Ingredient Library
Science-backed profiles of the most important skincare ingredients — what they do, who they’re for, and how to use them.
Niacinamide
Vitamin B3 — the skin’s multi-tasker
One of the most well-researched skincare ingredients. Strengthens the skin barrier, reduces redness, minimises pores, and brightens uneven tone — all in one.
Peptides
Amino acid chains that signal skin repair
Short chains of amino acids that tell skin to produce more collagen, elastin, and barrier proteins. Gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Ceramides
The skin barrier’s essential building block
Lipids that make up 50% of the skin barrier. When depleted by harsh cleansers or over-exfoliation, the barrier breaks down. Ceramides replenish it directly.
NAD+
Cellular energy for skin repair
A coenzyme found in every cell that declines with age. Supports DNA repair, reduces oxidative stress, and improves skin resilience from within.
Centella Asiatica
K-beauty’s favourite healing herb
A medicinal herb rich in asiaticoside and madecassoside — compounds that calm inflammation, accelerate wound healing, and strengthen the barrier.
Hyaluronic Acid
The ultimate skin hydrator
A naturally occurring molecule that holds up to 1000x its weight in water. Plumps skin instantly and supports barrier function by keeping cells hydrated.
Retinol
Vitamin A — the gold standard of anti-aging
The most studied anti-aging ingredient in skincare. Speeds up cell turnover, stimulates collagen, and fades pigmentation. Requires a careful introduction for sensitive skin.
Retinal
Retinaldehyde — faster than retinol
One step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, making it up to 11x more potent. Delivers faster results with less irritation — the sweet spot for sensitive skin wanting retinoid benefits.
Vitamin C
The brightening antioxidant powerhouse
A potent antioxidant that neutralises free radicals, brightens skin tone, and boosts collagen synthesis. L-ascorbic acid is the most effective form but can irritate sensitive skin.
Squalene
Skin’s own natural moisturiser
A lipid naturally produced by your skin’s sebaceous glands — but production declines with age. As a skincare ingredient it’s ultra-lightweight, non-comedogenic, and deeply nourishing.
Azelaic Acid
The underrated acid for sensitive skin
A naturally occurring acid derived from grains. Gentle enough for rosacea and reactive skin. Targets hyperpigmentation, breakouts, and redness simultaneously.
Not sure which ingredients your skin needs?
Read our beginner’s guide to building a barrier-repair routine from scratch.
Start here →