Tag: Cosmetic chemistry

Historically, a substance called guanine derived from crushed fish scales was used to create a shimmering, pearlescent effect in some cosmetics. This has led many to question, 'does lip balm have fish scales?'

Studies show retinaldehyde acts up to 11 times faster than traditional retinol for visible skin improvements. As the direct intermediary in the vitamin A pathway, retinal represents the aldehyde form of retinol, providing accelerated anti-aging and anti-acne benefits with a lower risk of irritation than prescription-strength options.

Interestingly, the name "goPure bars" can refer to two very different product types: the "Go Pure" brand's food bars and potential soap bar products from the "goPure Beauty" skincare line. The ingredients vary dramatically depending on whether you're looking for a healthy snack or a skin-purifying cleanser.

The term "natural" is so prevalent in marketing that a 2020 study found consumers perceived products with "natural" mineral oil as safer than those labeled "synthetic". But are natural ingredients better, or is this just clever marketing? The reality is more nuanced than many assume, and understanding the science behind your products is key.

While commonly derived from natural sources like coconut oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride is not an oil in the traditional sense, but a mixed ester. This means it has been chemically processed to isolate specific fatty acids, resulting in a unique cosmetic ingredient with distinct properties.

Glyceryl stearate is a versatile ingredient commonly used in cosmetics and food products for its emulsifying properties. However, a fundamental chemical distinction exists: while it is derived from a fatty acid, it is not a fatty acid itself.

Aloe vera's mucilaginous gel is composed of 99–99.5% water, with the remaining solid material containing over 75 potentially active compounds. Beyond this natural complexity, understanding what are the ingredients in aloe vera gel requires examining additives in commercial products, which include everything from thickeners to preservatives.

While pure L-ascorbic acid is famously unstable and degrades rapidly when exposed to air and light, sodium ascorbyl phosphate (SAP) was specifically developed as a robust, water-soluble alternative. Its creation addresses the significant formulation challenges that limit the effectiveness and shelf-life of traditional Vitamin C serums.

With an estimated $1.5 billion spent globally on vitamin C skincare products in 2022, understanding at what pH is ascorbic acid most stable is crucial for consumers and formulators. Its stability is a key factor in product efficacy and shelf-life, directly impacting how long it remains potent and beneficial.

Over 97% of jojoba oil is not a triglyceride but a unique liquid wax ester, a fact that directly impacts its fatty acid profile. This article addresses a common point of confusion: is jojoba oil high in omega-3, and what does its actual composition mean for your skin and hair?