INCI · other · CIR review pending · used in 6 products
Aqua
Water (Aqua, CAS #7732-18-5) is the most common cosmetic ingredient, typically appearing first on ingredient lists as the largest component by volume. It functions primarily as a solvent for water-soluble ingredients. In cosmetics, purified and deionized water is used to improve product stability by removing mineral ions.
Evidence level
strongEWG score
—Comedogenic
—Category
other● Benefits
Water acts as a solvent for ingredients that do not dissolve in oils. Once incorporated into a formulation, it contributes to skin hydration; however, applying pure water topically (e.g., prolonged bathing) can be drying rather than hydrating.
hydrating
● Cautions
Applying pure water directly to skin (e.g., long baths) can be drying rather than hydrating.
