It is essentially an underwater plant, designed to get its food from sunlight, much like any other plants, although from much more challenging conditions. 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.

Algaes are a class of ingredients, many of which can be used in skincare. Variants of algae used in skincare are ahnfeltia concinna extract, alaria esculenta extract, algae exopolysaccharides, algin, alteromonas ferment extract, ascophyllum nodosum extract, asparagopsis armata extract, chlorella protothecoides, chlorella protothecoides oil (oleic acid), chlorella vulgaris extract, dunaliella salina (green algae) extract, hydrolysed algin, hydrolyzed f-fucoidan, laminaria ochroleuca (kelp) extract, laminaria ochroleuca extract. macrocystis pyrifera (kelp) extract, and marine extract

Renude

I have chosen this nut-free eye cream for you to target dark circles and fine lines. It includes a wealth of brightening and hydrating ingredients alongside antioxidants to protect the delicate eye area.

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.

algae extract

alpha arbutin

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.

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

camellia sinensis (green tea) leaf 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.

chrysanthemum parthenium (feverfew) extract

Feverfew is a flower species, belonging to the daisy family, rich in active flavonoids and alpha-pinene. It has been used in ancient medicine for centuries to treat everything from headaches, constipation, vertigo, worms, spasms & arthritis. One of the oil-soluble flavonoids, Tanetin, has been shown to modulate inflammatory responses in the body, whilst other flavonoids provide antioxidant protection. Alpha-pinene provides anti-inflammatory benefits, as well as exhibiting powerful antimicrobial activity.

glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) root extract

Liquorice is a legume which grows in the Mediterranean, the Middle East & Russia. It contains the active constituent glabridin, which has been shown to prevent and reverse UV-induced skin damage, to provide visible skin-lightening properties to the skin.

Its second active component, Glycyrrhetinic acid is used in skincare for its anti-inflammatory benefits. It works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory substances, such as cortisone, within the body, with some research showing results to be comparable to prescription hydrocortisone cream.

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

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.

Re-energise your eyes with the First Aid Beauty 5-in-1 Eye Cream. Ideal for all skin types, its moisturising, anti-ageing formula combines soothing bisabolol with brightening alpha arbutin to effectively care for and revitalise your eyes. Ultra-nourishing, the cream helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the delicate eye area whilst firming, brightening and evening out skin tone. Expect hydrated eyes with a youthful radiance.

I have chosen this gentle refining formula for your daily routine, to target enlarged pores, wrinkles and brighten overall skin tone.

Exopolysaccharides (EPS) are phytochemicals produced by Algae to protect from external stressors: UV radiation, oxidation (from free radicals) and temperature, so these provide skin-protecting benefits in skincare. Being a polysaccharide, this also offers humectant qualities, meaning it can draw water to it, plumping & hydrating the area it is applied to.

algae exopolysaccharides

Beta Glucans are polysaccharides found naturally in oats, fungi, seaweed and yeast. They are best known for its skin-soothing properties, showing excellent effects at reducing redness and other symptoms of sensitive skin. They do this via barrier-supporting properties, as they form a film on the skin’s surface to offer protection against daily environmental stressors, which can aggravate sensitive skin. They also stimulate macrophage function in the body (immune cells which fight invading bacteria), so offer added benefit to those with already compromised skin barriers more susceptible to bacterial infection, for example ezcema-prone or or drier skin types. Their polysaccharide nature makes them an effective humectant, meaning they can draw water molecules towards them to plump and hydrate the area.

beta glucan

Sugar Cane extract is a natural ingredient that works as a humectant when applied to the skin, meaning it draws water molecules towards it, plumping & hydrating the area. It is also the natural plant from which glycolic acid is derived, so it is thought to have some degree of exfoliating & brightening action, although there is currently insufficient research proving this.

saccharum officinarum extract

tetrapeptide

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.

A powerful advanced anti-aging serum designed to deliver visible and dramatic results in just 10 days. Formulated with high concentrations of Alguronic Acid, it minimizes the look of deep wrinkles while restoring skin density and elasticity feel. Smoothes skin texture and imparts a radiant, glowing complexion.

I have chosen this ultra nourishing moisturiser for your daily routine to hydrate and plump the skin, whilst providing daily antioxidant protection. The formula is full of active Vitamins to address these skin concerns. alongside barrier-supporting and soothing actives to nourish dry skin and support the natural lipid barrier.

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

aloe barbadensis leaf juice

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. 

avena sativa (oat) kernel extract

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.

Panthenol is a form of Vitamin B5, which is converted into Pantothenic acid within the epidermis when applied topically. 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.

Panthenol 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.

panthenol

Vitamin B5 is as 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.

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

tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate

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.

Tocopherol, aka 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.

tocopherol

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.

