Skincare guides and help

Explore skincare by formula, ingredient and place in a routine. The collection includes cleansers, treatments, moisturizers, sets, and body and hair products.

Read the formula details

Product pages show the size, ingredients, directions and relevant warnings where listed. Compare the product and packaging instructions before use.

• Ingredient Glossary
• Skincare Guides

Aloe vera leaf juice powder comes from aloe leaf juice. It is used in formulas that help hold water at the skin’s surface. The ingredient may be listed as Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder.

Alpha-arbutin is used in formulas for the appearance of dark spots and uneven tone. Check the ingredient list and concentration on the product page.

Ascorbyl glucoside is a vitamin C derivative used in antioxidant formulas and products for dull or uneven-looking skin. Check the ingredient list to see which vitamin C form a product uses.

Asiaticoside is a compound found in Centella asiatica. It appears in topical formulas for hydration and a soothing feel.

Azelaic acid is a direct acid that can be used in formulas for uneven tone or texture. It belongs to a different acid family from alpha and beta hydroxy acids.

Explore the steps in a routine, the order of application and common formula ingredients.

• Build a Routine
• Layering Guide
• What Is a Skin Toner?
• Using Retinoids
• Vitamin C Guide
• Ingredient Glossary

Compare formulas

Retinol and retinal are forms in the vitamin A family. Concentrations and instructions vary with the form and product.

Build a routine

Follow the product’s introduction schedule, timing and compatibility instructions. Check the packaging for sun exposure and other warnings before use.

• Retinol
• Patch Testing

Decide which concern matters most and choose a treatment whose directions fit your routine.

Cleanse

Start with a cleanser suited to your skin and follow its directions.

Apply a treatment

Choose a formula for the concern you want to address. Introduce one new product at a time so you can observe how your skin responds.

Moisturize and protect

Follow with moisturizer. Use a sunscreen during the day according to its label.

A toner is a light liquid or milky skincare product usually applied after cleansing. A hydrating toner and an exfoliating toner serve different purposes.

Read the application instructions

Follow the formula’s directions on frequency, application area and sun exposure. Check compatibility before adding an acid toner to a routine that already contains exfoliants.

Caffeine is used in some eye-area products for the appearance of puffiness and dark circles. Check where the formula is intended to be applied.

Ceramides are lipids present in the outer skin layer. They help support the barrier that limits moisture loss and are used in some moisturizers.

Use the form below for questions about skincare products, ingredients and routines, an item on the site, or an existing order.

What to include

For a product question, add the product name and the size, color or model you are looking at. For an order question, include the order number and the email address used at checkout.

Copper peptides are ingredients used in some formulas for the appearance of fine lines and loss of firmness. Read the product’s directions and compatibility information.

Where do I check the ingredients?

Read the ingredient list on the product page and on the package you receive. Formula information can vary over time or by region.

What should I check before adding a treatment?

Read the use instructions and warnings, including any compatibility notes. Follow the product's patch-test guidance where listed.

• Layering Guide
• Contact

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid used in surface exfoliants. Read the formula’s use frequency, application area and sun exposure guidance.

Sun exposure

Some glycolic acid products carry a sunburn alert. Their instructions call for sunscreen, protective clothing and limiting sun exposure during use and for one week afterward.

Goji berry extract is a botanical ingredient used in formulas designed for antioxidant support and hydration.

Retinoid complexes appear in some formulas for visible texture, uneven tone and signs of aging. Use the directions for the particular formula and concentration.

Fermented hyaluronic acid is used in products for hydration. Check the product page for the other ingredients in the formula and the intended application area.

Hyaluronic acid binds water. Sodium hyaluronate is a salt form of hyaluronic acid used in hydrating skincare formulas. Check the item label for the ingredient name in your product.

Read about several common skincare ingredients. The concentration, full ingredient list and directions on the individual product page describe the specific formula.

• Aloe Vera Leaf Juice Powder
• Alpha-Arbutin
• Ascorbic Acid
• Ascorbyl Glucoside
• Asiaticoside
• Azelaic Acid
• Caffeine
• Ceramides
• Copper Peptides
• Ferment-Derived PDRN
• Fermented Hyaluronic Acid
• Glycolic Acid
• Goji Berry Extract
• Hyaluronic Acid
• Lactic Acid
• Lactococcus Ferment Lysate
• Mandelic Acid
• Marine Bacteria Polysaccharides
• Maritime Pine Bark Extract
• Niacinamide
• Panthenol
• Peptide Complex
• Resveratrol
• Retinoid Complexes
• Retinol
• Salicylic Acid
• Squalane
• Tasmanian Pepperberry Extract
• Zinc PCA

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid used for surface exfoliation. Read the directions and any sun-exposure warning on the specific formula.

Some topical products use ferment-derived PDRN to address visible changes in firmness and elasticity. Check the formula’s intended use and concentration.

Lactococcus ferment lysate is obtained from fermented bacteria. It can be used in cosmetic formulas designed to support the skin barrier.

Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid used in topical exfoliants for uneven-looking tone and texture. It has a larger molecule than several other commonly used AHAs.

These polysaccharides are carbohydrate molecules obtained from marine bacteria. They may be included in cosmetic formulations for hydration.

A combination of peptides may be included in formulas for the appearance of fine lines. Check the full product ingredient list for the specific peptide names.

Niacinamide is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3. Skincare formulas use it for concerns such as visible shine, uneven tone and support for the skin barrier. Check the formula’s concentration and directions before adding it to a routine.

Panthenol is a form of vitamin B5 used in moisturizers. It helps a formula attract and hold water at the skin’s surface.

Follow the product’s directions

The test area and contact time depend on the formula. For a mask or peel, use the contact time on the label and rinse at the end. Some salicylic acid formulas give a separate multi-day test instruction.

What to watch for

If the test area becomes red, itchy, irritated or starts to burn or blister, stop using the product. Follow the product’s warning instructions for a reaction. A patch test checks for an initial reaction in one small area.

French maritime pine bark extract is used as an antioxidant ingredient in some skincare formulas. Look for the extract in the full ingredient list.

Resveratrol is an antioxidant found in some topical formulas. Check the product instructions for the recommended amount, timing and compatible combinations.

Retinol is a form of vitamin A found in skincare formulas for visible texture and signs of aging. Introduce it gradually according to the directions for the concentration and formula you are using.

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid used in exfoliating formulas for signs of congestion and uneven texture. Follow the label’s directions and warnings.

Start with one priority

Choose the concern you want to focus on and check which ingredients are in your existing routine before adding a treatment.

Check when to apply it

Keep daytime and evening directions separate. Follow the specific product label for retinoids, exfoliants and sunscreen.

• Build a Skincare Routine
• Patch Testing

Read the ingredient name

Some formulas use ascorbic acid directly. Others use a vitamin C derivative, such as ascorbyl glucoside. These forms have different formulation and stability characteristics.

Plan the order

Check the product’s instructions for application time and ingredient compatibility. Follow daytime products with sunscreen as directed.

When product directions allow, apply lighter water-based treatments before heavier creams or oils. Follow the order and timing specified on each label.

Check combinations

Read each treatment’s compatibility guidance before combining it with another treatment. Keep the routine simple while introducing a new formula.

• Build a Skincare Routine
• Patch Testing

Begin with a short routine. Let your skin adjust before adding more treatments.

Cleanse

Start with a cleanser suited to your skin and follow its directions.

Apply a treatment

Choose a formula for the concern you want to address. Introduce one new product at a time so you can observe how your skin responds.

Moisturize and protect

Follow with moisturizer. Use a sunscreen during the day according to its label.

Squalane is an emollient used in products that help skin feel softer and more moisturized. Check the formula’s directions for when to apply it.

Tasmanian pepperberry extract is a botanical used for antioxidant support and in some formulas designed to soothe the skin.

Ascorbic acid is the direct form of vitamin C used in some antioxidant skincare formulas for uneven tone and visible signs of aging. Check the exact formula and directions.

Zinc PCA is the zinc salt of PCA. It appears in some products for hydration and the look of excess surface shine.

The Serum Foundation range contains 36 shades. Compare the first number for the shade category, the next number for depth within that category, and the letters for undertone or finish.

Read the numbers

• 1.0 to 1.2 covers the lighter range.
• 2.0 to 2.3 covers the medium range.
• 3.0 to 3.4 covers the dark and deep range.
• 4.0 to 4.1 covers the deepest range.

Read the letters

P indicates pink, N neutral, Y yellow, and R red. An additional S or G indicates a silver or gold highlight, respectively. Use the shade-family controls to compare swatches for the available variants.

Compare Serum Foundation shades

Check your local collection program for the materials it accepts and how it wants items prepared. For a bottle or jar that qualifies, empty the container, separate removable parts, and follow the program's cleaning instructions.

Bottles, jars, and tubes

Sort containers by material. The guide identifies glass, aluminum, PET #1, HDPE #2, and PP #5 as materials to check locally. Ask your program about adhesive labels, aluminum liners, and small plastic caps.

Small parts and sets

Check pumps, droppers, caps, tubes, and sachets separately. For a set with several containers or materials, sort the pieces individually.

Browse gifts by how familiar the recipient is with skincare. Compare the formulas and sizes listed for each set before choosing.

