Ingredient Encyclopedia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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?

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

Zinc PCA – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesZinc PCA helps balance the feel of oiliness and supports calmer-looking skin.What is Zinc PCA?Zinc PCA is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Helps appearance of shine control Pairs well with niacinamide Who Should Use It?Oilier, blemish-prone skinWho Should Avoid It?Dry types may prefer occasional useHow to Use It in a Routine AM/PM lightweight layer Follow with moisturiser VerdictLightweight helper for shiny T-zones.👉 Try our Oil Control Serum.FAQsSafe for sensitive? Often yes.Pair with Niacinamide? Yes.When to apply? AM/PM.Related: Niacinamide · Salicylic Acid · Glycerin

Allantoin – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesAllantoin helps soothe and soften the feel of the skin and is widely tolerated.What is Allantoin?Allantoin is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Comforts and softens Pairs well with actives Who Should Use It?Sensitive or reactive-feeling routinesWho Should Avoid It?Few concerns; patch test if ultra-sensitiveHow to Use It in a Routine Use AM/PM Layer freely VerdictGentle classic soothing ingredient.👉 Try our Calm Cream.FAQsSafe for sensitive skin? Usually yes.Combine with actives? Yes.When to apply? AM/PM.Related: Panthenol · Ceramides · Centella

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesPanthenol is a comforting humectant that helps the skin feel soothed and hydrated.What is Panthenol?Panthenol is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Soothing feel Hydration support Pairs with actives to reduce dryness feel Who Should Use It?Sensitive or irritated-feeling skinWho Should Avoid It?Rare sensitivities possibleHow to Use It in a Routine Use AM/PM Layer under moisturiser VerdictReliable comfort add-on for many routines.👉 Try our Soothing Essence.FAQsIs Panthenol safe? Generally yes.Combine with actives? Yes.When to apply? AM/PM before moisturiser.Related: Allantoin · Ceramides · Niacinamide

Urea – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesUrea at low levels hydrates; at higher levels provides gentle keratolytic benefits.What is Urea?Urea is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Hydration at 2–10% Smoothing feel at higher % Great for rough areas Who Should Use It?Dry, flaky patches; body careWho Should Avoid It?Broken skin—follow clinician guidanceHow to Use It in a Routine Use on targeted areas Adjust concentration to need SPF for daytime exposure VerdictVersatile for hydration and smoothing—mind the concentration.👉 Try our Urea Smoothing Cream.FAQsIs Urea safe for sensitive skin? Often yes at low %; patch test.Can I combine Urea with other actives? Yes; avoid over-exfoliation.How long for results? Hydration immediate; smoothing takes weeks.Related: Glycerin · Lactic Acid · Mandelic Acid

Glycerin – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesGlycerin is a classic humectant that draws moisture to the skin for a plumper feel.What is Glycerin?Glycerin is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Hydrates Improves comfort Pairs with almost everything Who Should Use It?All skin types, especially dehydratedWho Should Avoid It?Very sticky feel at high % in some formulasHow to Use It in a RoutineUse AM/PM; seal with moisturiserVerdictFoundational hydrator that boosts routine comfort.👉 Try our Hydrating Toner.FAQsIs Glycerin safe for sensitive skin?Generally well tolerated; patch test if unsure.Can I combine Glycerin with other actives?Yes; it pairs with almost everything.How long until I see results?Hydration can feel immediate; comfort improves with consistency.Related: Niacinamide Guide · Retinol Guide · Hyaluronic Acid Guide Related Guides Hyaluronic Acid vs Glycerin – Which Hydrator Works Better?

Squalane – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesSqualane is a lightweight oil that softens and reduces tight, dry feel without heaviness for many.What is Squalane?Squalane is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Softens and smooths Lightweight emollience Often non-greasy Who Should Use It? Dry or dehydrated skin As a sealing step over serums Who Should Avoid It?Very oily skin may prefer a few drops onlyHow to Use It in a Routine Use as last step at night or before SPF in AM Adjust drops based on feel VerdictSimple, effective emollient; great finisher step.👉 Try our Squalane Oil.FAQsIs Squalane safe for sensitive skin?Generally well tolerated; patch test if unsure.Can I combine Squalane with other actives?Yes; it helps seal in hydration over serums.How long until I see results?Skin can feel softer immediately; comfort improves with consistent use.Related: Niacinamide Guide · Retinol Guide · Hyaluronic Acid Guide Related Guides Squalane vs Rosehip Oil – Lightweight vs Richer Feel

