Ingredients Glossary

Every active we use, in plain English — not marketing language.

Glycolic Acid (7% in the Skin Renewal Toner)

An AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) that dissolves the bond holding dead skin cells together, so they shed evenly instead of building up as dullness and rough texture. 7% is a dose that works visibly without the downtime of a stronger in-clinic peel.

Niacinamide

Vitamin B3. Fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (the marks acne and irritation leave behind), calms inflammation, and regulates oil production — one of the few actives with strong, consistent clinical backing.

Ceramide Complex (3% in the Brightening Barrier Moisturiser)

Ceramides aren't an add-in ingredient — they're literally what your skin barrier's lipid layer is made of. This complex helps rebuild that layer, which is what actually keeps moisture in and irritants out.

Hyaluronic Acid

A water-binding molecule that holds up to 1000x its weight in water, used here for lightweight hydration that doesn't feel heavy in humid weather.

Centella Asiatica (Cica)

A calming botanical extract used to soothe reactive or compromised skin — especially useful if you're layering it with an acid like glycolic.

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)

Soothes and supports the skin's natural repair process. Commonly used alongside barrier-repair ingredients like ceramides.

Bearberry Extract

A botanical brightening ingredient used as a gentler alternative to hydroquinone.

SPF 15 (in the Brightening Barrier Moisturiser)

Daily photoprotection for indoor exposure and short trips outside, without white cast. For a full day outdoors or direct sun, layer a dedicated SPF 30+ on top — we won't oversell what one bottle can honestly do.

Fragrance — 0%, always

Fragrance is the most common trigger for reactive, barrier-compromised skin, and does nothing for your skin except smell nice briefly. It's left out of every RealSKN formula, with no exceptions.