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1
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water (aqua
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Plain old water
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2
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hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel) water
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A plant extract that can help calm down inflammation in skin. Can, however, itself be irritating
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3
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lactic acid
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An exfoliating and moisturizing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). Typically causes less irritation than other AHAs, for example, glycolic acid. At high concentrations (about 15%), lactic acid can help reduce lines and wrinkles. Recent studies show that lactic acid can support the "good" bacteria living on skin's surface (healthy skin microbiom)
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4
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glycerin
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One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant
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5
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sodium hydroxide
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Used to adjust the product's pH
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6
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peg-40 hydrogenated castor oil
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Helps oil and water mix together
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7
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phenoxyethanol
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A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products
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8
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panthenol
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Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and can help improve skin barrier function
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9
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caprylyl glycol
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Helps preserve products and creates a nice product texture
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10
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aloe barbadensis leaf extract
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Traditionally used to treat sunburns, dermatitis and inflammation, but evidence for its effectiveness is lacking. The extract can contain humectants that help attract water into the skin
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11
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sodium gluconate
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Helps stabilize product formulations
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12
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allantoin
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Helps calm down inflammation in skin and can help reduce itching. Helps to repair the skin barrier and keep skin hydrated
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13
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ascorbyl glucoside
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A vitamin C derivative that is more stable but less potent than pure form of vitamin C. Has a potential to boost collagen production, nutralise free radicals and reduce hyperpigmentation, but the required concentration is likely to be much higher than for the pure form of vitamin C, limiting the ingredient's effectiveness in products
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14
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cucumis sativus (cucumber) fruit extract
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Might be somewhat helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and neutralizing free radicals but its typical concentration in a product is too low for having an effect
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15
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camellia sinensis leaf extract
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Can contain potent anti-oxidant compounds and help protect the skin from free radicals. Can help calm down inflammation and has some anti-bacterial properties
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