Ceramides – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesCeramides are lipids that help support the skin barrier and reduce dryness-feel.What are Ceramides?Ceramides are explained below in plain English so you can decide if they belong in your routine.Key Benefits Comforts dryness Supports barrier Reduces tight feel Who Should Use Them?Dry, sensitive, over-exfoliated skinWho Should Avoid Them?Generally well toleratedHow to Use in a Routine Apply after serums Use AM/PM; layer under SPF in AM VerdictBarrier-supporting staple for many skin types.👉 Try our Barrier Cream.FAQsAre Ceramides safe for sensitive skin?Generally well tolerated; patch test if unsure.Can I combine Ceramides with other actives?Yes; they pair with most routines and help comfort.How long until I see results?Comfort can be immediate; barrier support builds with weeks of use.Related: Niacinamide Guide · Retinol Guide · Hyaluronic Acid Guide

Peptides (e.g., Matrixyl) – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesPeptides are short chains of amino acids used for skin-feel benefits and supportive care.What are Peptides?Peptides are explained below in plain English so you can decide if they belong in your routine.Key Benefits Comforting, hydrating feel Supportive care alongside actives Cosmetic plumping look Who Should Use Them? Dry, mature, or sensitive routines Pairs after acids/retinoids Who Should Avoid Them?No major avoid list; check for fragrance sensitivitiesHow to Use in a Routine Use AM/PM after watery serums Seal with moisturiser VerdictSupportive step that layers well with most routines.👉 Try our Peptide Repair Serum.FAQsAre Peptides safe for sensitive skin?Many find them tolerable; patch test if unsure.Can I combine Peptides with other actives?Yes; they pair well with most ingredients.How long until I see results?Weeks of consistent use; effects are supportive/feel-based.Related: Niacinamide Guide · Retinol Guide · Hyaluronic Acid Guide Related Guides Peptides vs Retinol – Complement or Replace?

Kojic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesKojic acid is used in low concentrations to help the appearance of dark spots.What is Kojic Acid?Kojic Acid is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Targets uneven tone Pairs with arbutin, niacinamide Who Should Use It?Stubborn dark spots/post-inflammatory marksWho Should Avoid It?Sensitive skin may find it irritating; patch testHow to Use It in a Routine Use at night, low frequency to start Moisturise and use SPF VerdictPotent brightening adjunct—use sparingly and protect skin.👉 Try our Kojic Corrector.FAQsIs Kojic Acid safe for sensitive skin?Many find it tolerable; patch test if unsure.Can I combine Kojic Acid with other actives?Often yes with pacing; avoid over-exfoliation and irritation.How long until I see results?Typically weeks of consistent use; protect with SPF.Related: Niacinamide Guide · Retinol Guide · Hyaluronic Acid Guide

Alpha arbutin is a gentle, effective skin-brightening ingredient that targets dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven tone. It is widely used in serums and treatments for sun spots, post-acne marks, and age-related discoloration. What is Alpha Arbutin? Alpha arbutin is a naturally derived compound that inhibits melanin production, helping to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation over time. Unlike harsh brightening acids, it is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, making it suitable for sensitive skin when introduced gradually. Key Benefits Reduces hyperpigmentation: Helps fade sun spots, post-acne marks, and uneven tone. Gentle brightening: Less irritating than hydroquinone or strong acids. Supports even skin tone: Promotes a radiant, balanced complexion. Who Should Use It? Individuals targeting sun spots, melasma, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Those seeking gentle brightening without irritation. All skin types, including sensitive skin (with gradual introduction). Who Should Avoid It? Those with extremely reactive skin may need patch testing first. Avoid combining with too many strong actives initially. How to Use It in a Routine Apply AM or PM after cleansing and toning, before moisturiser. Consistency is key: daily use produces best results. Always pair with SPF 30+ in the morning to protect skin and prevent new pigmentation. Can be safely combined with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or peptides. Verdict Alpha arbutin is a gentle, effective brightening ingredient. Consistent use paired with SPF leads to gradual improvement in dark spots and even tone. 👉 Try our Brightening Spot Serum for a beginner-friendly introduction to Alpha Arbutin. FAQs Is Alpha Arbutin safe for sensitive skin?Generally well-tolerated. Patch test if unsure or if you are using other actives. Can I combine Alpha Arbutin with other actives?Yes, it pairs safely with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or mild AHAs. Avoid layering with multiple strong acids initially. How long until I see results?Visible improvements in dark spots typically appear after 4–8 weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF protection. Related: Niacinamide Guide · Retinol Guide · Hyaluronic Acid Guide References PubMed: Alpha Arbutin – Skin Brightening Study Healthline: Alpha Arbutin Benefits and Uses American Academy of Dermatology – Brightening Ingredients Written by: Sarah Mitchell, Skincare Writer & Brand Educator Reviewed by: Dr. Priya Kaur, Consultant Dermatologist

