Zinc PCA is a component of the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF), which acts as a humectant to draw water to it, and when synthesized with zinc, it can actually improve the efficacy of zinc, by making it more bioavailable and easily-absorbed.

Studies have also shown that zinc PCA can inhibit the activity of destructive enzymes within the skin, therefore providing a protective, anti-ageing mechanism to the skin. 

Zinc is a family of ingredients that can also be found on ingredients lists as zinc gluconate, zinc sulfate and zinc sulphate.

Renude

blackheads

blemishes

pigmentation

redness

I have chosen this azelaic acid based serum as a fantastic multi-tasking ingredient for your skin. Azelaic acid is both an antibacterial and an anti-inflammatory so it works to target breakouts and reduce redness and inflammation within the skin. This serum contains 8% azelaic acid, alongside zinc pca which also helps to balance oil production within the skin.

Azelaic acid is found naturally in grains such as barley, wheat and rye, but can also be produced commercially in the lab. It has several benefits in skincare including as an anti-inflammatory, with evidence showing great results in treating rosacea symptoms (swelling & redness) via this mechanism.

Azelaic also has an anti-blemish activity - firstly, it is an antibacterial which works to kill acne-causing bacteria, P.Acnes. Secondly, it prevents pores becoming blocked by the skin’s natural shedding process, which makes it harder for this bacteria to populate inside the pore to cause a blemish (it needs an oxygen-free environment to thrive).

Studies have also shown azelaic acid to inhibit melanogenesis (production of melanin), so also has benefits in treating hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory acne scarring. It has good skin tolerability, so can be used to treat more sensitive skin types in concentrations of around 10%.

azelaic acid

Zinc PCA is a synthetic active, derived from zinc and pyrrolidone carboxylic acid. Zinc is known to regulate sebum production, as well as inhibit the growth of the P.Acnes bacteria to improve acne symptoms. PCA is a component of the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF), which acts as a humectant to draw water to it, and when synthesized with zinc, it can actually improve the efficacy of zinc, by making it more bioavailable and easily-absorbed.

Studies have also shown that zinc PCA can inhibit the activity of destructive enzymes within the skin, therefore providing a protective, anti-ageing mechanism to the skin. 

zinc pca

Zinc is known to regulate sebum production, as well as inhibit the growth of the P.Acnes bacteria to improve acne symptoms.

With soothing aloe vera, the Q+A Azelaic Acid serum helps to calm, soothe and minimise breakouts, restoring an even complexion. Azelaic acid is derived naturally from Rye, Wheat & Barley and is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it a great choice for breakout and redness prone skin. It also works to fade pigmentation, so can tackle any post-inflammatory marks to boot!

These formulas contain a high concentration of azelaic acid, which has proven effectiveness in treating redness, blemishes and hyperpigmentation.

Azelaic acid treatment picks

This 10% Azelaic acid booster is combined with salicylic acid to support breakout prone skin. The formula is a creamy texture, which absorbs instantly without dry out the skin.

This milky serum contains15% azelaic acid, in combination with salicylic acid, zinc and niacinamide. These ingredients work in combination to reduce inflammation, regulate oil production and provide antibacterial action to redness blemishes and post-inflammatory marks.

This lightweight moisturising gel contains azelaic acid, alongside tranexamic acid to target hyperpigmentation, niacinamide to regulate sebum and support the natural skin barrier, and vitamins b5 and e to provide antioxidant protection to the skin.

This water-based serum uses 12% of a derivative of azelaic acid known as Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate rather than the active itself (as it's notoriously difficult to formulate with and get a killer texture). This derivative delivers all the amazing benefits of azelaic acid as well as hydrating the skin, so this is a fantastic product for the price.

This creamy serum formula contains azelaic acid which acts as an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory to calm breakouts. Zinc PCA helps to regulate oil production while natural plant extracts provide antioxidant protection.

