Skincare Ingredient Glossary A–Z: What Every Ingredient Does

Skincare ingredient glossary A to Z — CanadianGlow

This A–Z glossary explains the most common skincare ingredients on labels in Canada — what each is and how it’s typically used, in plain language. Each links to the matching collection at CanadianGlow, shipped Canada-wide in CAD.

Azelaic Acid

A naturally occurring acid found in grains, commonly used in cosmetics for its gentle exfoliating properties and to help improve skin texture.

Bakuchiol

A plant-derived ingredient often considered a natural alternative to retinol, used for its ability to enhance skin appearance and provide a smoother texture. Shop Bakuchiol »

Ceramides

Lipids that help maintain the skin's barrier, commonly found in skincare products to enhance hydration and improve overall skin appearance. Shop Ceramides »

Centella (Cica)

A plant extract known for its soothing properties, often used in skincare for its calming effects and to help improve skin texture. Shop Centella »

Collagen

A protein that provides structure to the skin, commonly included in beauty products to help promote a plump, youthful appearance.

Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu)

Small proteins that may help support skin structure, often used in cosmetics for their potential to enhance skin appearance and texture. Shop Copper Peptides »

Glycerin

A humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, commonly used in skincare products for its hydrating properties and to improve skin softness. Shop Glycerin »

Glycolic Acid

An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane, often used in exfoliating products to help improve skin texture and promote a radiant appearance. Shop Glycolic Acid »

Hyaluronic Acid

A powerful humectant that can hold many times its weight in water, commonly used in skincare for its hydrating properties and to enhance skin elasticity. Shop Hyaluronic Acid »

Lactic Acid

An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk, commonly used for gentle exfoliation and to help improve skin texture and brightness. Shop Lactic Acid »

Mandelic Acid

An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from almonds, often used in skincare for its gentle exfoliating properties and to promote a smoother skin surface. Shop Mandelic Acid »

Niacinamide

A form of vitamin B3 commonly used in cosmetics for its ability to enhance skin appearance and improve overall texture and tone. Shop Niacinamide »

Panthenol

Also known as provitamin B5, commonly used in skincare for its moisturizing properties and to help improve skin softness and hydration.

PDRN

A biopolymer derived from salmon DNA, often used in skincare products to enhance skin appearance and support hydration. Shop PDRN »

Peptides

Short chains of amino acids that can help support skin structure, commonly found in beauty products for their potential to enhance skin texture and firmness. Shop Peptides »

Retinol & Retinal

Forms of vitamin A commonly used in skincare for their ability to promote skin renewal and improve overall skin appearance. Shop Retinol & Retinal »

Salicylic Acid (BHA)

A beta hydroxy acid commonly used in cosmetics for its exfoliating properties and ability to help improve skin texture. Shop Salicylic Acid »

Snail Mucin

A secretion from snails that is rich in nutrients, commonly used in skincare for its hydrating properties and to enhance skin texture. Shop Snail Mucin »

Squalane

A lightweight oil derived from plants, commonly used in skincare for its moisturizing properties and ability to improve skin softness. Shop Squalane »

Tranexamic Acid

An ingredient often used in skincare for its potential to enhance skin brightness and improve overall appearance. Shop Tranexamic Acid »

Vitamin C

An antioxidant commonly found in cosmetics for its ability to brighten skin and improve overall appearance. Shop Vitamin C »

Vitamin E

An antioxidant that helps protect skin, commonly used in skincare for its moisturizing properties and to enhance skin softness.

Arbutin

A naturally occurring compound used in cosmetics for its potential to promote a more even skin tone and enhance overall appearance. Shop Arbutin »

Zinc

A mineral often included in skincare for its soothing properties and ability to help improve skin texture. Shop Zinc »

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Product information is provided for general reference only. Always read and follow the directions, warnings and ingredient list on the product packaging. For any over-the-counter treatment product, consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional if you are unsure.