INGREDIENT DICTIONARY

ASI Ingredient Dictionary

A plain-English guide to every active, extract and functional ingredient used across the Australian Skin Institute range — what it is, what it does, and which of our products contain it.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U VWXYZ

A

Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow) Extract

A calming plant extract traditionally used to soothe the look of irritated, reactive skin.

Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer

A thickening agent that gives serums and moisturisers their smooth, stable texture.

Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract

A vitamin-rich fruit extract that adds antioxidant support to botanical formulas.

Albizia Julibrissin Bark Extract

A botanical extract used in eye care formulas to support a firmer, smoother-looking appearance.

Alcohol Denat.

A fast-evaporating solvent that helps other ingredients penetrate, and delivers antibacterial action in sanitisers.

Allantoin

A gentle, skin-conditioning ingredient that soothes irritation and supports the skin's moisture levels.

Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Root Extract

A mucilage-rich root extract traditionally used to soften and soothe the skin.

Apricot Kernel Oil

A lightweight fruit-kernel oil that nourishes and softens dry or sensitive skin.

Aqua (Water)

The universal base of most skincare formulas, and the carrier for water-soluble actives.

Arbutin

A naturally derived brightening ingredient that helps target the look of uneven pigmentation.

Argireline® (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8)

A peptide often called a topical alternative to injectables, studied for helping relax the look of expression lines.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

The purest, most researched form of Vitamin C — a potent antioxidant that brightens tone and supports collagen production.

Ascorbyl Palmitate

A fat-soluble, more stable form of Vitamin C that offers gentle antioxidant support.

Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate

A highly stable, oil-soluble Vitamin C derivative that penetrates well and resists oxidation.

Avocado Oil (Persea Gratissima)

A rich, fatty-acid dense oil that deeply nourishes and softens dry or mature skin.

Bergamot Oil (Bergaptene Free)

A citrus essential oil used in its bergaptene-free form to add a light fragrance without photosensitivity risk.

Beta-Glucan

A soothing polysaccharide that calms the look of irritation and supports the skin barrier.

Betaine

A naturally derived humectant that hydrates while helping to reduce irritation from cleansing agents.

Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine

A broad-spectrum chemical sunscreen filter that helps protect skin from UVA and UVB rays.

Boron Nitride

A silky mineral powder that gives mineral makeup its soft-focus, blurred finish.

Butylene Glycol

A lightweight humectant that hydrates while helping other ingredients absorb more evenly.

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)

A rich, buttery emollient that deeply nourishes and helps protect the skin barrier.

C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate

A lightweight emollient that gives makeup formulas a silky, non-greasy glide.

C13-14 Isoparaffin

A lightweight emollient that helps formulas glide on smoothly and absorb without residue.

Calendula Officinalis (Marigold) Flower Extract

A calming flower extract long used to soothe redness and support skin comfort.

Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract

A polyphenol-rich extract that offers antioxidant protection and a calming effect on skin.

Caprylhydroxamic Acid

A gentle, naturally derived preservative alternative that helps keep formulas fresh.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride

A lightweight, coconut-derived oil that softens skin without a greasy after-feel.

Caprylyl Glycol

A multi-tasking ingredient that hydrates skin while helping keep a formula stable and fresh.

Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside

A gentle, sugar-derived emulsifier that helps blend water and oil ingredients smoothly.

Carbomer

A gel-forming ingredient that gives serums their smooth, lightweight consistency.

Ceramides (NP, AP, EOP)

Skin-identical lipids that make up a large part of the skin barrier, helping to lock in moisture and keep irritants out.

Ceteareth-20

A widely used emulsifier that keeps water and oil ingredients evenly blended.

Cetearyl Alcohol

A fatty alcohol that thickens formulas and softens skin — unrelated to drying alcohols.

Cetearyl Glucoside

A gentle, sugar-derived emulsifier that helps blend water and oil into a stable, creamy formula.

Cetearyl Olivate

An olive-derived emulsifier that softens skin while helping keep a formula's texture stable.

Cetyl Alcohol

A fatty alcohol that thickens formulas and leaves skin feeling soft, not dry.

Cherry Kernel Oil

A lightweight fruit-kernel oil that nourishes skin with essential fatty acids.

Cholesterol

A naturally occurring lipid that works alongside ceramides to reinforce the skin barrier.