For someone getting started

Explore the Mini Discovery Set or look through the Daily Set for a smaller selection.

For someone who already has a routine

Compare the Hydration Collection and the Barrier Support Collection by what each includes.

For a formula enthusiast

Read the ingredient and direction information for the items in the Vitamin C & A Collection before choosing a set.

Browse all skincare sets

Choose the concern you want to browse, then narrow the catalog by product type, ingredient, or routine step.

Choose a concern

• Dryness and dehydration
• Uneven tone
• Signs of congestion
• Barrier support

Explore the steps

Use the routine browser to filter the formulas by Prep, Treat, and Seal. Read each selected product's ingredient list and directions.

Explore the summer selection by cleansing products, targeted formulas, and sun care. The product pages provide format, options, and use instructions.

Prep

Compare the Glucoside Foaming Cleanser and the Glycolipid Cream Cleanser by format and use directions.

Treat

Explore Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 with Ceramides and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. The product pages list the details for each formula.

Sun care

See the label and directions for the UV Filters SPF 45 Serum.

The HA + Asiaticoside Lip Treatment is a 10 mL formula with fermented hyaluronic acid, asiaticoside, and goji berry extract.

Compare three formats

• PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum is a lip exfoliant.
• HA + Asiaticoside Lip Treatment is a leave-on lip treatment.
• Squalane + Amino Acids Lip Balm is a balm.

Read about the ingredients

See the glossary entries for fermented hyaluronic acid, asiaticoside, and goji berry extract.

A formula name can identify a featured ingredient. The full ingredient list and product format help you compare how formulas are put together.

From ingredient to formula

Formula development considers the ingredients together, the way the product is delivered, and the packaging that holds it. The product page identifies the formula and carries its individual directions.

Compare the complete lists

Use the Ingredient Glossary to look up unfamiliar names. Compare the strength where listed, the format, and the directions on the individual product page.

Skincare formulation research uses biotechnology to study ingredients and how they are made. Two terms in the field are biomimicry and fermentation.

Biomimicry and fermentation

Biomimicry uses structures found in nature as a starting point for ingredient design. In fermentation, microorganisms can help produce or process ingredients under controlled conditions. Some production routes use fermentation to make squalane.

Recognize ingredient names

Explore entries on squalane, fermented hyaluronic acid, and copper peptides.

Retinol 0.3% Emulsion is a 30 mL skincare formula. The formulation holds retinol in small lipid particles and includes an ingredient that forms a film on the skin.

Compare the formula and directions

The product page lists its ingredients, directions, and warnings. Compare it with the other retinoid formulas by concentration, format, and label instructions.

Read the Retinol Glossary

Niacinamide is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3. Skincare formulas may include it for the look of shine, uneven tone or uneven texture. You can find it in several formats, including water-based serums and emulsions.

Compare two formats

• Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a water-based facial serum that also contains zinc PCA.
• Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion is made for both the face and body.

Read the whole formula

Compare the intended application area, ingredient list and product directions when choosing a format. The Niacinamide glossary entry explains the ingredient, and the product page gives the directions and warnings for that formula.

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a water-based facial serum made with a form of vitamin B3 and zinc PCA. The product lists visible shine, dullness and uneven texture among its cosmetic concerns.

Where it fits

The product is listed as a Treat step. Its directions say to apply a few drops to the face in the morning and evening. Check the product page for the full directions, warnings and patch-test instructions before first use.

Layering and texture

If layered products roll into small flakes, review how much you applied and give each layer time to settle. For the application order, see the Skincare Layering Guide. See the glossary for niacinamide and zinc PCA.

Hyaluronic acid binds water and appears in hydrating formulas. Niacinamide serves a different role in formulas listed for visible shine or uneven-looking texture. The two ingredients can appear in the same skincare routine. Check the directions for the specific products you use.

Compare the serums

• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (Original Formulation) is a water-based serum for hydration.
• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides) adds ceramides to its formula.
• Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a water-based facial serum that contains zinc PCA.

Layering two water-based formulas

Start with each label’s instructions. When both sets of directions allow the same application step, the formula that addresses your main cosmetic concern can go first. See the Skincare Layering Guide for a broader comparison of formats.

A skincare essence is a lightweight, hydrating formula. It usually fits between cleansing and the products that follow, such as a serum or moisturizer. The intended application step and directions vary by formula.

Where an essence fits

Multi-Active Delivery Essence is listed as a Prep step. Its directions describe applying it to the face with fingertips or a cotton pad. Read the full directions and warnings on the product page before applying it.

Build the next step

Choose any subsequent formula using its own directions. For example, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is listed as a separate Treat step. Use the Skincare Layering Guide to compare the order for different formats.