Principal Functional Groups Used in Cosmetics

Esters are one of the principal functional groups present in many cosmetic ingredients. Esters give moisturizing and emollient properties to products like lotions, creams, and makeup. Common esters include cetyl palmitate, propylene glycol dicaprate, isopropyl palmitate and glycerin. Glycerin is an alcohol that appears frequently in skincare products for its humectant properties. Other common alcoholic ingredients are cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol and cetearyl alcohol which act as emulsifiers and thickeners.

Emollients help to hydrate and soften the skin surface. Besides esters, common emollients include oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, mineral oil, and shea butter. Waxes like beeswax, ceresin, and ozokerite help form a protective barrier on skin surface against water loss.

Emulsifiers Allow Oil and Water Components to Mix

For oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions in creams and lotions, emulsifiers allow the oil and water components to mix uniformly. Common emulsifiers used are glyceryl stearate, ceteth-20, cetearyl alcohol, and sodium stearoyl glutamate. Preservatives protect products from microbial growth and extend their shelf life. Methylparaben, propylparaben, and phenoxyethanol are widely used preservatives.

Colorants Provide Aesthetic Appeal Cosmetic Ingredients

Makeup products Cosmetic Ingredients as well as organic pigments and dyes that impart desired color. Commonly used inorganic pigments are iron oxides (red, yellow, brown and black tones), titanium dioxide (white pigment), and chromium oxide greens. Organic dyes based on coal tar derivatives like FD&C dyes give a wider spectrum of shades. Luminizers contain mica coated with titanium dioxide or pigments to give highlighted and glowing effects.

Emollients Hydrate and Smooth Skin Texture

Skin conditioners and humectants in skincare products help improve skin texture and minimize signs of aging. Hyaluronic acid derivative, glycerin, aloevera extract, allantoin, panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) act as humectants to retain skin moisture. Ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol mimic skin's natural lipids to replenish lipids lost due to extrinsic aging factors like pollution. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E, ferulic acid, resveratrol protect skin from environmental stressors. Plant extracts of aloe vera, green tea, rosemary, chamomile etc. soothe and calm skin.

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