Cruelty free

UK made

Unfragranced

Nut free

Vegan

dull skin

uneven texture

I have chosen this multi-functional serum for your routine to brighten and even skin tone whilst reducing congestion and targeting fine lines. It's a perfect all-rounder, with 10% niacinamide, peptide, hyaluronic acid and zinc pca.

Acetyl Glucosamine is an amino acid sugar

acetyl glucosamine

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.

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

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

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.

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.

This nourishing and clarifying peptide-infused serum absorbs immediately, helping to create a luminous-looking complexion.

These treatments contain niacinamide, which works to regulate oil production, minimise redness, fade hyperpigmentation and support the skin barrier.

Niacinamide treatment picks

This serum combines 10% niacinamide alongside peptides. So you get all of the multi-functional benefits of niacinamide, alongside the youth-boosting properties of peptides.

This serum contains 5% niacinamide alongside 3 different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid (meaning they can absorb to different layers of the skin to maximise hydration ). It is clinically proven to soothe and plump skin, as well as repair dry or damaged skin.

This serum contains 15% niacinamide alongside zinc, allantoin and amino acids. This is designed to support overall skin health - regulating oil production, calming redness, strengthening the natural lipid barrier and reducing hyperpigmentation.

This water-based serum contains 5% niacinamide, alongside panthenol (vitamin b5) to act as a humectant, drawing water to the skin to plump and hydrate.

Beauty Tribe

enlarged pores

fine lines

lack of radiance

loss of firmness

rough skin

scarring

wrinkles

This foaming cleanser targets visible skin ageing and clogged pores with salicylic acid, promoting natural exfoliation and smoother skin texture. Menthol and camphor provide a cooling effect, while botanical extracts like tea tree and eucalyptus offer additional soothing benefits.

aloe vera

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.

Matricaria Chamomilla, also known as German Chamomile, is a plant highly concentrated in two active components: bisabolol and chamazulene. Bisabolol has a number of well-researched skin benefits, including as an anti-inflammatory agent, and also in promoting wound healing. Chamazulene has been shown to provide an anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, in addition to providing antioxidant benefits to protect skin from damage from free radicals.

chamomile extract

Chamomile contains high levels of naturally-occurring compounds called terpenoids, the most famous being bisabolol. Bisabolol is known for its soothing properties, so including Chamomile extract in skincare can also provide this benefit.

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.

Phytic acid is technically an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), although it’s exfoliating effects are very mild compared to other acids in the AHA family. It does work to remove dead skin cell build up from the pores, and in turn reducing occurrences of breakouts, but this is not it’s main skin benefit. It is predominantly used for its high antioxidant potential, meaning it can neutralise damaging free radicals before they can cause any damage to the skin.

phytic acid

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.

Sage is a plant extract, naturally high in antioxidants which offer the skin protection from free radical damage. Sage has additional anti-inflammatory benefits which helps to soothe skin which is prone to redness.

sage 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

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.

Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, native to Australia. Tea tree leaf oil is known to have antibacterial qualities, the mechanism for this is not completely understood, but research shows that it could be due to an ability to damage the bacterial cell wall.

It also has anti-inflammatory effects, due to its content of terpen-4-ol, which studies have shown reduces inflammation in the skin when applied topically. These functions make it a great ingredient for the use in acne treatments, both to kill p.acnes bacteria, but also reduce the associated inflammation.

tea tree oil

Turmeric root has long been used in Eastern medicine for its various benefits, including as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. In skincare, it offers antioxidant protection, and has been shown to calm redness and reduce breakouts.

turmeric root extract

Dermalogica Clearing Skin Wash foaming cleanser helps clear skin and reduce visible skin aging. Salicylic Acid, a Beta Hydroxy Acid, stimulates natural exfoliation to help clear clogged follicles and smooth away dullness that contributes to visible skin aging. Menthol and Camphor help cool the skin. Contains extracts of Balm Mint, Eucalyptus, and Tea Tree. Skin is left clean and prepped for optimal absorption of Active Clearing treatment ingredients.

