Have you ever looked at the back of the bottle of one of your skin care products and wondered what all those words mean? We talk a lot about avoiding nasty chemicals in skin care. We can assure you that we don’t stock products that contain any in our clinic, but sometimes, even the good ones have an ingredients list that is hard to follow. Here we are going to look at the key anti-ageing skincare ingredients that you will come across in our products, what they do and why you may want to look out for certain ingredients that will suit your needs.
We will go through the list alphabetically, starting with…
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
A – Always know your skincare ingredients
ALCOHOL: Enhances the activity and penetration of salicylic acid
ALLANTOIN: Promotes a healthy skin barrier by increasing water content in the skin
ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT: Naturally-derived botanicals that provide moisturising, cooling, and refreshing benefits that are linked to its gel texture. It’s known to have a synergistic effect when used in conjunction with other soothing ingredients
ALPHA BISABOLOL: Derived from the chamomile plant, it has proven anti-inflammatory properties and provides soothing benefits
ALPHA-TOCOPHEROL: This pure form of vitamin E neutralises free radicals and replenishes skin lipids. It has been proven to act synergistically with vitamin C
ANTIOXIDANTS: A synergistic antioxidant combination helps neutralise free radicals, prevent future signs of aging, and improve the appearance of under eye circles, fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone
ARBUTIN: A natural alternative to skin-lightening hydroquinone that inhibits tyrosine, the enzyme that contributes to pigment formation
ARTEMIA SALINA: This plankton extract helps boost the skin’s natural defenses
and resistance to UV rays and heat-induced stress
AVOBENZONE: This oil-soluble, organic compound is commonly used in sunscreen formulations to absorb skin-aging UVA rays
B – Always aim for brighter skin
BAICALIN: A flavonoid antioxidant derived from the roots of Baical Skullcap. Baicalin is a potent broad spectrum antioxidant
BETA GLUCAN: Supports the skin’s natural wound healing process and helps strengthen the skin’s immune response and prevent infection
BIO-ACTIVE BOTANICALS
a unique blend of witch hazel, myrtus communis, onion bulb, and sage leaf extracts, provides antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, astringent, antiseptic, and anesthetic benefits
BLUEBERRY EXTRACT: This extract helps fortify skin’s matrix and prevent the appearance of wrinkles and laxity
BROWN ALGAE: Sourced directly from marine multicellular algae, it helps soothe and normalize sensitized skin
BROWN AND GREEN ALGAE EXTRACTS: Helps condition the skin and support the skin’s structural protein matrix by promoting glycosaminoglycan synthesis (bringing acids together and making them work more effectively)
C – Be careful with your skincare ingredients
CAFFEINE: Helps improve the look of under eye circles for a more vibrant appearance
CENTELLA ASIATICA: Clinically-proven, pharmaceutical-grade botanical extract used medically for treating skin diseases and injuries such as cutaneous ulcers, eczema, and burns due to its wound healing properties
CERAMIDES: A type of lipid found naturally in skin, ceramides help nourish and reinforce thin, delicate skin around the eyes
CERAMIDES 1 & 3: Naturally occurring components of the skin’s barrier that increase skin hydration levels and promote optimal skin barrier function
CERAMIDE COMPLEX (CERAMIDE + GLYCERIN): A long chain of lipids that mirror the major structures comprising the skin barrier. Essential to maintaining the skin’s water-retention capacity and natural moisture balance
CHAMOMILE EXTRACT: Derived from matricaria flower extract, chamomile has effective skin-soothing benefits that calm and comfort
CHOLESTEROL: Accelerates barrier repair in aging skin, improves the appearance of skin fullness, and enhances radiance; naturally derived from wool wax (this is why some products are not deemed vegan)
CITRIC ACID: An alpha hydroxy acid found naturally in citrus fruits that exfoliates dead surface cells and helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, skin tone, and texture
COMPLEX OF FLAVONOIDS AND SYNERGISTIC PEPTIDES: The unique combination of ingredients helps diminish the appearance of dark circles and under-eye bags while reinforcing the look of firmness and tone in the eye area
CUCUMBER EXTRACT: Contains proteins, lipids, vitamins, and a variety of minerals that are known to provide skin soothing properties
D – Don’t take the ingredients for granted
DIOIC ACID: Found naturally in a variety of vegetables, it helps reduce excess sebum production, minimises the bacteria that cause acne, and prevents post-healing discoloration caused by inflammation and sun exposure
E – Everyone looks better when they care for their skin
ECTOIN: Naturally-derived ingredient that has been found to minimise the effects of stress factors, such as UV rays,heat, cold, and harmful chemicals
ELLAGIC ACID: A naturally occurring polyphenol antioxidant found in the tara plant (caesalpinia spinosa) that has been shown to help improve the look of skin discoloration
EMBLICA: A natural skin-brightening agent that reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and redness
EUCALYPTUS OIL: Cleanses, refreshes, tones and decongests skin
EPERUA FALCATA BARK EXTRACT: Rich in flavonoid antioxidants, it helps reduce skin reactivity and helps protect against inflammation
F – Your future self will thank you for loving skincare
FATTY ACIDS: Optimizes the skin’s overall lipid balance and improves the feeling of skin elasticity
FERULIC ACID: A plant-based antioxidant, ferulic acid neutralises free radicals and enhances the antioxidant benefits and stability of vitamins C and E
COMPLEX OF FLAVONOIDS AND SYNERGISTIC PEPTIDES: The unique combination of ingredients helps diminish the appearance of dark circles and under-eye bags while reinforcing the look of firmness and tone in the eye area
G – Great skincare ingredients make all the difference
GRAPE SEED OIL: Provides moisturising, nourishing, and soothing benefits
GLYCERIN: An emollient and humectant that attracts water to the skin and retains moisture. helps moisturise, smooth, and soften the skin without a heavy or tacky feel. Derived from vegetables, this powerful humectant possesses water-binding properties that help deliver intense hydration
GLYCOLIC ACID: Alpha hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane that accelerates the skin’s natural exfoliation process by breaking the intercellular bonds of skin cells at various stages of keratinisation. Glycolic acid stimulates cellular renewal, supports the skin’s natural production of structural proteins, and improves the appearance of skin tone and texture. The small molecular size allows for deeper penetration than other fruit acids to help accelerate the exfoliation process and bring new cells to the surface
GORGONIAN EXTRACT: A marine-derived extract with natural anti-inflammatory properties. Helps reduce the appearance of puffiness caused by environmental stress or irritants
H – Hydration is an important part of healthy skin
HOMOSALATE: This organic compound is primarily used as a UV filter in sunscreen formulations to absorb burning UVB rays
HORSETAIL EXTRACT: High mineral content supports the skin’s natural defense mechanisms
HYALURONIC ACID: Capable of retaining 1,000 times its weight in water, helping to replenish moisture levels. A powerful natural humectant that provides long-lasting hydration to improve the appearance of skin texture.
HYDROXYETHYL UREA: Powerful water-binding capacity replenishes moisture levels to improve skin’s elasticity
K – Keep your skin glowing
KAKADU PLUM: A rich source of vitamin C
KAOLIN AND BENTONITE CLAYS: Effective for clarifying the skin, absorbing excess oil,and reducing shine
KOJIC ACID: Naturally produced by certain fungi, it helps improve the appearance of discoloration and inhibits tyrosine, the enzyme that contributes to pigment formation
KOMBUCHA: A natural by product of the black tea fermentation process that smooths skin texture and promotes radiance and even skin tone
L – Loving your skincare ingredients is a great idea
L-ASCORBIC ACID: Lauded for its superior antioxidant benefits, this highly potent form of pure vitamin C helps neutralise free radicals and helps protect against oxidative stress while providing visible signs of anti-aging benefits
LACTIC ACID: A byproduct of fermentation in milk, molasses, various fruits, and wine. This alpha-hydroxy acid loosens and exfoliates dead skin cells to effectively promote cell turnover. Supports the skin’s natural production of structural proteins and glycosaminoglycans
LICORICE ROOT EXTRACT (Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate) and PURPLE RICE EXTRACT: Both work synergistically to help preserve the skin’s hyaluronic acid
LIPO HYDROXY ACID: A derivative of salicylic acid, LHA promotes even exfoliation and enhances the performance of other exfoliating ingredients while minimising breakouts and improving visible signs of aging
M – More skincare ingredients doesn’t always mean better
MACADAMIA TERNIFOLIA NUT OIL: Replenishes essential components of the skin’s barrier
MANDELIC ACID: Provides effective exfoliation and promotes cellular turnover
MANGO SEED OIL: Emollient properties help soften the skin
MICRONIZED ZINC OXIDE: 100% mineral-based, micro-fine zinc oxide provides broad spectrum physical protection against aging UV A/UVB rays leaving no white, chalky residue
N – Niacinamide is something you need every day
NIACIN (vitamin B3): Helps dissolve sebum and cellular debris in the pores and improves the appearance of dullness and discoloration. Supports the skin’s barrier, helps improve the appearance of discoloration, stimulates cellular turnover, and helps fortify the skin’s supportive protein matrix. Decongests pores and reduces sebum production, supports skin barrier function, and enhances the feeling of skin elasticity. Wow!
NIACINAMIDE: Helps reduce the appearance of discoloration
O – Ongoing skincare upgrades are to be expected
OCTISALATE: This oil-soluble, organic sunscreen ingredient protects skin from the full spectrum of burning UVB rays
OCTOCRYLENE: An organic compound widely used as an ingredient in sunscreen formulations to absorb burning UVB rays. It possesses emollient properties and can be used as an additive to preserve the nature of photosensitive ingredients
ORANGE PEEL OIL: An essential oil derived from the citrus fruit to help refresh and refine the skin. Gently invigorates the skin.
