PoreIQSkincare ingredient dictionary
What each ingredient does, who it suits, what to watch out for, and what it pairs well with.
Retinol
A vitamin A derivative that speeds up skin cell turnover. It is one of the most studied ingredients for texture, fine lines and clogged pores.
Benefits & 11 pairings →AntioxidantsVitamin C
An antioxidant that brightens the look of dull skin and dark spots and helps defend against daily environmental stress.
Benefits & 9 pairings →BrighteningTranexamic Acid
A brightening ingredient used for stubborn dark spots and uneven tone, usually well tolerated.
Benefits & 2 pairings →PeptidesPeptides
Short chains of amino acids used in anti-aging products to support firmness and smoothness.
Benefits & 2 pairings →Exfoliating acidsSalicylic Acid
An oil-soluble exfoliant that gets into pores, making it a go-to for blackheads, clogged pores and oily skin.
Benefits & 6 pairings →Exfoliating acidsGlycolic Acid
The smallest alpha hydroxy acid. It dissolves the bonds between dead surface cells to reveal smoother, brighter-looking skin.
Benefits & 6 pairings →Exfoliating acidsLactic Acid
A gentler alpha hydroxy acid that exfoliates while also helping the skin hold on to water.
Benefits & 1 pairing →Acne activesBenzoyl Peroxide
An over-the-counter acne ingredient that reduces acne-causing bacteria on the skin.
Benefits & 4 pairings →Acne activesAzelaic Acid
A gentle acid that helps with redness, breakouts and dark marks, and is often tolerated by sensitive skin.
Benefits & 2 pairings →VitaminsNiacinamide
A gentle, multitasking form of vitamin B3 that supports the skin barrier, helps balance oil and evens out the look of tone.
Benefits & 8 pairings →HumectantsHyaluronic Acid
A humectant that draws water into the top layers of skin, making it look plumper and feel less tight.
Benefits & 5 pairings →Barrier lipidsCeramides
Lipids that make up a large part of the skin barrier. Adding them back helps skin hold moisture and stay comfortable.
Benefits & 2 pairings →EmollientsSqualane
A lightweight, stable oil that softens skin and locks in moisture without feeling greasy.
Benefits & watch-outs →Soothing botanicalsCentella Asiatica
A plant extract known as "cica", used to soothe the look of redness and support stressed skin.
Benefits & 1 pairing →Sunscreen filtersZinc Oxide
A mineral UV filter that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and is gentle on sensitive skin.
Benefits & 1 pairing →Potential irritantsFragrance (Parfum)
Added scent in skincare. It does nothing for skin and is one of the most common causes of cosmetic allergies.
Benefits & watch-outs →Potential irritantsAlcohol Denat.
A drying alcohol used to make formulas feel light and dry down fast. High amounts can irritate dry or sensitive skin.
Benefits & watch-outs →