INCI · other · CIR review pending · used in 1 products
Distilled Water
Water (Aqua, H2O) is the most common cosmetic ingredient, typically appearing first on ingredient lists. It functions primarily as a solvent for water-soluble ingredients. The water used in cosmetics is purified and deionized, meaning nearly all mineral ions are removed to improve product stability over time.
Evidence level
strongEWG score
—Comedogenic
—Category
other● Benefits
Water acts as a solvent for ingredients that do not dissolve in oils. Once inside the skin it contributes to hydration, though applying pure water topically can actually be drying rather than hydrating.
hydrating
● Cautions
Applying pure water directly to the skin (e.g., prolonged baths) can be drying rather than hydrating.
