Ingredient GlossaryGood for you. Good for your skin. Discover more about these powerhouse ingredients behind the Estée Lauder formulas you love. What they do, how they work and where they're from.Filter By: ALL A-C D-G H-M N-R S-Z Home Discover Ingredient Glossary Acetyl Hexapeptide-8A mighty collagen-builder, key for anti-aging. Synthetic.LEARN MORE Adansonia Digitata Seed ExtractAn extract from the seed of the baobab tree, our exclusive concentrated form of Adansonia Digitata is a key anti-aging ingredient in our new Advanced Night Repair. Naturally Derived* Algae ExtractWe use several types of algae extracts, some of which are exclusive to EL, and are effective anti-irritants to calm and soothe skin. Others have brightening benefits including boosting radiance and evenness of tone. Natural* Aminopropyl Ascorbyl PhosphateA stabilized form of Vitamin C that helps improve visible signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Synthetic*LEARN MORE Apricot Kernel OilAn oil pressed from the kernels of the Apricot fruit. Composed of fatty acids, it helps provide nourishing and shine properties. Natural* Ascorbyl GlucosideA stable form of Vitamin C that is a powerful anti-oxidant that also brightens and evens skin tone. Naturally Derived*LEARN MORE Behenic AcidA fatty acid derived from rapeseed that is a conditioning and thickening agent and can function as a cleansing ingredient when combined with an alkaline/basic ingredient. Naturally Derived* BHTA potent antioxidant that helps protect ingredients/the product from oxidation, which can be caused by chemical reactions with oxygen in the air. This helps ensure product freshness. Synthetic. Bifida Ferment LysateFerment that promotes natural skin repair and skin strengthening. Naturally Derived*LEARN MORE BisabololAn anti-irritant that helps visibly soothe and calm skin. Synthetic. Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2A soft wax that gives its formula a balmy and a cushion like texture. Naturally Derived*LEARN MORE Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl SilaneAn emollient that helps skin to feel soft and smooth. Synthetic. Boron NitrideA powder that helps to improve blendability and prevent caking. Naturally Derived* Butylene GlycolA conditioning agent that pulls moisture from the air to help skin maintain its natural hydration. Synthetic. Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)A butter extracted from the fruit of the Shea Tree, known for its deeply conditioning and moisturizing benefits. Natural* CaffeineA multi-purpose anti-oxidant and anti-irritant. Synthetic. Calcium SilicateA powder that helps to improve blendability and prevent caking. Naturally Derived* Callicarpa Japonica Fruit ExtractAKA Japanese Beauty Berry. Rich in polyphenols, it helps brighten skin and even skin tone. Natural. Camelina Sativa Seed OilAn oil derived from the Camelina Sativa plant with nourishing and soothing properties. Natural* Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideAn emollient that helps your skin retain moisture that can be derived from coconut or created synthetically. Naturally Derived* Chlorella Vulgaris ExtractAKA Chlorella, this dark green micro-algae has collagen-boosting power to help target visible lines and wrinkles. Naturally Derived. CholesterolA naturally occurring molecule that acts as a nourishing agent to help deliver moisturizing and soothing properties. Natural* Coco-Caprylate/CaprateA skin conditioning agent derived from coconut or palm. Naturally Derived* Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit ExtractAKA Cucumber Extract. Together with Helianthus Annus (Sunflower) Seed Extract and Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Extract, it helps strengthen skin's moisture barrier. Natural.LEARN MORE CyclopentasiloxaneA silicone that provides a smooth feel, helping to evenly distribute cosmetic actives and pigments for easier application. Synthetic. DimethiconeA protective silicone that helps prevent moisture loss and can contribute to a soft, velvety feel on skin. Synthetic. Dipotassium GlycyrrhizateAKA licorice extract, this soothing ingredient helps fight visible skin irritation and redness. Natural. Ethylhexyl MethoxycinnamateA sunscreen agent that protects skin from UVB rays. Synthetic. Ethylhexyl SalicylateA sunscreen agent that protects skin from UVB rays. Synthetic. EthylhexylglycerinA skin-conditioning ingredient that can help boost formula preservation. Synthetic. Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax\Candelilla Cera\Cire De CandelillaA wax derived from the Candelilla plant that contributes to a lipstick bullet structure. Natural* Glycereth-26An emollient that is used to thicken a formula. Synthetic. GlycerinA humectant that traps and holds water from the surrounding environment, enabling skin to retain moisture. Naturally Derived* Glyceryl StearateA conditioning agent that helps deliver moisturizing and nourishing properties. Naturally Derived* Glyceryl Triacetyl RicinoleateAn emollient that contributes to a smooth, gliding application and a soft shine. Naturally Derived* Helianthus Annus (Sunflower) Seed ExtractAKA Sunflower Extract. Together with Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Extract and Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, it helps strengthen skin's moisture barrier. Natural.LEARN MORE Hibiscus Sinensis ExtractAKA Hibiscus morning bloom. This exclusive extract is specifically harvested in the morning time, with all 8 parts of the flower obtained to harness its anti-aging activity. Helps skin boost its natural production of collagen. Naturally Derived.LEARN MORE Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) ExtractAKA Barley Extract. Together with Helianthus Annus (Sunflower) Seed Extract and Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, it helps strengthen skin's moisture barrier. Natural.LEARN MORE Hydrolyzed AlginDerived from brown algae, hydrolyzed algin helps promote skin's natural cellular purification process. Natural* Hydrolyzed Yeast ProteinSupports a "longevity" protein naturally found within skin to help skin look and act younger for longer. Naturally Derived*LEARN MORE Hydroxyethyl UreaA humectant that hydrates and helps skin maintain its moisture balance. Synthetic. Hylocereus Undatus Fruit ExtractAlso known as Pitaya or Dragon Fruit, this extract aids in skin barrier protection and hydration. Natural* Isononyl IsononanoateAn emollient used for skin softening and conditioning. Synthetic. Lactic AcidAn alpha hydroxy acid that helps exfoliate and refine skin's texture. Natural. Lactobacillus FermentLactobacillus ferment is a commonly known class of ingredients. There are several types of lactobacillus ferments, some of which, such as the one in Micro Essence, helps to strengthen barrier. Naturally derived* Laminaria Digitata ExtractA potent form of sea kelp that helps build collagen and elastin. Natural*LEARN MORE Laminaria Saccharina ExtractAn algae extract that helps control excess oil. When found in Nutritious products, it is known as Sweet Kelp. Naturally Derived. Lanolin OilAn oil that contributes to color adherence and wear. Natural* LecithinAn emollient used for skin softening and conditioning. Natural. Limonium Vulgare FlowerAKA Sea Lavender Extract. Helps promote skin revitalization, and is an anti-oxidant that helps fight against damaging free radicals. Naturally Derived* Lycium Chinense Fruit ExtractAKA Goji Berry. Together with Yeast Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, and Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, it forms a special antioxidant blend that helps neutralize the effects of free radicals on skin. Natural* MaltodextrinAn ingredient derived from corn. When paired with lactobacillus ferment, it creates a powerful complex that helps strengthen skin's barrier. Naturally Derived* Methyl TrimethiconeA lightweight silicone that dries down fast, leaving skin feeling silky. Synthetic. Molasses ExtractOur proprietary ingredient made from our exclusive fermentation process that starts with sugar cane that helps brighten and even skin tone. Natural* MontmorilloniteA purified form of bentonite clay that helps absorb excess oil and detoxify skin. Natural* Moringa Oleifera Seed ExtractAn extract** from the Moringa Oleifera plant, which is often called the "miracle tree." Our exclusive Moringa Oleifera Seed Extract helps to "unlock" anti-aging activity in the skin and also provides anti-oxidant and anti-irritant benefits. Responsibly Sourced, Traceable Ingredient. Natural***patented extraction processLEARN MORE Myristic AcidA fatty acid that is a conditioning and thickening agent and can function as a cleansing ingredient when combined with an alkaline/basic ingredient. Naturally Derived* Narcissus Tazetta Bulb ExtractAn extract made from a specific type of daffodil bulb that supports a longevity protein naturally found within skin, helping it look and act younger for longer. Natural*LEARN MORE NiacinamideAKA Vitamin B3 and nicotinamide. A potent, multi-benefit ingredient that can help reduce the look of lines and brightens skin. Synthetic.LEARN MORE OctyldodecanolAn emollient that helps to provide a smooth gliding application and comfortable feel. Naturally Derived*LEARN MORE Oleic AcidAlso known as Omega-9, this fatty acid helps nourish the skin. Naturally Derived* Opuntia Tuna ExtractA plant extract from the Prickly Pear Cactus that helps to strengthen skin's moisture barrier. Natural* Orzya Sativa (Rice) Lees ExtractAn extract of the sake fermentation process that promotes skin brightening and clarity. Naturally Derived* Palmitic AcidA fatty acid derived from palm that helps nourish the skin. Naturally Derived* PEG-8PEG-8 has excellent water binding ability, making it a great humectant for skin. It also serves as a transporter of key skin loving ingredients. Synthetic. PEG-75Provides formulas with slip and better spreadability by helping to seamlessly dissolve/integrate other ingredients into the formula. Synthetic. PhenoxyethanolA preservative that helps maintain a product’s integrity and freshness. Synthetic. Phenylpropyldimethyl- SiloxysilicateAn emollient that helps to provide a seamless, gliding application, and a shiny finish. Synthetic. Phenyl TrimethiconeA silicone that enhances a formula's