Amino acids like Alanine are the small building blocks that make up peptides, and proteins.

Alanine is part of a class of Amino Acids. They can also be found on ingredients lists as acetyl glucosamine, acetyl tyrosinamide, arginine, arginine hcl, arginine pca, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, lysine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, taurine, threonine and valine and yeast amino acids.


Renude

ageing_pores

comedonal_acne

congested_pores

dehydration

dryness

dullness

elasticity

fine_lines

impaired_barrier

photoageing

redness

roughness

sebaceous_filaments

uneven_tone

wrinkles

I have chosen this barrier-supporting serum to improve skin hydration, reduce redness, and provide daily antioxidant protection to the skin.

Amino acids are the small building blocks that make up peptides, and proteins. Each amino acid has a unique structure, and as such plays a specific role within the body. There are around 20 different types considered to be most important for human health. In the outer layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, they are present in the ‘natural moisturising factors’, our skin’s own moisturising mechanism, and they help to support water transport between skin cells to keep our surface smooth and hydrated.

alanine

L-ascorbic acid is Vitamin C in its purest form, and the active form required by the body to result in the many skin skin benefits of Vitamin C. The issue with L-ascorbic acid is in the delivery, as it is very unstable in water, and needs a pH 4 or below for it to penetrate the skin. That being said, when it can be stabilised in a formula and is able to penetrate the skin, it provides the highest potency of any form of Vitamin C currently available.

ascorbic acid

Vitamin C has many skin benefits, including its action as an antioxidant, to neutralise free radicals (reactive molecules with an unpaired electron), preventing them from causing damage to cells within the body. Vitamin C is also involved in the collagen-production process, so provides anti-wrinkle activity through this mechanism. Lastly, Vitamin C inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin-synthesis, and can therefore visibly reduce areas of hyperpigmentation in the skin.

Many peptides function as anti-ageing ingredients in skincare, due to their ability to fit specific receptors in the body to trigger anti-ageing responses. This includes mechanisms like collagen production, cell regeneration or even blocking muscle contractions to smooth expression lines. Peptides are made up of amino acids, and are unique in shape, with a huge variety available to target specific responses in the body.

copper palmitoyl heptapeptide

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) is a catechin found naturally in abundance within green tea. It has a number of skin benefits, firstly as a powerful antioxidant, meaning it can neutralise free radicals before they can cause damage to skin cells. Studies have also shown it to encourage the production of the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF), in turn increasing the skin’s ability to retain moisture, which results in more hydrated, plump, smoother skin. There is some research to show that EGCG can also reduce visible hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the production of melanin in the skin.

epigallocatechin gallate

heptapeptide-15 palmitate

hydrolyzed oat protein

Oat extract is known to have soothing, anti-inflammatory effects in the skin, and is a popular active for treating symptoms of dry skin. It also has antioxidant properties so is able to protect the skin against free radicals caused by pollution and UV.

Acetyl Glucosamine is an amino acid sugar

isoleucine

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3 and Nicotinamide, has many skincare benefits. Firstly, it regulates sebum production in the skin, which in turn reduces blemishes and visible pore size. It also reduces facial redness by improving microcirculation, which means moving the blood inside the capillaries away from the face to reduce visible redness. It also has the ability to strengthen the natural lipid barrier of the skin by encouraging ceramide production (the building blocks which seal our skin cells together), which in turn increases the hydration within the epidermis. Lastly, niacinamide works to help reduce hyperpigmentation by blocking melanin from being deposited on the skin cells.

niacinamide

parachlorella beijerinckii exopolysaccharides

Algae is an incredibly interesting natural ingredient source. It is essentially an underwater plant, designed to get its food from sunlight, much like any other plants, although from much more challenging conditions. There are many types of algae (kelp, laminaria, microalgae), but in general in all its forms it acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting from free radical damage, as well as being able to hydrate the skin and deliver naturally-occurring vitamins into the skin.

proline

Vitamin A derivative. It is broken down in the body to retinol, and then into retinaldehyde, then again into retinoic acid, the active form recognised by the body to trigger it’s skin benefits.

retinyl palmitate

Vitamin A, aka Retinol, is one of the most well-researched actives used in skincare today. Retinol and all of its derivatives are broken down within the skin first into retinaldehyde, then into retinoic acid, the active form recognised by the body to trigger it’s skin benefits.

Retinoic acid (aka tretinoin) is the gold standard of anti-ageing and works in a number of ways. Firstly, it blocks the production of collagen-degrading enzymes, meaning collagen does not get broken down as quickly in the skin. After prolonged use (6M+), it has also been shown to stimulate the production of type I and type III collagen, reducing wrinkles and improving skin firmness. It has been shown to protect against UV-induced damage, as well as reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation in the skin. Skin treated with retinoids is smoother, more even-toned, firmer and younger looking.

serine

Sodium PCA is the sodium salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), which is found naturally in the body, and in the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF). PCA acts as a humectant, meaning it draws water to it, plumping and hydrating the area. The skin’s NMF ensures adequate hydration of the stratum corneum, which also works to support the overall barrier function of the skin, regulating trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). Including Sodium PCA in skincare supports this natural mechanism of the skin.

sodium pca

Natural moisturising factor (NMF) is a substance produced by the body, made up of minerals, lactate, urea, amino acids & humectants, which coats the surface skin cells to keep them moisturised. NMF increases the skin’s ability to retain moisture, which results in more hydrated, plump, smoother skin.