Citric Acid

A fruit-derived acid used to balance the pH of a formula for skin comfort and ingredient stability.

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Juice

A Vitamin C-rich fruit juice that adds antioxidant benefit to botanical formulas.

Cocamide DEA

A coconut-derived ingredient that boosts foam and thickens cleansing formulas.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine

A gentle, coconut-derived cleansing agent that lifts away dirt and oil without stripping skin.

Coco-Caprylate

A lightweight, silicone-alternative emollient derived from coconut that leaves a silky, non-greasy finish.

Colloidal Silver

Microscopic silver particles suspended in liquid, used for their calming and antibacterial properties.

Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)

A copper-bound peptide studied for its ability to support the skin's natural repair and firming processes.

Corn Starch (Modified)

A plant-derived powder that absorbs excess oil and gives makeup a smooth, mattified finish.

Cosmetic Colourants (CI 19140, CI 42090)

Approved cosmetic colour additives used in small amounts to give a formula its finished appearance.

Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract

A cooling, hydrating extract traditionally used to calm and refresh the skin.

Cyclomethicone

A silky silicone that gives makeup formulas a smooth, weightless glide.

Cymbopogon Flexuosus (Lemongrass) Oil

A fresh, citrusy essential oil with natural antibacterial and clarifying properties.

Darutoside

A plant-derived ingredient studied for supporting firmer, more toned-looking skin.

Decyl Glucoside

A gentle, plant-derived cleansing agent that lifts away impurities without stripping skin.

Dimethicone

A silicone that smooths the skin's surface and locks in moisture with a lightweight feel.

Disodium EDTA

A chelating agent that binds trace minerals to help keep a formula stable and effective.

Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract

A mineral-rich plant extract traditionally used to support and calm the skin.

Ethoxydiglycol

A lightweight solvent that helps other ingredients dissolve and absorb evenly into the skin.

Ethylhexyl Cocoate

A lightweight, coconut-derived emollient that softens skin with a silky, non-greasy finish.

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate

A widely used chemical sunscreen filter that absorbs UVB rays before they can damage the skin.

Ethylhexylglycerin

A gentle preservative-booster that also offers a light hydrating and skin-conditioning benefit.

Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax

A plant-derived wax that gives makeup formulas structure and a smooth, even application.

Evening Primrose Oil

A fatty-acid rich oil valued for nourishing and supporting the skin's comfort.

Ferulic Acid

A plant-derived antioxidant that helps stabilise and boost the effectiveness of Vitamin C serums.

Fragaria Vesca (Strawberry) Fruit Extract

A fruit extract rich in antioxidants, adding a fresh note to botanical blends.

Fragrance (Parfum)

A blend of scent ingredients used in small amounts to give a formula its final sensory character.

Frankincense Oil

A resin-derived essential oil traditionally valued for its grounding scent and skin-supporting reputation.

Geranium Oil

A floral essential oil that adds a balancing fragrance note to nourishing oil blends.

Gluconolactone

A gentle polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that exfoliates while also offering antioxidant and hydrating benefits.

Glycerin

One of skincare's most reliable humectants, drawing water into the skin to keep it soft, plump and comfortable.

Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil

A nourishing plant oil that softens skin and helps carry other lipid-loving ingredients.

Glycolic Acid

The smallest alpha hydroxy acid, exfoliating dead surface cells to reveal smoother, brighter-looking skin.

1,2-Hexanediol

A gentle preservative-booster with a light hydrating effect, used to help keep formulas fresh.

Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water

A calming botanical water traditionally used to refresh and tone the skin.

Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate)

A humectant naturally found in skin that can hold many times its weight in water, plumping and hydrating from the surface down.

Hydrogenated Lecithin

A stable, skin-friendly emulsifier that also helps deliver active ingredients into the skin.

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene

A silicone-alternative emollient that gives makeup formulas a smooth, cushioned texture.

Hydrolyzed Collagen

Broken-down collagen molecules that hydrate the skin's surface and support a smoother-looking finish.

Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus-Indica (Prickly Pear) Extract

A hydrating cactus extract used in intensive treatment formulas to nourish and revitalise skin.

Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate

A smaller-molecule form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper for layered hydration.

Hydroxyacetophenone

A naturally derived preservative-boosting ingredient that helps keep makeup formulas fresh.

