Understanding the key components and active ingredients in skincare and beauty products to make informed choices for optimal skin health. ## Core Categories ### Emollients - Moisturizing agents - Skin softening - Barrier protection ### Preservatives - Product stability - Microbial prevention - Shelf life extension ### Active Ingredients - Targeted treatments - Anti-aging - Acne control ## Application 1. **Product Selection** - Ingredient awareness - Skin compatibility - Desired effects 2. **Skincare Routine** - Product layering - Sensitivity management - Consistent use ## Common Ingredients to Know ### Beneficial Ingredients - **Hyaluronic Acid** - Intense hydration - **Retinoids** - Anti-aging and cell turnover - **Niacinamide** - Reduces inflammation - **Vitamin C** - Brightening and antioxidant - **Salicylic Acid** - Exfoliation and acne treatment ### Potentially Irritating - **Fragrances** - Common allergens - **Alcohol (denatured)** - Can be drying - **Essential Oils** - May cause sensitivity - **Sulfates** - Can strip natural oils ## Best Practices - Read labels carefully before purchasing - Patch test new products on small area first - Introduce one new product at a time - Consult dermatologists for specific concerns ## Related Notes - **[[Skincare]]** - Comprehensive skincare guide - **[[non-comedogenic]]** - Understanding pore-friendly products - **[[Acne Prevention]]** - Ingredient considerations for acne - **[[Health Map]]** - Main health hub > [!tip] Ingredient Research > Use resources like CosDNA or INCIDecoder to research specific ingredients and their comedogenic ratings before purchasing new products.