Style Shaping Fibers No.38

All hair and skin types.

Almost always the first ingredient listed in water-based products.

Those looking for consistent texture and even distribution in haircare products.

It is commonly used to keep formulations uniform and to support product spreadability. It also helps improve the feel and performance of leave-in and rinse-off products.

Those looking for light, gentle cleansing or improved rinse-off in haircare formulas.

It is often used alongside other surfactants to adjust foam and improve product texture. It also helps blend oil- and water-based ingredients for consistent formulas.

People looking to reduce moisture loss, add slip, or tame frizz.

Mineral oil is a highly refined cosmetic-grade ingredient valued for its stability and ability to lock in moisture. It is commonly used in hair treatments and styling products for added softness and shine.

Those with dry or dehydrated hair types looking for extra moisture retention.

It is a sugar-derived ingredient often used alongside other moisturisers to improve hair softness and manageability. It can also support product texture and stability.

Most hair types as part of a balanced formula.

Usually present in small amounts to balance the formula.

Those looking for added hydration or smoother-feeling hair.

It is also commonly used as a preservative booster to help maintain formula freshness. It is well tolerated in most haircare products.

All products that need protecting from spoilage.

A very common, well-studied preservative used at low levels.

People who enjoy a scented product.

Fragrance preference is personal. Some people prefer fragrance-free formulas by choice.

Those interested in how product pH affects scalp comfort or hair cuticle behaviour.

It is used in very small amounts to bring a formula to the desired pH range. Once adjusted, it does not act as a strong alkaline agent in the finished product.

People who prefer products with a smoother, more luxurious texture or improved spreadability.

It can also form a light film on the hair, supporting product consistency and feel. PEG polymers are widely used in both skincare and haircare for their reliable performance.

All products that need a preservative system.

Often paired with other preservatives for broad protection.

Anyone who wants products to stay fresh and stable over time.

Parabens like methylparaben are widely used because they are effective in very small amounts and have a long history of use in cosmetics. They help maintain product quality, especially in water-based formulas.

People looking to maintain colour-treated hair or reduce UV impact on hair and scalp.

It is often used to help stabilise formulas that may be exposed to sunlight. Its presence can support the longevity of colour care products.

Anyone using products that benefit from extended shelf life and maintained performance.

It helps protect oils and other sensitive ingredients from breaking down when exposed to air and light. It is used in very small amounts to support product consistency.

Those who spend time outdoors or want to help maintain colour-treated hair.

It is widely used in suncare and some hair products to support protection against UV exposure. In haircare, it mainly helps reduce colour fade rather than providing full sunscreen performance.

Most hair types, especially dry or dull hair.

A versatile, well-tolerated conditioning ingredient.

Those who enjoy luminous or light-reflective finishes in styling or colouring products.

It is a mineral powder widely used in cosmetics for its reflective properties. In haircare, it is typically present in small amounts for visual effect rather than performance.

Those looking for botanical extracts to support scalp comfort or antioxidant-rich formulas.

Bilberry extract is commonly included in haircare for its naturally occurring antioxidants and gentle conditioning properties.

Those who want products with a longer shelf life and consistent performance.

Parabens like butylparaben are widely used and well-studied preservatives that help keep products stable. They are typically present in very small amounts to maintain freshness and quality.

Those who want products with reliable preservation, including professionals who need consistent shelf stability.

Ethylparaben is part of the paraben family, which has been widely used for many years due to its effectiveness in small amounts. It is often combined with other preservatives to create a broad‑spectrum system.

Those interested in product appearance or opacity, such as in creams or conditioners.

It is commonly used to create a uniform, opaque look and can also help stabilise formula appearance. Its presence does not affect how the product performs on the hair.

Anyone using products that benefit from a long, reliable shelf life.

Propylparaben is a widely used preservative that helps maintain product quality and freshness. It is used at very low levels and is well studied for its role in keeping formulations stable.

Those looking for gentle botanical ingredients that support moisture retention.

Sugar cane extract is commonly used in haircare for its natural humectant properties and is compatible with most formulations. It may also support overall softness and shine.

Those looking for botanical ingredients that help refresh the scalp or brighten the feel of haircare formulas.

Lemon fruit extract is commonly included for its natural antioxidant and astringent qualities. It is typically used in small amounts to support a clean, fresh sensory profile.

Those looking for plant-derived ingredients that can help maintain hydration in hair and scalp.

Sugar maple extract is often included with other botanical ingredients to boost conditioning formulas. It is typically used at low levels alongside humectants and emollients.

Those interested in the appearance of their haircare products or checking for specific colour additives.

CI 19140 is widely used in cosmetics and personal care for its vibrant and stable colour. Its presence does not affect the performance of the haircare formula.

Anyone who enjoys visually distinctive or colour-themed haircare products.

It is commonly used in shampoos, conditioners and styling products to create consistent, appealing colour. The colour does not affect hair performance and is primarily for product appearance.

Those who enjoy citrus-style fragrances or want products with a fresh aromatic profile.

Citral is naturally present in several essential oils and is listed on labels because it is a recognised fragrance allergen. Only small amounts are typically used to adjust or enhance a product’s scent.

A fragrance component that must be listed separately on labels because a minority of people can be sensitive to it. Its presence is normal, required disclosure and is not a quality signal.

A fragrance component that must be listed separately on labels because a minority of people can be sensitive to it. Its presence is normal, required disclosure and is not a quality signal.