Skincare Ingredients

Adapalene is a third-generation retinoid, once prescription-only and now available over the counter for acne. It is prized for its stability and strong efficacy with less irritation than some other retinoids.

Allantoin is a soothing compound derived from comfrey root or made synthetically, found in many gentle skincare products. It softens the skin and gently encourages cell renewal.

Aloe vera is a plant prized for millennia for its clear gel that soothes and hydrates the skin. It's rich in water, vitamins, and enzymes that calm burns, redness, and dryness. It's a fresh, lightweight ingredient perfect for everyday use.

Alpha arbutin is a brightening agent derived from bearberry, considered a gentler, safer alternative to hydroquinone. It works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme behind melanin production, gradually reducing the formation of dark spots. Its stable form makes it both effective and well tolerated.

Argan oil is a Moroccan treasure pressed from the kernels of the argan tree, rich in vitamin E and monounsaturated fatty acids. For centuries it has been known for deeply nourishing skin and hair.

Argireline is a peptide nicknamed "topical Botox" because it helps relax the tiny muscle contractions beneath the skin. It specifically targets expression lines around the eyes and forehead. It's no match for injectable Botox, but it's a gentle, non-invasive option.

Astaxanthin is a red carotenoid pigment derived from microalgae and ranks among the most powerful natural antioxidants. It gives products a distinctive pink-red hue. It is used to protect skin and calm redness.

Azelaic acid is a multitasking ingredient found naturally in grains like barley and wheat. It combines antibacterial, soothing and brightening properties, making it a rare treatment that tackles several concerns at once.

Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient extracted from babchi seeds, often described as a gentle alternative to retinol. It encourages skin renewal and collagen without the irritation that retinoids can cause.

Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most effective over-the-counter acne treatments; it releases oxygen inside the pore that kills acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes). It also helps clear clogged pores and reduce inflammation, and bacteria do not build resistance to it.

Beta-glucan is a polysaccharide sourced from oats, yeast or mushrooms that works as a powerful humectant and soother. It forms a light film that locks in moisture and supports the skin barrier. It is sometimes compared to hyaluronic acid, but it is more calming.

Betaine is a natural humectant often derived from sugar beet, and one of the osmolytes that help cells maintain water balance. It is a gentle, versatile ingredient that hydrates skin and improves a formula's feel.

Bisabolol is a soothing compound naturally derived from the chamomile flower, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is added to products to calm the skin and reduce redness and irritation.

Caffeine is an antioxidant extracted from coffee and green tea, and is a favorite in eye-area products. It has a constricting effect that temporarily reduces puffiness and swelling. It also stimulates surface circulation so skin looks more awake.

Calendula is a botanical extract from the bright orange marigold flower, used for centuries to calm the skin. It is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that comfort irritated, sensitive complexions.

Centella asiatica, known as cica or tiger grass, is an Asian herb made famous by K-beauty for its remarkable soothing and repairing powers. It's rich in actives like madecassoside that rebuild the barrier and reduce inflammation. It's one of the best rescue ingredients for irritated skin.

Ceramides are natural lipids that make up about half of the skin's outer barrier, acting like the cement that holds skin cells together. When they run low, skin loses moisture and becomes drier and more reactive.

Chamomile extract is a time-honored botanical known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. It contains compounds like bisabolol that calm irritated skin. It has been used for ages to ease redness and sensitivity.

Cholesterol is one of the essential lipids naturally found in the skin barrier, alongside ceramides and fatty acids. It is vital for keeping the skin cohesive and hydrated.

Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that occurs naturally in your skin cells, where it helps power their energy production. Its levels drop as we age, which is why it is popular in topical anti-aging care. It is also listed on labels as ubiquinone.

Collagen is the key protein that gives skin its structure and bounce, and it is added to products in a hydrolyzed form as a moisturizer. Its molecules are too large to reach the deeper skin, so topically it acts as a hydrator and water-binding film rather than replacing your own collagen. It leaves skin soft and looking plumped.

Colloidal oatmeal is finely milled whole oat, officially recognized as a skin-protectant ingredient. It contains beta-glucan and avenanthramides that calm inflammation and relieve itching.

Copper peptides, most famously GHK-Cu, are molecules pairing copper with short amino-acid chains. They signal the skin to ramp up collagen, elastin, and tissue repair. They're among the most powerful yet relatively gentle anti-ageing ingredients.

Dimethicone is a common silicone that forms a light, breathable occlusive layer on the skin. It slows water loss and leaves a smooth, silky finish. It is used in moisturizers and primers because it fills in fine texture and gives skin a polished look.

Ectoin is a cell-protecting molecule made by bacteria that survive in extreme environments, now produced biotechnologically for skincare. It works by forming a protective water shell around cells, shielding them from dehydration and environmental stress.

Ferulic acid is a plant-derived antioxidant found in the cell walls of grains like rice and oats. Its standout role is stabilising vitamins C and E and multiplying their protection against UV and free radicals. That's why it appears in so many iconic vitamin C serums.

