Understanding the ingredients in your skincare products is crucial for making informed choices. This article delves into the components of Jergens Natural Glow Face Daily Moisturizer, explaining their functions and potential benefits.
Core Hydration and Emollience
At the foundation of many skincare formulations is water, also known as H2O. In cosmetic products, the water used is purified and deionized, meaning most mineral ions have been removed to ensure purity and stability.
Glycerin is another extremely common and versatile ingredient. It functions as an emollient, providing a soft feel to the skin, and contributes to the body of creams and lotions. Glycerin also aids in stabilizing oil-water mixtures (emulsions) but does not act as an emulsifier itself.
Cetearyl Alcohol is described as a fatty alcohol, a combination of cetyl and stearyl alcohol. While chemically an alcohol, it has emollient properties, differing significantly from drying alcohols like denatured alcohol. It contributes to the smooth texture of products.
Occlusives for Skin Barrier Support
Petrolatum, famously known as Vaseline or Petroleum Jelly, is a by-product of petroleum refining. It is a mixture of hydrocarbons with a large carbon chain length. Petrolatum is recognized as a highly effective occlusive agent, forming a barrier on the skin's surface to significantly reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL). This makes it beneficial for healing extremely dry or chapped skin. However, excessive use, leading to more than a 40% reduction in TEWL, can create an environment conducive to fungal and bacterial growth. Cosmetic-grade petrolatum is considered safe, as it does not absorb into the skin and poses minimal health risks.
Mineral Oil, another by-product of crude oil refining, is a clear, oily liquid. It is a controversial ingredient, though it has been used in cosmetics for over a century. Mineral oil acts as an effective emollient and moisturizer primarily through occlusion, hindering water evaporation from the skin. Studies have shown it to be as effective and safe as plant oils in treating xerosis (very dry skin). Its simple and pure chemical composition makes it non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin types. A common myth is that mineral oil is comedogenic; however, research has not supported this claim. Its primary function is to sit on the skin's surface, offering protection without deep penetration or "nourishing" the skin with active components like fatty acids and vitamins found in plant oils.
Emulsifiers and Stabilizers
Ceteareth-20 is a functional ingredient that helps keep oil- and water-loving components mixed together in cosmetic formulations. It acts as an emulsifier and stabilizer, thickening products. Chemically, it is ethoxylated Cetearyl Alcohol, where ethylene oxide is added to increase its water-soluble properties, enabling it to maintain oil and water in emulsion.
Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer is a polymer molecule related to thickeners like Carbomer. It contains both water-loving and water-hating (hydrophobic) components, allowing it to function as a thickener and an emulsion stabilizer.
Stearic Acid is a common fatty acid that provides an emollient feel, adds body to creams and lotions, and helps stabilize oil-water mixtures.
Citric Acid, derived from citrus fruits, is an AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid). While it has some skin-improving properties, studies suggest it may be less effective than glycolic or lactic acid.
Sodium Citrate is a helper ingredient that stabilizes products by neutralizing metal ions that can cause undesirable changes in the formula.
Sodium Hydroxide, also known as lye, is a strong alkaline substance used in small amounts to adjust the product's pH. This is particularly important for ingredients like AHAs and BHAs to function effectively. While potent on its own, it is harmless once reacted in skincare products.
Color and Self-Tanning Agents
Caramel is used in cosmetics for coloring, similar to its culinary use.
Erythrulose is a fermentation-derived, natural keto-sugar that acts as a self-tanning active. It is claimed to produce a deep, even, and long-lasting tan without streaks or skin dryness. Erythrulose works more slowly than DHA, taking a few days to develop color, but the tan lasts longer.
Antioxidants and Skin Conditioning Agents
Tocopherol, also known as Vitamin E, is a potent antioxidant that offers significant photoprotection against UVB rays and works synergistically with Vitamin C.
Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, derived from the Marigold plant, has been traditionally used for its healing properties, particularly in wound treatment. It is rich in nourishing fatty acids like oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids.
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil is an emollient plant oil rich in oleic acid and contains antioxidant polyphenols and vitamin E, beneficial for moisturizing dry skin.
Silicones
Dimethicone is a very common silicone that provides a silky smooth feel to the skin and hair, creates a subtle gloss, and forms a protective barrier. It can temporarily fill in fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a plump appearance. Dimethicone is also used in scar treatment gels to soften scars and improve elasticity. In hair care, it smooths hair without evaporating.
Cyclopentasiloxane is a volatile silicone that is water-thin and evaporates from the skin, often used in conjunction with non-volatile silicones.
Preservatives and Stabilizers
Methylparaben and Propylparaben are common preservatives, although parabens are often subject to controversy. A study indicated that skin cells exposed to methylparaben and sunlight might suffer more harm, suggesting that using sunscreen alongside products containing parabens is advisable.
DMDM Hydantoin is a controversial preservative that releases formaldehyde. While formaldehyde is naturally present in small amounts in fruits and vegetables, its slow release from formaldehyde-releasing preservatives over time may pose risks, potentially affecting skin's defense cells. The decision to avoid this group of preservatives is personal.
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) is a synthetic antioxidant used as a preservative. While studied for potential carcinogenicity, research primarily focuses on oral intake, and its safety in cosmetic applications is generally accepted.
Fragrance and UV Protection
Fragrance is added to products for a pleasant scent. However, it can be a concern for those who prefer to know all ingredients or have sensitive skin, as fragrance is a common cause of cosmetic allergies.
Titanium Dioxide is a physical sunscreen agent that provides broad-spectrum UV protection, primarily absorbing UV light. It is highly stable and effective against UVB and UVA II rays, with less efficacy in the UVA I range. A drawback is its tendency to leave a whitish tint and be difficult to spread. Nanoparticle formulations aim to improve cosmetic elegance, and current research suggests these nanoparticles remain on the skin's surface.
Other Ingredients
Mica is a mineral powder used to improve skin feel, enhance product slip, provide light-reflecting properties, and serve as an anti-caking agent. It's also a base for pearl-effect pigments.
How to Use Jergens Natural Glow Face Daily Moisturizer
For a natural-looking color, use the moisturizer daily as your facial moisturizer. Apply a generous amount evenly to freshly cleansed skin, blending into the jawline and hairline, and avoiding the eyebrows. Allow several minutes for the product to fully absorb before proceeding with other skincare or makeup. Always wash your hands after application to prevent staining. A subtle development of color can be observed within days.
Important Usage Information
When using this product, keep out of eyes. It should also be kept out of reach of children.
Sun Protection Measures: Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging. This product does not provide SPF protection.
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