Ingredient Encyclopedia

Betaine Salicylate

A betaine complex of salicylic acid, developed as a gentler way to deliver BHA activity and popularised in Korean formulations.

Bromelain

A group of protein-digesting enzymes from pineapple, used as a wash-off exfoliant that loosens the protein links between dead surface cells without abrasion or a low-pH acid.

Lipohydroxy Acid (LHA)

Capryloyl Salicylic Acid

A derivative of salicylic acid with an added fatty chain that makes it more lipophilic, so it exfoliates gradually at the skin surface and within pores. It is often described as a gentle, targeted BHA relative.

Papaya Enzyme

Carica Papaya Fruit Extract

A protein-digesting enzyme from papaya that loosens dead surface cells without the acidity of an AHA.

Citric Acid

A citrus-derived AHA that exfoliates the surface and adjusts formula pH.

PHA (Gluconolactone)

Gluconolactone

Exfoliates gently while hydrating, making it the mildest chemical exfoliant available.

Glycolic Acid (AHA)

Glycolic Acid

Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells for smoother texture and brighter tone.

Lactic Acid

Exfoliates dead skin cells while pulling moisture into the skin at the same time.

Lactobionic Acid

A polyhydroxy acid formed by oxidising lactose — a large molecule that exfoliates slowly and gently, with documented antioxidant and metal-chelating activity alongside.

Malic Acid

Exfoliates the skin surface as an alpha-hydroxy acid, often blended with other AHAs for a mild, balanced effect.

Mandelic Acid

A large-molecule AHA from bitter almonds that exfoliates gently while calming acne-prone skin.

Phytic Acid

Gently exfoliates and chelates metal ions that trigger dullness and discoloration.

Pyruvic Acid

An alpha-keto acid that exfoliates the skin surface and, at professional strengths, is used in chemical peels to smooth texture and unclog pores. In cosmetics it appears at lower levels.

Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Salicylic Acid

Penetrates oil-filled pores to clear congestion and calm acne-related inflammation.

Willow Bark Extract

Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract

A botanical extract containing salicin, marketed as a natural BHA — though it does not behave like salicylic acid on skin.

Willow Bark

Salix Alba Bark Extract

A botanical extract containing salicin, a natural precursor to salicylic acid, used for mild exfoliation and blemish control.

Succinic Acid

A mild acid that offers gentle exfoliation and is popular in spot treatments for its ability to help clear the look of blemishes and excess oil. It has some soothing character compared with stronger acids.

Tartaric Acid

An alpha hydroxy acid derived from grapes that exfoliates the skin surface and adjusts formula pH.