Ingredient Library

A

• Aloe Vera: Soothes and hydrates the skin; known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Exfoliate the skin, promoting cell turnover and improving skin texture; includes glycolic acid and lactic acid.

• Argan Oil: Moisturizes and nourishes the skin; rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids.

B

• Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Exfoliate the skin, penetrate deep into pores to remove excess oil; commonly used is salicylic acid.

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Treats acne by killing bacteria and reducing oil production.

• Bakuchiol: A plant-based alternative to retinol with similar anti-aging benefits but typically less irritation.

C

• Ceramides: Help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.

• Caffeine: Reduces puffiness and can improve the appearance of cellulite.

• Collagen: Enhances skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

D

• Dimethicone: A type of silicone used to smooth and protect the skin, giving a silky texture.

• Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate: Derived from licorice root; soothes and calms the skin.

E

• Essential Oils: Plant-derived oils used for their aromatic and therapeutic properties; includes tea tree oil, lavender oil, etc.

• Eucalyptus Oil: Has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, often used in products for acne-prone skin.

F

• Ferulic Acid: An antioxidant that enhances the stability and efficacy of other antioxidants like vitamin C and E.

• Fruit Enzymes: Natural exfoliants that help to gently remove dead skin cells; includes papaya and pineapple enzymes.

G

• Glycerin: A humectant that attracts moisture to the skin.

• Glycolic Acid: An AHA that exfoliates the skin, promoting cell turnover and brightening the complexion.

• Green Tea Extract: Contains antioxidants that protect the skin from damage and reduce inflammation.

H

• Hyaluronic Acid: A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, providing intense hydration.

• Hydroquinone: Used to lighten hyperpigmentation and dark spots.

J

• Jojoba Oil: A moisturizing oil that mimics the skin’s natural sebum.

K

• Kaolin Clay: A gentle clay that absorbs excess oil and impurities from the skin.

• Kojic Acid: A natural skin lightener that helps to reduce the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation.

L

• Lactic Acid: An AHA that exfoliates and hydrates the skin, improving texture and tone.

• Licorice Root Extract: Helps to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots.

M

• Matrixyl: A peptide that stimulates collagen production and reduces the appearance of wrinkles.

• Marula Oil: A nourishing oil that hydrates and protects the skin, rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids.

N

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Category: Active / Barrier Support

What It Does: Supports the skin barrier, helps regulate oil, and improves overall resilience.

Why It’s Used: Widely studied and multifunctional, niacinamide is included in many modern formulas.

Sensitive Skin Notes: Low concentrations are generally well tolerated; higher percentages may cause flushing in reactive skin.

Who Should Be Cautious: Those prone to redness or flushing at concentrations above ~5%.

Typical Concentration: 2–5% (gentle), 10%+ (advanced)

Works Well With: Ceramides, glycerin, azelaic acid

Often Found In: Serums, moisturizers, cleansers

Safe for Daily Use?: Depends

P

• Peptides: Short chains of amino acids that help to build proteins in the skin, such as collagen and elastin.

• Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Moisturizes, soothes, and repairs the skin.

R

• Retinol (Vitamin A): Promotes cell turnover and collagen production, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

• Rosehip Oil: Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, helps to hydrate and repair the skin.

S

• Salicylic Acid: A BHA that exfoliates the skin and unclogs pores, commonly used to treat acne.

• Squalane: A hydrating ingredient that mimics the skin’s natural oils.

T

• Tea Tree Oil: Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, commonly used in products for acne-prone skin.

• Titanium Dioxide: A mineral sunscreen ingredient that protects the skin from UV radiation.

V

• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that brightens the skin, evens skin tone, and boosts collagen production.

• Vitamin E: An antioxidant that moisturizes and protects the skin from damage.

Z

• Zinc Oxide: A mineral sunscreen ingredient that provides broad-spectrum UV protection and is gentle on the skin.

This glossary covers a range of ingredients you might encounter in skin care products. Each ingredient has unique properties and benefits, making it important to choose products based on your specific skin needs and concerns.

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