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This winter, protect and soothe your skin against the cold
This winter, protect and soothe your skin against the cold

This winter, protect and soothe your skin against the cold

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Excipients

Excipients are inactive substances that play a critical role in the formulation of cosmetics. They ensure product stability, texture, and efficacy while facilitating the skin’s absorption of active ingredients. Discover how these compounds influence the quality and user experience of your favorite skincare products.
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FAQ about excipients

What is the difference between an excipient and an active ingredient?

An active ingredient is a substance that exerts a direct effect on the skin, whereas an excipient supports the active ingredient without having any biological effect of its own.

Are all excipients synthetic?

No, the excipients can be of natural or synthetic origin, depending on the product formulation.

Do excipients affect the shelf life of cosmetics?

Yes, certain excipients, such as preservatives, extend the shelf life of products by preventing the growth of microorganisms.

Can excipients modify the color or odor of a cosmetic product?

Yes, certain excipients can influence the color, odor, or texture of the final product.

Are excipients necessary in all cosmetic formulations?

Yes, without excipients, the active ingredients would be unstable, ineffective, or difficult to apply to the skin.

Can excipients interact with each other?

Yes, certain excipients can interact with each other, thereby affecting the stability or efficacy of the product.

Is it possible to be sensitive to excipients without being sensitive to the active ingredients?

Yes, it is possible to react to an excipient while perfectly tolerating the active ingredients of a product.

How can excipients be identified on a label?

As with active ingredients, excipients are listed in cosmetic formulations under their INCI names. Their order of appearance is determined by concentration, with the highest-concentration ingredients listed first.

Are natural excipients superior to synthetic excipients?

Not necessarily. Whether it is natural or synthetic does not by itself determine efficacy or tolerability; it all depends on the molecule and its intended use.

Can excipients be comedogenic?

Yes, certain fatty substances or occlusive agents, such as paraffin or animal waxes, can promote pore occlusion in some individuals. It depends on skin type and the overall formulation.

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