threonine

valine

An anti-oxidant rich, fortifying serum is formulated to help defend the skin barrier against pollutants and environmental aggressors.
This anti-oxidant rich, fortifying serum is formulated to help defend the skin barrier against pollutants and environmental aggressors. Formulated with the highest concentration of Alguronic Acid from algae, our benefit-boosting ingredient, this fortifying serum combines with nutrient-rich niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and an anti-oxidant power house: Phloretin (from apple wood) and Ergothioneine (from mushroom). Skin barrier is fortified to help improve the appearance of dullness, redness, discoloration, lines, and skin tone.

mild_impaired_barrier

This overnight treatment is full of ingredients to hydrate the skin and support the skin barrier, so is a perfect add-on to your daily routine, to nourish your dry skin and leave it plump & hydrated.

Arginine is an amino acid which occurs naturally within the human body. It is a popular ingredient in skincare for a number of reasons; it offers antioxidant protection, it hydrates the skin by stimulating the body's own production of humectants like urea and it can also repair visible skin damage.

arginine

ceramide ap

Ceramides are long chains of lipids, which occur naturally within the epidermis. Their function is to hold the skin cells together by creating a barrier against water-loss from the inside-out, and external aggressors from the outside-in. They make up almost 50% of our skins composition, but they can be depleted by UV, free radicals & pollution, and their production also naturally slows with age. This leads to an impaired skin barrier, which results in dry, rough skin with more visible wrinkling and redness. Applying ceramides topically can increase the levels of ceramides in the epidermis, and therefore supports the natural healthy functioning of the skin.

ceramide eop

ceramide np

Cholesterol is a fatty acid which occurs naturally in the skin’s lipid barrier. Applying cholesterol topically supports the skin barrier, reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), and maintaining healthy skin functioning. Strengthening this lipid barrier also leads to improved skin hydration, which in turn leads to smoother, plumper, younger-looking skin.

cholesterol

Our outer layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, has a multilamellar structure (essentially a fine membrane), made up of lipids (fats), to form a non-permeable barrier. This keeps water inside the skin, and acts as the first defense against external aggressors. The lipids which make up the majority of this are known as ceramides, which are produced naturally in the body from a range of other naturally-occurring lipids, which we class here as essential lipids (not the same as essential fatty acids, which are deemed ‘essential’ as the body cannot produce these naturally.) Using these lipids in skincare helps to support the natural skin barrier, preventing water-loss to keep skin hydrated and balanced.

glycine

histidine

Phytosphingosine (PS) is a lipid which naturally occurs in the stratum corneum (the top, visible layer of our epidermis). This acts as a precursor for ceramide synthesis, meaning it encourages the skin to produce ceramides naturally.

Studies have also shown PS to offer anti-acne benefits, it is believed by reinforcing the protective barrier, and therefore reducing specific abnormalities in the skin functioning that lead to acne (invading inflammatory bacteria, increased keratinization, increased sebaceous gland activity).

phytosphingosine

Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid (a polysaccharide which occurs naturally in the body), created to improve the ingredient stability. It works as an extremely powerful humectant, able to attract 1000x its own weight in water, to immediately plump and hydrate the area it is applied to. The body’s own production of hyaluronic acid slows with age, so supplementing this ingredient in topical formulations helps to support the skin’s natural moisture-binding, anti-ageing mechanisms.

sodium hyaluronate

Hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide which occurs naturally in the body. Hyaluronic acid works as an extremely powerful humectant, able to attract 1000x its own weight in water, to immediately plump and hydrate the area it is applied to. The body’s own production of hyaluronic acid slows with age, so supplementing this ingredient in topical formulations helps to support the skin’s natural moisture-binding, anti-ageing mechanisms.

Squalane is a natural substance usually derived from olives. It is structurally very similar to our skin’s own sebum, so is a great ingredient to support our own natural skin processes. In drier skin, which is naturally lacking in natural sebum, it helps to support the skin barrier to prevent water loss, which results in more hydrated, smooth and plump skin. Due to its sebum-mimicking structure, it is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t cause breakouts, so is also suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. It can be a great option to reduce any over-stimulation of the sebaceous glands, which can occur with excess cleansing (and make breakouts worse). It also works to support the skin barrier to combat any drying effects caused by ingredients commonly associated with acne treatment, so is a great ingredient for all skin types.

squalane

Forget complicated beauty jargon, The Inkey List are a no-funny-business brand who harness the power of science for effective skincare. Their Ceramide Night Treatment works to replicate the naturally occurring Ceramides in your skin, amplifying its ability to retain moisture overnight. Hydrated skin is happy skin, appearing smoother, plumper and softer. Including one of the most sought-after ingredients, hyaluronic acid, this mask offers pure hydration, locking moisture into your skin cells. What’s more, this formula fights signs of premature ageing, helping your complexion to stay youthful and supple.

inflammatory_acne

This exfoliating toner is a great option for decongesting skin, smoothing our texture and brightening. It includes 7% Glycolic acid to resurface, alongside other soothing & barrier-supporting ingredients to minimise any side effects caused by the exfoliation.

aloe barbadensis leaf water

Aloe vera has been used for millennia as a natural medicine across many regions of the world, with references as early as Cleopatra using it as part of her beauty routine. It contains around 75 active constituents, including Vitamins A,C & E to provide antioxidant protection, 8 enzymes to inhibit inflammatory processes in the body and 9 different minerals to support the body’s natural functioning. It also includes sugars to provide hydrating humectant properties, fatty acids to provide anti-inflammatory & antiseptic properties, and hormones to promote wound healing.

Glycerin is a humectant present in all natural lipids. It works to attract water molecules towards it, plumping & hydrating the applied area, resulting in smooth, soft, hydrated skin. It is one of the most widely used humectants in skincare, due to it’s high performance and broad availability (making it very cost-effective). Recent research has shown that it’s ability to penetrate the layers of the skin is superior to that of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, making it a brilliant choice for overall skin hydration, and suitable for all skin types.

glycerin

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), derived from sugar cane. AHAs work by dissolving the keratin binding the outermost layer of skin cells, speeding up the skin’s natural exfoliation process. This leads to smoother, brighter, clearer skin, whilst reducing skin discolouration & fine lines/wrinkles with continued use.

Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular weight of all the AHAs, meaning it can penetrate the skin quickest, producing the fastest results, but also most likely to cause skin sensitivity, so it is best for those with fairly tolerant skin types.

glycolic acid

This natural berry is high in antioxidants, to help protect against free radical damage, and also has anti-inflammatory properties to soothe and calm.

tasmannia lanceolata fruit/leaf extract

Urea is humectant ingredient found in the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF), making up around 7-8% of the total composition. Its humectant properties mean it can bind to water molecules in the atmosphere, drawing them to it, and in turn plumping and hydrating the skin. Research also shows that Urea has a mild exfoliating action on the skin, encouraging the removal of dead cells which results in smoother, healthier, more hydrated skin.

urea

Glycolic Acid is an alpha hydroxyl acid that exfoliates the skin. This 7% toning solution offers mild exfoliation for improved skin radiance and visible clarity. The formula also improves the appearance of skin texture with continued use. This formula contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative to help reduce irritation associated with acid use. This derivative is of plant origin and varies in colour seasonally and this colour variation may be apparent in the formula from time to time. The formula is further supported with inclusion of ginseng root and aloe vera for both visible radiance and soothing benefits.

Natrisimo

This serum targets uneven tone and dullness, promoting clarity and brightness for a refreshed complexion. Niacinamide supports barrier function and brightens, while Argireline helps lift and firm the skin. Ideal for those seeking a luminous, balanced appearance.

algae extract

Acetylarginyltryptophyl Diphenylglycine is a synthetic tetrapeptide used in skincare for its firming abilities. It works by inhibiting the enzyme elastase, which breaks down elastin in the skin (the protein responsible for skin firmness and elasticity). This reduction in elastase allows for higher levels of elastin in the skin, which in turn leads to skin that looks firmer, tighter and restructured.

anti-ageing peptides

Arbutin can be derived from the bearberry plant, or made synthetically, and is used in skincare to lighten dark spots. It works by breaking down in the body into hydroquinone, which can inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for producing melanin. It is one of the most well-researched actives for lightening pigmentation, with better skin tolerability vs. prescription hydroquinone.

arbutin

Gluconolactone is a poly hydroxy acid (PHA). PHAs work by gently dissolving the keratin that binds our outermost layer of skin cells, encouraging the natural exfoliation process of the skin, leading to smoother, clearer skin. This process also encourages new skin cell generation in the basal layer of the epidermis, a process which naturally slows with age, so with repeated use this can have an overall anti-ageing effect on the skin. Gluconolactone has also been shown to inhibit the enzyme elastase, which breaks down elastin in the skin (an essential protein produced by the fibroblasts), leading to sagging of the skin.

PHAs are much larger in molecular weight vs AHAs so they cannot penetrate the skin as fast or as far, which therefore makes more gentle & suitable for more sensitive skin types, including those with rosacea-prone skin. Gluconolactone is also especially good for drier skin types as it also has natural humectant qualities, meaning it draws water towards it, hydrating the skin from within. 

gluconolactone

Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) work by gently dissolving the keratin that binds our outermost layer of skin cells, encouraging the natural exfoliation process of the skin, leading to smoother, clearer skin. This process also encourages new skin cell generation in the basal layer of the epidermis, a process which naturally slows with age, so with repeated use this can have an overall anti-ageing effect on the skin. Gluconolactone has also been shown to inhibit the enzyme elastase, which breaks down elastin in the skin (an essential protein produced by the fibroblasts), leading to sagging of the skin.

PHAs are much larger in molecular weight vs AHAs so they cannot penetrate the skin as fast or as far, which therefore makes more gentle & suitable for more sensitive skin types, including those with rosacea-prone skin. Gluconolactone is also especially good for drier skin types as it also has natural humectant qualities, meaning it draws water towards it, hydrating the skin from within. 

Glutamic acid is a non-essential amino acid that offers humectant, soothing, and general skin-conditioning properties to the skin.

Glutamic Acid

Lecithin can be classed as a phospholipid, which occurs naturally in eggs, soybean, sunflower oil and corn. It contains a high concentration of fatty acids, which support the skin’s natural barrier by creating a lipid film to prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). Lecithin also has lipophilic & hydrophilic properties, meaning it can function as an emulsifier and skin penetration-enhancer, helping to deliver actives deeper into the skin.

lecithin

Lysine is used in skincare to treat hyperpigmentation & post-inflammatory acne scarring.

lysine

Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate (PAD) is a water-soluble derivative of azelaic acid which conveys many of the same benefits as pure azelaic acid. It is a gentle anti-inflammatory so is suitable for sensitive skin, and is able to improve rosacea and acne symptoms, as well as fading pigmentation left from acne.

Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate

prebiotics

Prebiotics in simple terms, can be classed as a food source that encourages the growth of good bacteria on the skin. The microbiome (the ecosystem of bacteria on the skin) is a relatively new discovery and we are learning that this is linked to many different aspects of our health, mood and appearance. A diverse breadth in the strains of bacteria living on the skin results in a healthy microbiome, and some early research has linked certain imbalances in this microbiome to skin conditions such as acne, ezcema and psoriasis.

Sodium lactate is a salt produced by the fermentation of lactic acid. It acts as a humectant in the skin, drawing water molecules from the atmosphere towards it to plump and hydrate. It is present in the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF), as both sodium and lactate. Studies have shown that lactate levels in the stratum corneum directly correlate with the hydration levels within the skin, with low levels resulting in dry, rough, flaky skin. Applying this ingredient topically helps the natural water-binding capacity of the epidermis, resulting in smoother, softer, more hydrated skin.

sodium lactate

Calcium pantothenate is the salt of pantothenic acid, a form of Vitamin B5. Its main benefit in cosmetics is as a humectant, meaning it can draw water molecules to it, hydrating and plumping the area it has been applied to.

Pantothenic acid also supports the natural lipid barrier of the skin, by encouraging the production of a precursor to fatty acids & sphingolipids, both of which are essential parts of the skin barrier. This mechanism helps to moisturise the skin by reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), therefore retaining more moisture within the skin. This also helps to reduce inflammation in dry or broken skin, as an intact skin barrier will prevent potential irritants from getting into the epidermis.

vitamin b5

Vitamin B5 is a humectant, meaning it can draw water molecules to it, hydrating and plumping the area it has been applied to. It also supports the natural lipid barrier of the skin, by encouraging the production of a precursor to fatty acids & sphingolipids, both of which are essential parts of the skin barrier. This mechanism helps to moisturise the skin by reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), therefore retaining more moisture within the skin. This also helps to reduce inflammation in dry or broken skin, as an intact skin barrier will prevent potential irritants from getting into the epidermis.

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble Vitamin contained in many plant oils, or can also be produced synthetically. Vitamin E is found naturally in our own skin, and it’s main benefit is to offer powerful antioxidant protection against pollution and free radical damage. It also helps to support our skin’s natural lipid barrier, which in turn improves the hydration levels within the epidermis, as water loss through the skin is minimised.

vitamin e

What it is  
Revitalise your skin’s luminosity with OSKIA's advanced vitamin-enriched water serum, designed with ground-breaking actives to transform your complexion. This cooling, lightweight serum has been formulated to promote clarity and brightness, to lift and firm, ensuring a balanced, bright complexion. Prepare to unveil a refreshed, glass-like complexion.  

Benefits  
- Lightweight formula that doesn't create a film  
- Promotes clarity and brightness  
- Lifts and firms  
- Skin feels firmer, lifted and highly hydrated  

Key Ingredients  
- Argireline (5%) - a fantastic peptide that instantly lifts and firms.  
- Niacinamide (5%) - supports barrier function, plumps and brightens.  
- Snow Algae - a beautiful pink glacial algae that regenerates.  
- Gotu Kola & White Peony – calm underlying redness.  

Skin Types  
All skin types, tones and ages above 16. Ideal for congested, oily skin types or humid conditions due to its super light texture and lack of film formers.

Counter Culture

This cult hydrating serum is formulated to boost hydration, smooth texture and plump the skin. The multi-weight hyaluronic acid and Natural Moisturising Factors (NMF) provide deep hydration and support the skin barrier, while superfood antioxidants help protect the skin and improved overall radiance.

Allantoin occurs naturally in the body, but can also be derived from the root of the Comfrey plant or Chamomile, or produced synthetically. It is used in skincare for its ability to promote wound healing and healthy tissue growth, by stimulating the fibroblasts in the dermis to produce collagen and elastin fibres, essential tissues for skin regeneration and healing. Allantoin has also been shown to have soothing and anti-irritant properties, which is thought to be down to its ability to form complexes with irritating agents, thus preventing them from activating inflammatory mechanisms within the skin.

allantoin

This ingredient is used in skincare for it’s hydrating abilities. It works by stimulating the production of Aquaporin 3, a natural substance found in the epidermis to regulate the movement of water between cells. An increased level of Aquaporin 3 in the skin results in improved hydration throughout the surface, and deeper layers, of the skin.

glyceryl glucoside

hyaluronic acid

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which occurs naturally in the body, as well as being found in dairy products, but is typically derived synthetically for cosmetics today.

