Cosmetic Active Ingredients

cosmetic active ingredients

Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 (Argireline)

CAS: 616204-22-9

Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 (Argireline) is a synthetic hexapeptide derived from the N-terminal sequence of SNAP-25, a protein involved in neurotransmitter release, that inhibits muscle contraction signals at the neuromuscular junction to reduce expression wrinkles similarly to botulinum toxin but without injections. It is the most studied topical 'botox alternative' peptide. Used at 3–10% in anti-wrinkle serums and eye treatments.

cosmetic active ingredients

Adenosine (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 58-61-7

Adenosine is a naturally occurring purine nucleoside that plays a critical role in cellular energy transfer (as a precursor to ATP) and is used in cosmetics for its well-documented ability to stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, reduce wrinkle depth, and improve skin firmness. Approved as an anti-wrinkle functional cosmetic ingredient in Korea, adenosine has extensive clinical backing. Used at 0.04% (as per Korean Cosmetics Act) in anti-aging formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Aloe Vera Extract (Gel Powder)

CAS: 85507-69-3

Aloe Vera Extract (gel powder) is a concentrated, spray-dried form of Aloe barbadensis leaf gel, standardized for its key bioactive constituents including acemannan polysaccharides, anthraquinones, aloesin, and amino acids, delivering soothing, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and moisturizing benefits. It is one of the most universally used cosmetic botanicals with thousands of years of traditional use. Used at 0.5–10% in virtually all cosmetic product categories.

cosmetic active ingredients

Astaxanthin

CAS: 472-61-7

Astaxanthin is a ketocarotenoid pigment produced primarily by the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis, widely recognized as the most potent natural antioxidant known, with free radical quenching capacity approximately 6000x stronger than vitamin C and 800x stronger than CoQ10. Its unique molecular structure spanning both sides of the cell membrane provides inside-out antioxidant protection, making it exceptionally effective for anti-aging and photoprotection. Used at 0.01–0.1% in premium anti-aging formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Azelaic Acid (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 123-99-9

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid with multifunctional benefits including anti-acne, brightening, and anti-inflammatory activity, working by inhibiting tyrosinase and the growth of acne-causing bacteria while normalizing skin cell turnover. It is recommended for oily, acne-prone, and rosacea skin types and is considered safe for use during pregnancy. Typical use concentration is 10–20% in creams and gels.

cosmetic active ingredients

Bakuchiol

CAS: 10309-37-2

Bakuchiol is a meroterpene phenol derived from the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia, functioning as a natural, plant-based retinol alternative that activates retinol-responsive genes without structural similarity to retinoids. Clinical studies show it reduces wrinkles and hyperpigmentation comparably to retinol but with superior tolerability. It is an ideal ingredient for natural, clean-beauty, and sensitive-skin formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Beta-Glucan (Oat-Derived, Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 9041-22-9

Beta-Glucan is a polysaccharide derived from oat bran (Avena sativa) or yeast, recognized as one of the most effective skin-soothing, moisturizing, and immunomodulating actives available, with the unique ability to activate skin Langerhans cells and macrophage receptors to stimulate natural wound healing and skin defense responses. It provides deep hydration, reduces skin redness and sensitivity, and accelerates wound healing. Used at 0.1–1% in soothing, healing, and barrier-strengthening formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Carboxymethyl Chitosan HH1

CAS: 83512-85-0

Biotemed HH1 is a water-soluble carboxymethyl chitosan derived from marine-sourced chitin, offering excellent skin absorption, barrier repair and soothing functionality. It forms a breathable biopolymer film that locks in moisture while calming sensitive or stressed skin. Recommended addition level 0.11–2%.

cosmetic active ingredients

Carboxymethyl Chitosan HH2

CAS: 83512-85-0

Biotemed HH2 is a higher-performance grade of carboxymethyl chitosan designed for anti-aging and skin-restructuring applications. Primary functions include skin repair and soothing; secondary benefits include moisturization, firming and anti-wrinkle effects. Recommended addition level 0.11–2%.

cosmetic active ingredients

Centella Asiatica Extract (CICA)

Centella Asiatica Extract, commonly known as CICA, is a standardized extract rich in triterpenoids (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid) that delivers powerful wound healing, skin barrier repair, anti-inflammatory, and collagen-stimulating benefits. It is widely adopted in K-beauty and clinical skincare for sensitive, damaged, and post-procedure skin. Used at 0.1–5% in calming, repairing, and barrier-strengthening formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Ceramide AP (Ceramide 6-II)

