Inactive Ingredient

Good

Occlusive-opacifying agent

No known benefits

Inactive Ingredient at a glance

  • Provides support for active ingredients in a skin care formula
  • Plays crucial formulary roles, which may include adjusting the pH, stabilizing the emulsion, etc.
  • May deliver hydration, antioxidant power, exfoliating abilities, skin-softening, etc.
  • Listed after the active ingredient(s) in alphabetical or descending order

Inactive Ingredient description

The list of inactive ingredients is the part of an over-the-counter Drug Facts label required by regulatory agencies in the United States on such products as sunscreens and anti-blemish products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Inactive ingredients must be listed alphabetically or can be listed in descending order of concentration. “Inactive” does not mean the ingredients don’t have any effect; rather, it simply means they do not have regulatory status as active ingredients. On OTC drug products, inactive ingredient labeling must follow regulatory guidelines set forth in the official International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary.

Inactive Ingredient references

  • FDA.gov, Accessed June 2022, ePublication

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.