Galactomyces is a ferment filtrate rich in amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, made famous by Korean and Japanese skincare. It gives the skin a healthy glow and improves its overall look.

Ginseng is a root long revered in traditional Asian medicine, rich in ginsenosides and antioxidants. In skincare it is known as an energizing ingredient that revives tired, dull complexions.

Gluconolactone is a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that exfoliates very gently. Its molecules are larger than AHAs, so it penetrates slowly and causes less irritation. It is an ideal choice for sensitive skin that cannot tolerate stronger acids.

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant the body makes naturally, used in skincare to brighten and even tone. It works by reducing melanin production and neutralizing free radicals. It is valued for bringing a healthy glow to dull skin.

Glycerin is a simple, reliable humectant that has been in good moisturizers for decades. It draws water toward the outer skin layer and helps the skin hold on to its own moisture.

Glycolic acid is an AHA exfoliant and the smallest fruit-acid molecule, so it penetrates the skin quickly and effectively. It loosens the bonds between dead surface cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin.

Grapeseed oil is a light, fast-absorbing oil rich in linoleic acid and antioxidants. It is one of the best oils for oily and combination skin because it doesn't clog pores.

Green tea extract is a powerful antioxidant rich in EGCG and polyphenols that shield skin from free radicals. It calms inflammation and helps regulate oil, making it a friend to oily and acne-prone skin. It's a light, multitasking ingredient.

Hemp seed oil is a lightweight oil rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, especially linoleic acid, and contains no psychoactive compounds. Its balanced profile makes it non-comedogenic and suitable even for oily skin.

Honey is a natural humectant that draws moisture into the skin, with soothing and mild antibacterial properties. Varieties like Manuka honey are especially prized for calming skin and supporting healing.

Hyaluronic acid is a moisture-binding molecule that occurs naturally in the skin, acting like a sponge that pulls water into the upper layers. A single molecule can hold many times its weight in water, giving skin an instant plump, cushioned feel.

Jojoba oil is actually a liquid wax whose structure closely resembles the skin's own sebum, so it is very well tolerated. It absorbs quickly without heaviness and suits even oil-prone skin.

Kojic acid is a brightening ingredient produced by fungal fermentation, traditionally used in Japan to lighten skin. It inhibits tyrosinase, slowing melanin production and tackling stubborn dark spots. It's effective but more prone to causing irritation than alpha arbutin.

Lactic acid is an AHA exfoliant with a larger molecule than glycolic, so it works more gently on the surface. It is unique in that it exfoliates and hydrates at once, helping skin hold on to water.

Lactobacillus ferment is a postbiotic derived from beneficial bacteria that supports the balance of the skin's microbiome. It helps strengthen the natural barrier and calm the skin.

Lactobionic acid belongs to the polyhydroxy acid (PHA) family, exfoliating gently while hydrating at the same time. Its large molecules attract and hold water in the skin, making it milder than many exfoliants. It suits anyone who wants renewal without dryness.

Licorice root extract is a botanical that combines brightening with soothing, its active compound glabridin inhibiting melanin production. Long used in traditional medicine, it's now one of the gentlest ingredients for evening out tone. It also brings anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

Linoleic acid is an essential omega-6 fatty acid and a key building block of the skin barrier. Its levels are often low in acne-prone skin.

Madecassoside is an active compound extracted from Centella asiatica (tiger grass), prized for its soothing, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. It is one of the finest skin-repair ingredients.

Mandelic acid is an AHA exfoliant derived from bitter almonds and the largest of the fruit acids. It penetrates slowly and steadily, making it one of the gentlest exfoliants and a great fit for sensitive and deeper skin tones.

Marula oil is a luxurious African oil pressed from the seeds of the marula tree, rich in oleic acid and antioxidants. It is prized for its fast absorption and light feel despite being deeply nourishing.

Matrixyl is a trade name for a family of famous anti-ageing peptides, most notably palmitoyl pentapeptide-4. They act as signals that prompt the skin to produce collagen and repair itself. They're a gentle, effective option for anyone wanting a softer alternative to retinol.

Mugwort is a traditional herb, popular in Korean skincare, celebrated for its powerful calming effect. It is rich in antioxidants and soothing compounds that comfort irritated skin.

Mulberry extract is a botanical derived from the white mulberry tree, used to brighten skin gently. It contains compounds that inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme behind melanin production. It is a natural option for anyone seeking a more even tone.

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 and one of the most versatile ingredients in skincare. It works on oil regulation, barrier strength and a more even tone all at once.

Panthenol is the precursor to vitamin B5, converting into pantothenic acid once it sinks into the skin. It works as a humectant that draws in water while helping reinforce the moisture barrier. You'll find it in soothing creams and hydrating serums because it's exceptionally gentle.

Papain is an enzyme from the papaya fruit that acts as a gentle exfoliant by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells. It offers a soft alternative to acid exfoliants, smoothing the skin and reviving its glow.

