What each ingredient actually does, where it comes from, and whether the vegan version holds up. Plain-English science — no fear-mongering, no miracle claims.
Fatty acids and sterols that help skin hold onto moisture. Our most-read ingredient deep dive.
Read the science Redness, pores, oil controlVitamin B3, always synthetic and always vegan. One of the few actives with research to back nearly every claim.
Read the science Hydration, plumpingOnce extracted from rooster combs — today the good stuff is fermented from plants. How to tell which one is in your serum.
Read the scienceFatty acids and sterols that help skin hold onto moisture. Our most-read ingredient deep dive.
Vitamin B3, always synthetic and always vegan. One of the few actives with research to back nearly every claim.
Once extracted from rooster combs — today the good stuff is fermented from plants. How to tell which one is in your serum.
More than a sunburn remedy, but only if the formula uses enough of it. What concentration actually matters.
Technically a wax ester that mimics your skin's own sebum, which is why it rarely breaks anyone out.
A rich occlusive that seals moisture in. Great in body care, heavier than most faces need.
The internet's favorite cure-all is comedogenic for many people. Where it helps and where it hurts.
Reader requests decide what we research next. Tell us what is on your label and we will decode it.
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