Skincare Ingredients Glossary

Promotional graphic on a light blue background with molecule chains and laboratory dishes with swashes of gel, cream and lotion with text in white: Ingredients GlossaryPromotional graphic on a light blue background with molecule chains and laboratory dishes with swashes of gel, cream and lotion with text in white: Ingredients Glossary

Welcome to the Dermal Therapy Skincare Ingredients Glossary – your go-to resource for learning more about the ingredients we use across our skincare range. This page has been designed to help you better understand what’s in our products and how each ingredient contributes to healthy, effective skincare.

Each ingredient listed below includes a short explanation of what it is and how it works. To explore more, simply click on any ingredient name to expand and view its full description. You’ll also see a list of Dermal Therapy products that contain that specific ingredient, making it easy to identify which formulations are right for your skincare needs.

Whether you’re looking for clinically proven ingredients like Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid, or naturally derived skincare ingredients like Aloe Vera and Tea Tree Oil, this glossary helps you make informed decisions about the products you use on your skin.

We are continually working to grow this list as new ingredients are researched, tested and included in our formulations. For full skincare ingredient listings, please refer to individual product pages. You can also visit our Knowledge Hub, where we regularly publish educational articles that explore ingredients and skincare science in more depth.

Browse Our Skincare Ingredient Glossary

Water-soluble acids that exfoliate the surface of the skin, promoting cell turnover. AHAs help clear blocked pores, which are often a cause of acne, by reducing the way skin cells bond together. AHAs are used in products like Dermal Therapy Acne Spot Cream to treat acne without causing irritation.

Products that have AHA as Glycolic Acid: Acne Spot Cream, Exfoliating Foot Mask, Heel Balm, Heel Balm Platinum, Overnight Lip Repair, Sensitive Skin Wash

Products that have AHA as Citric Acid: Acne Control Lotion, Acne Control Wash, Acne Spot Cream, Anti-Itch Soothing Lotion, Hair Restoring Shampoo & Conditioner, Little Bodies Eczema Relief Cream, Little Bodies Eczema Wash & Shampoo, Sebum Control Shampoo, Scalp Relief Shampoo & Conditioner, Sensitive Skin Lotion, Sensitive Skin Wash, Very Dry Face Cleanser, Very Dry Skin Wash

Products that have AHA as Lactic Acid: Acne Spot Cream, Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, Exfoliating Foot Mask, Fungistop 3-in-1 Nail Treatment, Hand Balm, Nourishing Foot & Leg Cream, Overnight Lip Repair, Psoriasis Cream, Sweat Control Roll On, Sweat Control Spray

A soothing ingredient that calms irritated skin and promotes healing. It has moisturising properties, helping the skin retain water and keeping it hydrated, while also forming a protective barrier against irritants.

Products that have Allantoin: Acne Spot Cream, Acne Control Wash, Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, Sanitising Hand Cream, Hand Balm, Sebum Control Shampoo, Scalp Relief Shampoo & Conditioner, Heel Balm, Heel Balm Platinum, Overnight Face Repair Cream, Psoriasis Cream, Very Dry Skin Cream, Very Dry Skin Lotion, Very Rough Hands

Known for its soothing and healing properties, Aloe Vera calms irritated skin and provides moisture. It is effective for treating dry skin, burns, blisters, and insect bites.

Products that have Aloe Vera: Eczema & Dermatitis Cream, Little Bodies Eczema Relief Cream, Very Dry Skin Cream

Products that have Aloe Vera as As Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder: Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, Acne Control Lotion, Acne Spot Cream, Face & Eyelid Eczema Cream, Hand Balm, Heel Balm, Psoriasis Cream, Redness Relief Cream, Sanisiting Hand Cream, Very Dry Skin Lotion, Very Rough Hands

An amino acid that helps moisturise the skin and supports collagen production, contributing to skin elasticity and overall skin health.

Products that have Arginine: Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, Hand Balm, Heel Balm, Sanitising Hand Cream, Very Dry Skin Cream, Very Dry Skin Lotion

A plant-derived alternative to retinoids, Bakuchiol offers anti-aging benefits with fewer side effects. It improves skin firmness, reduces pigmentation, and promotes overall skin health by targeting various cellular pathways.

Products that have Bakuchiol: Acne Control Lotion, Acne Spot Cream, Overnight Lip Repair

A natural wax known for its emollient properties, helping to condition and hydrate the skin. Beeswax creates a protective layer, locking in moisture and soothing dry, chapped skin.

Products that have Beeswax: Heel Magic

Products that have Beeswax as Cera Alba: Eczema & Dermatitis Lotion

Products that have Beeswax as Cera Alba (Beeswax): Lip balm Sensitive, Lip Balm SPF 50+, Little Bodies Eczema Moisturising Lotion, Overnight Lip Repair, Sensitive Skin Lotion

A rich, nourishing ingredient that moisturises and protects the skin, improving elasticity and reducing dryness. Shea Butter is effective in soothing dry, cracked lips and skin, and contains Vitamins A & E to support skin health.

Products that have Shea Butter: Little Bodies Eczema Relief Cream

Products that have Shea Butter as Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter: Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, Face & Eyelid Eczema Cream, Lip Balm SPF 50+, Nourishing Foot & Leg Cream, Sanitising Hand Cream

Products that have Shea Butter as Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter): Anti-Itch Soothing Cream, Anti-Itch Soothing Lotion, Hand Balm, Heel Balm, Heel Balm Platinum, Heel Magic, Very Dry Skin Cream, Very Dry Skin Lotion, Very Rough Hands

A herbal extract that helps wounds heal faster by promoting blood flow and tissue regeneration. It is also used for improving skin hydration, reducing inflammation, and treating minor skin irritations.

Products that have Calendula (Officinalis) Tincture as Calendula Officinalis: Little Bodies Eczema Relief Cream

Products that have Calendula (Officinalis) Tincture as As Calendula Officinalis Liquid Extract: Eczema & Dermatitis Cream

Used for its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, Camphor can help treat skin conditions and relieve pain. It is often used in products targeting cold sores and skin irritation.

Products that contain Camphor: Cold Sore Lysine+ Gel, Lip Balm Original, Lip Balm Berry, Lip Balm Mint, Lip Balm SPF 50+, Lip Balm Original Tub, Lip Balm Original Stick, Tinted Lip Balm Peach Nude, Tinted Lip Balm Cherry Red, Tinted Lip Balm Rose Pink

A plant extract with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties, commonly used to treat acne-prone skin and reduce irritation caused by chemicals or UV exposure.

Products that have Canadian Willowherb as Canadian Willowherb Epilobium Angustifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract: Anti-Itch Soothing Cream, Anti-Itch Soothing Lotion, Sebum Control Serum, Scalp Relief Serum

Lipids naturally found in the skin that help form and repair skin’s barrier, retain moisture, and protect against environmental damage. Ceramides are essential for maintaining skin hydration and smoothness.

Products that have ceramides as Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP: Overnight Face Repair Cream, Overnight Lip Repair, Very Dry Face Cleanser

Products that have ceramides as Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide EOS, Ceramide NS, Ceramide NP: Very Dry Face Cream

A natural essential oil with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, Clove Oil helps soothe irritation, relieve itching, and promote healing of the skin and relieves soreness.

Products that have Clove Leaf Oil as Clove Leaf Oil (Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil): Lip Balm Original, Lip Balm Berry, Lip Balm Mint, Lip Balm SPF 50+ Lip Balm Original Tub, Lip Balm Original Stick, Tinted Lip Balm Peach Nude, Tinted Lip Balm Cherry Red, Tinted Lip Balm Rose Pink

A mild surfactant derived from coconut oil that cleanses the skin without causing irritation. It is suitable for sensitive skin and is often used in gentle formulations to cleanse and hydrate the skin.

