Learn More: Skin Care Science
Skin Care Products -- Popular Ingredients -- C - E
- Caffeine is used in skin preparations to temporarily shrink tissues. For example, when applied topically, caffeine may reduce puffiness under the eyes.
- Camphor is an ingredient that soothes skin and helps reduce itching and irritation.
- Ceramides are one of the primary types of lipids (fats) produced by skin cells that help keep skin hydrated and prevent water loss (transepidermal water loss). It is a natural moisturizing factor in skin.
- Cetyl alcohol is an emulsifying ingredient that acts as an emollient, smoothing and softening skin. It is nonirritating and does not dry out the skin.
- Collagen is a protein with exceptional water-binding capacity that helps hydrate the skin.
- Cholesterol is a type of lipid (fat) with humectant and emollient qualities that hydrates and smooths the skin. It is a natural moisturizing factor in skin.
- Dihydroxyacetone is the active ingredient in self-tanners. It darkens the skin by reacting with proteins in the uppermost layers.
- Elastin is a protein with good water-binding capacity that helps hydrate the skin and may help prevent transepidermal water loss.
- Emulsifiers are compounds that help molecules with different chemical properties, such as oil and water, mix together. Examples include glyceryl stearate, cetyl alcohol, and polysorbate 20.
- Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is a preservative in many skin care products that may cause irritation.
- Ethyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is a compound with strong antibacterial properties; however, it may cause excessive dryness and irritate the skin. Other potentially skin-damaging alcohols include benzyl alcohol, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, methanol, and SD alcohol.