CAS: 41248-23-1

Ceramide AP (Ceramide 6-II) is an alpha-hydroxy acid substituted ceramide naturally present in the skin's stratum corneum, contributing to the maintenance of the epidermal water barrier and skin structural integrity. It is commonly used in combination with Ceramide NP and EOP to create a balanced multi-ceramide complex mimicking the natural ceramide ratio in healthy skin. Used at 0.01–1% in advanced barrier repair systems.

cosmetic active ingredients

Ceramide EOP (Ceramide 1)

CAS: 113852-37-2

Ceramide EOP (Ceramide 1) is an acylceramide characterized by a linoleic acid esterified to the omega end of a long-chain fatty acid, and is a critical architectural ceramide in the skin barrier that is significantly depleted in atopic dermatitis and dry skin conditions. Its deficiency is directly linked to increased skin permeability and sensitivity. Used at 0.01–0.5% in advanced barrier restoration formulations targeting eczema and compromised skin.

cosmetic active ingredients

Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3)

CAS: 100403-19-8

Ceramide NP (also known as Ceramide 3) is the most abundant ceramide in human stratum corneum, playing a critical role in maintaining the skin's lamellar lipid barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and protects against environmental aggressors. Topical application replenishes depleted ceramide levels in dry, atopic, and aging skin. Used at 0.01–1% in barrier repair creams, moisturizers, and sensitive skin formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Chitosan Glycolate HGC

CAS: 9012-76-4

Biotemed HGC Chitosan Glycolate combines the biopolymer functionality of chitosan with the mild exfoliating and keratin-softening properties of glycolic acid. Provides moisturization, skin firming, and gentle keratin softening. Suitable for anti-aging, exfoliating and skin-smoothing formulations. Recommended addition level 0.11–2%.

cosmetic active ingredients

Chitosan Hydrochloride HYC

CAS: 70694-72-3

Biotemed HYC Chitosan Hydrochloride is a water-soluble cationic chitosan salt with primary film-forming and auxiliary antibacterial functionality. Broad application in skin and hair care for biopolymer film formation. Manufactured to shell-polysaccharide density specification. Recommended addition level 0.11–2%.

cosmetic active ingredients

Chitosan Monosuccinate HDP

CAS: 9012-76-4

Biotemed HDP Chitosan Monosuccinate is an anionic chitosan derivative offering moisturization, film-forming, sensory improvement and foam stabilization. The succinyl modification enhances water solubility and skin compatibility versus native chitosan. Suitable for rinse-off products at 3% (≤2% in leave-on). Recommended addition level 0.11–2%.

cosmetic active ingredients

Chitosan PCA Salt HPC

CAS: 9012-76-4

Biotemed HPC is a chitosan pyrrolidone carboxylate (PCA) salt combining the film-forming and conditioning properties of chitosan with the natural moisturizing factor (NMF) activity of PCA. Provides superior moisturization, film formation and skin conditioning. High usage flexibility at 0.11–7%. Used in leave-on products at ≤7%.

cosmetic active ingredients

Chitosan Salicylate HSS

CAS: 9012-76-4

Biotomed HSS is a chitosan salicylate combining chitosan's biopolymer repair benefits with salicylic acid's anti-inflammatory and keratolytic properties. Primary functions are skin repair and soothing. Water salicylate addition level ≤2% (CIR limit). Maximum use concentration: 50% for rinse-off, 2% for leave-on. Recommended addition level 0.11–2%.

cosmetic active ingredients

Cholesterol (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 57-88-5

Cholesterol is an essential sterol lipid that constitutes approximately one-third of the stratum corneum lipids alongside ceramides and fatty acids, forming the multi-lamellar lipid envelope that controls skin permeability. Topical application of cholesterol restores deficient barrier lipid ratios in aged, dry, and compromised skin, significantly reducing transepidermal water loss. Used at 0.1–1% as part of complete barrier lipid systems.

cosmetic active ingredients

Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone, Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 303-98-0

Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) is a fat-soluble benzoquinone naturally present in all human cells, where it plays a critical role in mitochondrial energy production and acts as a potent lipophilic antioxidant. Skin levels of CoQ10 decline significantly with age, contributing to reduced cellular energy and increased oxidative damage. Topical supplementation improves skin texture, reduces fine lines, and supports cellular renewal. Used at 0.01–0.3% in anti-aging serums and creams.

