The New RevitaLift® Radiant Smoothing Cream Cleanser is meticulously formulated to nourish the skin and enhance its natural radiance. It achieves this by gently exfoliating the skin and effectively removing all traces of impurities and makeup.
Key Ingredients and Their Functions
Water (Aqua)
Water, chemically known as H2O, is the most ubiquitous ingredient found in skincare products. The water utilized in cosmetic formulations undergoes purification and deionization processes, meaning that virtually all mineral ions are removed to ensure purity and compatibility with other ingredients.
Sodium Chloride
Sodium chloride, commonly known as salt, is frequently listed on the ingredient labels of cleansing products. Its primary role in cleansing formulas that utilize ionic surfactants (like Sodium Laureth Sulfate) is to act as a highly effective thickener. When added in small percentages, typically 1-3%, it transforms a runny surfactant solution into a desirable gel texture. This phenomenon occurs because electrolytes (Na+ and Cl- ions) reduce the electrostatic repulsion between the head groups of ionic surfactants. This reduction facilitates the formation of elongated micelles, which then intertwine like spaghetti, resulting in a gel consistency. Beyond thickening, salt also functions as an emulsion stabilizer in water-in-oil emulsions, where water droplets are dispersed within an outer oil or silicone phase.
Ci 77891 (Titanium Dioxide)
Ci 77891 is the color code assigned to titanium dioxide. This ingredient serves as a white pigment, recognized for its excellent color consistency and dispersibility. While its name might not immediately suggest its function, it is a polymer molecule, meaning it's a large molecule composed of repeating subunits or monomers. It is related to Carbomer, a widely used water-loving thickener. Both molecules contain acrylic acid units. However, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer also incorporates hydrophobic (water-hating) monomers. This dual nature allows it to be both water- and oil-loving, enabling it to function not only as a thickener but also as an effective emulsion stabilizer. It is particularly common in gel-type formulations that include an oil phase and in cleansers, as it is compatible with most cleansing agents, unlike many other thickeners.
Ascorbyl Glucoside
A form of Vitamin C, Ascorbyl Glucoside is a skincare superstar. Vitamin C is highly valued in skincare for its potent antioxidant protection, collagen-boosting capabilities, and effectiveness in fading hyperpigmentation. Due to the inherent instability and formulation challenges of pure Vitamin C, the cosmetic industry develops derivatives that retain its beneficial properties while offering improved stability. Ascorbyl Glucoside is considered one of the most effective Vitamin C derivatives. Scientific studies conducted in vitro (in laboratory settings) indicate that Ascorbyl Glucoside can penetrate the skin. Furthermore, these studies suggest that once absorbed, it converts into pure Vitamin C, although the exact rate of conversion is still under investigation. In summary, Ascorbyl Glucoside is a promising Vitamin C derivative that offers benefits similar to pure Vitamin C, albeit with less extensive in vivo (on living organisms) research and potentially varying degrees of efficacy compared to its pure form.
Fragrance Ingredients (e.g., Citronellol, Linalool)
Fragrance ingredients are added to cosmetic products to impart a pleasant scent. Some fragrance components, such as Citronellol and Linalool, are designated as "EU 26 fragrances" and must be listed separately on product labels due to their potential allergenicity. Citronellol, with its mild floral and rose-like odor, is a common fragrance ingredient found naturally in geranium and rose oils. Linalool is another prevalent fragrance ingredient found in both plants and cosmetics. A significant concern with Linalool, similar to Limonene, is its tendency to oxidize upon exposure to air, which can render it allergenic. Therefore, older, opened products containing Linalool may pose a higher risk of allergic reactions than fresh ones. It is important to note that Citronellol and Linalool have no known anti-aging or positive skin benefits. For individuals with sensitive skin or a known perfume allergy, avoiding products with these ingredients is advisable, as fragrance is a primary cause of contact allergy to cosmetics.
Parabens (e.g., Methylparaben)
Parabens, such as Methylparaben, are preservatives commonly used in cosmetics to prevent microbial contamination and extend product shelf life. Despite some public concern, parabens are generally considered safe, effective, and well-tolerated ingredients. While some in-vitro research from 2006 suggested that parabens might increase skin cell sensitivity to sunlight, this has not been conclusively demonstrated in human studies. However, consistent use of sunscreen alongside any skincare product is always recommended.
Phenoxyethanol
Phenoxyethanol is a widely used preservative in the cosmetics industry, known for its safety and gentle profile. It is not a paraben and has been in use since the 1950s, with regulatory approval for use up to 1% globally. Although it can be found naturally in green tea, the version used in cosmetics is synthetically produced. Beyond its favorable safety profile, Phenoxyethanol offers additional advantages in cosmetic formulations.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic Acid is recognized as a gold-standard ingredient for addressing various skin concerns. Its inclusion in the cleanser may contribute to its exfoliating properties.
Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium hydroxide, also known as lye, is a solid white substance that is highly alkaline. It is used in small quantities in cosmetic formulations primarily to adjust the product's pH level. Achieving the correct pH is crucial for the efficacy of certain ingredients, such as AHAs and BHAs (like Salicylic Acid), and pH adjusters like sodium hydroxide are essential for this purpose. Historically, sodium hydroxide has been used since ancient Egyptian times in the process of soap making.
Ethylene Glycol Distearate
Ethylene Glycol Distearate is a diester formed from two stearic acid molecules and an ethylene glycol molecule. Its primary function in cleansing products is to act as an opacifier and pearling agent, contributing to a white, glossy appearance.
Preservatives in Cosmetics
Other Ingredients
The cleanser also contains other beneficial ingredients such as a preservative that works primarily against fungi, and various components that stabilize emulsions and thicken products. The generic term for pleasant-smelling substances added to cosmetic products is "fragrance," though their specific composition can be proprietary. Water serves as the main solvent, and Titanium Dioxide acts as a colorant. A common helper ingredient stabilizes emulsions and aids in product thickening. Ascorbyl Glucoside is a stable and easily formulated form of Vitamin C. Citronellol and Linalool are common fragrance ingredients with potential allergenic properties upon oxidation. Parabens (like Methylparaben) are preservatives, and Phenoxyethanol is noted as a current IT-preservative. Salicylic Acid is a key ingredient for problem skin, and Sodium Hydroxide is used for pH adjustment.
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