What Are Those Extra Ingredients in Beauty Products?

Four types of ingredients show up in nearly every lotion, cream, cleanser, and serum on store shelves. Below, what they do

Rita Maas

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Alcohols: Alcohols act as solvents, helping other ingredients dissolve in a cream, a gel, or a lotion. They usually end in -ol (ethanol, methanol, panthenol).

Preservatives: These prolong shelf life and prevent the growth of bacteria. They include formaldehyde releasers, parabens, and vitamin E.

Fillers: Fillers bulk up products, improving their texture. They include waxes (such as beeswax), thickening agents (like xanthan gum), sodium chloride, and even water.

Silicones: These enhance the “slip,” or spreadability, of a product so that it feels silky smooth. Their names end in -cone (like dimethicone).