The House
Ingredients Glossary
A plain-language guide to the actives behind great skincare — what they do, and how to use them well. When you understand the label, you shop with confidence.
Retinol (Vitamin A)
A gold-standard active that speeds cell turnover to smooth fine lines, refine texture, and even tone. Introduce slowly and always pair with daily SPF.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
A brightening antioxidant that defends against free radicals, fades dark spots, and supports collagen. Best applied in the morning under sunscreen.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
A versatile multitasker that calms redness, balances oil, refines pores, and strengthens the skin barrier. Plays well with almost everything.
Hyaluronic Acid
A humectant that holds many times its weight in water, plumping and hydrating the skin. Apply to damp skin and seal with a moisturiser.
AHAs (Glycolic, Lactic)
Water-soluble acids that exfoliate the surface to brighten dull skin and soften texture. Glycolic is stronger; lactic is gentler and more hydrating.
BHA (Salicylic Acid)
An oil-soluble exfoliant that clears inside pores, making it ideal for congestion, blackheads, and breakout-prone skin.
Peptides
Short chains of amino acids that signal the skin to support firmness and elasticity. Gentle and well-suited to layering.
Ceramides
Lipids that occur naturally in the skin barrier. Replenishing them locks in moisture and protects against dryness and irritation.
Hyaluronic vs. Glycerin
Both are humectants. Glycerin is a lightweight, time-tested hydrator often found alongside hyaluronic acid for layered, lasting moisture.
Azelaic Acid
A soothing active that targets redness, uneven tone, and breakouts — a favourite for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin.
SPF (Sunscreen)
The single most effective anti-ageing step. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning to protect results from every other product.
Squalane
A lightweight, non-greasy emollient that mimics the skin's own oils — cushioning moisture without clogging pores.
How to combine actives
As a rule of thumb: use vitamin C and SPF in the morning, and exfoliating acids or retinol at night. Avoid layering strong acids with retinol in the same routine until your skin is well acclimatised, and always reintroduce one active at a time. When in doubt, simpler is better — and our team is happy to help you build a routine.
Looking for products with a specific ingredient? Browse the full catalogue or ask us via the contact page.