Alphabetical Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary from Paula Begoun, the Cosmetics Cop
| Rating | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| Good |
xanthan gumUsed as a thickening agent.
Categories:
Thickeners/Emulsifiers,
Texture Enhancer
|
| Best |
xanthophyllAlso known as lutein, this is a cartenoid pigment from plants that functions as an antioxidant.
Categories:
Antioxidants,
Plant Extracts
|
| Good |
Ximenia americana oilLatin name for plum oil; it can have emollient properties. |
| Poor |
Xi xin |
| Best |
xylitolXylitol is a sugar alcohol that may be plant-derived or synthetic (Paula’s Choice uses the former). |
| Good |
xylitylglucosideAn ingredient derived from two water-binding plant sugars, xylitol and glucose.
Categories:
Hydration
|
| Good |
xyloseForm of sugar. Similar to other sugars, xylose has hydrating properties for skin.
Categories:
Miscellaneous,
Hydration
|
| Good |
xymenynic acidSynthetic fatty acid that functions as a skin-softening agent.
Categories:
Miscellaneous,
Skin-Softening
|
About the Experts
Paula Begoun is the best-selling author of 20 books about skincare and makeup. She is known worldwide as The Cosmetics Cop and creator of Paula’s Choice Skincare. Paula’s expertise has led to hundreds of appearances on national and international radio, print, and television including:
The Paula's Choice Research Team is dedicated to busting beauty myths and providing expert advice that solves your skincare frustrations so you can have the best skin of your life!