Reference
Active ingredients
Reference entries on compounds frequently found in dermocosmetics and over-the-counter preparations sold in parapharmacies. Each covers properties, typical uses, regulatory status, an evidence summary, and known contraindications.
- Niacinamide (vitamin B3)INCI name, function, typical concentrations in dermocosmetics, regulatory status under Regulation 1223/2009, and evidence summary.
- Hyaluronic acidHyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate in cosmetics: function as a humectant, molecular-weight considerations, regulatory status, and what the evidence supports.
- Salicylic acidA cosmetic and medicinal substance: restrictions under Annex III of Regulation 1223/2009, SCCS opinions, and the boundary between cosmetic and drug use.
- Retinol & retinoidsA cosmetic vitamin A derivative: SCCS opinions, EU concentration limits under Annex III, and the distinction from prescription retinoids.
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)L-ascorbic acid and its cosmetic derivatives: function, stability challenges, and regulatory status.
- Zinc oxideAn inorganic UV filter under Annex VI of Regulation 1223/2009: nano and non-nano forms, SCCS opinions, and use in sunscreens and infant care.
- Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5)The alcohol form of vitamin B5: humectant and skin-conditioning function, use across skin, scalp and infant care, and regulatory status.
- GlycerinGlycerin (glycerol) as a cosmetic humectant: ubiquity in modern cosmetics, pharmacopoeial and food-supplement grades, and high tolerability.
- CeramidesA class of skin lipids used in dermocosmetic moisturisers: ceramide NP, AP, EOP and others, their role in the stratum corneum, and regulatory status.
- Centella asiaticaA botanical cosmetic ingredient: active triterpenes (asiaticoside, madecassoside), use in dermocosmetics, and regulatory status under Regulation 1223/2009.
- Azelaic acidA dicarboxylic acid with cosmetic and medicinal uses: the cosmetic-versus-prescription concentration boundary, and regulatory status under EU and national rules.
- Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA)Glycolic, lactic and mandelic acids as cosmetic exfoliants: SCCS opinions, EU concentration and labelling rules under Annex III.