spreadability and contributes to a silky feel on skin. Synthetic. Phoenix Dactylifera (Date) Fruit ExtractAKA Date Palm Fruit Extract, which helps plump skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Natural* Pink Peony ExtractExtract from the pink peony flower that has calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which can promote brightening and a more even skin tone. Natural* Polyglyceryl-3 DiisostearateA liquid polymer that helps achieve long wear that feels comfortable and flexible. Naturally Derived* PolymethylsilsesquioxaneA powder that contributes to a soft-focus effect on skin. Synthetic. Potassium HydroxideDerived from salt, this ingredient helps adjust the product's pH. Naturally Derived* PropanediolA plant derived sugar that helps soften, smooth, and hydrate the skin while enhancing the absorption of other ingredients. Naturally Derived* Propylene Glycol DicaprateA skin-conditioning ingredient. Naturally Derived.LEARN MORE Prunes Lannesiana Flower ExtractAn extract from the Japanese double-flowered cherry blossom that helps to promote skin brightening and clarity. Natural* Prunus Persica (Peach) Flower ExtractA pure extract from pomegranate that acts as an antioxidant to help protect skin against environmental assaults. Natural* Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) ExtractA pure extract from pomegranate that acts as an antioxidant to help protect skin against environmental assaults. Natural* RetinolA multi-functional ingredient derived from Vitamin A that helps even skin tone, reduce the look of pores, lines and wrinkles, and assists with skin's natural cell turnover. Synthetic. ResveratrolIngredient with anti-aging, anti-oxidant and anti-irritant activity. Natural* Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed OilExtracted from food-grade castor seeds, this oil is composed of fatty acids that help condition the skin. Natural*LEARN MORE Salicornia Herbacea ExtractIn a complex, this plant extract helps support skin's barrier and moisturization. Naturally Derived* Salicylic AcidProvides mild exfoliation. Often used to smooth and refine texture and to help unclog pores. Synthetic. Salvia Hispanica Seed ExtractAKA Chia Seed, an Omega-3 fatty acid that helps condition the skin. Natural* Siegesbeckia Orientals ExtractSiegesbeckia Orientalis, AKA St. Paul's Wort, an herb that helps prevent collagen breakdown. Natural* SilicaA powder with oil-absorbing, and mattifying properties that contributes to a smooth finish. Naturally Derived* Sodium HyaluronateAKA Hyaluronic Acid, a ferment that is a powerful moisture magnet. Naturally Derived*LEARN MORE Sodium PCASodium PCA (Pyrrolidone Carboxylic Acid) is a humectant that helps skin retain moisture. May be naturally derived or synthetic, depending on the formula. SqualaneAn emollient derived from olives that helps prevent moisture loss. SucroseA plant-derived form of sugar that has hydrating and soothing benefits. Natural. Swertia Chirata ExtractOur precious Gentian extract derived from a remarkable flowering plant that is indigenous to the Himalayan mountain range. A “survival molecule” is extracted from the plant to help strengthen skin. Natural* Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) / TocopherolA form of Vitamin E that acts as a powerful anti-oxidant, helping to defend against free-radical damage. Synthetic or Natural*LEARN MORE TrehaloseA plant derived sugar with hydrating properties that acts as a moisture magnet for skin. Natural* Tricaprylyl CitrateAn emollient that helps to provide a comfortable feel upon application. Naturally Derived* TrimethylsiloxysilicateA powder polymer that helps achieve comfortable and flexible long wear. Synthetic. Tripeptide-32Our exclusive peptide that supports skin's natural day/night rhythm of protection by day and renewal at night. Synthetic.LEARN MORE Tuber Melanosporum ExtractAlso known as the highly-coveted Black Diamond Truffle, our exclusive, potent energy-infusing extract that helps stimulate skin's visible vitality. Naturally Derived*LEARN MORE Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit ExtractAKA Blueberry. Together with Yeast Extract, Lycium Chinense (Goji Berry) Fruit Extract, and Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, it forms a special antioxidant blend that helps neutralize the effects of free radicals on skin. Natural* Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit ExtractAKA Cranberry. Together with Yeast Extract, Lycium Chinense (Goji Berry) Fruit Extract, and Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, it forms a special antioxidant blend that helps neutralize the effects of free radicals on skin. Natural* Whey ProteinA form of protein derived from milk that helps to build collagen. Naturally Derived* Yeast ExtractYeast extract is a commonly known class of ingredients. There are several types of yeast extracts, some of which help brighten and even skin tone. In addition, our ANR formula uses a specific yeast extract that helps optimize skin's natural nightly repair cycle. Naturally Derived*LEARN MORE *Per ISO Standard 16128. From plant sources, non-petroleum mineral sources, and/or water.