cosmetic active ingredients

Copper Peptide GHK-Cu

CAS: 89030-95-5

GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper) is a naturally occurring copper complex peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine, with remarkable wound healing, anti-inflammatory, collagen synthesis stimulating, and anti-aging properties. It activates more than 4,000 human genes involved in skin regeneration and repair, including collagen I, III, elastin, and proteoglycan production, while also exhibiting potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Used at 0.05–2% in premium regenerating serums and treatments.

cosmetic active ingredients

Cosmetic Chitosan H1

CAS: 9012-76-4

Biotemed H1 is a cosmetic-grade deacetylated chitosan (≥85% deacetylation) offering moisturization, antioxidant and antistatic properties for skin and hair applications. As the base polymer of the Biotemed chitosan line, H1 provides a broad functional platform for biopolymer skin conditioning and hair antistatic formulations. Recommended addition level 0.11–10%.

cosmetic active ingredients

Ectoine

CAS: 96702-03-3

Ectoine is a cyclic amino acid derivative naturally produced by extremophilic bacteria as a stress-protectant molecule, acting as a chemical chaperone that stabilizes proteins, membranes, and DNA against environmental stressors including UV radiation, heat, desiccation, and osmotic stress. In skincare, it provides outstanding moisturization, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory benefits while protecting skin cells from environmental damage. Used at 0.5–2% in daily protective and anti-aging formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Ergothioneine

CAS: 497-30-3

Ergothioneine is a naturally occurring histidine-derived thiol amino acid produced by fungi and actinobacteria, recognized as a 'longevity vitamin' due to its exceptional antioxidant potency surpassing glutathione, vitamins C and E combined, and its ability to accumulate in tissues under oxidative stress. It protects mitochondrial DNA and proteins from oxidative damage and is emerging as a premier anti-aging ingredient. Used at 0.005–0.1% in high-performance anti-aging formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Ferulic Acid (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 1135-24-6

Ferulic acid is a potent plant-derived hydroxycinnamic acid antioxidant that not only neutralizes free radicals independently but also dramatically enhances the stability and efficacy of vitamins C and E, making it a cornerstone ingredient in antioxidant serums. It protects skin against UV-induced oxidative damage and has mild brightening and anti-aging properties. Used at 0.5–1% in vitamin C antioxidant serums.

cosmetic active ingredients

Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate

Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate is derived from fermentation of Galactomyces candidus (a yeast used in sake production), yielding a filtrate rich in vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and alpha-hydroxy acids that provide brightening, pore-minimizing, skin texture refining, and anti-aging benefits. It is the active ingredient in several iconic K-beauty essence products and is backed by extensive clinical evidence for improving overall skin clarity and luminosity. Used at 5–90% in brightening essences.

cosmetic active ingredients

Gluconolactone (PHA, Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 90-80-2

Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides gentle exfoliation with simultaneous humectant moisturization and antioxidant properties, making it the ideal chemical exfoliant for sensitive, rosacea-prone, and post-procedure skin. Unlike AHAs and BHAs, PHAs have larger molecular size that limits deep penetration, resulting in surface-level exfoliation with far less irritation. Used at 5–12% in gentle exfoliating toners, serums, and cleansers.

cosmetic active ingredients

Glutathione (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 70-18-8

Glutathione is the body's master antioxidant tripeptide (gamma-glutamyl-cysteinyl-glycine), naturally present in all cells, that exerts potent skin brightening effects by switching melanin biosynthesis from dark eumelanin to lighter phaeomelanin, while also protecting skin from oxidative damage. It is particularly popular in Asian and global brightening skincare for its safe, effective, and multi-mechanistic whitening activity. Used at 0.1–2% in brightening serums and creams.

cosmetic active ingredients

Glycogen (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 9005-79-2

Glycogen is a highly branched polysaccharide serving as the primary energy storage molecule in animal cells, and in cosmetics functions as a skin energizing active that replenishes depleted cellular energy stores, enhances skin cell metabolism, promotes cell renewal, and provides moisturizing benefits through its hydroxyl-rich carbohydrate structure. It is particularly effective for fatigued, stressed, and energy-depleted skin. Used at 0.5–3% in energizing and revitalizing formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Glycolic Acid (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 79-14-1