AHAs work by dissolving the keratin binding the outermost layer of skin cells, speeding up the skin’s natural exfoliation process. This leads to smoother, brighter, clearer skin, whilst reducing skin discolouration & fine lines/wrinkles with continued use.  

lactic acid

phenylalanine

soybean extract

Soybean extract is used in skincare for its powerful antioxidant potential, meaning it is able to protect the skin from free radical damage. Research has also shown this extract to be able to visibly even out skin tone, and reduce the visible signs of ageing.

taurine

Medik8 Hydr8 B5. Intense 30ml
 Medik8's ultimate hyaluronic acid serum that is expertly designed to unlock your skin's true hydration potential, by replenishing and recharging the skin's natural moisture network for intense visible smoothing and plumping result
 
 The silky, fast-absorbing serum slots into any skin regime needing a hydration boost, clinically proven to work instantly and over time.
 Natural Moisturising Factors (NMF) and superfood antioxidants work with multi-weight hyaluronic acid to flood the skin with moisture so that the look of crepiness and dehydration lines are drastically improved.

Nut free

Unfragranced

This serum targets signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles, while enhancing skin firmness and elasticity. It contains Bio-Mimetic Growth Factors and peptides to support regeneration and repair, and mushrooms and Vitamin C for brightening effects.

Ubiquinone, also known as CoEnzyme Q10, is a fat-soluble substance produced naturally in the body. It provides antioxidant protection against free radicals, to support the skin’s own anti-ageing defenses. With age, the body’s production of this vitamin-like substance decreases, so it can be applied topically to provide extra antioxidant activity. It has also been shown to support the synthesis of collagen and elastin, proteins which give skin structure & bounce, which also naturally decrease with age, so the inclusion of Ubiquinone in your routine can help to support youthful-looking skin.

coenzyme q10

mushroom extract

Mushroom extract is used in skincare to naturally brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation. Studies have shown that compounds from specific mushroom types can inhibit tyrosinase activity (an enzyme involved in melanin synthesis), which in turn visibly minimises areas of hyperpigmentation.

Resveratrol in a polyphenol most famously found in the skin of red grapes, but also occurs naturally in peanuts and certain fruits such as blueberries and cranberries. It is included in skincare for its powerful antioxidant abilities - with research showing it can protect against free radicals, as well as oxidative damage caused by UV. 

resveratrol

What it is  
An advanced regenerating sleep serum with Bio-Mimetic Growth Factors, innovative Peptides, Shiitake and Turkey Tail mushrooms, plus Melatonin, that works with your circadian rhythm to support regeneration, repair and optimise skin health. Boosts skin firmness and elasticity. Wake up with smoother, firmer, brighter skin.  

Key Ingredients  
- Bio-Mimetic EGF Complex (Five bio-tech growth factors (EGF, IGF-1, Acidic FGF, Basic FGF, VEGF, plus Vitamin B9 & Acetylated Glutamine) supports regeneration and repair, instantly calms.  
- Shiitake & Turkey Tail Complex, together with a double Vitamin C Complex, brightens and illuminates.  
- Melatonin Liposomes & Sea Fennel help stimulate the nightly regeneration processes, including collagen production, and provide excellent cellular anti-oxidant protection.  
- Snap 8™ Peptide, helps relax muscles to smooth the skin’s surface and support regeneration.  
- OSKIA's MSM-Regen Complex (our synergistic blend of nutrients) promotes long-term skin health and supports cellular processes.  
- Resveratrol protects against free radicals. Our amino acid blend, PGA & Glycerine deeply hydrate.  
- Oat Ceramides, Niacinamide & Pro-Vitamin D3 support, protect & reinforce the skin barrier, vital for optimal skin health.  

Best for  
Suitable for all skin types and tones, ideal for those over 35+ concerned with skin firmness and tone, texture or skin damage. Ideal for menopausal or post-menopausal skin.

I have chosen this peptide-based serum to target the ageing concerns you mention. Loaded with various anti-ageing peptides, this works to reduce wrinkles and improve skin firmness and smoothness.

acetylarginyltryptophyl diphenylglycine

acetyl hexapeptide

dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate

Lactococcus Ferment Lysate is a post-biotic ingredient derived from Gram-positive bacteria, Lactococcus lactis. It is used in skincare for its ability to increase the speed of epidermal growth, leading to a thicker stratum corneum (outermost layer of the skin), and in turn better barrier function. This is seen as healthier-looking, more hydrated and supple skin.

lactococcus ferment lysate

Probiotics can be defined as living bacteria which are good for the skin, and are useful to include in skincare formulations in order to populate a healthy microbiome (the ecosystem of bacteria on the skin). A diverse breadth in the strains of bacteria living on the skin results in a healthy microbiome, and some early research has linked certain imbalances in this microbiome to skin conditions such as acne, ezcema and psoriasis.

palmitoyl tetrapeptide

pentapeptide

Sodium Hyaluronate crosspolymer is a modified version of Hyaluronic acid, with additional polymers added to it to slow skin penetration, keeping it in the upper layers of the epidermis for longer to provide surface hydration.

sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer

This formula combines a comprehensive array of studied technologies to target multiple signs of aging at once. The technologies are Matrixyl™ 3000 peptide complex (with palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7), Matrixyl™ synthe'6™ peptide complex (with palmitoyl tripeptide-38), SYN™-AKE peptide complex (with dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate), Relistase peptide complex (with acetylarginyltryptophyl diphenylglycine), ARGIRELOX™ peptide complex (with acetyl hexapeptide-8, pentapeptide-18), Probiotic complex (with lactococcus lactis lysate), in a base of 11 skin-friendly amino acids and multiple hyaluronic acid complexes. The total concentration of these technologies in the formula by weight is 25.1%.

