[noun] An active ingredient or a cosmetic active ingredient is a molecule present in a cosmetic product in a sufficient percentage to have an identified benefit. Active ingredients, which may have natural, biotechnological or synthetic origins, are what make a formula effective. As a general rule, a cosmetic formula also includes solvents (such as water), excipients (vegetable oils, fatty acids, etc.), adjuvants (stabilisers, emulsifiers, etc.) and sometimes additives (fragrances, dyes). All a formula’s components are listed in the INCI list.