Ingredients A to Z – what’s really in your skincare

Recognized by the FDA as an Anti-Aging active ingredient. A well-tolerated alternative to Retinol – ideal for anyone sensitive to Vitamin A.

Glycolic acid penetrates the deepest, Lactic acid the gentlest, Mandelic acid is ideal for sensitive skin. Always introduce slowly and use sun protection during the day. Available in the Dr. Grandel AHA Effect ampoules.

Activated charcoal works purely mechanically – it absorbs but does not store active ingredients. Combined with Kaolin or Bentonite especially effective in masks.

Allantoin is considered one of the most compatible active ingredients – also suitable for baby skin. Originally derived from the comfrey plant, now mostly produced synthetically identical to nature.

Alpha-Arbutin is considered a more tolerable alternative to hydroquinone. Works synergistically with Vitamin C and Niacinamid for a more even skin tone.

Originally from Morocco – focus on sustainable sourcing and fair production. Also suitable for hair and nails .

Astaxanthin is fat-soluble and should be used in oil-based formulations. Used as a dietary supplement and in topical products.

One of the few active ingredients considered safe during pregnancy. Works slower than Retinol, but is much better tolerated – especially for sensitive skin.

Unlike Retinol Bakuchiol can also be used in the morning – no increased need for sun protection. Ideal for a gentle introduction to Anti-Aging care and an option during pregnancy as an alternative to Retinol.

Bentonite works stronger and deeper than Kaolin – for very sensitive skin, Kaolin is the gentler choice. Both are approved in organic certified natural cosmetics.

Beta-Glucan derived from oats, is considered one of the gentlest soothing agents and is often used after treatments or for rosacea-prone skin.

Included in NORDSILK by The Swedish Glow – combined with Silicon and Vitamin C for targeted support of skin, hair, and nails.

One of the gentlest soothing agents in cosmetics. Often used in combination with Panthenol and Allantoin for maximum soothing effect.

Often combined with evening primrose oil used – both complement each other perfectly. Key active ingredient of the PHYT'S Aromalliance Anti Age line.

One of the classic active ingredients in natural cosmetics – proven for centuries. Included in the PHYT'S Crème Absolue as a soothing component.

Also known as Cica or Tiger Grass. Used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries. For a more intense effect, pay attention to the specific INCI Madecassoside .

Different types of ceramides (NP, AP, EOP) work synergistically – a product with multiple ceramides is more effective than one with only a single type.

Signature active ingredient of PHYT'S Sérum Multi-Vita. The difference from conventional wheat germ extracts lies in the patented concentration and the specific manufacturing process.

CoQ10 is fat-soluble – it works best in combination with fatty carrier substances. Synergistic with Vitamin E and Vitamin C.

In organic certified natural cosmetics like PHYT'S and Gamarde the preferred surfactant, as it protects the skin flora. Usually found in the INCI mostly in the first third of the list.

Frequently used in Anti-Aging ampoules and serums – among others in products from the MATIS Paris Réponse Caviar and Dr. Grandel lines.

One of the most effective plant-based soothing agents in cosmetics. Often used in products for rosacea-prone or post-treatment irritated skin.

Ectoin is considered one of the most promising protective agents of recent years – especially for urban skin and skin under UV stress. Suitable for all skin types.

Often used together with Caffeine used in eye care products – both promote microcirculation and work synergistically against puffiness and dark circles.

Ethylhexylglycerin is one of the most commonly used preservatives in modern cosmetics – usually recognizable at the end of the INCI list. Not permitted in organic certified natural cosmetics.

Rarely used alone – it unfolds its strength in combination with Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Products with this triple combination are among the most effective antioxidant complexes in Anti-Aging care.

Ginkgo extract combines antioxidant protection and activation of microcirculation in a single plant extract.

Despite its proven effectiveness, it is often underestimated because it is inexpensive. Glycerin It is included in almost every skincare product – and for good reason.

Together with Caffeine key active ingredient in Skinence Caffeine 5% + EGCG Eye Serum – the combination significantly enhances the antioxidant protective effect.

One of the most sought-after natural oils in Anti-Aging care. Especially effective in combination with Vitamin C. Also known as Rosehip Oil – same oil, same INCI.

In moderate doses and without alcohol, one of the most effective plant-based pore refiners. For very sensitive skin, look for alcohol-free formulations.

Different molecule sizes penetrate to different depths – low-molecular Hyaluron penetrates deeper, high-molecular acts on the surface. It works best on slightly damp skin. Included in the Skinence Hyaluron 2% + B5 facial serum.

More tolerable alternatives to hydroquinone: Alpha-Arbutin, Tranexamic acid, Niacinamid and Kojic acid. These are approved and effective in Switzerland.

Inulin is the topical counterpart to probiotics – it feeds the beneficial skin bacteria instead of replacing them. Often used in combination with Lactobacilli in microbiome care.

The three most common iron oxides: CI 77491 (red), CI 77492 (yellow), CI 77499 (black). All skin tones in foundations and concealers are created by mixing these.

Isopropyl Myristate is not an active ingredient but an excipient – it improves the texture and the absorption of active ingredients. In certified organic natural cosmetics, it is replaced by plant-based esters.

Because it resembles sebum, it can balance excessive sebum production and have a regulating effect on oily skin. Jojoba oil One of the most versatile plant oils in natural cosmetics.

Signature active ingredient of the MATIS Paris Réponse Caviar line – combines an exceptional active ingredient complex with intensive Anti-Aging care.

Key active ingredient in Skinence Caffeine 5% + EGCG Eye Serum. The combination with EGCG from green tea significantly enhances the antioxidant protective effect.

Key active ingredient in The Swedish Glow Marine Collagen 13,000 – 13,000 mg hydrolyzed fish collagen daily, combined with Vitamin C, Biotin and Hyaluronic acid.

For a targeted effect from within, we recommend taking The Swedish Glow Marine Collagen 13,000 – 13,000 mg hydrolyzed fish collagen daily as a dietary supplement.

The skin microbiome is a growing field of research – similar to the gut microbiome, the skin flora plays an important role in the appearance and resilience of the skin.

In organic certified quality – as in PHYT'S products – lavender oil is more effective than synthetic alternatives because it contains hundreds of synergistically acting molecules. Included in the PHYT'S Crème Absolue.

Oily skin often produces too much oleic acid and too little Linoleic acid – which promotes blackheads. Oils with a high linoleic acid content, such as Rosehip oil or hemp seed oil, can specifically help balance this.

Part of the HERMADE formula of The Swedish Glow – together with Saffron, Magnesium and Vitamin B6 for inner balance and vitality.

Madecassoside is the purified and concentrated form of Centella active ingredients. If you are looking for an intensive effect, you should pay attention to this specific INCI instead of just «Centella Extract».

Key active ingredient in HERMADE by The Swedish Glow – together with Vitamin B6, Saffron and Maca for inner balance and energy.

Identifiable in the INCI as Paraffinum, Petrolatum or Mineral Oil. All PHYT'S and MATIS products at BEAUTYSTORE are mineral oil-free.

Especially relevant as an anti-pollution ingredient in urban environments – fine dust and exhaust fumes are underestimated drivers of premature skin aging.

Why is Aqua almost always listed first? Because INCI lists are sorted in descending order by concentration. This does not mean the product is less effective – it just shows that water is the main solvent.