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Hydroxystearic Acid
* A fatty acid surfactant
Functions:
Hydroxystearic Acid is the monoester of glycerin and Glyceryl Hydroxystearate. It is often used as an emollient in skin care products and is also a common soap ingredient thanks to its surfactant properties (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
There are many warnings associated with Hydroxystearic Acid. It has been shown to have carcinogenic properties and studies down in 1970 showed tumor development in mice (Source). In a study done by Thomas Global, repeated or prolonged contact with Hydroxystearic Acid could cause skin irritation, which may lead to various skin disorders like dermatitis.
Recommended Products w/ Hydroxystearic Acid:
Hydroxypropylcellulose
* An emulsifier most often used in artificial tears
Functions:
Hydroxypropylcellulose is a derivative of cellulose most often used as a topical soother of eye irritation and dryness (Mayo Clinic). However, this soothing and lubricating property can often translate as an ingredient in skin care products. Hydroxypropylcellulose is most often used in skin care products as an emulsifier, film forming agent or binder and increases the viscosity of formulas.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
There are no warnings regarding Hydroxypropylcellulose, although the Environmental Working Group and other sources does note that it can be a skin irritant when applied in high concentrations.
Recommended Products w/ Hydroxypropylcellulose:
Moltobene Clay Esthe Pack, Billy Jealousy Knows the Secret to a Soft Face
Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate
* A natural binder used in cosmetics and beauty products
Functions:
Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate is a naturally-derived sugar used in cosmetics and beauty products because of its ability to serve as a surfactant and emulsifier. It is often seen in hair products because it is gentle on hair and imparts a smooth, velvety feel (Making Cosmetics).
Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate is a popular ingredient in cosmetics because of its versatility. It stabilizes emulsions at any temperature, gives formulas immediate viscosity, reduces the greasiness of products and delivers a smooth, thick feeling.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
There are no adverse safety warnings regarding Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, as long as it’s used in concentrations between 3 and 10% as recommended by the CIR.
Recommended Products w/ Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate:
Hamadi Shea Rice Milk Hair Conditioner, Yonka for Men Nutri-Moist
Hydroxypropyl
* A cellulose-derived emulsifier and lubricant
* Also known as Hydroxypropyl Cellulose
Functions:
Hydroxypropyl is most often used in the manufacturing of artificial tears because of its lubrication properties. However, it is also used as an emulsifier and stabilizer in cosmetic and beauty products because of its water and organic solubility (Wikipedia).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hydroxypropyl is considered very safe for use in cosmetics and beauty products. It is extremely gentle and non-irritating (as can be seen in its opthamological uses).
Recommended Products w/ Hydroxypropyl:
Skinceuticals Age Interrupter, Yonka for Men Nutri-Moist, Chritophe Robin Crème Lavante Au Citron for Color Treated Hair, Gold Bond Ultimate Restoring Skin Therapy Lotion
Hydroxylated Lecithin
* A milk derived emulsifier
Functions:
Lecithin is a natural emulsifying agent and one of the most important components of cells. It is a naturally occuring mixture of the diglycerides of stearic, palmitic and oleic acids, linked to the choline ester of phosphoric acid and plays an important role in a cell’s metabolism, especially regarding membrane penetration and has been used as a surfactant in cosmetics. Lecithin’s use in cosmetics was previously limited because of its oxidation and instability against heat, however, Hydroxylated Lecithin (Lecithin with the addition of a hydroxyl -OH group) has all the good qualities of natural lecithin, yet its stability is greatly improved. Lecithin improves the homeostatasis of the skin (Dermaxime.com).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hydroxylated Lecithin is approved by the FDA as a food and cosmetics additive and is generally considered safe for use. It is also approved by the Environmental Working Group as well as the CIR.
Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde
* A perfume ingredient
* Also known as Lyral
Functions:
Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde is a fragrance and masking ingredient used in many skin care products. Developed in the 1960s, this combination of myrcenol and acrolein is used for its long-lasting, powerful scent reminiscent of Lily of the Valley. It is considered one of the “Top 10 Scents” of the past 25 years, according to The European Union, and is found in over 35% of all beauty products.
Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehydelipophilic is known as an aldehyde fragrance that readily penetrates the skin, making it ideal for use in beauty products such as deodorant, skin creams and cosmetics.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
* Often part of the compound Tetradibutyl Pentaerithrityl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate
Functions:
Hydroxyhydrocinnamate is an ester used to stabilize beauty products. Very little information is available about this ingredient. When it is used as a part of Tetradibutyl Pentaerithrityl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, it creates a reaction of other ingredients and stabilizes the formula, and serves as an antioxidant (CosmeticsCop.com).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hydroxyhydrocinnamate is non-toxic, non-ecotoxic and is biodegradable.
Recommended Products w/ Hydroxyhydrocinnamate:
Xen Tan Transform Gradual Self-Tan, Aveeno Ultra-Calming Night Cream, GM Collin Retinol Advanced
Hydroxyethylcellulose
* A lubricant and thickening agent derived from cellulose
Functions:
Hydroxyethylcellulose is a plant-derived amino acid used as a preservative, emulsifier, binder and thickener in beauty products. It’s a water-soluble polymer that provides colloid protection and can be thickened or thinned to be used in a variety of products. It is not beneficial in itself to the skin, but is a widely used ingredient because of its ability to serve many purposes (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
There are no adverse side effects or warnings associated with products containing Hydroxyethylcellulose.
Recommended Products w/ Hydroxyethylcellulose:
Dr. Spiller’s Celltresor Cream and Gel, Yon Ka for Men Age Defense Cream, Nutra-Lift Rejuvenating Therapy, Neulash, Lancasters Sunslim, Neostrata Lotion Plus Aha 15, PRESCRIBEDsolutions: A Bolt of Lightening, Hydropeptide Eye Extreme Dark Circle Concentrate
Hydroxyethyl Behenamidopropyl Dimonium Chloride
* An ingredient in hair conditioners
Functions:
There is little research available for Hydroxyethyl Behenamidopropyl Dimonium Chloride. It is a water dispersible quaternary ammonium salt found in shampoos and conditioners and often used as an active ingredient in anti-static products as well as conditioning treatments (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
According to the EWG and The National Institutes of Health, there are no warnings for the use of Hydroxyethyl Behenamidopropyl Dimonium Chloride.
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
* A thickener and emulsifier used in skin care products
Functions:
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a gelling agent that thickens, emulsifies, and stabilizes products and solutions. It is very easy to use in liquid form and provides a sensation of freshness followed by a melting effect on contact with the skin. It leaves a feeling of velvety softness (Cosmetics Database and Adinop.co).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
There are no adverse side effects or warnings associated with Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer.
Recommended Products w/ Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer:
Artistry Time Defiance Day Protect Crème with SPF 15, 3Lab WW Eye Cream with Human Growth Hormone, Azure Hydropeptide Cellular Transformation Growth Serum, Dermaheal Two Weeks Miracle
Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone
* A super antioxidant that protects skin against free radicals
* Also known as Idebenone and CoQ10
* Read TIA’s article on Idebenone
* Read TIA’s article on CoQ10
Functions:
Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone is an antioxidant that protects cells from environmental damage, improves the appearance of fine lines, reduces dryness, and smooths skin texture. Studies show that Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone is more powerful in preventing cell damage than Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Coenzyme Q10, Kinetin, and Alpha Lipoic Acid (Source). Although it is very similar to CoQ10, it’s more water soluble and has a slightly different anti-oxidant profile. It works by protecting skin from harmful free radicals, which create wrinkles and fine lines.
Hydroxycitronellal
* A perfume ingredient providing a floral scent
Functions:
Hydroxycitronellal is a perfume ingredient with a medium strength floral scent, reminiscent of lily and sweet tropical melon. It is found widely as a chief constituent in essential oils including ilang-ilang oil, palmarosa oil, geranium oil, orange flower oil, lemongrass oil, hops oil, and lavender oil (Source).
Citral and Geraniol are two main components of Hydroxycitronellal. Citral is used as a raw material in the synthesis ionone, a perfumery and flavoring component used in the production of retinol. Geraniol is a pheromone of certain species of bees, secreted by the scent glands of worker bees to signal the location of nectar-bearing flowers and the entrances to their hives. Geraniol is often used in insect repellent products.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hydroxyapatite
* A calcium phosphate mineral sometimes used in plastic surgery
Functions:
Hydroxyapatite is a component of bone that is also found in rocks and sea coral. Plastic surgeons use hydroxyapatite implants made from sea coral in facial reconstruction because the structure and chemical make-up is almost identical to the hydroxyapatite of human bone.
