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.

Renude

This formula has been specific designed for very dry and keratosis-prone skin. It contains 10% Urea, which is a natural part of the skin's NMF (Natural Moisturising Factor), a fantastic hydrator and gentle exfoliant. The product also includes lactic and salicylic acids to encourage the natural exfoliation of dead skin, which can otherwise block follicles leading to keratosis pilaris bumps.

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

prunus amygdalus dulcis (sweet almond) oil

Sweet Almond Oil is naturally rich in fat-soluble Vitamins A & E, which provide antioxidant benefits. This oil is naturally high in Omega 3 fatty acids, which cannot be produced naturally in the body, but offer anti-inflammatory benefits.

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

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.

urea

Care for your skin with the Avene Akerat 10 Body Cream for Keratosis-Prone Skin, a compensating body moisturiser developed for the needs of very dry and keratosis-prone skin.

Those with keratosis can experience irritation, intense dryness and itchy, scaly skin. The Akerat 10 Body Cream works to relieve this discomfort both immediately and over time, by softening the skin, smoothing its texture and cooling heated sensations.

Created with the natural moisturising ingredient urea (10%), it maintains the appearance and the feel of healthy skin.

I have chosen this concentrated vitamin c serum to brighten skin and fade pigmentation. The formulation contains vitamin c which releases slowly over time, making it gentle on the skin whilst remaining highly effective.

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

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.

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

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.

Vitamin C, a great classic which is not so easy to formulate! In its pure state it is unstable over time, in other words it loses its properties and is no longer effective. You’ll see, it’s noticeable because it turns brown.

So how can its effectiveness be maximized? SVR vitamin C is an optimized form. 20% of this optimized Vitamin C is equivalent to 17% of pure Vitamin C. Its structure is similar to Vitamin C and offers the same properties as pure Vitamin C but is stable and effective over time.

This group contains Vitamin C serums which are based on derivatives of ascorbic acid, and therefore may be more suited to those who can't tolerate ascorbic acid in it's pure form.

Vitamin C serum picks - Non-ascorbic acid

This vitamin c formula is loaded with a lipid-soluble of Vitamin C (known as tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), making it super stable whilst minimising irritation. The formula has a jojoba oil base, which is very similar to the skins natural sebum, so this a great option for all skin types.

This serum formula contains 20% ethylated ascorbic acid. This derivative is close to pure ascorbic acid so has great efficacy, but due to its slightly altered molecular structure it is much better tolerated by occasionally sensitive skin.

This vitamin c formula contains 3% of a lipid-soluble of Vitamin C (known as tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate). The formula has a squalane base, which is very similar to the skins natural sebum, so this a great option for all skin types.

Clinically proven

Non-comedogenic

Dermatologically tested

Sensitive

Unfragranced

I have chosen this serum as your daily treatment product to target pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, as well as brighten and provide antioxidant protection.

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

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.

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.

tocopherol acetate

Great for all skin types, C-ESTA Serum is a powerful antioxidant cocktail, featuring Vitamin C and DMAE, shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and uneven skin texture. Preferred by subjects in a blinded split-face study vs. a leading Vitamin C solution, C-ESTA Serum is the preferred Vitamin C and antioxidant solution for younger, healthier looking skin.

I have chosen this mineral formula as your daily SPF step, to provide broad-spectrum protection against UV damage.

argania spinosa kernel 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.

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

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.

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

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.

taurine

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.

Titanium dioxide is a naturally-occurring mineral found in abundance on earth. It is used as a UV filter in sun protection products, as it offers broad spectrum protection against both UVB and UVA wavelengths (although marginally less broad vs. zinc oxide)

It is a white powder, and works on the skin by creating a very fine film on the skin, which due to its colour, is able to reflect a broad spectrum of UV light, preventing it from entering the skin to cause any cell damage. It has great skin compatibility so is suitable for sensitive skin types.

titanium dioxide

Mineral UV filters are naturally-occurring mineral powders, used in sun protection products to deflect UV light. They work by forming a very fine layer over the skin, which is white and therefore able to reflect the full spectrum of UV light, to offer broad-spectrum sun protection. There are currently two mineral UV filters on the market: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

tocopheryl acetate

trehalose

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.

yeast amino acids

zinc oxide

A new level of skin protection. Ultra-light 100% mineral sunscreen with Environmental Protection Technology shields skin from 5 main causes of damage that accelerate signs of aging: UVA, UVB, pollution, blue light from devices, and infrared radiation. A polymer matrix helps inhibit adhesion and penetration of toxins. Color-correcting tint evens tone and boosts radiance.