Tranexamic Acid – Benefits, Side Effects & UsesTranexamic acid is used topically to help the look of stubborn dark spots and uneven tone.What is Tranexamic Acid?Tranexamic Acid is explained below in plain English so you can decide if it belongs in your routine.Key Benefits Targets appearance of dark spots Supports more even tone Plays well with niacinamide Who Should Use It? Hyperpigmentation concerns Post-acne marks Who Should Avoid It?Highly sensitive skin may require patch testingHow to Use It in a Routine Use AM or PM Layer before creams Combine with daily SPF VerdictTone-evening adjunct; patience pays (weeks to months).👉 Try our TXA Targeted Serum.FAQsIs Tranexamic Acid safe for sensitive skin?Many find it tolerable; patch test if unsure.Can I combine Tranexamic Acid with other actives?Often yes with pacing; avoid over-exfoliation and irritation.How long until I see results?Typically weeks of consistent use; protect with SPF.Related: Niacinamide Guide · Retinol Guide · Hyaluronic Acid Guide

Mandelic acid is a gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. Its larger molecular size makes it slower to penetrate the skin, which reduces irritation compared to glycolic acid while still promoting exfoliation and brighter, more even skin tone. This guide explains what mandelic acid does, who it suits, how to use it safely, and potential side effects. What is Mandelic Acid? Mandelic acid is an AHA that helps loosen the bonds between dead skin cells, encouraging gentle exfoliation. Because of its larger molecule, it penetrates more slowly and is less likely to cause stinging or redness, making it suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types. It can improve overall skin texture, reduce pigmentation irregularities, and support product absorption. Key Benefits Gentle Resurfacing: Smooths uneven texture without harsh irritation. Improves Skin Tone: Reduces appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots over time. Less Stinging than Glycolic: Ideal for beginners or sensitive skin types. Supports Cell Turnover: Encourages healthy, radiant skin over weeks of use. Can Help Reduce Blemishes: Mild antibacterial properties may assist acne-prone skin. Who Should Use It? Sensitive skin types looking for a mild exfoliant. Individuals with darker skin tones seeking gentle brightening without irritation. Beginners who want to introduce chemical exfoliation gradually. Who Should Avoid It? Those currently overusing other strong actives such as retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or other AHAs/BHAs. People with compromised skin barriers, eczema flare-ups, or open wounds. Those allergic to almonds or mandelic acid (rare). How to Use It in a Routine Use at night 1–3 times per week, depending on tolerance. Apply after cleansing and before serums or moisturisers. Follow with a nourishing moisturiser to maintain barrier integrity. Always wear SPF 30+ the following day, as AHAs increase sun sensitivity. Concentration & Formulation Most over-the-counter mandelic acid serums contain 5–10% concentrations, suitable for home use. Professional treatments can reach higher concentrations (20–40%) and should be done under dermatological supervision. Formulations may also include soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or niacinamide to reduce irritation. Possible Side Effects Mild tingling or redness immediately after application (normal and temporary). Dryness or slight peeling if overused or layered with multiple actives. Increased sensitivity to sunlight; SPF is essential during daytime. Verdict Mandelic acid is a beginner-friendly AHA that gently exfoliates while improving tone and texture. Ideal for sensitive and darker skin types, it provides noticeable results with minimal irritation when used consistently. 👉 Ready to try mandelic acid? Discover our Mandelic Resurfacing Serum — a gentle yet effective serum for smooth, radiant skin. FAQs Is Mandelic Acid safe for sensitive skin?Yes, its larger molecule makes it gentler than many AHAs. Start slowly and moisturise afterward. Can I combine Mandelic Acid with other actives?Yes, but avoid layering with strong acids or prescription retinoids in the same routine. Consider alternating nights for best results. How long until I see results?Many users notice smoother skin within a week, with improved tone and radiance after 4–6 weeks of consistent use. Related: Lactic Acid Guide · Glycolic Acid Guide · Niacinamide Guide References PubMed: Mandelic Acid in Dermatology American Academy of Dermatology – AHAs Explained Healthline: Mandelic Acid Benefits for Skin Written by: Sarah Mitchell, Skincare Writer & Brand Educator Reviewed by: Dr. Priya Kaur, Consultant Dermatologist