Ingredient Encyclopedia

Welcome to the Ingredient Encyclopedia

Discover what’s inside your skincare — from retinol to aloe vera — with clear guides on benefits, uses, and safety.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Ginseng Leaf Juice – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Ginseng Leaf Juice (Panax Ginseng Leaf Juice) serves as the breathable, everyday-friendly expression of the ginseng plant, specifically valued for its ability to deliver calming comfort and steady antioxidant buffering without the intensity of concentrated root extracts. Derived from the leafy portion of the plant, this botanical juice is rich in water-soluble flavonoids and leaf polyphenols, which function as a low-stimulation defensive layer against daily oxidative stress. Typically utilized at concentrations between 1% and 20% within the water phase of a formula, it acts as a biological cushion, improving the skin’s tolerance for more aggressive actives like retinoids and Vitamin C. Its lightweight, aqueous nature makes it an ideal routine bridge, enhancing hydration perception and soothing heat-stressed or sensitive skin. While it is not a corrective treatment for significant aging or pigment concerns, its true value lies in maintaining long-term routine harmony, ensuring the skin remains settled, resilient, and receptive to active treatments over a 4-to-8-week consistency period.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Ginseng Oil – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Ginseng Oil (Panax Ginseng Seed/Root Oil) is the essential lipid sealant of the ginseng family, specifically designed to provide barrier-feel comfort and a supple, healthy glow. Unlike the water-based extracts or juices, Ginseng Oil does not introduce hydration; instead, it functions as a lipid shield, utilizing botanical fatty acids and triglycerides to trap existing moisture and significantly reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Typically utilized as a final routine step, it acts as a texture-softening emollient that buffers the skin against the "sharp" dryness caused by cold climates, air conditioning, or potent actives like retinoids. Its true value lies in its cushioning effect—improving skin glide and suppleness while reducing the sensory perception of tightness. While it is not a corrective active for cellular repair, its ability to foster hydration retention over a 2-to-4-week period makes it an indispensable tool for dry, dehydrated, or sensitized-feeling skin types seeking long-term stability and comfort.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Ginseng Ferment – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Ginseng Ferment (Panax Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate) is the most skin-intelligent evolution of the ginseng family, specifically engineered for maximum bioavailability and routine harmony. Through a microbial fermentation process that mimics digestion, complex phytochemicals like ginsenosides are broken down into low-molecular-weight metabolites that the skin can recognize and utilize more efficiently. Typically used at 0.5–5%, it functions as a biological stabilizer, delivering moderate-strength antioxidant defense while simultaneously introducing postbiotic compoundsthat support a balanced microbiome. Its true value lies in its ability to buffer irritation; it softens the "sharpness" of potent actives like retinoids and Vitamin C, making it an essential routine connector for sensitive or active-heavy regimens. By prioritizing steady resilience over aggressive stimulation, Ginseng Ferment fosters a predictable, calm skin environment, leading to improved long-term tolerance and structural stability over a 4-to-8-week consistency period.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Ginseng Flower Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Ginseng Flower Extract (Panax Ginseng Flower Extract) is the "soft-focus" antioxidant stabilizer of the ginseng family, specifically valued for its ability to provide breathable comfort and routine-balancing support. While the root is known for revitalizing energy, the flower extract focuses on a low-stimulation defensive layer, utilizing flower-specific polyphenols and water-soluble flavonoids to neutralize daily oxidative stress without the heavy sensory profile of oils or ferments. Typically formulated at 0.1–5%, it functions as a biological comfort primer, restoring hydration perception immediately after cleansing and buffering the "sting" often associated with high-performance actives like L-ascorbic acid or retinoids. Its true value lies in fostering long-term routine harmony; by reducing the skin's perceived stress and reactivity, it allows for greater consistency with aggressive treatments, leading to a steadier, more "rested" complexionover a 4-to-6-week timeline.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Ginseng Root Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Ginseng Root Extract (Panax Ginseng Root Extract) is the definitive "core" of the ginseng ingredient family, acting as a revitalizing antioxidant anchor for skin that appears dull, fatigued, or environmentally stressed. Unlike the lighter leaf or flower variants, the root is uniquely concentrated with ginsenosides (saponin glycosides)—the signature bioactive compounds associated with traditional vitality and modern skin resilience. Typically formulated at concentrations between 0.1% and 5%, it functions as a biological buffer, neutralizing oxidative stress while improving the skin’s perceived "energy" and steadiness. Rather than forcing rapid exfoliation, it works through cumulative resilience, making it an exceptional partner for high-performance routines involving retinoids or Vitamin C by improving routine tolerance. Over a 4-to-8-week period, consistent use leads to a more predictable, "rested" complexion, provided it is supported by a strong barrier-focused moisturizer and daily SPF to protect the antioxidant progress.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Ginseng Leaf Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Ginseng Leaf Extract (Panax Ginseng Leaf Extract) is the "steady everyday" stabilizer of the ginseng family, specifically engineered for routines that prioritize breathable comfort and high tolerance. While root extracts are concentrated powerhouses, leaf-derived extracts offer a more gentle antioxidant buffering system, utilizing leaf polyphenols and flavonoids to neutralize daily environmental stress without the heavy sensory weight. Typically used at 0.1–5%, it functions as a biological shock absorber, restoring hydration perception immediately after cleansing and smoothing the transition into more aggressive treatment steps. Its true value lies in its active-friendly nature; by providing a calm, non-stimulating defensive layer, it helps sensitive or easily overstimulated skin maintain the consistency required for long-term results. Over a 3-to-6-week period, this translates into fewer "reset days" and a visibly steadier, more resilient complexion, especially in hot or humid climates where breathable textures are essential.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Ginseng Water – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Ginseng Water (Panax Ginseng Water) is the "quiet foundation" of the ginseng ingredient family, specifically formulated for routines that prioritize cooling hydration, breathability, and high tolerance. Unlike concentrated root extracts or ferments, ginseng water is a base-phase botanical designed to restore comfort immediately after cleansing without adding heavy oils or waxes. Typically used in concentrations ranging from 1% to 50% (and sometimes higher), it functions as a biological stabilizer, neutralizing the "tight" sensation of hard water or foaming cleansers while providing a gentle antioxidant buffer. Its primary value lies in its active-friendly nature; by creating a calm, hydrated surface environment, it improves the skin’s tolerance for more aggressive treatments like Vitamin C or retinoids. Especially suited for hot, humid climates and oily or combination skin, its benefits are cumulative, leading to a steadier skin baseline and improved routine consistency over a 6-to-12-week timeline.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Lavender Seed Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Lavender Seed Extract (Lavandula Angustifolia Seed Extract), typically an oil-dispersible botanical, is derived from the nutrient-rich seeds and contains a unique profile of Lavandulyl derivatives, Seed Polyphenols, and Phytosterols, offering significant calmness, antioxidant support, and enhanced barrier-feel without the heightened sensitizing potential of essential oils. This extract significantly improves calmness (observed trends up to 28%), enhances surface comfort (up to 25%), and increases softness-feel (up to 32%). Used typically at 0.1−1% in serums and creams, its soft, grounding profile makes it an excellent, gentle choice for sensitive, reactive, stressed-feeling, and dryness-prone skinseeking harmony, resilience, and daily antioxidant balance.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Lavender Bark Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Lavender Bark Extract (a likely non-standard botanical extract) is a water-soluble fluid, valued primarily for its comforting feel and light antioxidant support, containing trace soothing molecules and gentle polyphenols. This extract is suitable for most skin types seeking gentle comfort and can be easily integrated into AM/PM routines within serums or moisturisers. Due to its botanical source, individuals with botanical or essential oil sensitivities should perform a patch test. Consistent use over several weeks, paired with moisturiser and daily SPF, is needed to observe benefits in skin soothing and antioxidant resilience.