The Skin Edit.

A humectant that attracts and holds water at the skin's surface. Often used to help skin feel hydrated and plump. Follow with moisturiser if your skin still feels dry.

A common humectant that helps draw water into the upper layers of skin. It suits most skin types and appears in many cleansers, serums and moisturisers.

A form of vitamin B3 that supports the skin barrier and can help balance the look of oiliness and uneven tone. Many people tolerate it well, though higher percentages are not always better and may feel irritating.

An antioxidant used to support brightness and protect against everyday environmental stress. Different forms and strengths behave differently. It complements sunscreen but does not replace it.

Vitamin A ingredients used to support skin renewal and improve the look of fine lines, texture and breakouts over time. Start slowly, use at night and wear SPF. They can irritate; ask a healthcare professional about use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

An oil-soluble exfoliating acid that can work inside pores and loosen dead skin. Often chosen for oily or breakout-prone skin. Begin less often if your skin is dry or sensitive.

A water-soluble exfoliating acid that removes some dead cells from the skin surface. It can help the look of dullness and texture but may sting or increase sun sensitivity. Introduce it gradually.

An exfoliating alpha hydroxy acid that also has water-binding properties. It is often considered gentler than stronger glycolic formulas, but can still irritate sensitive skin.

An exfoliating alpha hydroxy acid with a larger molecule than glycolic acid. It is often used for texture and uneven-looking tone. Start slowly and use daily SPF.

An ingredient used to improve the look of breakouts, redness and marks left after spots. It can tingle at first. Prescription-strength products should be used as directed by a healthcare professional.

Fats naturally found in skin that help form its protective barrier and reduce water loss. They are commonly included in moisturisers for dry or barrier-stressed skin.

A lightweight emollient that softens skin and helps reduce moisture loss. It is generally well tolerated and can be found in oils, serums and moisturisers.

Short chains of amino acids used in skincare to support a smoother, firmer-looking appearance. There are many peptide types, and the finished formula matters more than the word peptide alone.

A moisturising and soothing form of vitamin B5 that supports skin comfort. It is often found in gentle products for dry or easily irritated skin.

A skin-conditioning ingredient used to soothe and soften. It is commonly included in formulas designed for sensitive or uncomfortable skin.

A plant-derived ingredient used in products intended to soothe and support the skin barrier. Plant extracts can still cause reactions, so patch testing is sensible for sensitive skin.

A mineral UV filter that helps protect skin from UVA and UVB radiation. Protection depends on the complete sunscreen formula and applying enough, not on this ingredient alone.

A mineral UV filter used in sunscreens to help protect skin from ultraviolet radiation. Use the product's stated SPF and directions as your guide, and reapply as directed.

A water-binding ingredient that moisturises; at higher levels it can also soften rough, thickened skin. Higher-strength formulas may sting cracked or very irritated skin.

A rich plant butter that softens skin and helps slow moisture loss. It is useful in richer moisturisers, though the texture may feel heavy for some people.

An occlusive ingredient that forms a protective layer to greatly reduce water loss. It is useful on very dry areas and is generally well tolerated, but can feel heavy.

An ingredient used for breakouts that reduces acne-causing bacteria and helps clear blocked pores. It can dry skin and bleach hair or fabrics. Follow the product directions and start cautiously.

An ingredient used to absorb oil and help with the look of some breakouts. It can be drying and has a distinctive smell, so follow the product directions.

A blend or individual material added mainly to give a product a scent. Many people use fragranced products without problems, but fragrance can be a trigger for some sensitive skin.

A fast-evaporating solvent that can make a formula feel lighter and help other ingredients dissolve. Its effect depends on the amount and full formula. Some dry or sensitive skin may find high levels uncomfortable.