Tocopheryl acetate is a specific form of the fat-soluble Vitamin E, with improved stability vs. Tocopherol. 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.

tocopheryl acetate

tocopheryl linoleate/oleate

Ultra rich moisturizer helps prevent moisture loss and improves skin smoothness to restore your skin's natural beauty.

Provides intense skin hydration
Helps replenish moisture
Improves smoothness

I have chosen this active-packed serum to target pigmentation and wrinkles in the skin.

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

3-0-Ethyl ascorbic acid is a modified version of L-ascorbic acid (pure Vitamin C), designed to improve its stability and skin penetration abilities, to achieve optimum skin benefits. Once absorbed into the skin, the ethyl group is removed, and l-ascorbic acid is returned to its active form, where it can best support the skin to achieve visible brightening & anti-ageing results.

ethyl ascorbic acid

palmitoyl oligopeptide

palmitoyl tetrapeptide

For the first time, this powerful vegan formula combines patented Alguronic Acid, our breakthrough anti-aging discovery, with nourishing Microalgae Oil, both naturally sourced and sustainably produced, and a potent Vitamin C derivative* to help visibly brighten skin, minimize fine lines and wrinkles. The most fragile skin texture appears strengthened and skin’s youthful, even radiance is revealed.

This minimalist formula contains hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate the skin, along with an extract of red algae to promote circulation and allow the hyaluronic acid to penetrate effectively into the skin.

Replenish thirsty complexions with the Indeed Labs Hydraluron™ Moisture Boosting Facial Serum; a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula that delivers long-lasting hydration to dry skin. Fortified with the purest form of Hyaluronic Acid, the powerful serum helps to defend against premature ageing, whilst infusing wanting skin with intense moisture to combat flakiness. A dose of nutrient-rich Red Marine Algae encourages circulation, allowing the Hyaluronic Acid to penetrate into the skin's deeper layers for maximum effect. Expect a smooth, youthful-looking complexion with a radiant glow.

This ultra lightweight but super hydrating emulsion is loaded with niacinamide, alongside 3 different weights of hyaluronic acid (which absorb to different layers of the skin to maximise hydration), ceramides to support the natural skin barrier and algae extracts to offer antioxidant protection.

Adenosine is a well-researched anti-ageing and soothing ingredient. It is produced naturally in the body, but can also be derived from yeast. It works by stimulating the skin's own collagen production process, to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It also has anti-inflammatory and barrier repair benefits, so is a fantastic multi-functional skincare ingredient.

adenosine

Asiatic acid is one of the active constituents found in Centella Asiatica (also known as Gotu Kola or Tiger grass). This plant has been used for centuries in Eastern medicine for it’s healing properties.

asiatic acid

Centella Asiatica (also known as Gotu Kola or Tiger grass) has been used for centuries in Eastern medicine for its healing properties. It contains phytochemicals which research shows can stimulate blood flow, strengthen the skin and provide antioxidant protection, all of which combined accelerate the wound healing process.

It is also believed to have the ability to stimulate the fibroblasts to produce type 1 collagen, which further supports wound healing as well as providing anti-ageing benefits. Collagen is also a protein whose production decreases with age, and is essential for maintaining skin firmness & smoothness, so this collagen-boosting property gives the added benefit of reducing wrinkles and firming the skin. It has also been shown to stimulate the production of hyaluronic acid in the skin, another molecule whose production slows with age, but is essential for keeping skin looking hydrated, plump & youthful.

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.

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

hyaluronic acid

Prime and hydrate your complexion with the AHC Aqualuronic Emulsion. This ultra-nourishing face cream is powered by a cocktail of beneficial ingredients that work to replenish the look of dry, thirsty skin. Designed to be used before your preferred moisturiser, the lightweight gel texture glides effortlessly onto the face without clogging or congesting the pores. Triple Hyaluronic Acid releases a quick burst of hydration to the visage, while Ceramides help to strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier while defending against environmental aggressors. French Sea Water tackles dryness as it seeks to balance the complexion with its restorative properties.

This lightweight hydrating serum is loaded with niacinamide, alongside 3 different weights of hyaluronic acid (which absorb to different layers of the skin to maximise hydration), ceramides to support the natural skin barrier and algae extracts to offer antioxidant protection.

Drench your complexion in nourishing goodness with the AHC Aqualuronic Serum. Innovative and cleverly-designed, the unique facial serum was based on the Korean Aesthetic Clinic Approach, making it highly reliable and effective. The lightweight formula glides across the skin, absorbing fast to avoid ever feeling greasy, sticky or heavy.

A potent yet kind-to-skin infusion of Ceramides and French Sea Water creates a powerful veil of moisture, locking in hydration for long-lasting, enviable smoothness. The gel texture of the serum is cooling and refreshing, invigorating the senses and allowing you to face the day. The gel-like texture also intensely quenches your skin of thirst, minimising the appearance and feel of dryness and coarseness. The serum is finished with three kinds of Hyaluronic Acid, renowned for its ability to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving the illusion of a firmer, plumper base with a youthful glow.

