Aqua (Water)
Water, listed as “aqua”: the base of most skincare, dissolving other ingredients and giving products their texture.
water, aqua, eau, purified water
All skin types
What it does
Listed as “aqua” on ingredient labels, water is an essential part of skincare products. Often the main ingredient in skin formulations, water acts as an important mixing agent. It dissolves water-soluble ingredients such as humectants, vitamins and plant extracts, and gives serums, toners, gels and creams their texture. Cosmetic water is purified, and because bacteria and moulds can grow in it, water-based products need preservatives.
How it works
Skin cells need water to function, and well-hydrated skin looks plumper, fresher and more radiant. Water on its own, though, evaporates quickly and can leave skin feeling tighter; it’s the humectants, emollients and occlusives in a formula that attract water, soften the surface and slow its loss, so the hydration lasts.
MG says
Water-based products are wonderful for adding moisture and hydration to all skin types. Oily, congested and blemish-prone skin in particular does best with lightweight, water-based, non-comedogenic textures such as gels, gel-creams and fluids, with humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
