C.O. Bigelow Lemon Hand Treatment

Might help reduce hyperpigmentation when used regularly over a long period of time. Is more effective than beta-arbutin

A plant extract that can help lighten the skin and calm down inflammation. Might be helpful in neutralizing free radicals

Being a lipid soluble form of vitamin C, it is more stable than ascorbic acid, but still degrades quickly and needs to be stabilized in a formulation with another ingredient. It is claimed to penetrate skin better than pure vitamin C and have the the similar benefits, but solid studies of its effectiveness are lacking. Is likely to require a higher concentration in a product than pure vitamin C to be effective. It might be able to help reduce pore clogging.

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin

A good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin

A silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant

A good emollient that helps soften the skin and helps repair its barrier function. It can clog pores if used in high concentrations.

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and can be helpful in restoring the skin barrier function

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Attracts water into the upper layer of the skin

A great emollient that can also have anti-oxidant properties

An emollient that helps soften the skin and is used to improve product texture and stability

Used to stabilize the product formulations and works as an emollient

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Might have some anti-oxidant properties

Enhances the product texture and makes it more spreadable. Helps reduce water loss from the outer layer of skin. Extands the shelf life by preventing bacteria growth

A non-drying alcohol. Works as an emollient. Helps water and oil mix together and creates a nice product texture

A non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together

Improves the texture of the product and helps soften the skin. Helps oil and water mix together and can be used as a cleansing agent

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

Helps oil and water mix together and can enhance the penetration of other ingredients into the skin. It can be irritating

Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture

An emollient. Is not recommended for acne-prone skin as it can be comedogenic

A great moisturising ingredient that softens the skin and reduces water loss from its upper layer. It also can be helpful in protecting skin from free radicals

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function

Pure form of vitamin E. Can help moisturise and protect the skin from free radicals. Often used to help stabilise other ingredients or the formula itself