Cosmetic Glossary

Welcome to our comprehensive Cosmetic Glossary, your ultimate guide to understanding exactly what goes into your skincare and beauty products. Navigating complex INCI lists can be overwhelming, which is why we have broken down each ingredient to clearly explain its primary function, skin benefits, and role in your daily routine. Whether you are researching a soothing botanical extract or decoding a potent scientific active, our dictionary empowers you to make informed, safe choices and build a skincare regimen tailored to your unique needs.
Lithothamnion Calcareum Extract
Lithothamnion Calcareum Extract (Red Algae Mineral Extract) Lithothamnion Calcareum Extract is a marine-derived ingredient obtained from calcified red algae (Lithothamnion calcareum) and valued in...
Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil
Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil (Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil) Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil is a citrusy aromatic essential oil typically steam-distilled from the fruits of Litsea cubeba, valued in cosmetic...
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C Derivative) Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a stable, water-soluble vitamin C derivative widely used in cosmetic formulations to support brightening,...
Magnesium Stearate
Magnesium Stearate (Magnesium Stearate) Magnesium Stearate is a magnesium salt of stearic acid used in cosmetic formulations primarily as a binder, bulking agent, and slip/feel modifier—especially in...
Magnesium Sulphate
Magnesium Sulphate (Magnesium Sulphate) Magnesium Sulphate is a mineral ingredient valued in cosmetic formulations for its soothing, purifying and revitalizing properties. It helps regulate the...
Malva Sylvestris Flower Extract
Malva Sylvestris Flower Extract (Mallow Flower Extract) Malva Sylvestris Flower Extract is a botanical ingredient obtained from mallow flowers and valued in cosmetic formulations for its soothing,...
Mangifera Indica Seed Butter
Mangifera Indica Seed Butter (Mango Butter) Mangifera Indica Seed Butter, commonly known as mango butter, is a natural cosmetic ingredient extracted from the seeds of the Mangifera indica fruit. Rich...
Medicago Sativa Extract
Medicago Sativa Extract (alfalfa extract) Plant-derived extract obtained from the aerial parts of Medicago sativa, commonly known as alfalfa, valued in cosmetics for its revitalizing, antioxidant and...
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (Tea tree leaf essential oil) An essential oil steam-distilled from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree), used in cosmetics primarily for fragrance and for...
Melaleuca Viridiflora Leaf Oil
Melaleuca Viridiflora Leaf Oil (Niaouli Leaf Oil) Melaleuca Viridiflora Leaf Oil is an aromatic essential oil distilled from the leaves of Melaleuca viridiflora (niaouli), valued in cosmetic...
Melia Azadirachta Seed Oil
Melia Azadirachta Seed Oil (neem seed oil) Melia Azadirachta Seed Oil, commonly known as neem seed oil, is a potent botanical oil extracted from the seeds of the neem tree. Rich in fatty acids,...
Melilotus Officinalis Extract
Melilotus Officinalis Extract (Sweet Clover Extract) A botanical extract obtained from sweet clover, valued in cosmetic formulations for its soothing, toning and refreshing properties. Naturally rich...
Mentha Piperita Leaf Oil
Mentha Piperita Leaf Oil (Peppermint leaf essential oil) An aromatic essential oil distilled from the leaves of Mentha piperita (peppermint), used in cosmetics primarily for fragrance and for its...
Mentha Piperita Leaf Water
Mentha Piperita Leaf Water (Peppermint Leaf Water) Mentha Piperita Leaf Water, known as peppermint leaf water, is a refreshing botanical distillate derived from the leaves of the Mentha piperita...
Mentol
Menthol (Menthol) Menthol is a naturally occurring aromatic compound commonly obtained from mint oils (or produced synthetically) and widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulations for its...