Understanding Functional Ingredients
Our categorization of functional ingredients is lifted from Formula Botanica, though it is not a perfect system. Many ingredients cross categories, but this approach helps present them the way we learned about them while formulating our products.
Some functional ingredients, like **hyaluronic acid**, may feel like "actives," but they also influence product texture and performance. If you're unsure where to find something, use the **search function** at the top of the page!
How Functional Ingredients Affect Formulations
| Ingredient Type | Example | Function in Formulations |
|---|---|---|
| Humectants | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin | Attracts moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated |
| Emulsifiers | Olivem 1000, BTMS-50 | Allows water and oils to blend into a stable formula |
| Gums | Xanthan Gum, Guar Gum | Thickens and stabilizes formulations |
| Surfactants | Coco Glucoside, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate | Cleanses by breaking down oils and dirt |
| Fatty Thickeners | Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid | Adds richness and structure to creams and lotions |
| Solubilizers | Polysorbate 80, Symbiosolv | Helps disperse oils into water-based formulations |
Why Ingredients Can Shift Categories
Some ingredients serve multiple purposes depending on the formulation. For example, **hyaluronic acid** is typically used for deep hydration, but in some formulations, it can contribute to the texture and feel of a product.
Likewise, certain **surfactants** may also act as **solubilizers**, and some **fatty thickeners** can double as emulsifiers. This section is the hardest to categorize perfectly, but we hope it provides clarity as you explore our encyclopedia.
🧐 Did You Know?
Your body contains approximately **half an ounce of pure hyaluronic acid at any given time**! It is found in **skin, connective tissues, joints, and even the eyes**, helping retain moisture and keep everything functioning smoothly.