I have chosen this acid-based exfoliating treatment to decongest pores, reduce inflammation and fade post-acne pigmentation. It contains a blend of resurfacing acids, fruit enzymes and brighteners to smooth texture, even skin tone and reduce breakouts.

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

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.

Lactobacillus Extract Filtrate is a cell-free extract (CFE) of the lactobacillus microorganism. This means it is no longer a living bacteria (probiotic), but an extract of a once-living bacteria, which functions as a prebiotic. This active has been shown via clinical studies from the manufacturer, Evonik, to encourage the growth of beneficial skin bacteria, as well as support the natural skin barrier function, helping to protect against skin roughness and dryness.

lactobacillus extract filtrate

Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), derived from bitter almonds. 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.

Mandelic acid has a larger molecular weight vs. other acids in the AHA category. It is twice the molecular weight of glycolic acid for example (the smallest AHA on the market), so it tends to be better tolerated than smaller AHAs, which penetrate the skin much faster. Research also shows that mandelic acid is particularly effective at improving some forms of pigmentation, compared with other AHAs.

mandelic acid

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.

The Accelerator has a multitasking formulation.  The gel-cream combines a 12.5% Acid blend of Dioic, Mandelic, Salicylic and Pomegranate Enzymes, addressing breakouts and hyperpigmentation at the same time. It works effortlessly to help smooth the skins texture, fade hyperpigmentation, refine pores, combat breakouts and help smoothen the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

These treatments combine AHAs and BHAs to exfoliate the skin, decongest pores, reduce blemishes and breakouts, and refine overall texture and tone.

AHA & BHA mixed acid exfoliant picks

This formula includes a blend of acids to decongest and brighten the skin. This include mandelic, glycolic, dioic, salicylic and gluconolactone. On top of this, hydrating and soothing ingredients such as panthenol, liquorice and aloe vera work to balance the skin to support the skin barrier.

This toner includes a blend of natural salicylic acid from willow bark water, alongside natural malic acid from apple fruit water. Combined with allantoin and panthenol to soothe and hydrate, this formula works well to decongest and brighten without drying or stripping the skin.

This resurfacing toner combines 5 different acids to deliver multiple benefits to the skin. AHAs lactic acid and glycolic acid refine skin texture and add radiance, BHA salicylic acid works to decongest pores, reducing blemishes and breakouts, whilst PHAs gluconolactone and lactobiotic acid even out skin tone. The toner also includes niacinamide to regulate oil production and soothe any redness.

Diverse founder

Female founder

dehydration

impaired barrier

skin redness

This cream targets blemishes and redness, using Centella asiatica to soothe and hydrate the skin. Zinc oxide and tea tree oil contribute to calming and protecting the skin, making it suitable for sensitive and blemish-prone skin.

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.

centella asiatica

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.

Sunflower seed oil is a natural oil derived from the seeds of the sunflower plant. It is rich in omega fatty acids and used in skincare for its emollient and antioxidant properties. 

helianthus annuus seed oil

mineral uv filters

The Cosrx Centella Blemish Cream is a blemish cream made with all-natural ingredients to calm and reduce acne scars/spots. It is non-oily and hydrating that creates a protective barrier for the skin. Reduce the stress with the Centella Blemish Cream Centella Blemish Cream is a non-oily, hydrating, ointment-type cream that creates a protective barrier for the skin while the all-natural active ingredients clear and soothe the skin free from blemishes. Excellent for sensitive skin as well as acne prone skin, the Centella Blemish Cream uses all-natural Centella asiatica leaf water as a base for maximum hydration with calming & soothing effects.

Gluten free

This serum targets enlarged pores and uneven skin tone with a high concentration of niacinamide, which helps refine pore appearance and improve skin texture. Vitamin C and peptides provide antioxidant protection and support collagen production for enhanced skin resilience.

vitamin e

white tea extract

High-Potency 15% Niacinamide (Vit B3) enriched with Vitamin C and peptides powers this highly-concentrated serum to refine and diminish visible pore size while delivering a dose of free-radical-neutralizing antioxidants and collagen-supporting agents.