I have chosen this dermatologist-recommended, ultra-nourishing formula to support your skin barrier and to target ultra dry, irritated skin.

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

Eucerin UREA REPAIR Face Cream is a light and gentle everyday moisturiser for dry to very dry and tight skin. Enriched with Urea and Lactate, two naturally occurring compounds that bind in moisture, it instantly hydrates dry facial skin, reducing the feeling of tightness to give it a smooth, supple feel. Rough skin is also usually caused by a lack of moisture, and Eucerin UREA REPAIR Face Cream reduces roughness by maintaining skin hydration. It is ideal for use under make-up or after shaving.

These lightweight moisturisers give the perfect balance of water and lipids to keep skin functioning at it's best.

Lightweight moisturiser picks

This moisturiser has a lovely melt-in texture and a host of soothing active ingredients, alongside antioxidants to protect and calm the skin.

Formulated with mineral-rich Avene thermal spring water to soothe, pre-tocopherol (Vitamin E) to provide antioxidant protection, and glycerin to hydrate. A simple formula, which does exactly what you need it to.

This is a fantastic moisturiser rich in humectants including 5% urea, to hydrate the skin and support our overall skin health.

This simple but perfectly formed moisturiser contains a blend of niacinamide, ceramides and humectants to support the skin barrier, hydrate and keeping skin in the best health.

This lightweight moisturiser has a minimalist formula and is specifically designed for sensitive skin, so is. great choice if your skin barrier is compromised or you have reactive skin.

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.

alanine

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.

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

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

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

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.

I have chosen this hydrating serum to moisturise and plump the skin, improving signs of dehydration and smoothing out the overall appearance of the skin to give a natural radiance.

Alteromonas Ferment Extract is a polysaccharide excreted by the gram-negative bacteria, Alteromonas macleodii which grows in deep sea waters. Due to its polysaccharide (carbohydrate) structure, it acts as a humectant, drawing water molecules towards it to plump and hydrate the applied area. Studies have also shown this ingredient to have soothing properties against chemical & mechanical irritants, so is a great active for calming symptoms of sensitive skin.

alteromonas ferment extract

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.

Hydrolysed hyaluronic acid is essentially a low molecular weight Hyaluronic acid (a polysaccharide which occurs naturally in the body), that has been broken up to achieve better skin penetration.


hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid

plankton extract

porphyridium cruentum extract

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

Vibrio Alginolyticus Ferment Filtrate is a polysaccharide excreted by a type of microorganism called Kopara. It is used in skincare for its ability to stimulate the skin’s natural exfoliation process, encouraging the removal of outer dead skin cells, triggering new skin cells to grow underneath. This leads to smoother, more even-toned skin.

vibrio alginolyticus ferment filtrate

vitis vinifera (grape) flower cell extract

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. 

Provides immediate smoothing in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and supports the skin's natural ability to retain moisture resulting in radiant, rejuvenated tone and texture.

Key Benefits of HA5®
HA5® delivers both immediate and long-term benefits
Instantly smoothes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Immediate hydration
Improves the appearance of skin texture and roughness

Exponentially Smooth
Introducing a new chapter in skin hydration. HA5® supports the skin’s ability to replenish its own HA for overall skin health. HA5® has a proprietary mix of five HA forms that smooth the skin, thereby decreasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The 5 HA's work synergistically to provide immediate smoothing and continuous hydration throughout the day.

I have chosen this ultra-hydrating, lightweight formula for you to support your skin's natural barrier, preventing dehydration and improving overall skin texture and radiance.

algin

aloe barbadensis leaf extract

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. 

Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate is a modified version of Hyaluronic acid, where some of the water-soluble branches are replaced with partly non-water soluble groups. This supposedly improves its ability to retain water, as well as having better skin affinity, meaning it attaches to the outer layer of the skin to maximise surface hydration.

sodium acetylated hyaluronate

vaccinium myrtillus leaf extract

Bilberry is a natural fruit, rich in antioxidants to protect from free radical damage.