When implanted into the body the synthetic implant is accepted by the body; because of its porous nature, normal tissue integration to take place. Hydroxyapatite implants from sea coral are totally non-immunogenic and do not provoke allergic reactions because of the high heat process used to create the structures. In addition to solid hydroxyapatite implants there is also a hydroxyapatite injectable (or spreadable) paste. Unlike solid hydroxyapatite implants the paste is non-porous so bone and soft-tissue ingrowth does not occur (DermNetNZ).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hydroquinone
* An extremely controversial skin-whitening agent
* Read TIA’s article on Hydroquinone and other whiteners
* Read about Arbutin, a form of Hydroquinone
Functions:
Hydroquinone is a controversial skin whitening agent added to many topical brightening creams. According to Drugs.com, Hydroquinone decreases the formation of melanin, the pigment that gives skin a brown or olive color. It’s used topically to lighten areas of darkened skin such as freckles, age spots, chloasma, and melasma.
It should not be used on any skin that is dry or damaged (including wind chapped, sunburnt, or irritated) and can actually make skin more sensitive to UV exposure. It should not be applied before going into the sun or after sun exposure.
The FDA’s ban (more below) on Hydroquinone does still allow for products with less than 2% of Hydroquinone to be sold OTC and up to 4% prescribed by dermatologists. However, there are safer alternatives that are being used in new skin whitening products.
Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans
* An ingredient that increases the elasticity and pliability of the skin
Functions:
Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans are widely used in skin care products and cosmetics because of their ability to bind with water efficiently and increase depth hydration, improving the elasticity and firmness of the skin. They are easily accepted into the skin because of their positive charge, and can moisturize the skin, as well as improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by temporarily minimizing the depth of wrinkles on skin.
However, some journals say that although Glycosaminoglycans do improve the plumpness of skin and temporarily improve wrinkles when injected, topical agents do not have the same results.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans are considered a safe ingredient in beauty products and no warnings were found regarding its use.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Recommended Products w/ Hydrolyzed Glycosaminoglycans:
Hydrolyzed Casein
* A milk derivative
Functions:
Hydrolyzed Casein is a milk derivative primarily used as a food additive, but also seen in skin care products. Caseins make up 80% of milk proteins and are a great source of amino acids used for growth and development. Although this nutritional value applies to ingestion of Casein, it is also used as a leavening agent, stabilizer, thickener, flavoring, flavor enhancer, and as a nutrient (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
According to the EWG, there is a slight documented risk of reproductive toxicity when using products containing Hydrolyzed Casein. There are also some documented skin allergies to Hydrolyzed Casein, which may be related to milk allergies in general. However, these are small risks and Hydrolyzed Casein is generally considered a safe and approved food additive as well as beauty product ingredient.
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
* A waterproofing emollient
Functions:
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is a synthetic oil that is used as a mineral oil substitute. It is an excellent emollient & moisturizer, restores skin suppleness, prevents water loss, and is an emollient (Source). It’s used for pigment dispersion in many cosmetic products and is a popular ingredient in sunscreens because it allows for SPF retention even after water exposure (like in waterproof sunscreens).
Studies were done to test the irritation likelihood of products containing Hydrogenated Polyisobutene and products with 1.44% concentration (a common level in most products) showed no irritation, according to RealSelf.com. Even up to concentrations of 4%, it was not irritating to skin or eyes. Products containing Hydrogenated Polyisobutene were also shown to have no phototoxic or photoallergenic properties.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene is FDA and CIR approved for use in cosmetics.
Recommended Products w/ Hydrogenated Polyisobutene:
Hydrogenated Polydecene
* A synthetic polymer used as an emollient and skin moisturizer
Functions:
Hydrogenated Polydecene is created when polydecenes are hydrogenated. Polydecenes are non-sticky emollients that create a smooth and silky feeling on skin. They are often used in skin care products because they are easily spreadable and create an even and easy application for creams and lotions (Dermaxime.com).
Research was done over a period of time on people with dry and atrophic skin to see how effective Hydrogenated Polydecene was at moisturizing the skin. After twice daily applications, marked improvement was seen. Further testing was done on 10 people who applied Hydrogenated Polydecene to the crows feet area around the eyes; significant wrinkle reduction was seen.