I have chosen this clinically proven daily moisturiser to target blemishes, enlarged pores and blackheads in the skin.

This is a L’Oreal-patented active, also known as lipo-hydroxy acid, or LHA. It is an ester of salicylic acid which has been modified to make it more lipophilic, and therefore have better skin penetration abilities.

It works in a similar way to salicylic acid in that it has a keratolytic effect on the skin - encouraging the natural exfoliation process of dead surface cells, and in turn the production of new skin cells in the basal layer of the epidermis. It can also penetrate into the pores (more effectively than regular salicylic acid), removing any dead cell build-up inside and unblocking the pores, leading to a reduction in acne, whiteheads & blackheads.

Its superior skin affinity means it is effective at very low concentrations (0.3%) meaning results can be achieved without the side effects commonly associated with other resurfacing acids, so is a great choice for more sensitive skin types.

capryloyl salicylic acid

DUAL ACTION ACNE TREATMENT: This acne spot treatment reduces the number and severity of acne blemishes and helps clear blackheads and whiteheads. With 5.5% micronized benzoyl peroxide and micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid, this treatment provides fast, visible results in 3 days.

Acne spot treatment reduces 60% of acne in 10 days
Dual action: reduces the number and severity of blemishes and clears blackheads/whiteheads
Non-drying, oil-free, fast absorbing texture
Can be used as a spot treatment or all over face

I have chosen this mattifying, lightweight formula to target blemishes and enlarged pores, whilst controlling sebum with mattifying powders to reduce shine.

Ascorbyl Glucoside is a water-soluble derivative of Vitamin C. This derivative was created to provide improved stability and skin penetration vs. ascorbic acid alone. It is still unclear how well ascorbyl glucoside is converted into ascorbic acid (the active form of Vitamin C) within the body, but some of it will be lost during this conversion, making this less potent, and therefore requiring higher levels in the formulation in order to achieve great results.

ascorbyl glucoside

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.

DAILY MOISTURIZER FOR OILY SKIN ANTI-SHINE ANTI-ENLARGED PORES: This mattifying moisturizer for oily skin targets excess oil. Dual action - mattifies skin and refines pores. Formulated with micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid, this oil-free formula hydrates skin while leaving skin looking and feeling matte.

Mattifying moisturizer visibly reduces the look of pores
Sebulyse technology provides dual action targeting by reducing shine and large pores
Smoothes skin texture
Excellent base for make-up

I have chosen this gentle clarifying cleanser for you to tackle congestion in the skin.

PURIFYING FOAMING CLEANSER: This daily facial wash for normal to oily skin foams to remove face and eye makeup, dirt, and impurities. Its refreshing gel formula removes excess oil while maintaining skin’s natural protective barrier and pH. Leaves skin feeling clean and fresh.

dark circles

eye wrinkles

This eye crème targets dark circles, wrinkles, and puffiness, promoting a more youthful eye area. It contains peptides and botanical brightening agents to enhance skin firmness and reduce discolouration. Hydrating ingredients support skin elasticity and smoothness.

apple stem cells

Stem cells occur naturally within plants to help regenerate cells after stress or injury, and studies show this can encourage similar regenerating mechanisms in human skin. Apple stem cells have been shown to increase synthesis of collagen & elastin to achieve visible anti-ageing results in the skin.

cucumber extract

Cucumber extract provides natural antioxidant protection against free radicals. It is comprised of 95% water, plus small concentrations of ascorbic acid (vitamin c), caffeic acid (an antioxidant), fatty acids and silica (mineral required for healthy skin, hair & nails).

An antioxidant plant extract which helps to protect the skin from free radical damage.

Guarana extract

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

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.

liquorice 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.

willow herb extract

A botanical extract used for its antioxidant and skin-soothing abilities.

