Ingredient Glossary

This glossary explains common skincare terms used across a multi-brand catalog. It is educational and does not establish the concentration, performance or suitability of any specific product. Always check the exact ingredient list and directions on the product page and package.

Common ingredients

Niacinamide

A form of vitamin B3 used in many cosmetic formulas. Its role depends on the finished formulation, amount used and the other ingredients present.

Hyaluronic acid and hyaluronates

Humectant ingredients used to help a formula attract and retain water at the skin surface. Products may use different molecular sizes and salt forms.

Ceramides

Lipid ingredients used in barrier-support and moisturizing formulas. The texture and supporting lipid system matter as much as the featured ceramide name.

Peptides

Short chains of amino acids used in a wide range of cosmetic formulas. Different peptide names are not interchangeable and should not share claims automatically.

Retinoids

A family of vitamin A-related ingredients used in cosmetic products. Strength, stability, directions and local regulations vary. Follow the exact product instructions.

Vitamin C ingredients

Ascorbic acid and vitamin C derivatives differ in stability, texture and formulation requirements. A product name alone does not confirm the form or concentration.

AHA

Alpha hydroxy acids include ingredients such as glycolic, lactic and mandelic acid. Rinse-off and leave-on formats have different contact times.

BHA

Beta hydroxy acid commonly refers to salicylic acid in skincare. Check the label because some products use willow-derived ingredients or combine several exfoliating families.

PHA and LHA

PHA and LHA are separate exfoliating categories with different ingredient names and formulation behavior. They should not be treated as identical to AHA or BHA.

Centella asiatica

A botanical used in many Korean skincare formulas. Products may contain the extract, water or isolated centella-derived components.

How to use the glossary

Use ingredient terms to narrow a shortlist, then choose by complete formula, product format, texture, routine position and directions. A glossary entry is not a medical recommendation or a promise of results.