1. Wax / Vaseline base
Purpose: Occlusive agent – creates a barrier to lock in moisture.
Safety: Generally safe. Vaseline (petroleum jelly) is non-comedogenic but may feel heavy for oily/acne-prone skin.
2. Vitamin A (e.g., Retinol or Retinyl Palmitate)
Purpose: Promotes skin renewal, improves texture, and reduces fine lines.
Safety: Can cause dryness or irritation; best used at night with sunscreen during the day. Not recommended during pregnancy.
3. Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide)
Purpose: Anti-inflammatory, brightens skin, reduces redness, improves barrier function.
Safety: Very well-tolerated and safe for most skin types.
4. Vitamin E
Purpose: Antioxidant that helps moisturize and protect skin from damage.
Safety: Safe for most, but in rare cases, can cause breakouts in acne-prone skin when used in high concentrations.
5. Aloe Vera
Purpose: Soothing, hydrating, and anti-inflammatory.
Safety: Very safe; great for sensitive or irritated skin.
6. Cod Liver Oil
Purpose: Rich in vitamins A & D, good for healing and soothing dry skin.
Safety: Can be greasy and have a strong odor; may not be ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.
7. Mineral / Herb Oil
Purpose: Emollient/moisturizer. Mineral oil helps prevent water loss; herbal oils may add therapeutic effects.
Safety: Mineral oil is generally safe and non-comedogenic, but herb oils vary – some may cause allergies or irritation.
8. Lanolin Anhydrous
Purpose: Deep moisturizer from wool wax, great for very dry or cracked skin.
Safety: Effective but may trigger allergies in sensitive individuals or those allergic to wool.
9. Amino Acids
Purpose: Building blocks of skin, improve hydration and texture.
Safety: Very safe and skin-friendly.
10. SPF 27 PA++
Purpose: Sun protection – SPF protects from UVB, PA++ indicates moderate UVA protection.
Safety: Necessary for daytime use. Reapplication is needed for long-term protection.
11. Coal Tar
Purpose: Used to treat psoriasis, eczema, and dandruff.
Safety: Effective, but controversial due to potential carcinogenic concerns in high doses. Use under guidance, especially for long-term use.
12. Ascorbic (likely Ascorbic Acid / Vitamin C)
Purpose: Antioxidant, brightens skin, reduces pigmentation.
Safety: Generally safe; may cause tingling or irritation in sensitive skin.
13. Glycerin
Purpose: Powerful humectant – draws moisture into the skin.
Safety: Very safe and well-tolerated.
14. Collagen
Purpose: Promotes firmness and hydration. Topically, it hydrates more than penetrates deeply.
Safety: Safe but has limited penetration; works best with ingredients that stimulate collagen production.
15. Hyaluronic Acid
Purpose: Deep hydration, plumps skin, reduces appearance of fine lines.
Safety: Excellent safety profile; suitable for all skin types.
Summary of Compatibility:
Sensitive Skin: May react to lanolin, coal tar, or high-strength vitamin A/C.
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Avoid heavy oils (cod liver, lanolin) and occlusives if they cause breakouts.
Dry Skin: Excellent combination, especially with lanolin, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid.