Water
Aqua
Also known as: Aqua · Eau · Aqua / Water / Eau · Purified Water · Distilled Water
Solvent
“The base of almost every skincare formula.”
What it does
Water is the solvent most cosmetics are built on, and it is why it sits first in the majority of ingredient lists. Being first says nothing about a product's quality — it is the carrier that dissolves humectants and actives and gives a formula its texture. Water does not hydrate skin on its own; it evaporates unless something in the formula holds it there.
Benefits
- Dissolves water-soluble actives and humectants
- Gives lotions and gels their texture
How to layer
☀️ Morning routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
SPF
🌙 Evening routine
Cleanser
Toner
Serum
Moisturiser
Face Oil
After cleansing, before moisturiser
Good for
All skin
How to use
A base ingredient. No special application needed.
Typical concentration: Typically 60–90% of a formula