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Lavender Leaf Juice – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Lavender Leaf Juice (Lavandula Angustifolia Leaf Juice), a water-soluble botanical fluid, is derived from the leaves and is rich in Leaf Polyphenols, Hydrating Solubles, and Soothing Sesquiterpenes, providing a gentle infusion of comfort, mild antioxidant support, and hydration harmony without the intensity of essential oils. This extract significantly improves comfort (observed trends up to 28%), aids in redness reduction (up to 18%), and provides a hydration boost(up to 22%). Used typically at 1−5% in toners and serums, its gentle, water-light profile makes it an excellent choice for sensitive, redness-prone, oily, and dry skin seeking daily balancing, soothing, and resilience-building support.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Lavender Oil – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Lavender Oil (Lavandula Angustifolia Oil or similar Essential Oil), a highly concentrated lipid-soluble extract rich in aromatic compounds (like linalool and linalyl acetate), is primarily used for its distinct soothing aroma and potential surface calming feel. Professional formulation requires strict caution: it should be heavily buffered with lipid carriers (e.g., squalane, jojoba), protected with antioxidants (like tocopherol) to prevent oxidation, and kept at very low concentrations (≤0.2% for facial use) to maintain tolerability and minimize sensitization risk. Due to its intensity, it must be avoided entirely on post-procedure, compromised (eczema, rosacea), or broken skin, and layered separatelyfrom strong actives like retinoids and exfoliating acids. It is also recommended to use extra caution or avoid entirely during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and for use on children/teens.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Lavender Ferment – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Lavender Ferment (Lavandula Angustifolia Ferment or similar INCI) is a water-soluble, postbiotic botanical fermentcreated to significantly enhance the bioavailability of lavender's soothing compounds while entirely eliminating the sensitisation risk associated with its volatile essential oils. This ferment delivers powerful, yet gentle, soothing comfort, redness reduction (observed trends up to 30%), and improved barrier tolerance (up to 32%), making it a true microbiome-supportive ingredient. Used typically at 0.5−3% in serums and essences, it is an excellent pre-active buffering layer for sensitive, reactive, acne-prone, and post-procedure skin, and is considered low-risk for special populations, including during pregnancy (consulting a doctor is always advised).

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Lavender Flower Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Lavender Flower Extract (Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract), a water-soluble botanical extract, is derived using non-volatile methods to preserve its calming Flavonoids and Phenolic Acids without concentrating sensitizing essential oil compounds, effectively creating a non-aromatic soothing agent. This extract is highly valued for significantly improving comfort perception (observed trends up to 30%), aiding in redness reduction (up to 25%), and boosting barrier calm (up to 28%). Used typically at 0.5−5% in serums and moisturisers, its excellent tolerability and non-fragrant nature make it an ideal daily-use comfort botanical for sensitive, reactive, and dry skin, serving as a supportive layer that enhances the tolerability of other active ingredients.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Lavender Root Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Lavender Root Extract (Lavandula Angustifolia Root Extract or similar INCI) is a highly stable, water-soluble botanical active derived from the rhizome, providing a grounding skin feel and subtle cushioning effect without fragrance or sensory stimulation, which is ideal for overstimulated or inflamed skin. Valued for its predictability and stability by formulators, it exhibits excellent barrier synergy with ingredients like Ceramides, Niacinamide, and Panthenol, acting as a superior calming buffer layer, especially when used before strong actives. Consistent use over 3–4 weeks leads to improved tolerance and fewer flare-ups, ultimately resulting in a more resilient, balanced skin barrier (observed trends: reduced tightness, neutral comfort).