Glycolic acid is the smallest and most potent alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), derived originally from sugarcane, with the deepest skin penetration of all AHAs due to its low molecular weight. It is the benchmark exfoliating acid in cosmetic formulations, effectively loosening intercellular bonds to remove dead skin cells, improve skin texture, stimulate collagen, and reduce hyperpigmentation. Used at 2–10% in leave-on products and up to 70% in professional peels.

cosmetic active ingredients

Green Tea Extract (EGCG, Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 989-51-5

Green Tea Extract standardized to Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) is a polyphenol-rich antioxidant extract providing potent free radical scavenging, UV photoprotection, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer skin benefits. EGCG is the most bioactive catechin in green tea, inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that degrade collagen and protecting skin DNA from UV damage. Used at 0.1–1% in antioxidant, photoprotective, and anti-aging formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid (Low MW HA)

CAS: 9004-61-9

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid consists of low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid fragments (typically 5–50 kDa or smaller) produced by enzymatic or chemical hydrolysis of high-molecular-weight HA, enabling deeper skin penetration to the viable epidermis and upper dermis where they provide hydration, stimulate HA synthesis, and offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Unlike standard HMW HA that sits on the skin surface, hydrolyzed HA acts at multiple skin layers. Used at 0.01–1% in deep-hydrating formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR)

CAS: 893412-73-2

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) is a next-generation retinoic acid ester that binds directly to retinoid receptors in the skin without requiring enzymatic conversion, delivering retinoic acid-like efficacy with dramatically reduced irritation and photosensitivity. It is considered one of the gentlest yet most effective retinoids available for cosmetic use. Ideal for sensitive skin formulations at 0.01–0.1%.

cosmetic active ingredients

Lactic Acid (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 50-21-5

Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) naturally found in milk, known for its dual action as a chemical exfoliant that loosens desmosomal bonds between corneocytes and as a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) that hydrates the skin by attracting and retaining water. Its larger molecular size compared to glycolic acid makes it gentler and more suitable for regular use on sensitive skin. Used at 2–12% in exfoliating toners, serums, and moisturizers.

cosmetic active ingredients

Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate

Lactobacillus Ferment Lysate is produced by fermenting and lysing Lactobacillus bacteria, yielding a complex mixture of peptidoglycans, lipoteichoic acids, proteins, and organic acids (especially lactic acid) that support the skin microbiome balance, reinforce the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and modulate immune responses. It is a core probiotic-derived ingredient in microbiome-friendly skincare. Used at 0.5–5% in microbiome-balancing and barrier-supporting formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Lactobionic Acid (PHA, Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 96-82-2

Lactobionic Acid is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) formed from gluconic acid and galactose, providing the gentlest form of chemical exfoliation available while simultaneously acting as a potent humectant due to its multiple hydroxyl groups that bind water. It also chelates metal ions for antioxidant protection, making it ideal for compromised, dry, and sensitive skin seeking exfoliation benefits without irritation. Used at 5–15% in ultra-gentle exfoliating and moisturizing formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Licorice Root Extract (Glycyrrhiza Glabra)

CAS: 97676-23-8

Licorice Root Extract from Glycyrrhiza glabra is standardized for glabridin and glycyrrhizin, powerful brightening and anti-inflammatory compounds that inhibit tyrosinase and prostaglandin production to reduce hyperpigmentation, redness, and skin irritation. Glabridin specifically inhibits UVB-induced melanogenesis, making it a particularly effective brightener for sun-induced dark spots. Used at 0.5–2% in brightening, anti-inflammatory, and sensitive-skin formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Mandelic Acid (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 611-71-2

Mandelic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds, prized for its larger molecular size that results in slower, gentler skin penetration compared to glycolic acid, making it the preferred AHA for sensitive, darker, and acne-prone skin types. It provides exfoliation, brightening, and mild anti-bacterial benefits simultaneously. Used at 5–15% in exfoliating toners, serums, and peels.

cosmetic active ingredients

N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG, Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 7512-17-6

N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) is an aminosaccharide that serves as a precursor to hyaluronic acid biosynthesis in the skin and also inhibits tyrosinase glycosylation to reduce melanin production. It provides dual benefits of enhanced skin hydration (via HA stimulation) and skin brightening (via melanin inhibition), making it a uniquely multifunctional active. Used at 2–4% in brightening moisturizing formulations, especially effective in combination with niacinamide.