Vegan

This simple moisturiser is a great option for you to add hydration to the skin and support the natural lipid barrier without clogging pores. It is packed with ingredients which occur as part of the natural moisturising layer of the skin, to help support surface hydration and keep skin healthy.

Linoleic is an Omega 6 essential fatty acid (EFA), found in many plant oils: corn, safflower & sunflower. Linoleic acid forms the fatty acid based of Ceramides EOH, EOS and EOP, which are essential for the normal functioning of the skin barrier. Applying linoleic acid topically helps to support ceramide functioning within the skin, leading to improved skin hydration and smoothness.

Research also shows that sebum in acne-prone skin can be lacking in Omega 6 (with too much Omega 3), so there is evidence to suggest applying this topically can help to balance the sebum composition and in turn reduce acne lesions.

linoleic acid

Effectively hydrate skin with The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + HA; a non-greasy moisturiser that supplements skin with a selection of Natural Moisturising Factors to help protect and nourish. Glycerine and molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid quench dryness, while essential amino and fatty acids replenish the lipid layer for improved water retention. A complex blend of phospholipids, triglycerides and saccharides ensure long-lasting results for skin that feels smooth, soft and supple.
We love that this perfect lightweight, yet hydrating moisturiser can be used on all skin types. The oil-free yet hydrating formula is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid to plump and moisturise the skin without feeling heavy. As well as being cruelty-free and vegan, The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + HA is also free from alcohol, oil, silicone, nuts and gluten. Ideal for all skin types but especially those with a drier complexion, it features a blend of phospholipids, triglycerides and saccharides keep the outer layer of the skin protected and well-hydrated for a soft, supple feel.

This exfoliating toner targets blemishes and congestion with 2% salicylic acid to unclog pores and reduce excess sebum. Colloidal silver and Pro-Vit D3 provide anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits, promoting a clearer and calmer complexion.

Ascorbyl palmitate is an oil-soluble Vitamin C ester, produced by the reaction of ascorbic acid and palmitic acid. This oil-soluble form works to improve stability against oxidation (something L-ascorbic acid is notorious for), as well as improve skin affinity to allow the ingredient to penetrate further.

ascorbyl palmitate

green algae

horse chesnut extract

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), which occurs naturally in willow bark. Salicylic acid works as an exfoliating acid to dissolve the keratin that binds the outermost layers of the skin, encouraging the natural exfoliation process of the skin.

Due to its oil-soluble form, salicylic acid can penetrate inside the pore, to clear out dead skin cell build up and prevent comedones (blocked pores) from occurring, or acne-causing bacteria to overpopulate within the pore. This P.Acnes bacteria is anaerobic so needs an oxygen-free environment to thrive, and thus require a pore to be blocked.

salicylic acid

Oskia Violet Water BHA Tonic 100ml.
 
 With 2% Salicylic Acid, Colloidal Silver, Pro-Vit D3, Yuzu & Violet Willow
 CLEARING - EXFOLIATING - BRIGHTENING
 A purifying exfoliating treatment tonic, containing 31 actives, to support, clear and brighten congested skin. Helps unclog pores and reduce the appearance of blemishes to keep skin clearer, calmer, brighter and nurtured, revealing a healthier-looking complexion.
 
 
 Up to 35% reduction in blemishes after 2 weeks, 58% after 4 weeks and 98% reduction of c.acne bacteria
 
 Independent clinical trials over 4 weeks on 30 subjects with oily/acne prone skin when using the complete Violet Water range. Aged 18-50. Mixed Fitzpatrick 1 - 6 (20% being Fitzpatrick 6). Mixed ethnicity.
 
 
 Best for
 Congested, hormonal or oily skins, or during warmer months to keep skin clear and bright.
 
 
 
 Key benefits
 
 
 
 
 Targets the five key concerns associated with oily, blemish prone skin, and much more...
 
 Helps unclog pores and keep them clear and healthy.
 Anti-bacterial.
 Anti-inflammatory.
 Helps reduce excess sebum production.
 Soothes and calms.
 Supports and encourages the natural repair and regeneration process.
 
 Fragrance free but with a natural scent of fruits and rose.

This moisturiser is designed to support and repair the skin's barrier, making it ideal for sensitive and stressed skin. It contains oat ceramides and encapsulated probiotics to enhance barrier function and support the skin's microbiome. Additionally, trehalose and hyaluronic acid provide hydration, while antioxidants offer protection against environmental stressors.

Bisabolol is a naturally-occurring active found in the chamomile plant, although this can also be created synthetically. It’s key properties are as an anti-inflammatory and soothing agent, with some studies also showing it to have a brightening effect on the skin. Bisabolol is also a rich source of Panthenol (Vitamin B5), which acts as a humectant, meaning it draws water molecules towards it to plump and hydrate the area. Studies have also shown that bisabolol can enhance the penetration of other actives into the skin, so is great when used in combination with other actives designed to work at the basal layer of the epidermis, or in fact the dermis.

bisabolol

Calendula, aka Marigold, is a plant extract is used in skincare for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties make it a good choice for protecting and conditioning the skin.

calendula extract

coconut oil

Coconut oil is naturally rich in fat-soluble Vitamins A & E, which provide antioxidant benefits, as well as supporting the skin barrier by reducing TEWL and therefore retaining moisture levels within the epidermis. 

