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Moumoujus

WATER.

Essential CAS 7732-18-5 / ANTIPLAQUE, SKIN CONDITIONING, SOLVENT

Water is the foundational solvent in most skincare, critical for dissolving active ingredients and enhancing skin's natural hydration and elasticity. It is the most common ingredient found in cosmetic formulations.

Summary

Solvent Hydrator

Science

Mechanism of Action

Water primarily acts as a solvent for water-soluble ingredients, aiding their dissolution, application, and penetration. It is crucial for maintaining skin hydration, supporting stratum corneum function, and synergizes with humectants and NMFs to attract and retain moisture.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 60–95%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Small pilot study on water intake and skin: Increased skin thickness in individuals who habitually drank little water over 4 weeks (ingested 2.25 liters daily).
  2. 02 General formulation practices and mechanism of action: Acts as a solvent and supports skin barrier function and moisture retention in topical formulations (60-95%).

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Water is a fundamental base ingredient and solvent, making up a significant portion of formulations, rather than being used in trace amounts for marketing purposes.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 6
0 7 14

Stability

Highly stable, purified and deionized water is crucial in formulations to prevent interference from impurities. The overall product pH, typically 4.0-6.0, is vital for active ingredient stability and requires effective preservative systems to prevent microbial growth.

Synergies

  • Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF)
  • Humectants (e.g., Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid)

Conflicts

  • Oils (requires emulsifiers)
  • pH-sensitive active ingredients (risk of hydrolysis if not buffered)
  • Microbial growth (if not adequately preserved)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Water (Aqua) is universally safe for cosmetic use, with concerns focusing on purity and the necessity for preservatives in water-based products. Cosmetics in the US are subject to safety regulations but do not require pre-market FDA approval.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Essential

Water is an essential, universally safe ingredient that serves as the primary solvent and hydration foundation for nearly all skincare formulations.

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