The Skin Research Institute and AMORE Pacific Corporation in Korea ran another study to measure the efficacy of different combinations of polyols and oils, including Hydrogenated Polydecene. There was measurable improvement of skin condition with combinations of Hydrogenated Polydecene and various polyols.
Hydrogenated Lecithin
* An emulsifying agent that penetrates the skin
Functions:
Lecithin is a natural emulsifying agent and one of the most important components of cells. It is a naturally occuring mixture of the diglycerides of stearic, palmitic and oleic acids, linked to the choline ester of phosphoric acid and plays an important role in a cell’s metabolism, especially regarding membrane penetration and has been used as a surfactant in cosmetics. Lecithin’s use in cosmetics was previously limited because of its oxidation and instability against heat, however, Hydrogenated Lecithin (Lecithin with the addition of hydrogen) has all the good qualities of natural lecithin, yet its stability is greatly improved. Lecithin improves the homeostatasis of the skin (Dermaxime.com).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hyaluronidase
* An enzyme that breaks down collagen fibers and hyaluronic acid in the skin
* Read TIA’s article about Phytessence Wakame that includes a good summary of Hyaluronidase
Functions:
Although Hyaluronidase is a pesky enzyme that breaks down collagen in the skin. It destroys the natural hyaluronic acid created in the body, therefore disabling it from binding collagen and elastin molecules. This prevents the formation of new collagen and elastin and causes premature wrinkling and sagging. Levels of Hyaluronidase are increased by free radicals (Souce).
However, new uses have been found for Hyaluronidase. Although fillers such as Juvederm, Elevess, Perlane and Prevelle have done wonders for the elimination of wrinkle appearance, overfilling is a common problem and leads to an unnatural appearance of the skin. Hyaluronidase is now being used as a problem solver rather than a problem causer. It’s natural tendency to break down Hyaluronic acid is now being harnessed to lessen the effects of overfilling. When injected, it breaks down the Hyaluronic acid filler in the skin, while not dissolving natural tissue, according to RealSelf.com. Rather than waiting for the plumping hyaluronic acid to be absorbed into the body naturally, Hyaluronidase speeds up the process.
Hyaluronic Acid
* A natural lubricator that promotes collagen formation
* Read TIA’s articles on Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate and Hyaluronic Acid
* Famous for being the key component in the longevity of residents in a Japanese village featured on ABC. The segment was called “The Village of Long Life: Could Hyaluronic Acid Be an Anti-Aging Remedy?”
* Also known as Hyaluronan or Glycosaminoglycan
Functions:
Hyaluronic Acid is a cushioning, lubricating chemical naturally created in the body. Many physical problems, such as hereditary connective tissue disorders in the joints, heart valves and eyes, result from low levels of Hyaluronic Acid, so it is natural to assume that reintroducing higher levels of it may improve these issues.
Hyaluronate
* A natural lubricator that promotes collagen formation
* Also known as Hyaluronic Acid
* Read TIA’s article on Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate
Functions:
Hyaluronate is a cushioning, lubricating chemical naturally created in the body. Many physical problems, such as hereditary connective tissue disorders in the joints, heart valves and eyes, result from low levels of Hyaluronate, so it is natural to assume that reintroducing higher levels of it may improve these issues.
The effect of Hyaluronate on the skin is at the level of promoting the formation of collagen, the fibers that firm the skin. Hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down collagen fibers, is produced by free radicals and UV radiation. This breakdown of collagen fibers can cause premature wrinkles and sagging of the skin. Therefore, reducing the free radicals is a major key to reducing the Hyaluronidase enzyme and promoting normal levels of Hyalurate in the skin (Source). Hyaluronate also exhibits water-binding and water-attracting attributes fill up the spaces between the connective fibers collagen and elastin in the dermis. This allows skin to say supple and prevents wrinkles from forming in dry skin.
Himanthalia Elongata Extract
* A natural algae extract, often found in seaweed
Functions:
Himanthalia Elongata Extract comes from a species of brown seaweed which has small button-like, perennial thalli, according to Cosmetics Database. It’s known to provide high levels of Vitamins A, C and E along with essential amino acids and other natural minerals, and is used in many skin care products thanks to its natural ability to help restore balance to skin’s moisture levels (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
There are no adverse effects from this natural extract when applied topically. Studies done in Spain and published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Himanthalia Elongata Extract acts as a neurosuppressant when given to mice.