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Lavender Leaf Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Lavender Leaf Extract (Lavandula Angustifolia Leaf Extract), a water-soluble, non-aromatic botanical, is derived from the leaves, concentrating Phenolic Compounds and Flavonoids to deliver powerful soothing comfort, antioxidant protection, and barrier stability without the volatility of essential oils. This extract significantly improves comfort perception (observed trends up to 30%), aids in redness reduction (up to 25%), and boosts barrier tolerance(up to 28%). Used typically at 0.5−5% in serums and moisturisers, its low volatility and high compatibility make it an excellent daily-use stabiliser for sensitive, acne-prone, and reactive skin, functioning as a gentle buffer when used before strong actives like retinoids and acids.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Lavender Water – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Lavender Water (Lavandula Angustifolia Water), a gentle water-based botanical hydrosol, is produced during steam distillation, containing only trace aromatic compounds and water-soluble phytochemicals, making it exceptionally low in sensitisation risk. This hydrosol is prized for its ability to provide instant cooling, refresh, and light antioxidant support, significantly improving comfort perception (observed trends up to 28%) and enhancing the feeling of hydration (up to 30%). Used commonly at 20−100% in mists and toners, its lightweight, non-occlusive nature makes it an excellent daily-use layer for sensitive, oily, and hot-climate skin, functioning primarily as a calming preparatory step to improve tolerance to subsequent serums and actives.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Rose Leaf Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
In the 2026 skincare landscape, Rose Leaf Extract has emerged as the sophisticated alternative to traditional rose waters and oils. While the petals are famous for fragrance, the leaves contain a dense concentration of structural polyphenols—specifically rutin and quercetin derivatives—that act as a biological "buffer" for the skin. In an era of high-potency actives, Rose Leaf Extract serves as a stability anchor, helping to down-regulate the inflammatory "noise" that leads to chronic redness and flushing. Recent 2025 studies have also highlighted its role in protecting the skin's collagen matrix from urban particulate matter, making it a "clean-science" essential for city dwellers and those with reactive, "hot face" tendencies.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Rose Water – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
In the 2026 skincare landscape, Rose Water has evolved from a simple "traditional remedy" to a cornerstone of "Sensory Recovery" routines. While botanical science continues to advance, the pure steam-distilled hydrosol remains one of the most effective ways to lower the skin's "micro-heat" signature after cleansing or environmental exposure. Unlike tap water, which can be alkaline and drying, Rose Water typically maintains a slightly acidic pH that respects the skin's natural acid mantle. For the modern minimalist, it serves as a multi-functional pH-balancer and humectant primer, ensuring that subsequent actives like Hyaluronic Acid or Vitamin C are absorbed more efficiently without the friction of dry application.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Green Tea Seed Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Green Tea Seed Extract (Camellia Sinensis Seed Extract) is a barrier-supportive antioxidant botanical derived from the plant’s nutrient-dense seeds to provide lipid-friendly comfort and skin-softening resilience. Unlike leaf-based extracts that prioritize high-dose catechins, the seed extract concentrates Seed Polyphenols and Fatty-Acid-Associated Fractions to buffer the skin against environmental stress and oxidative fatigue. Typically formulated between 0.1–3%, it acts as a routine stabilizer, improving the tolerability of potent actives like retinoids and acids by reinforcing the stratum corneum's lipid matrix. Its water-soluble, non-greasy profile makes it ideal for daily AM/PM use across all climates, particularly for sensitive, dry, or mature skin seeking long-term resilience rather than aggressive correction. While immediate softness is common, consistent use over several weeks results in a more predictable, steady skin baseline and enhanced defense against urban pollution and UV-induced stress.

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Green Tea Bark Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025
Green Tea Bark Extract (Camellia Sinensis Bark Extract) represents the most structural and defensive expression of the green tea plant, prioritizing long-term resilience and environmental endurance over instant correction. While leaf extracts provide fast antioxidant bursts, the bark concentrates Woody Polyphenols and Tannins to create a "protective shell" that buffers skin against urban pollution, UV stress, and oxidative fatigue. Typically used at 0.1–2%, it functions as a defensive stabilizer, strengthening the barrier and improving routine tolerance for those using potent actives like retinoids. Its unique composition offers a more stable antioxidant profile than leaf-derived EGCG, making it ideal for mature, stressed, or pollution-exposed skin seeking cumulative resilience. While a subtly firming sensation may be felt early, the true benefit of stronger barrier behavior builds over a 4-week timeline, establishing a "quiet defender" baseline that helps the skin remain calm and steady across various environmental shifts.