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.

All articles active aha alcohol-free alias allantoin almond aloe-vera alpha-arbutin antioxidant ascorbic-acid avocado azelaic-acid b5 bakuchiol barrier benzoyl-peroxide beta-glucan bha botanical castor castor oil centella ceramides cica cleanser coffee coffee seed oil 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 micellar water moisture niacinamide panthenol peptides pha plant oil preservative retinal retinol rice salicylic-acid sensitive skin squalane surfactant toner tranexamic-acid urea uv uv-filter vitamin-a vitamin-b3 vitamin-c witch hazel zinc-pca

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Sorbitol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Sorbitol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Sorbitol appears in skincare for supportive benefits and texture, contributing to overall product feel. Key Benefits Enhances product performance Texture support Pairs within balanced routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on product type Who Should Avoid It?Patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a RoutineUse as directed VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Sorbitol suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Sorbitol 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

Trehalose – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Trehalose – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Trehalose 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 Trehalose suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Trehalose 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 PCA – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Sodium PCA – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Sodium PCA 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 PCA suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Sodium PCA 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

Pentylene Glycol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Pentylene Glycol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Pentylene Glycol 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 Pentylene Glycol suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Pentylene Glycol 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

Butylene Glycol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Butylene Glycol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Butylene Glycol 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 Butylene Glycol suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Butylene Glycol 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

Propylene Glycol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Propylene Glycol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Propylene Glycol 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 Propylene Glycol suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Propylene Glycol 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

Amino Acids Complex – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Amino Acids Complex – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Amino Acids Complex 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 Amino Acids Complex suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Amino Acids Complex 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

Polyglutamic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Polyglutamic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Polyglutamic Acid 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 Polyglutamic Acid suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Polyglutamic Acid 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

Phytic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Phytic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Phytic Acid 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 Phytic Acid suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Phytic Acid 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

Hexylresorcinol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Hexylresorcinol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Hexylresorcinol appears in skincare for supportive benefits and texture, contributing to overall product feel. Key Benefits Enhances product performance Texture support Pairs within balanced routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on product type Who Should Avoid It?Patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a RoutineUse as directed VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Hexylresorcinol suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Hexylresorcinol 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

Ellagic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Ellagic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Ellagic Acid 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 Ellagic Acid suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Ellagic Acid 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

Caffeine – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Caffeine – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Caffeine appears in skincare for supportive benefits and texture, contributing to overall product feel. Key Benefits Enhances product performance Texture support Pairs within balanced routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on product type Who Should Avoid It?Patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a RoutineUse as directed VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Caffeine suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Caffeine 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

Aloe Vera Leaf Juice – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Aloe Vera Leaf Juice – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Aloe Vera Leaf Juice is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Aloe Vera Leaf Juice suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Aloe Vera Leaf Juice 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

Licorice Root Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Licorice Root Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Licorice Root Extract is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Licorice Root Extract suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Licorice Root Extract 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

Centella Asiatica Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Centella Asiatica Extract – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Centella Asiatica Extract is a botanical used for comforting feel and light antioxidant support depending on extract. Key Benefits Soothing-feel Antioxidant support Pairs with many routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types seeking gentle comfort Who Should Avoid It?Botanical/EO sensitivities—patch test How to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM within serums or moisturisers VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is Centella Asiatica Extract suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Centella Asiatica Extract 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

N-Acetyl Glucosamine – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

N-Acetyl Glucosamine – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses N-Acetyl Glucosamine appears in skincare for supportive benefits and texture, contributing to overall product feel. Key Benefits Enhances product performance Texture support Pairs within balanced routines Who Should Use It?Most skin types depending on product type Who Should Avoid It?Patch test if very reactive How to Use It in a RoutineUse as directed VerdictUseful when well-formulated and used consistently; pair with moisturiser and daily SPF. 👉 Looking for a compatible product? Try our recommended formula. FAQs Is N-Acetyl Glucosamine suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine N-Acetyl Glucosamine 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

Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) 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 Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) 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

Ferulic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Ferulic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Ferulic Acid 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 Ferulic Acid suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Ferulic Acid 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 Vitamin C vs Ferulic Acid – Do You Need Both?

Ingredient Encyclopedia

Resveratrol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Resveratrol – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Resveratrol 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 Resveratrol suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Resveratrol 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

Ceramides (NP/AP/EOP) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Ceramides (NP/AP/EOP) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Ceramides (NP/AP/EOP) 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 Ceramides (NP/AP/EOP) suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Ceramides (NP/AP/EOP) 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