Cosmetic active ingredients and formulation insights
Citric Acid (CAS 77-92-9, E330) is a weak tricarboxylic acid naturally abundant in citrus fruits and produced commercially by fermentation. It is one of the most widely used organic acids in the world — an essential acidulant, pH adjuster and chelating agent for food & beverage, personal care and industrial formulations. Physical & Chemical Properties […]
Azelaic Acid (CAS 123-99-9) is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in grains. It combines brightening, anti-inflammatory and anti-acne benefits in a single ingredient — one active, three mechanisms — increasingly used in acne treatments, rosacea management and uneven-tone formulas. Physical & Chemical Properties INCI: Azelaic Acid CAS number: 123-99-9 Appearance: white to off-white crystalline […]
Glycolic Acid (CAS 79-14-1, 2-hydroxyacetic acid, MW 76.05) is the smallest and most penetrating AHA — the benchmark ingredient for chemical exfoliation, anti-aging and skin renewal. Bulk glycolic acid delivers visible results at 5%–10%, making it a core active for professional skincare lines and home-care peels. Physical & Chemical Properties INCI: Glycolic Acid CAS number: […]
Lactic Acid (CAS 50-21-5) is a gentle AHA produced by fermentation and naturally present in milk. It uniquely combines exfoliation with humectant moisturizing — smoothing skin while attracting and binding moisture, making it ideal for sensitive and dry skin. Physical & Chemical Properties INCI: Lactic Acid CAS number: 50-21-5 Appearance: colorless to yellowish liquid (as […]
L-Malic Acid (CAS 97-67-6, E296) is the naturally occurring stereoisomer of malic acid found in apples and many fruits. It serves two industries — a mild AHA for cosmetics and an acidulant/flavor enhancer for food & beverage manufacturing — making it one of the most versatile acids in the raw material portfolio. Physical & Chemical […]
DL-Mandelic Acid (CAS 611-72-3, 2-hydroxy-2-phenylacetic acid) is a large-molecular-weight AHA derived from bitter almonds. It delivers the exfoliation and brightening benefits of an alpha-hydroxy acid with minimal irritation — the preferred choice for sensitive, reactive and melanin-rich skin. Physical & Chemical Properties INCI: Mandelic Acid CAS number: 611-72-3 Appearance: white crystalline powder Solubility: soluble in […]
Salicylic Acid (CAS 69-72-7, 2-hydroxybenzoic acid) is the reference BHA (beta-hydroxy acid) — a lipid-soluble exfoliant that penetrates sebum-filled pores to clear congestion, fight acne and refine skin texture. For formulators and private-label brands, bulk salicylic acid powder is a core active for anti-acne, pore-refining and scalp-care product lines. Physical & Chemical Properties INCI: Salicylic […]
Ectoin (依克多因) is a natural cyclic amino acid derivative extracted from halophilic microorganisms — extremophile bacteria that survive harsh salt lakes and deserts. In skincare, this molecule forms a protective hydration shell around skin cells, delivering long-lasting moisturization, sensitive skin soothing and barrier repairing effects. Safe and mild for all skin types, it is a […]
A practical guide to cosmetic preservative selection — from phenoxyethanol to paraben-free synergistic systems.