Hydroxyethylcellulose

A plant-derived thickener that gives serums a smooth, gel-like texture.

Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin

A sugar-derived molecule that helps stabilise and improve the delivery of other active ingredients.

Hydroxypropyl Guar

A plant-derived thickener that gives cleansers a smooth, cushioned texture.

Iron Oxides

Naturally derived mineral pigments used to create the shade range in mineral makeup.

Isopropyl Alcohol

A fast-acting antibacterial ingredient used in sanitising formulas.

Isopropyl Myristate

A lightweight emollient that helps makeup formulas glide smoothly and absorb without residue.

Isostearic Acid

A fatty acid that helps stabilise emulsions and gives moisturisers a smooth, rich texture.

Jojoba Esters

A wax-like jojoba derivative that adds a smooth, silky finish to makeup formulas.

Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia Chinensis)

A wax-like oil that closely resembles skin's own sebum, nourishing without clogging pores.

Kaolin Clay

A gentle mineral clay that absorbs excess oil and helps mattify the skin's appearance.

Lactic Acid

A gentler alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates while also drawing moisture into the skin.

Laureth-7

A commonly used emulsifier that keeps water and oil ingredients evenly blended.

Lavender Oil

A calming floral essential oil valued for its relaxing scent and traditional skin-soothing reputation.

Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia) Seed Oil

A lightweight, Australian-grown nut oil rich in fatty acids that nourishes skin without feeling heavy.

Magnesium Myristate

A fine powder that helps pigments disperse smoothly and improves the feel of makeup formulas.

Magnesium Stearate

A fine powder that helps bind pigments and gives makeup a smooth, even application.

Magnesium Sulphate Heptahydrate

A mineral salt that helps stabilise a formula's texture and consistency.

Matrixyl® 3000 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 & Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7)

A well-researched peptide duo that supports the skin's own collagen and repair signalling.

Matrixyl® Synthe'6™ (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38)

An advanced peptide that targets six key structural components of the skin matrix to help visibly rebuild the look of wrinkles.

Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil

An iconic Australian essential oil recognised for its natural antibacterial and clarifying properties.

Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) Leaf Extract

A calming herbal extract that adds a soothing quality to botanical formulas.

Methyl Gluceth-20

A sugar-derived humectant that helps draw and hold moisture in the skin.

Methylchloroisothiazolinone & Methylisothiazolinone

A widely used preservative pairing that protects wash-off formulas from microbial growth.

Methylpolysiloxane

A silicone that gives makeup formulas a smooth, silky application.

Mica

A natural mineral that gives mineral makeup its soft shimmer and light-reflecting finish.

Nannochloropsis Oculata Extract

A marine algae extract studied for its skin-tightening and firming benefits, often known by the trade name Pepha®-Tight.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

A skin-identical vitamin that strengthens the barrier, evens tone and calms redness — one of the most versatile actives in skincare.

Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil

A classic nourishing oil rich in fatty acids and antioxidants that softens and conditions the skin.

Ononis Spinosa (Restharrow) Root Extract

A traditional herbal extract used to add a calming quality to botanical formulas.

Panthenol (Vitamin B5)

A soothing, moisture-binding form of Vitamin B5 that calms the look of irritation and supports the skin barrier.

Papain

A fruit-derived enzyme that gently helps break down dulling surface debris.

Peptide Growth Factor Complex

A complex of biomimetic growth-factor peptides studied for supporting the skin's natural renewal processes.

Phenethyl Alcohol

A rose-scented preservative ingredient that helps protect formulas from microbial growth.

Phenoxyethanol

One of the most widely used and well-studied preservatives in skincare formulation.

Phospholipids

Skin-identical lipids that help support the barrier and improve the delivery of other ingredients.

Phytosphingosine

A skin-identical lipid that supports the barrier and helps calm the look of irritation.

Poloxamer 407

An emulsifier that helps blend water and oil ingredients into a smooth, stable formula.

Polyacrylamide

An emulsifier and thickener that gives moisturisers their smooth, stable texture.

Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6

A modern thickening agent that gives serums a smooth, lightweight, gel-like texture.

Polyglutamic Acid

A powerful humectant that forms a moisture-locking film on the skin's surface.

Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate

A gentle, plant-derived emulsifier that keeps lightweight serum formulas smooth and stable.

Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate

A castor-oil derived emulsifier that helps stabilise richer, more nourishing moisturisers.

Polyglyceryl-4 Oleate

A plant-derived emulsifier that helps bind water and oil in cream makeup formulas.

Polysorbate (20)

A widely used emulsifier that helps blend water and oil ingredients into a stable formula.

Pomegranate Seed Extract

An antioxidant-rich fruit extract that helps defend skin from environmental stress.

PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate

A lightweight emollient that gives treatment formulas a smooth, non-greasy after-feel.

Propanediol

A plant-derived humectant and solvent that hydrates while helping other ingredients dissolve and absorb.

Propylene Glycol

A humectant and solvent that helps hydrate skin and evenly distribute other ingredients.

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil

A classic nourishing oil that softens and conditions the skin.

Pullulan

A naturally fermented polysaccharide that gives an instant tightening feel and a smooth, film-forming finish.

Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract

A fruit extract that adds antioxidant activity to a botanical blend.

Quartz

A finely milled mineral that adds gentle texture and light-diffusing qualities to makeup.

Retinol

A vitamin A derivative that speeds up cell turnover, helping refine texture, fade dullness and support a smoother, more even complexion.

Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Oil

A nourishing oil rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, popular for supporting an even-looking complexion.

Rose Oil

A luxurious floral essential oil that rounds out the fragrance of nourishing facial oil blends.

Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract

An antioxidant-rich herbal extract that also helps stabilise oil-based formulas.

Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract

A traditional herbal extract used to add a calming quality to botanical formulas.

Seabuckthorn Berry Extract

A nutrient-dense berry extract rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids.

Sodium Benzoate

A widely used, naturally occurring preservative that helps keep formulas safe to use.

Sodium Chloride

Common salt, used in small amounts to help thicken and balance the texture of wash-off formulas.

Sodium Gluconate

A gentle, sugar-derived stabiliser that also offers a light hydrating benefit.

Sodium Hydroxide

Used in trace amounts to balance a formula's pH so it's comfortable and effective on skin.

Sodium Lactate

A humectant and natural component of skin's own moisturising factor.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate

An effective foaming cleanser used in body wash formulas to lift away dirt and oil.

Sodium Lauryl Lactylate

A gentle emulsifier that helps stabilise lightweight, barrier-supporting formulas.

Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate

A gentle, amino-acid derived emulsifier that helps stabilise anti-ageing formulas.

Sorbitan Olivate

An olive-derived emulsifier used alongside Cetearyl Olivate as a naturally sourced emulsifying pair.

Squalane

A lightweight, stable oil that closely resembles skin's own lipids, softening and hydrating without feeling greasy.

Stearic Acid

A fatty acid that thickens and stabilises formulas while softening the skin's surface.

Stearyl Citrate

A stabilising ingredient that helps protect a formula and support gentle cleansing.

Sunflower Oil (Helianthus Annuus)

A nourishing plant oil rich in essential fatty acids and Vitamin E.

Syn-Coll® (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5)

A peptide studied for encouraging a smoother, more resilient-looking skin texture.

Tego® Pep 4-17 (Tetrapeptide-21)

A peptide studied for supporting skin elasticity and a firmer feel.

Tetrasodium EDTA

A chelating agent that binds trace minerals to help keep a formula stable and effective.

Thymus Serpyllum (Wild Thyme) Extract

A traditional herbal extract that contributes a calming quality to botanical formulas.

Titanium Dioxide

A mineral pigment and physical sunscreen agent used across mineral makeup for coverage and protection.

Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

A nourishing antioxidant vitamin that helps protect skin from environmental stress while softening and conditioning.

Tocopheryl Acetate

A stable ester form of Vitamin E that offers antioxidant support with a longer shelf life.

Triethylene Glycol

A humectant and solvent that helps hydrate skin and evenly disperse other ingredients.

Tussilago Farfara (Coltsfoot) Leaf Extract

A traditional herbal extract that adds a calming quality to botanical formulas.

Ultramarines

Naturally derived blue-violet mineral pigments used to fine-tune mineral makeup shades.

Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract

An antioxidant-rich fruit extract that adds a fresh note to botanical formulas.

Xanthan Gum

A naturally fermented thickener that gives serums a smooth, gel-like texture.

Zinc Oxide

A mineral that provides physical sun protection while also calming and soothing the skin.