Page 194 - Cosmetology

effects such as allergic sensitization or exogenous ochronosis were not observed with azelaic acid".
However, other research suggests that azelaic acid is more irritating than hydroquinone mixed with glycolic
acid or kojic acid
Azelex. See azelaic acid.

azuki beans. Legumes ground and used as abrasives in scrub products.

azulene. Chamomile extract used primarily as a coloring agent in cosmetics. It can have antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory properties
B

babassu oil. Plant oil that can have emollient properties for skin. There is no research showing it to have
special properties for skin.

Bacillus subtilis. Naturally occurring widespread bacterium that can be used to control plant diseases,
fungal plant infestation, and several types of mildew. Based on available information, the bacterium appears
to have no adverse effects on humans or the environment (Source: Environmental Protection Agency,

balm mint extract. Derived from a fragrant plant; it poses some risk of skin irritation. It also has some
reported antiviral properties. Claims that it can help heal wounds are not substantiated.

balsam peru. A fatty resin that topically can cause allergic skin reactions and contact dermatitis. It also has
the potential to cause photodermatitis and phototoxicity. Balsam peru is also a standard used in patch tests
for skin sensitivity due to its high incidence of causing reactions

banana extract. Has some weak antioxidant properties.

bar cleanser. Although these are often advertised as being gentle or specially formulated, they are no better
than or different from what you can buy at the drugstore. The irritating and pore-clogging ingredients are still
included regardless of the price or claim.

barberry. Plant whose primary component, berberine, is an alkaloid that can have antibacterial properties
and some cellular anti-inflammatory response. However, it can also be a skin irritant because of its effect on
cells
barium sulfate. Earth mineral used as a whitening agent in cosmetics. It can be a skin irritant.

barley extract. From barley plants. Can have antioxidant properties when ingested, but there is no research
showing this to be the case when applied topically.

batyl alcohol. Derived from glycerin and used as a stabilizing ingredient and skin conditioning agent.

bay leaf oil. Can be a potent antioxidant. However, it can also be a potent skin irritant due to its fragrant
component.

bearberry extract. There is research showing it has antibacterial properties and antioxidant properties.
There is a tiny amount of research showing it can have skin lightening properties. Bearberry extract’s
potential efficacy is derived from its active components of hydroquinone and arbutin. Hydroquinone is well
established as a melanin-inhibiting agent, while arbutin has far less quantitative information available,
though in high concentrations it has shown it can inhibit melanin production.However, the fractional amount
of bearberry extract used in skin-care products makes it unlikely to affect skin or melanin. See arbutin and
hydroquinone.

bee pollen. Can have antioxidant properties,but there is no research showing this to be true when applied
topically. Bee pollen can also be a skin irritant and allergen.

beeswax. Substance made by bees to build the walls of their honeycomb. It is a thickening agent and has
some emollient properties.

behenic acid. Fatty acid used as a thickening agent and surfactant. See fatty acid.

behentrimonium chloride. An antistatic and hair-conditioning agent.