Beauty ingredients explained in plain English

An experimental, cholesterol-linked RNA ingredient with potential for targeted skin delivery, but lacks broad safety and efficacy data for cosmetic use.

Phytoglobin is a plant-based protein that may help boost skin oxygenation and radiance, but research is still emerging and it's not a proven substitute for clinical treatments.

A gentler, fermented form of retinol that may support smoother, brighter skin with less irritation than traditional retinol.

Piperine may boost ingredient absorption but can be irritating; it's not a common or well-studied skincare ingredient on its own.

An experimental biotech ingredient from pig cells with limited human research and ethical concerns; not recommended for routine use.

A synthetic ingredient that may help slow hair thinning by reducing collagen buildup around hair follicles, but results vary and it works best as part of a comprehensive hair care routine.

A novel biotech ingredient from bird stem cells that may support skin repair, but human research is very limited.

Retinol is a gold-standard anti-aging ingredient that speeds up skin renewal but can cause irritation if not introduced gradually.

A retinol-peptide hybrid that aims to smooth fine lines and improve texture with a gentler touch than plain retinol.

A next-generation retinoid that aims to smooth wrinkles and improve skin texture with a gentler touch than standard retinol.

A gentle, water-soluble retinoid that offers anti-aging benefits with less irritation than traditional retinol.

A synthetic peptide that may help reduce fine lines by signaling skin to produce more collagen, but human data is still limited.

SH-Polypeptide-45 is a lab-made peptide that may help support firmer-looking skin, but research is still early and results vary.

SH-Polypeptide-69 is a lab-made peptide that may help signal skin to produce more collagen, but research is still early and results vary.

A lab-made peptide that may help support collagen and improve skin firmness, but research is still early and results vary.

An exotic, high-tech ingredient with limited human research; may offer anti-aging benefits but raises ethical and safety questions.

A novel biotech ingredient that may support skin repair, but human evidence is still limited.

A next-generation retinoid designed to deliver anti-aging benefits with less irritation than traditional retinol.

A lab-made compound that may help improve skin firmness and smoothness, but research is still early and limited.

A novel biotech ingredient with promising lab research but very limited human studies; best viewed as a luxury novelty rather than a proven essential.

Synephrine may offer temporary skin firming effects, but evidence is limited and it can cause irritation, especially at higher concentrations.

Synephrine HCL is a synthetic ingredient sometimes added to cosmetics for a temporary tightening sensation, but its effectiveness and safety for topical use are not well-established.

A synthetic peptide-like ingredient that may help soften expression lines, but research is still emerging and it's not a replacement for proven treatments.

Tazarotene is a potent prescription retinoid that effectively treats acne and reduces fine lines, but it requires careful use due to high irritation potential.

A synthetic ingredient that may help reduce hair shedding and support thicker-looking hair, but evidence is still building.

A synthetic compound that may help soften expression lines by relaxing facial muscles, but research is still limited compared to more established ingredients.

Theophylline may temporarily tighten skin and improve circulation, but results are modest and it can cause irritation for sensitive skin.

Thymidine is a gentle, science-backed ingredient that helps support skin’s natural repair processes, making it a smart addition to anti-aging and recovery routines.

An exotic, high-tech ingredient with very limited human research; its benefits are largely theoretical and not proven in everyday skincare.

A powerful prescription retinoid that effectively treats acne and reduces signs of aging, but requires careful use due to high irritation potential.

A gentle, next-generation retinoid alternative that pairs vitamin A activity with skin-identical lipid support, but clinical evidence is still limited.

Trisodium Chlorin E6 is a light-activated compound used in professional treatments, not a daily skincare ingredient.

An exotic, animal-derived ingredient with potential skin-repair benefits but limited human research and ethical concerns.

A gentler retinoid that aims to give you the anti-aging perks of retinoic acid with less redness and peeling.