving skin texture. This action can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, uneven skin tone, and mild hyperpigmentation. Additionally, citric acid possesses antioxidant properties, offering some protection against free radical damage.

In skincare, citric acid is typically used in concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 2%, depending on the product's intended purpose. It's often found in cleansers, toners, serums, and chemical peels. While generally well-tolerated, individuals with sensitive skin should introduce citric acid-containing products gradually to assess tolerance.

Beyond its exfoliating and antioxidant benefits, citric acid can enhance the skin's moisture retention capabilities and aid in the absorption of other active ingredients. Its multifunctional nature makes it a valuable component in various skincare formulations targeting diverse skin concerns.

Disodium EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) is a versatile chelating agent widely used in skincare and cosmetic formulations. This synthetic compound effectively binds to metal ions, preventing them from interfering with product stability and performance. In skincare, Disodium EDTA serves multiple purposes, primarily as a preservative enhancer and antioxidant.

The ingredient's ability to sequester metal ions helps maintain product integrity by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and preventing oxidation of sensitive components. This action extends the shelf life of formulations and ensures consistent efficacy throughout use. Disodium EDTA is particularly beneficial in water-based products, where it can neutralize hard water minerals that may compromise the effectiveness of other ingredients.

In addition to its preservative properties, Disodium EDTA can improve the texture and feel of skincare products. It aids in creating smoother, more stable emulsions and can enhance the foaming capabilities of cleansers. The ingredient is generally well-tolerated by most skin types and is used in concentrations ranging from 0.05% to 0.15% in leave-on products. While Disodium EDTA is not considered an active ingredient for skin benefits, its role in maintaining product quality indirectly contributes to overall skincare efficacy.

Ethoxydiglycol is a versatile and widely used solvent in cosmetic and personal care formulations. This clear, colorless liquid is prized for its excellent solvency properties and ability to enhance the penetration of active ingredients through the skin barrier. Chemically, it belongs to the glycol ether family and is derived from ethylene glycol.

In skincare products, ethoxydiglycol serves multiple functions. It acts as a coupling agent, helping to blend water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients, thus improving formula stability. Its low surface tension allows for better spreadability of products on the skin. Ethoxydiglycol is particularly effective in dissolving preservatives, fragrances, and active ingredients like retinol and salicylic acid.

While ethoxydiglycol can enhance skin penetration, it's generally considered safe for use in cosmetics when formulated properly. However, its penetration-enhancing properties necessitate careful consideration of other ingredients in the formulation. Typical concentration ranges in skincare products are between 1% and 5%, depending on the specific application and desired effects.

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.

Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is a versatile and widely used ingredient in skincare and cosmetic formulations. This non-ionic, water-soluble polymer is derived from cellulose, a natural plant-based material. HEC functions primarily as a thickening agent, viscosity modifier, and emulsion stabilizer in various skincare products.

In skincare formulations, HEC helps create smooth, uniform textures and improves the spreadability of creams, lotions, and gels. Its ability to form clear, stable gels makes it particularly useful in products like eye gels and lightweight moisturizers. HEC also acts as a film-former, providing a protective barrier on the skin's surface that can help retain moisture.

One of the key advantages of HEC is its compatibility with a wide range of ingredients, including electrolytes, surfactants, and active compounds. It maintains stability across a broad pH range, making it suitable for diverse formulations. HEC is also non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, making it appropriate for sensitive skin types.

Due to its plant-based origin and biodegradability, HEC is often favored in natural and eco-friendly skincare products. It is typically used in concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 2%, depending on the desired viscosity and product type.

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.

Potassium sorbate is a widely used preservative in skincare and cosmetic formulations, recognized for its effectiveness against yeasts and molds. This white, crystalline powder is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in some berries. In skincare products, potassium sorbate functions primarily to extend shelf life and maintain product integrity by inhibiting microbial growth.

With a pH range of 4.5-6.5, potassium sorbate is particularly suitable for slightly acidic formulations. It exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, especially against fungi, while being less effective against bacteria. This preservative is often used in conjunction with other antimicrobial agents to provide comprehensive protection against various microorganisms.

Potassium sorbate is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and is approved by regulatory bodies worldwide. It is non-irritating and non-sensitizing for most individuals, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types. The ingredient is water-soluble and typically used at concentrations of 0.1-0.5% in skincare formulations. Its efficacy can be influenced by factors such as pH, water activity, and the presence of other ingredients in the product.

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from willow bark, renowned for its efficacy in treating acne and various skin conditions. This oil-soluble compound penetrates pores, effectively exfoliating and unclogging them by dissolving excess sebum and dead skin cells. Its keratolytic properties promote cell turnover, leading to smoother skin texture and improved clarity.

As an anti-inflammatory agent, salicylic acid helps reduce redness and swelling associated with acne lesions. It also possesses mild antimicrobial properties, assisting in the control of acne-causing bacteria. Typically used in concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 2% in over-the-counter products, salicylic acid is suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types.

Beyond acne treatment, salicylic acid is effective in managing conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and keratosis pilaris. It can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve overall skin tone when used in lower concentrations. However, it may cause dryness or irritation in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin. Sun protection is crucial when using products containing salicylic acid, as it can increase skin sensitivity to UV radiation.

Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract is a natural, plant-derived ingredient widely used in skincare formulations for its multifaceted benefits. This extract, obtained from the bark of the black willow tree, contains salicin, a precursor to salicylic acid, which is known for its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties.

The extract's primary function in skincare is to promote cell turnover and unclog pores, making it particularly effective for acne-prone and oily skin types. It helps to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, reduce sebum production, and minimize the appearance of pores. Additionally, Salix Nigra Bark Extract possesses astringent properties that can tighten and tone the skin.

Beyond its exfoliating capabilities, this ingredient exhibits anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, helping to calm irritated skin and reduce redness. It also demonstrates antioxidant properties, protecting the skin from free radical damage and environmental stressors. Some studies suggest that Salix Nigra Bark Extract may have mild analgesic effects, potentially alleviating skin discomfort.

When formulating with Salix Nigra Bark Extract, it's typically used in concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 2%, depending on the product type and desired effect. It can be incorporated into various skincare products, including cleansers, toners, serums, and moisturizers.