A ground-breaking alternative to dermal fillers, this intense hydrating serum visibly firms, plumps and revitalises the complexion. Eight synergistic anti-ageing ingredients, including multi-weighted forms of Hyaluronic Acid, transform the appearance of dull, tired and dehydrated skin to restore radiance and elasticity whilst reducing the appearance of expression lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet. Hyaluronic 8 is a ground-breaking alternative to more invasive treatments which features eight multi-weighted hydrating ingredients, including exciting next generation flash filling Hyaluronic Acid, PrimalHyal Ultrafiller™.

I have chosen this ultra-hydrating, lightweight formula for you to support your skin's natural barrier, preventing dryness and improving overall skin texture and radiance.

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.

calcium pantothenate

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.

Enriched with vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid, Hydrating B5 leaves skin moisturised and feeling smooth and hydrated.

Vitamin B5 is an essential nutrient that promotes the skin barrier’s natural repair process and hyaluronic acid is a natural moisturising ingredient capable of absorbing 1,000 times its weight in water.

Hydrating B5 has an non oily gel texture and contains hyaluronic acid to help bind moisture to the skin. Ideal for daily use on its own or in conjunction with other moisturizers for extra Hydration.

+Leaves skin feeling supple and smooth
+Enhances the benefits of a daily moisturiser
+Provides optimal hydration without clogging pores
+Ideal for all skin types, including acne-prone skin
+Recommended for use with vitamin C skincare products

I have chosen this weekly treatment mask to include as part of your weekly regime, to provide a resurfacing and brightening effect, and target dull skin and uneven skin tone.

dipotassium glycyrrhizate

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.

fomes ofﬁcinalis (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.

Prickly pear is a cactus native to Mexico, and is used in skincare for its soothing and hydrating properties.

hydrolyzed opuntia ficus indica flower extract

sodium ascorbyl phosphate

Intensive-C Radiance Peel brightens skin, visibly improves texture and hydrates to restore radiance and even skin tone after one use. Hydrates to restore radiance. Visibly improves skin texture. Evens skin tone after one use.

I have chosen this formula as a daily moisturising step, to provide antioxidant protection to the skin whilst addressing the various signs of ageing.

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

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

Multivitamin Super Cream optimises cellular function and bolsters the skin’s defence against environmental damage while boosting hydration, providing a unique and multi-disciplinary approach to ageing and lifestyle.

I have chosen this simple moisturiser for you to add hydration to the skin and support the natural lipid barrier. It is packed with ingredients which occur naturally as part of the natural moisturising layer of the skin, to help support surface hydration and keep skin healthy.

arginine

histidine

isoleucine

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

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.

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

lysine

phenylalanine

proline

threonine

valine

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.

Vegan

I have chosen this ultra-hydrating formula for you to support the skins natural barrier, whilst addressing some of the key signs of ageing you mention: wrinkles and skin firmness. The formula is oil-free so is a great option for combination - oily skin types with dehydrated skin.

bacillus/folic acid/soybean ferment 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.

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

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

Intensely hydrating oil-free water gel contains revolutionary Cumulative Hydration-Release Technology that instantly locks moisture to skin and increases retention for up to 5 days.  A nutrient-charged blend of peptides, vitamins and minerals strengthens the skin's barrier for smooth, plump skin.

I have chosen this retinol-based eye serum to target dark circles, fine lines & wrinkles around the eye area.

macrocystis pyrifera (kelp) extract

retinol

Retinyl Propionate is an ester of retinol and propionic acid, and is designed as a stabilised Vitamin A derivative to have better skin tolerability vs. retinol. On absorbed, it is broken down in the body to retinol, then into retinaldehyde, and then again into retinoic acid, the active form recognised by the body to trigger it’s skin benefits. Studies have shown levels of 0.3% or higher are required to see benefits comparable with retinol. 

retinyl propionate

All ages and sensitive skin welcome: Helps minimize the signs of aging you can see, and the ones you can’t see yet. Provides 24 hours of hydration to reduce dryness as it instantly brightens. Delivers an instant dose of retinol and a dose of retinol over time to minimize irritation and prolong benefits. Ophthalmologist tested. Preventative and corrective retinol for all ages, and even tested safe for sensitive skin.

I have chosen this high strength anti-ageing night cream to target the visible signs of ageing. Retinol is the most well-researched anti-ageing active and this product has undergone clinical trials to prove its efficacy, so is a great option for addressing wrinkles, skin firmness and age spots.

Improves the look of youthful contours and wrinkles while intensely hydrating. Preventative and corrective retinol for all ages that strengthens skin’s protective barrier. The science of retinol perfected, for fast results while being gentle on skin.