Evening primrose oil is used in skincare for its emollient and occlusive properties. It is naturally rich in Omega 6 fatty acids as well as antioxidants to provide protection from free radicals and support overall skin barrier health.

evening primrose oil

oat extract

shea butter

Shea butter is the natural butter of the shea nut, which grows in West Africa. It is high in fatty acids and vitamins, so works to support the natural lipid barrier of the skin, reducing water loss via the epidermis to keep skin soft, smooth and moisturised.

What it is  
OSKIA Rest Day Comfort Cream is a nurturing, non-active, medium-weight moisturiser designed to support and repair the skin's vital barrier function, natural moisturising factors and microbiome, encouraging skin to rest and recuperate.  

Benefits  
- A soothing and nurturing medium-weight moisturiser.  
- Supports and restores each of the skin's vital barrier functions.  
- Encourages skin to rest and recuperate.  
- Strengthens, soothes and calms sensitive and sensitised skin.  
- Boosts ceramide production.  
- Leaves skin feeling protected and hydrated.  

Key Ingredients  
- A blend of 16 amino acids, together with horse chestnut, bisabolol, pro-vitamin B5 and MSM, soothe and nurture.  
- Trehalose, polyglutamic & hyaluronic acid draw in moisture to keep skin hydrated and supple.  
- Oat ceramides replenish and support barrier function, helping prevent transepidermal water loss and dryness.  
- Encapsulated probiotics support skin's microbiome.  
- Spirulina Platensis Extract and Vitamin E provide antioxidant protection.  

Skin Types  
For all skin types, tones and ages. Excellent for sensitised, sensitive and stressed skin. Ideal post-treatment, menopausal or young skin.  

How to use  
Gently massage OSKIA Rest Day Comfort Cream onto thoroughly cleansed face and neck until absorbed.

I have chosen this active-packed anti-ageing cream to target the concerns you have around wrinkles & skin firmness. The product contains a host of peptides and amino acids, to trigger the production of collagen within the skin, alongside gentle PHAs for mild resurfacing, and plant antioxidants to protect the skin from free radical damage.

acetyl glucosamine

acetyl tyrosinamide

Maltobionic acid is a non-irritating poly hydroxy acid (PHA) derived from natural sugars. PHAs provide a gentle exfoliation of the skin, encouraging dead cells to be shed from the surface, and new cells to be produced in the basal layer of the epidermis. This process leads to smoother, less congested & more radiant skin, whilst reducing discolouration & fine lines to provide visible anti-ageing results.

Maltobionic acid is also an antioxidant, protecting skin from harmful effects of free radicals within the body, as well as inhibiting specific enzymes which lead to degradation of our skin proteins, so this mechanism keeps skin more youthful. Maltobionic acid also has humectant qualities, meaning it is able to draw water molecules to it, plumping & hydrating the area which it is applied. It was patented in 2000 by Neostrata, as one of their ‘Bionic acids’.

maltobionic acid

Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) work by gently dissolving the keratin that binds our outermost layer of skin cells, encouraging the natural exfoliation process of the skin, leading to smoother, clearer skin. This process also encourages new skin cell generation in the basal layer of the epidermis, a process which naturally slows with age, so with repeated use this can have an overall anti-ageing effect on the skin. Gluconolactone has also been shown to inhibit the enzyme elastase, which breaks down elastin in the skin (an essential protein produced by the fibroblasts), leading to sagging of the skin.

PHAs are much larger in molecular weight vs AHAs so they cannot penetrate the skin as fast or as far, which therefore makes more gentle & suitable for more sensitive skin types, including those with rosacea-prone skin. Gluconolactone is also especially good for drier skin types as it also has natural humectant qualities, meaning it draws water towards it, hydrating the skin from within.

palmitoyl tripeptide

vitis vinifera (grape) seed extract

Intensively moisturizes and hydrates, reduces the appearance of wrinkles. Overall skin appears smoother, brighter, more radiant and firm. Contains the building blocks of skin’s Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). Oil-free, non-comedogenic.

Peptides can stimulate specific mechanisms in the skin (e.g. collagen production), so are great ingredients for keeping skin looking youthful for longer.

Youth-boosting moisturiser picks

This formula has been clinically proven to lift, firm and add volume to the skin. It contains high levels of maltobionic acid to gently resurface, smooth & brighten the skin, alongside anti-ageing peptides to firm and lift, and acetyl glucosamine to brighten and natural resveratrol (from grape extract), to act as a powerful antioxidant. Oil free, non-comedogenic.

Packed with naturally-occurring constituents of the skin barrier, such as ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids, this formula is great for nourishing drier skin or supporting strong actives like retinoids or acids in your routine. It also contains peptides to firm, acetyl glucosamine to brighten, and dragonfruit extract to tighten.

This rich cream works by delivering hyaluronic acid into the skin, whilst stimulating the skins own production of this powerful humectant to deliver long term hydration to the skin. It also works to plump the skin, boost radiance and provide visible anti-ageing effects, with a user trial showing that after 4 weeks, 82% agreed their wrinkles appeared reduced.

Nourishing, yet quick to absorb, this fuss-free moisturiser contains two different peptides, to firm skin and reduce fine lines. Alongside this, glycerin as a humectant to hydrate, and Vitamin E as an antioxidant.

This afforable nourishing formula contains a blend of ingredients to support overall skin health. A seaweed-derived collagen works to plump and hydrate the skin, lactic acid gently exfoliates, magnesium pca boosts radiance and shea butter nourishes.

