Active ingredients explained
What each active does, how to use it, what it conflicts with, and the products that contain it.
Retinoid (Vitamin A)
Vitamin A derivatives (retinol, retinaldehyde, adapalene) that speed cell turnover and stimulate collagen — the most evidence-backed ingredient for fine lines, texture, and acne.
Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)
L-ascorbic acid, a potent antioxidant that brightens, fades dark spots, and shields skin from daily free-radical damage.
Vitamin C derivative
Gentler, more stable forms of vitamin C (sodium ascorbyl phosphate, ethyl ascorbic acid) that brighten with less irritation than pure L-ascorbic acid.
AHA (glycolic/lactic acid)
Alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic, lactic, mandelic) that exfoliate the skin’s surface to smooth texture and fade marks.
BHA (salicylic acid)
Salicylic acid — an oil-soluble exfoliant that gets inside pores to clear blackheads and breakouts. Ideal for oily, acne-prone skin.
Niacinamide
Vitamin B3 — a do-everything active that regulates oil, strengthens the skin barrier, and calms redness. It plays well with almost everything.
Benzoyl peroxide
A powerful anti-acne ingredient that kills the bacteria behind breakouts. Effective but can be drying and bleaches fabrics.
Azelaic acid
A gentle multitasker that fades dark spots, calms redness and rosacea, and clears breakouts — and it’s well-tolerated by sensitive skin.