cosmetic active ingredients

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl)

CAS: 214047-00-4

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl) is a palmitoylated lysine-threonine-threonine-lysine-serine (KTTKS) peptide derived from the C-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen, that stimulates dermal fibroblasts to synthesize collagen, elastin, and fibronectin, effectively reducing wrinkle volume and depth. It is one of the most research-supported peptide actives in cosmetics. Used at 3–8 ppm (active) in anti-aging serums and creams.

cosmetic active ingredients

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1

CAS: 147732-56-7

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 is a synthetic glycine-histidine-lysine (GHK) peptide derivatized with a palmitoyl group for enhanced skin penetration, acting as a messenger peptide that signals fibroblasts to produce collagen I and III and activates metalloproteinase inhibitors to prevent collagen degradation. Together with Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, it forms Matrixyl 3000, one of the most effective anti-aging peptide combinations available. Used at 2–5 ppm in anti-aging formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Phytic Acid (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 83-86-3

Phytic acid is a naturally derived chelating agent and antioxidant found in plant seeds, used in skincare for its ability to chelate metal ions that trigger melanin overproduction and oxidative stress, resulting in brightening, antioxidant, and mild exfoliating effects. It acts synergistically with other brightening agents like vitamin C and niacinamide. Used at 1–3% in brightening serums, toners, and anti-oxidant formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Phytosphingosine

CAS: 554-62-1

Phytosphingosine is a naturally occurring sphingoid base found in yeast and human skin, with potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that reduce acne-causing bacteria and skin inflammation while also acting as a ceramide precursor to reinforce the epidermal lipid barrier. It combines anti-acne, barrier-building, and calming functionalities in a single ingredient. Used at 0.01–0.2% in acne, sensitive, and barrier-repairing formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Polyglutamic Acid (PGA, Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 25513-46-6

Polyglutamic Acid (PGA) is a naturally fermented biopolymer produced by Bacillus subtilis natto, renowned as a super-humectant with moisture retention capacity 5–10x greater than hyaluronic acid due to its film-forming properties and ability to inhibit hyaluronidase (the enzyme that degrades HA in skin). It simultaneously hydrates skin, prolongs HA activity, and improves skin barrier function. Used at 0.05–2% in hydrating serums and moisturizers.

cosmetic active ingredients

Retinaldehyde (Retinal)

CAS: 116-31-4

Retinaldehyde is the aldehyde form of vitamin A, positioned one step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, delivering faster and more potent anti-aging activity with less conversion required in the skin. It combines strong efficacy with good tolerability, making it suitable for users who want retinol-level results with reduced irritation. Used at 0.01–0.1% in premium anti-aging formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Retinol (Pure Vitamin A)

CAS: 68-26-8

Retinol is the gold-standard form of vitamin A used in anti-aging skincare, promoting cell turnover, stimulating collagen synthesis, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. As a pure active ingredient, it converts to retinoic acid in the skin to exert its biological effects. It is widely used in serums, creams, and night treatments at concentrations of 0.01–1%.

cosmetic active ingredients

Saccharomyces Lysate Extract

Saccharomyces Lysate Extract is derived from lysing Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast) cells, releasing intracellular contents including beta-glucan, nucleic acids, proteins, vitamins, and enzymatic cofactors that stimulate skin cell metabolism and repair processes. It activates DNA repair mechanisms in damaged skin cells, promotes cellular renewal, and provides immunostimulatory benefits for improved skin defense and recovery. Used at 1–5% in skin repair and anti-aging formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Salicylic Acid (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 69-72-7

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) with unique oil-solubility that allows it to penetrate into pores and exfoliate from within, making it the most effective topical ingredient for acne treatment, blackhead removal, and oily skin management. It also has anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial properties. Used at 0.5–2% in leave-on acne treatments and up to 30% in professional chemical peels.

cosmetic active ingredients

Sea Kelp Bioferment

Sea Kelp Bioferment is produced through fermentation of Macrocystis pyrifera (giant kelp) with beneficial microorganisms, resulting in a bioavailable complex rich in fucoidan polysaccharides, iodine, vitamins, minerals, and microbial metabolites that provide superior hydration, skin conditioning, anti-aging, and barrier-strengthening benefits compared to raw kelp extract. The fermentation process enhances bioavailability and adds probiotic-derived metabolites. Used at 1–10% in hydrating and anti-aging formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosslinked (Filler Grade)