Recommended Products w/ Himanthalia Elongata Extract:
Hexylresorcinol
* An ingredient recently used in skin-whitening and lightening products
Functions:
Traditionally found in mouthwashes and throat lozenges thanks to its antiseptic and anesthetic properties, Hexylresorcinol has also been used to treat minor cuts, scrapes and skin infections (source). Recently, however, its ability to target pathways in the skin that lead to hyperpigmentation has propelled it into the skin lightening ingredient category. There is also thought that Hexylresorcinol has more benefits as well, including an ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increase protection against UVB and UVA rays, and improve the skin’s barrier against pollution and sun exposure (source).
Hydroquinone has been the leader in the skin whitening category, although there are many drawbacks to this ingredient. In recent studies, .5% Hexylresorcinol concentration has proven to be just as effective as 2% concentration of Hydroquinone.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hexylene Glycol
* A preservative and solvent that may be irritating to some skin types
Functions:
Hexylene Glycol is a solvent and viscosity agent used in many skin care products. It is used to thin out heavy compositions and create a thinner, more spreadable product.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Although the FDA has approved Hexylene Glycol and the CIR found it an acceptable solvent in skin care products, some studies have shown that it is an irritant. However, according to CosmeticsInfo.org, there was “no correlation between the degree of irritation and the concentration of the glycol present in the product. There were no reactions indicative of skin sensitization to these glycols in any skin sensitization assays and no suggestions of phototoxicity or photosensitization.” Furthermore, a study published in Contact Dermatitis researching the effects of Hexylene Glycol when used by people with eczema concluded that the presence of Hexylene Glycol did not cause a significant increase in irritation.
Hexyldecanol
* An emollient used in skin care products
Functions:
Hexyldecanol is an ingredient used as an emollient, humectant, and skin-conditioning solvent in beauty care products. It has a low viscosity and therefore creates a base in products and cosmetics that is easily spreadable (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Although Hexyldecanol is generally considered to be a safe ingredient, a study published in Contact Dermatitis noted a reaction of “severe dermatitis mimicking deep vein thrombosis caused by hexyldecanol.” Ultimately, the CWG has approved Hexyldecanol as an acceptable ingredient, but this reaction has occurred.
Recommended Products w/ Hexyldecanol:
Nia 24 for Aging Lips, Korres Wild Rose 24 Hour Moisturizer SPF 6
Hexylcinnamaldehyde
* A perfume ingredient
* Also known as Hexyl Cinnamal
Functions:
Hexylcinnamaldehyde is a natural ingredient used in perfumes and other beauty products as a fragrance additive. It is derived from chamomile oil and is used as a masking ingredient in many foundations and skin creams.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hexylcinnamaldehyde is FDA approved and is approved by the Cosmetics Working Group for topical use. However, the DIMDI (German Institute of Medical Documentation and Information) rates it as a Class B allergen when used in high concentrations (Source). Skin care products and cosmetics use Hexylcinnamaldehyde in low concentrations, and it is therefore considered a safe ingredient.
Recommended Products w/ Hexylcinnamaldehyde:
See the products listed with Hexyl Cinnamal
Hexyl Laurate
* An skin-softening emollient
Functions:
Hexyl Laurate is a skin conditioning emollient, solvent, and viscosity agent used to thicken beauty products and cosmetics. Because of its somewhat fruity flavor, it is often used in lipsticks and lip products. It is an ester made when hexyl alcohol and lauric acid are combined (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
There are no adverse side effects or warnings listed for Hexyl Laurate and it is generally considered a safe ingredient in skin care products and cosmetics.
Recommended Products w/ Hexyl Laurate:
Dermaheal Two Weeks Miracle, Abella Colorshade Tinted Sunscreen, Skyn Iceland’s The Antidote Mineral Sunscreen SPF 18, L’Oreal Visible Lift with Serum Inside, Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen
Hexyl Cinnamic Aldehyde
* A fragrance ingredient
Functions:
Not much information is available regarding Hexyl Cinnamic Aldehyde, but it is known as a fragrance ingredient used for its jasmine and floral scent.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hexyl Cinnamic Aldehyde is safe when used as an ingredient in low concentrations. However, it can be an irritant to skin if applied in large amounts, according to its (Material Safety Data Sheet.
