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

Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) 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 Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) suitable for sensitive skin?Often yes depending on formula; patch test if unsure. Can I combine Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) 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

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

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

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

Gluconolactone (PHA) – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

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

Mandelic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

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

Lactic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

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

Glycolic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

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

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate – Benefits, Side Effects & Uses

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

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

by ThankMeNow Editors on Sep 10, 2025

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

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.