Petrolatum is a pure occlusive that forms a protective layer on the skin's surface to prevent water from evaporating. It is one of the most effective and safe occlusives, backed by dermatologists.

Polyglutamic acid is a strong humectant derived from fermentation, said to hold many times more water than hyaluronic acid. It forms a moist film on the surface that slows water loss. It gives an instant feeling of softness and plumpness.

Propolis is a resinous substance bees produce to protect their hive, rich in flavonoids and antioxidants. In skincare it is prized for soothing, antibacterial properties that support irritated, blemish-prone skin.

Resveratrol is a potent plant antioxidant found in grape skin and plants like Japanese knotweed. It is known for protecting skin cells from oxidative stress. It is often used at night to support overnight renewal.

Retinaldehyde is a vitamin A derivative more potent than retinol because it needs only one conversion step to become active in the skin. This means faster results, often with less irritation than classic retinol.

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative and one of the most scientifically proven anti-aging ingredients. It works by speeding up skin cell renewal and stimulating collagen deep within the skin.

Retinyl palmitate is one of the mildest, gentlest retinoids, a vitamin A ester that the skin gradually converts to retinol and then its active form. It is an ideal entry point for anyone trying vitamin A for the first time.

Rice extract is a time-honored Asian ingredient rich in amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants like ferulic acid. It is known for giving skin a soft glow and even tone.

Rosehip oil is a light, dry oil pressed from rose seeds, rich in essential fatty acids like linoleic acid and in natural vitamins A and C. It is known for brightening the skin and improving its texture.

Salicylic acid is a BHA exfoliant that dissolves in oil, letting it get inside pores and clean them from within. That makes it a first choice for oily, acne-prone skin.

Sea buckthorn oil is a deep orange plant oil rich in rare fatty acids like omega-7, plus vitamins A and C. It is one of the most nourishing and antioxidant-packed oils for the skin.

Shea butter is a rich plant fat extracted from the fruit of the African karité tree, combining occlusive and emollient properties. It is loaded with fatty acids and vitamins A and E that nourish and protect the skin.

Snail mucin, or snail secretion filtrate, became a K-beauty star for its dual power to hydrate and repair. It's rich in hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins, and peptides that heal skin and smooth its texture. Its slippery texture draws in water and leaves skin plump.

Squalane is a light, stable emollient oil derived from squalene, which occurs naturally in our skin's own oils. It closely mimics the skin's lipids, so it absorbs quickly without a heavy or greasy feel.

Sulfur is a mineral with a long history in skincare that works as a gentle keratolytic, loosening dead cells, absorbing excess oil and fighting bacteria. It usually comes as a mask or a targeted spot treatment.

Sweet almond oil is a gentle, nourishing oil rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, known for its silky feel. It has long been used to soften and moisturize the skin.

Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Australian melaleuca plant, known for its antibacterial and antiseptic properties. It is most often used as a targeted spot treatment for individual blemishes and oily skin.

Titanium dioxide is a mineral sunscreen filter that mainly protects against UVB and shorter UVA rays. It is often paired with zinc oxide to complete broad-spectrum coverage, and it is one of the most stable and gentle filters available.

Tranexamic acid is a modern brightener that has earned a strong reputation for tackling melasma and stubborn spots. It works differently from other brighteners by reducing melanin transfer and calming the inflammation that drives pigmentation. It stands out for being gentle, even on sensitive skin.

Tremella mushroom, also known as snow mushroom, is a powerful plant humectant that works much like hyaluronic acid. Its smaller molecules help it penetrate the skin gently for deep hydration.

Turmeric is a golden spice long used in traditional medicine, and its active compound curcumin is a potent antioxidant. In skincare it is often used in a stabilized, less-staining form (tetrahydrocurcumin) to brighten and calm the complexion.

Urea occurs naturally in the skin as part of its natural moisturizing factor. At low concentrations it acts as a humectant that draws in water, while at high concentrations it exfoliates and softens rough skin. This makes it common in face, body and foot care.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that shields the skin from daily damage caused by sun and pollution. It is also a key player in brightening the complexion and supporting collagen production.

Vitamin E is a beloved fat-soluble antioxidant that naturally occurs in the skin's oils. It shields cells from free radicals, pollution, and UV damage, while also acting as an emollient that curbs water loss. It's often paired with vitamin C because the two reinforce each other.

Willow bark extract is a natural source of salicin, which the skin converts into a compound related to salicylic acid. This makes it a gentle, oil-loving exfoliant that helps clear pores without the harshness of stronger acids.

Zinc oxide is a mineral (physical) sunscreen filter that sits on the surface of the skin and reflects and scatters both UVA and UVB rays, giving true broad-spectrum protection. Beyond sun defense, it is mildly soothing and antibacterial, which makes it one of the gentlest filters available.

Zinc PCA is a form of zinc bound to the hydrating PCA molecule, making it easily absorbed and gentle on skin. It is known for controlling oil and calming blemish-prone skin.