Ingredient · Updated

Aqua

Neutral in 4

Found in 4 products

What is Aqua?

Aqua, commonly known as water, is a universal solvent and a vital component of most living organisms. In cosmetic and personal care products, aqua serves as a base for formulations, helping to dissolve other ingredients and create the desired product texture.

Water is used widely in products like lotions, shampoos, and creams to ensure they spread easily and penetrate the skin effectively. The health evidence shows that it's safe as used in these products and considered essential for hydrating and maintaining skin health.

On a label, aqua typically appears at or near the top of the ingredient list, indicating it's often used as a principal ingredient in formulations.

Commonly found in: lotions, shampoos, creams, deodorants, makeup, skin care products

Benefits

  • Hydrates the skin by providing moisture.
  • Helps distribute and dissolve other ingredients in formulations.
FDA

Water is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used in cosmetic and personal care products.

Research

Research supports the use of water as a safe and effective vehicle in skin and hair care products.

Vegan

Water is a vegan-friendly ingredient sourced from natural resources.

Sources: Cosmetics Ingredient Review on Water

Scout's take

Aqua, or water, is a common solvent used in cosmetics. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the formulation. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.

The case against

There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.

from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Liquid Flush Cheek Tint · echoed in 1 other analysis

There are no known risks associated with the use of water in cosmetic products.

from the analysis of Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant in Beachy Clean

The case for

Water helps to hydrate the skin and is essential for the formulation of many cosmetic products.

from the analysis of Monika Blunder Beauty Liquid Flush Cheek Tint

Water is essential for hydration and helps in the application of the product.

from the analysis of Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment

Water acts as a solvent and helps in the application of the product.

from the analysis of Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant in Beachy Clean

More from Scout's analyses

Aqua, or water, is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks associated with its use.

from the analysis of Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant in Beachy Clean

Aqua, or water, is a common solvent used in cosmetics. It is generally safe for topical use and serves as a base for many formulations.

from the analysis of Pacifica Mini Stellar Gaze Mascara Supernova Black Trial Size

All 4 products with Aqua

Where Aqua shows up

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