Crosslinked Sodium Hyaluronate is a chemically cross-linked form of hyaluronic acid where HA chains are interconnected via BDDE or other crosslinking agents to create a stable gel matrix with greatly extended residence time in tissues compared to non-crosslinked HA. It provides superior volumizing, plumping, and long-lasting moisturization effects in topical cosmetics and is the same technology used in injectable dermal fillers. Used at 0.1–2% in plumping serums and high-performance skin-padding creams.

cosmetic active ingredients

Sphingomyelin (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 85187-10-6

Sphingomyelin is a phospholipid naturally present in cell membranes and the skin's lipid barrier, acting as a structural component and precursor to ceramides via enzymatic hydrolysis in the skin. As a cosmetic active, it improves skin moisture retention, enhances lipid barrier integrity, and provides anti-aging benefits by mimicking the skin's natural membrane lipids. Used at 0.1–2% in barrier repair and anti-aging formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Squalene (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 111-02-4

Squalene is a natural polyunsaturated triterpene hydrocarbon that is a major component of human sebum and an intermediate in cholesterol biosynthesis, used in cosmetics as an ultra-lightweight emollient that replenishes skin surface lipids, restores sebum balance, and provides antioxidant protection. Plant-derived (olive) squalene is preferred in cosmetics due to sustainability concerns over shark-derived sources. Used at 1–10% in facial oils, serums, and moisturizers.

cosmetic active ingredients

Tranexamic Acid (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 1197-18-8

Tranexamic acid is a synthetic lysine derivative that inhibits melanin synthesis by blocking the interaction between keratinocytes and melanocytes, effectively reducing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone with excellent safety and tolerability. It works through a different pathway than traditional brightening agents, making it ideal for combination brightening formulas. Used at 2–5% in serums, toners, and brightening creams.

cosmetic active ingredients

Trehalose (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 99-20-7

Trehalose is a non-reducing disaccharide naturally produced by organisms that survive extreme desiccation (tardigrades, resurrection plants), functioning as a biological water substitute that stabilizes proteins and membranes in the absence of water. In cosmetics, it provides superior moisturization, protects skin cells from dehydration and heat stress, and stabilizes other cosmetic actives in formulation. Used at 0.5–5% in moisturizing, protective, and active-stabilizing formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Turmeric Extract (Curcumin)

CAS: 458-37-7

Curcumin is the principal bioactive polyphenol extracted from Curcuma longa (turmeric) rhizomes, possessing potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and skin brightening properties via NF-kB pathway inhibition and tyrosinase suppression. In topical cosmetics, it reduces skin inflammation, helps improve hyperpigmentation, and provides antioxidant photoprotection. Used at 0.1–1% in brightening, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

Zinc PCA (Cosmetic Grade)

CAS: 15454-75-8

Zinc PCA (Zinc L-Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid) is a zinc salt of the natural skin moisturizing factor PCA (pyroglutamic acid), combining the sebum-regulating and anti-bacterial properties of zinc with the NMF-like moisturizing activity of PCA. It effectively normalizes sebaceous gland activity, reduces acne-causing bacteria, and maintains optimal skin hydration without over-drying. Used at 0.5–2% in oily, combination, and acne-prone skin formulations.

cosmetic active ingredients

sh-Oligopeptide-1 (EGF, Epidermal Growth Factor)

CAS: 62253-40-1

sh-Oligopeptide-1 is a recombinant human Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) produced through biotechnology, a 53-amino acid protein that binds to EGF receptors in the epidermis to stimulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and wound healing, resulting in dramatic skin renewal, scar reduction, and anti-aging effects. It is one of the most potent cell-signaling cosmetic actives available. Used at 1–10 ppm in premium regenerating serums and post-procedure products.

cosmetic active ingredients

sh-Polypeptide-1 (Soluble Collagen Hydrolysate)

CAS: 9007-34-5

sh-Polypeptide-1 refers to soluble hydrolyzed collagen, produced by enzymatic hydrolysis of animal or marine-derived type I collagen into low-molecular-weight peptide fractions that penetrate the skin and signal fibroblasts to upregulate endogenous collagen synthesis, while also providing excellent film-forming moisturization properties on the skin surface. It improves skin elasticity, moisture, and smoothness measurably. Used at 0.5–5% in anti-aging and moisturizing formulations.