This supplement supports collagen synthesis, addressing signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles. It contains Vitamin C from Acerola berries to aid collagen formation and botanicals like Gotu Kola for maintaining skin health.

green tea extract

Green Tea is a natural plant extract, rich in polyphenols, also known as catechins. Green Tea is particularly high in the catechin Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which is a powerful antioxidant, meaning it can neutralise free radicals to prevent them causing damage within the skin. It is one of the most well researched natural plant extracts used in skincare, with studies also showing it to have an anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effect.

What it is  
Fushi Vegan Collagen Builder has been formulated to contain the amino acid building blocks found in animal sources of collagen, but from a vegan source. As we age and with the action of UV light on our skin, collagen levels decline. It’s the collagen that provides the structure and smoothness to younger skin, and as we age, our ability to rebuild collagen at the same rate is reduced.  

Key Ingredients  
- Vitamin C from Acerola berries of the Malpighia glabra contributes to normal collagen formation.  
- Biotin & Vitamin E help with the maintenance of normal skin and the protection of cells from oxidative stress.  
- Copper contributes to normal skin pigmentation.  
- Botanical extracts such as Gotu Kola, Horsetail extract, and Green Tea extract all contribute to healthy skin.  

How to Use  
Take 4 capsules of Fushi Vegan Collagen Builder per day with water and food. Store in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.

This treatment tonic is formulated to address congested skin and blemishes, utilising 2% salicylic acid and violet willow extract to exfoliate and unclog pores. Colloidal silver and pre-biotics support a healthy skin micro-biome, while pro-vitamins D3 and B5 nurture and condition the skin.

Silver is used in skincare for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties mean it is typically used in anti-blemish products to reduce breakout-causing bacteria and calm redness.

silver

What it is  
OSKIA Violet Water BHA Clarifying Treatment Tonic is a purifying exfoliating treatment tonic, containing 31 actives, to support, clear and brighten congested skin. Helps unclog pores and reduce the appearance of blemishes to keep skin clearer, brighter and nurtured, revealing a healthy-looking complexion.  

Benefits  
- An exfoliating 2% BHA clarifying treatment tonic  
- Helps unclog pores and keep them clear and healthy  
- Anti-bacterial  
- Anti-inflammatory  
- Helps reduce excess sebum production  
- Soothes and calms  
- Supports and encourages the natural repair and regeneration process  

Key Ingredients  
- 2% Salicylic Acid, Violet Willow Extract & refreshing Yuzu Juice gently exfoliate and unclog pores to help visibly clear and brighten.  
- Colloidal Silver & Pre-biotics help prevent blemishes and support a healthy skin micro-biome.  
- Pro-Vitamins D3 & B5 nurture, condition and support barrier function.  
- Micro-Plankton Complex balances excess sebum production for a clearer, fresher complexion.  
- OSKIA’s Amino Acid blend supports skin hydration, while MSM, Allantoin, Horse Chestnut & Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid (the active ingredient in oats), calm and soothe.  
- Gardenia & Jenipa Americana Fruit extract provide anti-oxidant protection to help prevent sebum oxidation.  

Skin Types  
Suitable for combination, oily, blemished or acne-prone skin. For both teenage and adult acne.  

How to Use  
Shake before use. Swipe OSKIA Violet Water BHA Clarifying Treatment Tonic onto cleansed face in the evening, avoiding eye area and broken skin. Do not rinse. A slight tingling may be experienced. Use nightly or every other night depending on skin congestion. A patch test is recommended before use.  

Contains BHA and AHAs which can cause irritation and make skin more sensitive to UV. Use a daily sunscreen. Contains Silver. Do not use if allergic to silver.

This moisturiser targets oily and blemish-prone skin by controlling excess sebum and calming breakouts. It contains niacinamide and vitamin C to support a healthy microbiome and brighten the complexion, while hyaluronic acid hydrates and conditions the skin.

Boerhavia diffusa root extract is used in skincare for its soothing and antioxidant properties.

boerhavia diffusa root extract

mineral uv filters

What it is  
OSKIA Violet Water Hydra Gel Clarifying Daily Moisturiser is a lightweight, water-based, clarifying daily moisturiser with sebum-control technology to help address the five key concerns associated with oily, blemish-prone skin – microbiome, excess sebum production, blemishes, scarring, and hyperpigmentation.  

Benefits  
- Helps control excess sebum.  
- Calms breakouts.  
- Boosts skin regeneration.  
- Helps reduce blemishes.  
- Supports healthy microbiome.  
- Enriched with 20 synergistic actives.  

Key Ingredients  
- Colloidal Silver, Prebiotics, Vitamin C, and Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) synergistically support a healthy skin microbiome and promote a clearer, brighter complexion.  
- Micro-Plankton Complex supports balanced sebum production.  
- Amino Acid blend and Hyaluronic Acid hydrate and condition.  
- MSM, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid (the calming actives in oats), and Boerhavia Diffusa Extract soothe, while Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate brightens the complexion.  

Skin Types  
Suitable for combination, oily, blemished, or acne-prone skin. For both teenage and adult acne.  

Apply OSKIA Violet Water Hydra Gel Clarifying Daily Moisturiser AM and PM as part of your daily skincare routine. For best results, use in conjunction with the complete Violet Water Range.

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