Cosmetics are mostly water
It is sometimes said that cosmetics are mostly water.
This is not entirely a lie.
For example, it is not uncommon to find lotions that are 80% to 90% or more water.
Some people may think that there is no point in that.
However, there are many cosmetic ingredients that are effective even when used in very small amounts.
Even if a product is 80% water, as long as the remaining 20% contains the right blend of effective ingredients, you will still feel the beneficial effects on your skin.
(On the other hand, if 20% of the ingredients are just for the sake of appearance, there is a possibility that your skin will not become moisturized no matter how much you apply it, or that your skin will become dry on the inside... sobs.)
If you have sensitive skin, pay attention to the ingredient listed after water
All ingredients in cosmetics are listed in order of their concentration, so water is usually listed first in lotions and serums (although the rules for quasi-drugs are different, so the order varies).
We have said before that people with sensitive skin should be careful of fragrances and preservatives when choosing skin care products.
However, you should actually pay a little attention to the ingredient listed after water.
The fact that it is listed after water means that it is also the second most concentrated ingredient. Even if an ingredient is not a problem when used in small amounts, such as less than 1%, it can cause skin irritation when used in high concentrations.
The top 5 ingredients after water
In the case of skin care products such as lotions and serums, the water-based or moisturizing ingredients used as the base are often listed second.
Below is a list of the most commonly used ingredients, so please refer to it.
1. PG (Propylene Glycol)
| effect | Moisturizing effect, good penetration |
| Important points to note | Strong skin irritation |
It is best to avoid it if you have sensitive skin, are easily irritated, or suffer from atopic dermatitis.
2. Butylene glycol
| effect | Moisturizes and softens the skin |
| Important points to note | There are plant-based and petroleum-based |
It is considered a safe ingredient that is easy for many people to use.
3. Ethanol
| effect | Refreshing and non-sticky |
| Important points to note | May be drying due to evaporation of sebum |
It may suit people with oily skin, but overuse can cause dryness.
4. Glycerin
| effect | Moisturizes the skin and improves its barrier effect |
| Important points to note | A little sticky compared to BG |
It is considered a safe ingredient that is easy for many people to use. It is unlikely to cause allergies, but because it collects moisture from the surrounding area to provide a moisturizing effect, it may occasionally cause irritation on skin that is too dry.
5. Propanediol
| effect | Attracts moisture to the skin and improves its water retention |
| Important points to note | Although not as strong as PG, some people may experience skin irritation. |
It is considered a safe ingredient that is easy for many people to use.
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Autumn is finally here and the weather is becoming drier.
Let's work together to achieve healthy skin that can withstand dryness and air conditioning by using skin care products that suit you.
CONCIO
Keiko Kimoto