Hexyl Cinnamal
* A natural fragrance additive
* Also known as Hexyl Cinnamaldehyde
Functions:
Hexyl Cinnamal is a natural ingredient used in perfumes and other beauty products as a fragrance additive. It is derived from chamomile oil and is used as a masking ingredient in many foundations and skin creams (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
Hexyl Cinnamal is FDA approved and is approved by the Cosmetics Working Group for topical use. However, the DIMDI (German Institute of Medical Documentation and Information) rates it as a Class B allergen when used in high concentrations (Wikipedia). Skin care products and cosmetics use Hexyl Cinnamal in low concentrations, and it is therefore considered a safe ingredient.
Recommended Products w/ Hexyl Cinnamal:
Bliss An Ounce of Prevention AM SPF 15, The Body Shop Moringa Body Scrub, Dr. Spiller’s Celltresor Cream and Gel, L’Oreal Color Rich Lipstick
Hexanediol, 1,2-hexanediol
* A widely used humectant and coupling agent
Functions:
According to a patent filed by Proctor and Gamble, Hexanediol and 1,2-hexanediol is a highly effective and mild coupling agent and humectant. It is especially useful when bonding silicone products and can be used at lower concentrations than many other coupling agents, therefore reducing its irritation likeliness.
1,2-hexanediol contains many chemicals in its composition, including: Alpha-Lipoic acids, an antioxidant; Chrysin, a anti-inflammatory bioflavonoid; Diosgenin, a maintainer of healthy blood cholesterol levels; Glucosamine Hydrochloride, which slows joint degeneration; and Indole-3-Carbinol, a nutrient that may prevent cancer (Source).
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
There are no safety warnings for Hexanediol, 1,2-hexanediol (OSHA). However, it has been known to be an irritant in some cases, especially to the eyes. It can also cause dermatitis, although the Cosmetics Working Group offers no warnings for its use.
Recommended Products w/ Hexanediol, 1,2-hexanediol:
Hexadecene Copolymer
* A film former, binder, and skin and hair smoother
Functions:
Hexadecene Copolymer is a film former and provides water and wear resistance in sunscreens and other cosmetics. It serves as a moisture barrier and provides good pigment dispersion, specifically in skin creams and cosmetics, such as mascara. It also serves as an emulsion stabilizer and increases the efficacy of antiperspirants (MakingCosmetics.com).
According to The Cosmetics Database, Hexadecene Copolymer works as a film former by leaving a pliable, cohesive, and continuous covering over the hair or skin. This film has water-binding properties and leaves a smooth feel on skin and hair.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
The Department of Dermatology at Northwestern University Medical School found that allergic contact dermatitis has been caused by Hexadecene Copolymer (Source).
Recommended Products w/ Hexadecene Copolymer:
Estee Lauder Time Zone Line Wrinkle Reducing Lotion SPF 15, Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen
Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone
* A natural ingredient thought to reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes
Functions:
Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone is a derivative of the flavonoid hesperidin and is found in citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit and is often used to reduce dark circles under the eyes. According to CosmeticsCop.com, one study documented that it lowers the filtration rate of capillaries, and less blood flowing though capillaries close to the surface of the skin potentially means less dark bluish discoloration under the eyes. It’s also thought to prevent leaking from the veins below the eyes, also preventing the dark blue look from blood leaking below the surface of the skin.
Hesperidin Methyl Chalcone is also thought to support and protect the integrity of the vascular system, specifically the capillaries and veins. It has been shown to help strengthen capillaries by increasing capillary resistance, decreasing capillary permeability, and allowing vessels to dilate more easily (Source).
Hamamelis Virginiana
* An herbal skin conditioner and anti-inflammatory
* Also known as Witchhazel
Functions:
According to Herbs2000, Hamamelis Virginiana contains tannin, the most important healing property of this herb. Making up about 8% of its leaves and 1 – 3% of its bark, the tannins are responsible for Hamamelis Virginiana’s astringent properties. These astringent properties allow this herb to be an effective topical treatment for bruises, sore muscles, varicose veins and inflammation.
Some research has shown that Hamamelis Virginiana’s antioxidant activity may also be responsible its anti-inflammatory effects. Recently, a medical examination matched a Hamamelis Virginiana concentrate cream up with a hydrocortisone cream with up to .5 % concentrate in acute eczema. The study found that the witch hazel cream was equally effective in lessening different syndromes of atopic eczema as the hydrocortisone cream.
Safety Measures/Side Effects:
