Ingredient Encyclopedia

All articles active aha alcohol-free alias all skin types allantoin almond aloe-vera alpha-arbutin anti-aging antioxidant ascorbic-acid avocado azelaic-acid b5 bakuchiol barrier benzoyl-peroxide beta-glucan bha botanical brightening castor centella ceramides cica cleanser coffee daily skincare egcg emollient ferment general gluconolactone glycerin glycolic-acid green-tea humectant hyaluronic-acid hydration ingredient k-beauty keratolytic kojic-acid lactic-acid licorice-root mandelic-acid matrixyl men skincare micellar water moisture moisturizer niacinamide occlusive oil control panthenol peptides pha plant oil post-shave preservative retinal retinol rice salicylic-acid sensitive skin serum skincare routine soothing squalane sunscreen surfactant toner tranexamic-acid unisex urea uv uv-filter vitamin-a vitamin-b3 vitamin-c witch hazel women skincare zinc-pca

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate is a targeted active that addresses tone, texture, or breakouts while supporting overall skin appearance. Key Benefits Improves look of tone/texture Targets fine lines/blemishes appearance Pairs with daily SPF Who Should Use It?Those with specific concerns like dullness, spots or texture Who Should Avoid It?Very sensitive or compromised barriers—introduce gradually How to Use It in a Routine Start 2–3x/week Apply after cleansing, before creams Use SPF daily VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) is a targeted active that addresses tone, texture, or breakouts while supporting overall skin appearance. Key Benefits Improves look of tone/texture Targets fine lines/blemishes appearance Pairs with daily SPF Who Should Use It?Those with specific concerns like dullness, spots or texture Who Should Avoid It?Very sensitive or compromised barriers—introduce gradually How to Use It in a Routine Start 2–3x/week Apply after cleansing, before creams Use SPF daily VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Sodium Hyaluronate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Sodium Hyaluronate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Sodium Hyaluronate helps boost the feel of hydration and comfort, supporting a supple-looking barrier. Key Benefits Hydration & comfort Softens look of dryness Supports barrier-feel Who Should Use It?Dry, dehydrated or sensitised-feeling skin Who Should Avoid It?Few; patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a Routine Use AM/PM after watery serums Seal with moisturiser VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Sodium Hyaluronate suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Sodium Hyaluronate with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Retinal – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Retinal – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Retinal is a targeted active that addresses tone, texture, or breakouts while supporting overall skin appearance. Key Benefits Improves look of tone/texture Targets fine lines/blemishes appearance Pairs with daily SPF Who Should Use It?Those with specific concerns like dullness, spots or texture Who Should Avoid It?Very sensitive or compromised barriers—introduce gradually How to Use It in a Routine Start 2–3x/week Apply after cleansing, before creams Use SPF daily VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Retinal suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Retinal with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Retinol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Retinol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Retinol is a targeted active that addresses tone, texture, or breakouts while supporting overall skin appearance. Key Benefits Improves look of tone/texture Targets fine lines/blemishes appearance Pairs with daily SPF Who Should Use It?Those with specific concerns like dullness, spots or texture Who Should Avoid It?Very sensitive or compromised barriers—introduce gradually How to Use It in a Routine Start 2–3x/week Apply after cleansing, before creams Use SPF daily VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Retinol suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Retinol with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid Related Guides Can You Use Retinol Every Day? How to Layer Niacinamide and Retinol (Without Irritation) How to Transition to Retinol Safely Peptides vs Retinol – Complement or Replace? Retinol vs Bakuchiol – Which Anti-Ageing Active Should You Use? Retinol vs Tretinoin – What’s the Difference?

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Niacinamide – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Niacinamide – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Niacinamide is a targeted active that addresses tone, texture, or breakouts while supporting overall skin appearance. Key Benefits Improves look of tone/texture Targets fine lines/blemishes appearance Pairs with daily SPF Who Should Use It?Those with specific concerns like dullness, spots or texture Who Should Avoid It?Very sensitive or compromised barriers—introduce gradually How to Use It in a Routine Start 2–3x/week Apply after cleansing, before creams Use SPF daily VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Niacinamide suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Niacinamide with other actives?Build gradually and avoid over-exfoliation/irritation. How long until I see results?Usually weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF. Related: Niacinamide · Retinol · Hyaluronic Acid Related Guides How to Layer Niacinamide and Retinol (Without Irritation) Niacinamide vs Azelaic Acid – Redness & Tone Niacinamide vs Vitamin C – Can You Use Them Together?

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Beta-Glucan – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Beta-Glucan – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses A polysaccharide known for soothing and hydrating skin. Key Benefits Hydration Soothing feel Who Should Use It?Sensitive, dry skin Who Should Avoid It?Few avoidances How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM VerdictComforting hydrator 👉 Try our Soothing Beta-Glucan Cream.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Aloe Vera – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Aloe Vera – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Soothing, hydrating feel widely tolerated. Key Benefits Cooling comfort Light hydration Who Should Use It?Sensitive/dehydrated Who Should Avoid It?Rare allergies How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM VerdictSimple soothing classic 👉 Try our Aloe Soother Gel.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Centella Asiatica (Cica) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Centella Asiatica (Cica) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Soothing-feel and barrier comfort botanical. Key Benefits Comforts stressed skin Pairs with actives Who Should Use It?Sensitive routines Who Should Avoid It?Fragrance issues How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM VerdictCalming botanical 👉 Try our Cica Repair Cream.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Benzoyl Peroxide – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Benzoyl Peroxide – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Targets acne-causing bacteria, common in cleansers/spot treatments. Key Benefits Reduces acne bacteria Useful for blemishes Who Should Use It?Acne-prone skin Who Should Avoid It?Dry/sensitive skin How to Use It in a RoutineUse as directed VerdictEffective but drying 👉 Try our Clarifying Spot Gel. Related Guides Salicylic Acid vs Benzoyl Peroxide – For Breakouts

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Bakuchiol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Bakuchiol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses A plant-derived retinol alternative with smoother, brighter look. Key Benefits Smoother look Tone evening Who Should Use It?Retinoid-sensitive Who Should Avoid It?Fragrance sensitivities How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM VerdictGentler retinol alternative 👉 Try our Phyto-Renew Serum. Related Guides Retinol vs Bakuchiol – Which Anti-Ageing Active Should You Use?

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Retinal (Retinaldehyde) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Retinal (Retinaldehyde) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses A potent vitamin A derivative stronger than retinol. Key Benefits Targets fine lines Smoother texture Who Should Use It?Experienced users Who Should Avoid It? Pregnant/breastfeeding Very sensitive How to Use It in a RoutineStart 1–2 nights/week VerdictPotent; ramp carefully 👉 Try our Renewal Night Serum.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Aloe Vera – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Aloe Vera – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesAloe vera offers a soothing, hydrating feel and is widely tolerated.What is Aloe Vera?Aloe Vera is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Cooling comfort Light hydration Pairs after sun exposure (not a treatment) Who Should Use It?Sensitive or dehydrated-feeling skinWho Should Avoid It?Rare allergies—patch testHow to Use It in a Routine Use AM/PM Layer under moisturiser VerdictSimple, soothing classic for comfort care.👉 Try our Aloe Soother Gel.FAQsAfter sun? Cooling relief.Combine with actives? Yes.Allergies? Rare; patch test.Related: Centella · Panthenol · Hyaluronic Acid

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Licorice Root (Glabridin) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Licorice Root (Glabridin) – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesLicorice root extract helps the look of dark spots and soothes the feel of redness.What is Licorice Root?Licorice Root is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Tone-evening appearance Comforting feel Who Should Use It?Post-acne marks, uneven toneWho Should Avoid It?Botanical sensitivities—patch testHow to Use It in a RoutineAM/PM; pair with SPFVerdictGentle brightening botanical for persistent marks.👉 Try our Licorice Brightening Serum.FAQsGood for dark spots? Often.Combine with Niacinamide/Arbutin? Yes.AM or PM? Either; SPF in AM.Related: Alpha Arbutin · Tranexamic Acid · Vitamin C

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Green Tea (EGCG) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Green Tea (EGCG) – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesGreen tea extracts provide antioxidant support and a calming feel for the skin.What is Green Tea?Green Tea is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Antioxidant support Redness-calming feel Who Should Use It?All skin types, especially AM routinesWho Should Avoid It?Fragrance sensitivity depending on formulaHow to Use It in a Routine AM under SPF Pairs with Vitamin C VerdictLight antioxidant boost that layers easily.👉 Try our Antioxidant Day Serum.FAQsGood for redness? Often.With Vitamin C? Yes.When to apply? AM/PM.Related: Vitamin C · Resveratrol · Niacinamide

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Centella Asiatica (Cica) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Centella Asiatica (Cica) – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesCentella extract is popular for soothing-feel and barrier comfort.What is Centella?Centella is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Comforts stressed-feeling skin Pairs well with actives Who Should Use It?Sensitive routines; post-exfoliant careWho Should Avoid It?Watch for essential oil fragrance in some formulasHow to Use It in a Routine Use AM/PM freely Layer under moisturiser VerdictCalming botanical companion for many routines.👉 Try our Cica Repair Cream.FAQsGood for sensitive? Often yes.With actives? Yes.AM or PM? Either.Related: Panthenol · Allantoin · Ceramides

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Benzoyl Peroxide – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Benzoyl Peroxide – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesBenzoyl peroxide targets acne-causing bacteria and is common in cleansers and spot treatments.What is Benzoyl Peroxide?Benzoyl Peroxide is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Helps reduce acne-causing bacteria Useful for inflammatory blemishes Who Should Use It?Acne-prone skin under appropriate guidanceWho Should Avoid It?Dry/sensitive skin may find it harshHow to Use It in a Routine Start low and slow Moisturise Use SPF VerdictEffective but can be drying—introduce cautiously.👉 Try our Clarifying Spot Gel.FAQsBleach fabric? Yes.How to start? Low %, short contact.With retinoids? Alternate nights.Related: Salicylic Acid · Azelaic Acid · Niacinamide Related Guides Salicylic Acid vs Benzoyl Peroxide – For Breakouts

Ingredient Encyclopedia

PHA (Gluconolactone/Lactobionic Acid) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

PHA (Gluconolactone/Lactobionic Acid) – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesPHAs are gentle exfoliants with larger molecules, often kinder to sensitive skin.What are PHAs?PHAs are explained below in plain English so you can decide if they belong in your routine.Key Benefits Mild smoothing Hydration-friendly exfoliation Who Should Use Them?Sensitive skin wanting gentle resurfacingWho Should Avoid Them?Over-exfoliation if combined with strong acidsHow to Use It in a Routine Use 1–3x/week SPF daily VerdictSoft-touch exfoliation category—great starter acids.👉 Try our PHA Glow Tonic.FAQsGentler than AHA? Often yes.How often? 1–3x/week.SPF? Yes.Related: Lactic Acid · Glycolic Acid · Salicylic Acid Related Guides AHA vs PHA – Gentle Exfoliation Options

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Bakuchiol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Bakuchiol – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesBakuchiol is a plant-derived retinol alternative used for smoother, brighter-looking skin.What is Bakuchiol?Bakuchiol is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Smoother look Tone evening Often gentler than retinol Who Should Use It? Retinoid-sensitive users Daytime-friendly routines Who Should Avoid It?Fragrance sensitivities depending on formulaHow to Use It in a Routine Use AM/PM Pair with SPF in AM VerdictGentler retinol-alternative for many.👉 Try our Phyto-Renew Serum.FAQsSafe for sensitive? Often yes.Use AM? Yes, with SPF.Combine with retinoids? Alternate to reduce irritation.Related: Retinol · Peptides · Ceramides Related Guides Retinol vs Bakuchiol – Which Anti-Ageing Active Should You Use?

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Retinal (Retinaldehyde) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Retinal (Retinaldehyde) – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesRetinal is a vitamin A derivative considered a step stronger than retinol, used for texture and tone.What is Retinal?Retinal is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Targets fine lines appearance Smoother-looking texture Quicker pathway than retinol Who Should Use It?Experienced users aiming for stronger resultsWho Should Avoid It? Pregnancy/breastfeeding (avoid) Very sensitive skin How to Use It in a Routine Introduce 1–2 nights/week Moisturise well SPF daily VerdictPotent; ramp up carefully and moisturise well.👉 Try our Renewal Night Serum.FAQsSafe in pregnancy? Generally avoid.How often? Start 1–2 nights/week.SPF? Absolutely.Related: Retinol · PHA · Hyaluronic Acid