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Mandelic Acid WHAT IT DOES: One of the strongest AHAs, mandelic acid is often used to treat those with oily skin or who suffer from acne. Sometimes it is used as an alternative to salicylic acid as it is less irritating, but has a similar effect on blemishes and oil production. HOW IT WORKS: While […]
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Lactic Acid WHAT IT DOES: Lactic acid is an AHA derived from milk that is both a chemical exfoliant and a moisturiser. The acid helps to brighten skin, reduce the look of wrinkles and improve skin texture by promoting skin cell renewal. HOW IT WORKS: A nifty ingredient that can do it all, lactic acid […]
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Kaolin WHAT IT DOES: One of the most popular types of clay mask, kaolin allows for deep cleansing and purification, drawing out impurities from the skin, including excess oil. It’s great for acne-prone skin, and can detoxify pollutants from pores. HOW IT WORKS: Working especially effectively on congested or oily skin via a mask form, […]
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Jojoba Oil WHAT IT DOES: Jojoba oil is a golden liquid wax extracted from the jojoba bean, and a popular ingredient in natural moisturisers. Historically, jojoba was one of the earliest forms of natural skincare and was first utilised by Native Americans. In contemporary skincare, jojoba is most commonly utilised for its ability to enhance […]
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Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) WHAT IT DOES: Hamamelis Virginiana, more commonly known as witch hazel, has been used in the treatment of burns and bites and more recently, topical skincare. With antioxidant properties, witch hazel can help soothe inflamed skin, and can also be used to absorb oil. HOW IT WORKS: As an astringent, witch […]
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Ginseng WHAT IT DOES: Super high in vitamins, ginseng uses powerful antioxidant properties to revitalise the skin. It is often found in creams or serums, and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark spots. HOW IT WORKS: With a focus on the production of collagen and circulation, the vitamins in ginseng help revitalise […]
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Ferulic Acid WHAT IT DOES: One of the most effective ingredients for anti-ageing, ferulic acid is an all-rounder worthy of your top shelf. When combined with other ingredients, most notably Vitamins C and E and retinol, it helps stabilise and get the most out of free radical-fighting benefits. HOW IT WORKS: Helping to stabilise Vitamins […]
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EGF Epidermal Growth Factors WHAT IT DOES: EGFs, or epidermal growth factors can be sourced from plants and yeast, but the best source is from humans. EGFs stimulate the proliferation of epidermal cells, resulting in wonderful wound-healing properties. HOW IT WORKS: EGFs are present in many serums, boosters, masks and creams and their use has […]
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Dimethicone WHAT IT DOES: A commonly used ingredient, dimethicone is a silicon-based polymer which is added to a number of common products including primers and hair conditioners. It gives products a slippery feeling and allows them to be applied more easily. HOW IT WORKS: Dimethicone works to prevent water-loss by forming a hydrating barrier between […]
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Caffeine WHAT IT DOES: Just like a cup of coffee, caffeine helps wake our skin up, and works to firm, brighten and tighten. Often used in eye products, caffeine can help reduce puffiness in the delicate under-eye area. HOW IT WORKS: Caffeine’s circulation-boosting properties allow it to help restore clarity and brightness to the skin’s […]
