Beginner·Explainer·3 min
What is a cosmetic?
A cosmetic is a product applied to the body to clean, beautify, or alter appearance. That definition sets the boundary for what any cosmetic product can legitimately claim to do.
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Collection
The Basics
Foundational reading, no background required.
Beginner·Explainer·5 min
Serums, creams, oils, gels, and balms
The difference between a serum, a cream, an oil, a gel, and a balm is structural: how much water is present and how the formula holds itself together.
FormulationBeginner·Guide·5 min
Understanding moisturizers
Almost every moisturiser is built from humectants, emollients, and occlusives. The differences between products are largely differences in ratio.
SkinFoundation·Explainer·6 min
How cleansers work
Cleansers work because surfactants can hold both oil and water. That is also why cleansing always removes some of what the skin wants to keep.
Skin