A super-hydrating and brightening eye crème 15ml that works aggressively to break up discoloration under the eyes. A blend of phytonutrients, peptides and botanical brightening agents help to reduce visible signs of aging like dark circles, wrinkles, puffiness and lax skin to restore a firmer, vibrant and more youthful appearance to the eyes.

Demo

This mask provides intensive hydration and nourishment, addressing dryness and dullness. It contains skin-identical lipids and ceramides to support the skin barrier and improve moisture retention, promoting a soft, radiant complexion with regular use.

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.

ceramides

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

Magnesium PCA is a humectant and the magnesium salt of PCA, a major component of the skin's natural moisturising factors (NMFs). It enhances skin hydration and barrier repair, and generally aids in maintain a healthy moisture balance within the skin.

magnesium pca

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 ascorbyl phosphate

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.

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

Treat your skin to a little luxury with this delicately soft hydration mask. Our nourishing formula contains a blend of skin-identical lipids that instantly get to work to intensively moisturise your skin. The result: Skin feels hydrated, beautifully soft, and has a bright appearance. With continued use, our tailored skin nutrition for dry skin types works to help promote healthy-looking skin. Volume: 100ml.

Counter Culture

This multi-functional mask works to hydrate the skin, plump fine lines and calm redness. It contains hyaluronic acid for deep hydration and zinc pca to help soothe and balance the skin. Botanical extracts like willow herb and green purslane provide calming and antioxidant benefits.

Brown algae is a nutrient dense underwater plant, rich in vitamins and minerals. It is used in skincare for it's antioxidant properties, as well as its ability to moisturise the skin and potentially offer regenerating effects.  

brown algae

hyaluronic acid

This serum targets uneven skin tone and texture, helping to enhance skin brightness and smoothness. Niacinamide supports the skin barrier and reduces redness, while zinc PCA helps regulate oil production, making it beneficial for those with congested pores.

Our Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% formula is a water-based serum that boosts skin brightness, improves skin smoothness and reinforces the skin barrier over time. It contains a high 10% concentration of Niacinamide (vitamin b3) and zinc PCA. Note: Niacinamide and Zinc PCA is not a treatment for acne. For persistent acne-related conditions, we recommend speaking to your health care provider regarding treatment options. This formulation can be used alongside acne treatments if desired for added visible skin benefits.

This niacinamide serum is a great choice for targeting blemishes, fading post-blemish marks and balancing oil production in the skin. Zinc is also included in the formula for its anti-inflammatory and oil control properties.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is indicated to reduce the appearance of skin blemishes and congestion. A high 10% concentration of this vitamin is supported in the formula by zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid to balance visible aspects of sebum activity.

Independent studies suggest Niacinamide is also an effective ingredient for brightening skin tone.

I've chosen this salicylic acid cleanser to gently unblock pores to decongest the skin and reduce blemishes and blackheads.

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

Clarify your complexion with The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser. This BHA exfoliating cleanser provides a thorough cleanse, lifting makeup, dirt and impurities while helping to unclog the pores. Perfect for blemish-prone and oily skin types, this cleanser helps to tighten the pores while Zinc minimises excess oils for a fresher, clearer complexion.

Allantoin acts as an anti-irritant to soothe the skin after exfoliation and creates a protective barrier to reinforce the skin’s natural defences against environmental aggressors. Suitable for everyday use, the cleanser works to reduce the appearance of blackheads, breakouts and discolouration. Add this no-nonsense cleanser to your morning and evening routine to help fight breakouts and promote clearer skin.

barrier support

I have chosen this niacinamide serum for your routine, as it has wonderful multi-functional benefits for the skin. Niacinamide works to balances oil production, reduces redness and inflammation, as well as support the skin's natural barrier.

Highly concentrated serum that combines the maximum concentration of 15% niacinamide with optimal ratios of synergistic ingredients for total acne control.

