Common ingredients found in body creams and what they mean
Algae extract: Derived from marine plants, it is rich in vitamins and trace minerals.
Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA): A substance naturally derived from fruit, sugar cane (glycolic) and milk (lactic). AHAs break down the intercellular glue that holds dead skin cells together, helping to increase the skin's cell turnover rate. It is used as an exfoliant.
Allantoin: An extract from the root of the comfrey plant used to protect the skin. It helps alleviate and prevent dry, irritated skin and chapped lips.
Aloe extract: Because aloe gel is 99.5 per cent water and also doubles as an anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory agent, it is a popular main ingredient in skin lotions.
Cetearyl alcohol, glyceryl stearate and caprylic/capric triglyceride: Commonly used emulsifiers that keep the oil and water from separating.