I have chosen this potent anti-ageing treatment to target the key areas of ageing you mention are concerns for you: wrinkles, skin firmness, enlarged pores and pigmentation.

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) is part of the Vitamin A family, and is classed as an ester of retinoic acid. This means it is able to bind directly with the retinoic acid receptors in our body, without the need for conversion first (a process all retinol derivatives undergo, which typically reduces their potency). 

hydroxypinacolone retinoate

solanum lycopersicum (tomato) fruit extract

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. Tomato stem cells provide antioxidant protection to protect against free radicals, as well as acting as a chelating agent to sequester heavy metals which could result in damage, so overall this ingredient has great protective properties.

All ages and sensitive skin welcome: Helps minimise the signs of ageing you can see, and the ones you can’t see yet. Delivers an instant dose of retinol and a dose of retinol over time to minimise irritation and prolong benefits. Preventative and corrective retinol for all ages, and even tested safe for sensitive skin.

I have chosen this highly active brightening serum as your morning treatment step, to target wrinkles, pigmentation and scarring.

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

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.

Asiaticoside 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.

asiaticoside

copper tripeptide growth factor

Copper peptide (GHK-Cu) is involved in a number of processes in the body: wound healing, collagen synthesis, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. There is evidence to show that the level of this protein in the blood reduces as we age, so including this in our skincare may help to support the body’s natural anti-ageing processes.

hyaluronic acid

l-ascorbic acid

Madecassic acid, a pentacyclic triterpene by classification, 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.

madecassic acid

SUPER SERUM ADVANCE+ is a scientifically advanced, clinically proven formula that, for the first time, combines a 15% concentration of our next generation L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) with a bioidentical Copper Tripeptide Growth Factor. SUPER SERUM ADVANCE+ also contains powerful botanical antioxidants and safe skin brighteners. Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Helps improve the look of hypertrophic (raised) scar tissue and fine stretch marks. Safely brightens and helps visibly diminish uneven skin tone. Provides support against environmental aggressors. Provides extremely powerful antioxidant protection.

Vitamin C works as an antioxidant to protect the skin, as well as helping to reduce visible hyperpigmentation, and improve overall radiance.

Vitamin C serum picks - Ascorbic acid

This aesthetician favourite combines 15% L-ascorbic acid (the most potent form of Vitamin C) alongside copper growth peptides and is clinically proven to improve skin texture and tone over time. The formula also includes arbutin to help fade pigmentation marks, plus hyaluronic acid, urea and extracts of centella asiatica to hydrate and soothe the skin, mitigating any potential side effects of the high strength Vitamin C.

This formula combines 15% L-ascorbic acid alongside additional antioxidants vitamin e, b5 and glutathione. Perfect for those looking to maximise their daily antioxidant protection.

A very high-strength formula, this is well suited to those who do not have sensitive skin or those who are used to using vitamin c in their regime already. It is paired with hyaluronic acid, panthenol and allantoin to hydrate and soothe, so may be possible to introduce slowly into your routine even if you haven't used a vitamin c product before (if this is what your expert recommends).

This is a super high-strength water-based serum which includes 23% pure L-ascorbic acid plus Ferulic acid to offer antioxidant protection and to stabilise the Vitamin C. This one tingles on application as it gets to work, and really delivers on results.

Cruelty free

This treatment lotion is brilliant for helping to hydrate and exfoliate the skin. The formula contains 10% Urea, which is a fantastic hydrating ingredient and a natural part of the skin's NMF (Natural Moisturising Factor). High concentrations like this intensely hydrate, as well as gently exfoliate so can be a great option for keratosis pilaris as well.

butyrospermum parkii (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.

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

Eucerin UreaRepair PLUS 10% Urea Lotion gives very dry, rough body skin the daily care it needs. It contains a unique combination of ingredients – Urea, Ceramide and other Natural Moisturising Factors (NMFs) – which bind moisture in and repair the skin´s natural protective barrier to prevent further moisture loss. The formula has been clinically and dermatologically proven to deliver immediate relief and intense, long-lasting moisturisation, delaying dryness and roughness for up to 48 hours. Skin is intensely moisturised and looks and feels smooth and supple again.

Urea

What is Urea?

What does Urea do?

Who is Urea good for?

Who should avoid Urea?

Urea

What is Urea?

What does Urea do?

Who is Urea good for?

Who should avoid Urea?

Treatments (4)

Hydrators (3)

SPFs (1)

Extras (3)