Non-comedogenic

Hypoallergenic

Dermatologically tested

Sensitive

This serum targets signs of ageing, such as deep lines, wrinkles, and uneven pigmentation. Retinol and niacinamide work synergistically to enhance skin texture and tone, while TFC8® technology supports cellular renewal for a revitalised complexion.

Ectoin is an emollient used in skincare to help maintain moisture balance in the skin. New research shows it may also be able to protect against certain environmental aggressors, such as pollutants and UV. This is believed to be down to its antioxidant properties, as well as the ability to protect skin from dehydration from the surrounding environment.

ectoin

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.

Reduce the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles, blemishes, and pigmentation. Powered by TFC8®. Lightweight and hydrating serum texture Clean. Formulated without irritants, allergens, or synthetic fragrance. Vegan Formulated for all skin types. Recommended for aging, oily and blemish-prone skin 15ml and 30ml Nomads include an aluminium stand. 50ml bottles have a flat bottom and stand upright independently

This serum targets signs of ageing, such as deep lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, while addressing blemishes and pigmentation. Retinol and niacinamide work synergistically to enhance skin texture and tone, promoting a smoother, more radiant complexion.

Reduce the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles, blemishes, and pigmentation without irritation or redness. Powered by TFC8®.  Lightweight and hydrating serum texture Clean. Formulated without irritants, allergens, or synthetic fragrance. Vegan Formulated for all skin types. Recommended for aging, oily and blemish-prone skin Includes aluminum Stand specifically designed to hold Augustinus Bader

This luxurious moisturiser addresses dehydration, fine lines, and uneven tone, making it suitable for normal to dry and mature skin types. It contains TFC8® technology to support cellular renewal, while ingredients like squalane and shea butter provide deep hydration and nourishment.

argan oil

Argan oil is derived from the nut of the Argan tree which grows in Morocco. It is naturally high in Vitamin E and fatty acids, which work to nourish the skin, protect the natural lipid barrier and provide antioxidant protection against free radicals.

avocado oil

Avocado oil is a rich source of fatty acids, which help to protect excess water loss through the skin’s surface, to keep it moisturised, soft and smooth. This oil also has antioxidant properties so helps to protect skin against free radical damage.

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

Our original award-winning daily moisturizer. Intensely luxurious, hydrating and nourishing. Supports cellular renewal to dramatically improve the complexion's appearance. Backed by 30 years of research and innovation. Powered by TFC8®  A rich, thick, and textured luxury moisturizer with an emollient feel Ideal for normal to dry skin, more mature skin types, and colder, drier climates Fragrance-free. Vegan

This luxurious moisturiser addresses dehydration, fine lines, and uneven tone, making it suitable for normal to dry and mature skin types. Ingredients like squalane and shea butter provide deep hydration, while peptides support skin renewal and elasticity.

This ultra-rich cream is designed to soothe and hydrate dry, irritated, or sensitive skin, promoting a balanced and glowing complexion. It contains TFC8® technology to support skin renewal and shea butter for deep nourishment. The non-greasy formula is free from irritants and allergens, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

An ultra-rich skin-savior to instantly replenish, rehydrate, and soothe dry, irritated, or sensitive skin, restoring a healthy, balanced, glowing complexion. Powered by TFC8®  Ultra-rich, creamy texture that absorbs quickly. Non-greasy and non-comedogenic soothing face cream. Formulated without irritants, allergens, or fragrance. Vegan. Refillable system.

This ultra-rich cream is designed to soothe and rehydrate dry, irritated, or sensitive skin, promoting a balanced and glowing complexion. It contains TFC8® technology and shea butter to support skin barrier repair and hydration. The formula is non-greasy, non-comedogenic, and free from irritants, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Zinc PCA

What is Zinc PCA?

What does Zinc PCA do?

Who is Zinc PCA good for?

Who should avoid Zinc PCA?

Zinc PCA

What is Zinc PCA?

What does Zinc PCA do?

Who is Zinc PCA good for?

Who should avoid Zinc PCA?

Cleansers (2)

Treatments (8)

Hydrators (8)

Extras (3)