ORCHIS MASCULA EXTRACT: Derived from the orchid flower’s protective mechanism that responds to environmental stressors such as UV radiation, temperature extremes, and pollution
P – Put your skincare ingredients first over packaging
PANTHENOL: Derived from vitamin B5, panthenol is an effective humectant that helps skin absorb and retain moisture from the environment. It helps support the skin’s natural repair process
PEPPERMINT LEAF EXTRACT: An herbal extract known for its antibacterial properties
PHENYLETHYL RESORCINOL: Helps reduce the appearance of discoloration and improves skin tone and radiance. Found in tree bark
PHLORETIN: Antioxidant derived from apples and the bark of fruit trees, it helps protect against unwanted pigment production and slows the degradation of the skin’s supportive protein matrix
PHYTIC ACID: Naturally present in legumes and seeds, this polyphosphate has a unique molecular structure that provides comprehensive exfoliation
COMPLEX OF FLAVONOIDS AND SYNERGISTIC PEPTIDES: The unique combination of ingredients helps diminish the appearance of dark circles and under-eye bags while reinforcing the look of firmness and tone in the eye area
R – The right skincare ingredients will help your skin glow
RESVERATROL: Derived from plants or grape skin, resveratrol benefits include strengthening skin’s natural antioxidant defense system to help neutralise free radicals
RETINOL: A derivative of vitamin A that promotes cellular turnover, improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. It is encapsulated to ensure a steady, even release
ROSE FLOWER OIL: Contains a high concentration of essential fatty acids necessary for optimal skin function
ROSA CANINA FRUIT OIL: An emollient oil rich in linoleic, oleic, stearic, and palmitic fatty acids that reinforce the skin barrier
RUSCUS ACULEATUS: Derived from a small evergreen shrub native to Western Europe, this ingredient helps reduce the appearance of puffiness
S – Sought after skincare ingredients are well known for a reason
SALICYLIC ACID: Pharmaceutical-grade beta hydroxy acid helps dissolve sebum and cellular debris in the pores. This beta-hydroxy acid improves the signs of discoloration and photodamage while helping to reduce the appearance of acne. Other salicylic acids are derived from trees, such as the willow tree
SHEA BUTTER: A naturally occurring fat derived from the shea tree, this emollient provides soothing and moisturising benefits
SILYMARIN: This strong antioxidant neutralises free radicals and helps protect against signs of aging. An extract of the milk thistle plant that provides powerful antioxidant protection
SODIUM BICARBONATE: Stops the action and penetration of unbuffered hydroxy acids in skin
SORBITOL: A natural humectant that draws water to skin’s surface, and helps to maintain adequate moisture levels
SOY EXTRACT (GLYCINE SOJA): A unique form of soy extract with a high level of soy isoflavones that provides antioxidant protection
SOY ISOFLAVONES: Rich in isolated soy isoflavones, this ingredient stimulates collagen and hyaluronate production to firm skin
SQUALANE: A highly effective moisturising ingredient compatible with skin lipids, proteins, and membranes
STEARALKONIUM HECTORITE AND MONTMORILLONITE CLAYS: Help create a tightening effect on the skin and absorb excess oil
T – Tried and tested ingredients are important as well as innovation
TITANIUM DIOXIDE: Microfine titanium dioxide forms a barrier on the skin to protect against UVA and UVB rays
TITRATED EXTRACT OF CENTELLA ASIATICA: Supports wound healing and collagen production, promotes optimal scar formation and protects skin from environmental stress
TRANEXAMIC ACID: Minimizes the recurrence of discoloration and brown patches with continued use
U – Using skincare ingredients your skin loves is a great idea
USNIC ACID: Naturally derived from onions, this acid provides antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits
V – Very important for all skin = vitamin C!
VITAMIN C: A highly-potent, water-soluble antioxidant that helps inhibit damage caused by UV A/UVB radiation, supports the skin’s natural production of structural proteins, and provides skin-brightening and anti-inflammatory benefits
W – Water is often in your Skincare Ingredients
WATER: Dilutes hydroxy acids on skin
WITCH HAZEL EXTRACT: Astringent used for its anti-itch, skin softening , and emollient properties
Y – You really want to know your skincare ingredients?
YEAST EXTRACT: Stimulates natural hyaluronic acid production to hydrate and restore skin volume and promotes more even skin tone
Z – Understand ingredients with a zeal for glowing skin
ZINC OXIDE: Microfine sunscreen filter provides broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays without leaving white residue
So there you have it! Our guide to commonly used Skincare Ingredients from A-Z.
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Hi, Thank You for this wonderful information you have provided, you see all these ingredients but never really know what they are exactly particularly ingredients you are not familiar with. Keep up your wonderful work.
Kind Regards – Susie 🌞