Ingredient Science
A closer look at the ingredients in your skincare, what they actually do on your skin, and how they hold up against the research. No hype, just what the studies say.
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Vitamin C Skincare Guide: L-Ascorbic Acid, Derivatives, and Stability Explained
Not all vitamin C is equal, and some forms oxidize before they even reach your skin. Here’s how to choose the right form, read the label, and get results.
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AHA vs. BHA vs. PHA: How to Pick the Right Exfoliating Acid for Your Skin
All three exfoliate, but they’re not interchangeable. BHAs are the only acids that get inside a pore. AHAs work on the surface. PHAs barely penetrate at all, which is exactly why sensitive skin loves them. Here’s how to pick the right one.
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The Vitamin A Ladder: Which Retinoid Is Right for Your Skin?
Which retinoid can your skin actually handle? From gentle retinyl esters to prescription tretinoin, the vitamin A family works on a ladder of potency.
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How to Read a Skincare Ingredient List: The INCI Decoder Guide
Learn the rules cosmetic chemists use to read an ingredient list, and you’ll never be fooled by a “hero ingredient” that’s barely in the bottle.