We love this hydrating toner as it's full of so many active ingredients to provide multi-functional benefits to the skin. It contains niacinamide, alongside with 3x weights of hyaluronic acid (which absorbs to different layers of the skin, for maximum hydration), and ceramides and cholesterol to help support the natural skin barrier.

Give your skin an extra burst of hydration with the AHC Aqualuronic Toner, inspired by the revered Korean Aesthetic Clinic approach practised in Seoul’s spas. With a lightweight, watery consistency, the toner absorbs easily into skin without causing unwanted congestion, greasiness or stickiness.

The toner is formulated using French Sea Water and Ceramides, helping to protect and maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier to keep hydration locked in. Triple Hyaluronic Acid with three different molecular weights keeps water deeply absorbed, banishing dehydration and dryness. Your complexion will appear supple, soft and revived with a healthier-looking radiance. Experience a soothing, cooling sensation as the toner forms an effective seal against water loss.

I have chosen this gently exfoliating, ultra-nourishing moistuiser for you to support your skin's natural barrier, reducing redness and dryness in the skin. This uses gentle Polyhydroxy acids to encourage the skins natural exfoliation process, as well as hydrate the skin, leading to smoother, brighter, plumper skin.

arginine

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. 

Lactobionic 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.

Lactobionic 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. Lactobionic 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’.

lactobionic 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.

This is a lightweight plant oil which acts as an emollient in skincare. This means is supports the natural lipid-barrier, to help keep water from being lost through the skin. This make is an effective moisturising ingredient.

limnanthes alba (meadowfoam) seed oil

Provides intense hydration and helps soothe and revitalize the look of stressed skin. Gentle formula provides intense hydration. Ideal for sensitive and reactive skin types. Non-comedogenic. Fragrance-free.

These nourishing formulas are great for dry skin, and are packed with barrier-supporting ingredients to help the skin retain more moisture naturally.

Nourishing moisturiser picks

A cult classic, this face cream uses Neostrata's signature resurfacing technology to hydrate, whilst gently exfoliating dead cells to minimise fine lines and reveal glowing, plump skin. It uses a blend of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), which gently dissolve the bonds between the very outermost layer of skin (which is what causes roughness and flaking in dry skin). Hyaluronic acid and glycerin work as hydrators, whilst meadowfoam seed oil, rich in Vitamin E, nourishes the skin and provides natural antioxidant protection.

This rich formula contains a host of nourishing and soothing ingredients and has won multiple awards. It does contain essential oils so best for dry skin, which is not super sensitive.

A top-rated minimalist, nourishing moisturiser formulated with just 7 ingredients, and proven to be suitable for even hypersensitive skin types.

This super rich 5% urea night cream is fantastic for moisturising dry skin. Urea is a naturally occurring humectant in the skin, which pulls water towards it to hydrate and plump the skin.

A great daily basic, this rich cream includes ceramides (natural skin lipids) to support the natural barrier, alongside hyaluronic acid to attract water and add hydration into the skin. Fragrance free and hypoallergenic.

Unfragranced

I have chosen this ultra-nourishing anti-ageing formula for you to target wrinkles and skin firmness, whilst supporting the skin's natural barrier.

avena sativa (oat) kernel flour

camellia sinensis leaf extract

White tea is a potent antioxidant, so is able to help protect against free radical damage. It is also thought to have anti-ageing properties by inhibiting the action of collagen and elastin-degrading enzymes in the skin.

Lactobacillus ferment is a probiotic, with a number of skin benefits. It was first shown by Estee Lauder to protect against environmental aggressors by supporting DNA repair within the cell. It was later shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, with research indicating it being particularly beneficial for those with acne or rosacea. The manufacturer of the ingredient, Barnet, has confirmed the mechanism of this is by suppressing the growth of harmful bacteria associated with these conditions, and encouraging the diversity of growth of beneficial skin microbiota.

lactobacillus ferment

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 hexapeptide

palmitoyl tripeptide

A rich, buttery night cream that helps moisturize for smoother-looking, hydrated skin. This super-charged blend helps visibly combat the appearance of key signs of aging during skin’s nightly repair phase. The unique formula includes a powerful Peptide Blend to help smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, Glutaline-In-Tense to improve the appearance of skin’s firmness, and Niacinamide to help skin appear more bouncy and healthy in tone and texture. Sodium Hyaluronate, Colloidal Oatmeal, and conditioning Butters and Waxes help hydrate for healthy-looking skin.

Algae Extract

What is Algae Extract?

What does Algae Extract do?

Who is Algae Extract good for?

Who should avoid Algae Extract?

Algae Extract

What is Algae Extract?

What does Algae Extract do?

Who is Algae Extract good for?

Who should avoid Algae Extract?

Hydrators (2)