Products that have Cocamidopropyl Betaine: Acne Control Wash, Hair Restoring Shampoo & Conditioner, Little Bodies Eczema Wash & Shampoo, Scalp Relief Shampoo & Conditioner, Sebum Control Shampoo, Sensitive Skin Wash, Very Dry Skin Wash

A rich emollient that hydrates and softens the lips, helping to protect them from becoming dry or chapped.

Products that have Cocoa Butter as Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter: Lip Balm Berry, Lip Balm Mint, Lip Balm Enriched with Pawpaw, Lip Balm SPF 50+, Lip Balm Enriched with Manuka, Tinted Lip Balm Peach Nude, Tinted Lip Balm Cherry Red, Tinted Lip Balm Rose Pink

Products that contain Cocoa Butter as Theobroma Cacao Butter: Anti-Itch Soothing Cream

Products that contain Cocoa Butter as Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter: Lip Balm Original, Lip Balm Original Tub

Known for its moisturising properties, coconut oil helps to hydrate and nourish dry, cracked skin. It acts as an emollient with a small molecular structure that is easily absorbed into the skin, leaving it smooth and soft. It is an effective base oil for alleviating dry, rough, and wrinkled skin.

Products that contain Coconut Oil as as Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil: Heel Magic, Lip Balm SPF 50+

A protein that provides structure to the skin, helping maintain its firmness and elasticity.

Products that contain Collagen as Hydrolyzed Collagen: Overnight Face Repair Cream, Overnight Lip Repair

A finely ground oatmeal used in skincare for its soothing, moisturising, and anti-inflammatory properties. It calms irritated and itchy skin, hydrates by locking in moisture, and forms a protective barrier, making it ideal for conditions like eczema and sensitive skin. The avenanthramides in oats are responsible for their anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (anti-itch) properties.

Products that have Colloidal Oatmeal: Anti-Itch Soothing Lotion, Scalp Relief Serum, Scalp Relief Shampoo & Conditioner, Very Dry Face Cream

Products that contain Colloidal Oatmeal as Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel flour: Anti-Itch Soothing Cream, Sebum Control Serum, Very Dry Face Cleanser

Products that contain Colloidal Oatmeal as Oatmeal Colloidal: Eczema & Dermatitis Cream, Eczema & Dermatitis Lotion, Face & Eyelid Eczema Cream, Little Bodies Eczema Moisturising Lotion, Little Bodies Eczema Relief Cream, Little Bodies Eczema Wash & Shampoo

A natural compound made up of potassium alum or potassium aluminium sulfate, used in deodorants to form a protective layer on the skin, preventing the growth of odour-causing bacteria. The molecules are too large to be absorbed into the skin, making it a safe, topical solution for odour prevention.

Products that have Crystallised Alum: Crystal Deodorant, Crystal Deodorant Spray

A silicone-based ingredient that forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss and protecting against irritants.

Products that have Dimethicone: Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, Anti-Itch Soothing Cream, Anti-Itch Soothing Lotion, Eczema & Dermatitis Cream, Hand Balm, Nourishing Foot & Leg Cream, Psoriasis Cream, Overnight Face Repair Cream, Scar Treatment Silicone+ Gel, Very Dry Face Cream, Very Dry Skin Cream, Very Dry Skin Lotion, Very Rough Hands

A compound derived from clove oil, used for its antiseptic properties and warm, spicy scent.

Products that have Eugenol: Lip Balm Original, Lip Balm Berry, Lip Balm Mint, Lip Balm SPF 50+, Lip Balm Original Tub, Lip Balm Original Stick, Tinted Lip Balm Peach Nude, Tinted Lip Balm Cherry Red, Tinted Lip Balm Rose Pink

A rich source of linoleic acid (66-76%) and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA, 7-12%), which nourish, hydrate, and heal the skin. Evening primrose oil is known for its ability to soothe irritation and inflammation, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Products that have Evening Primrose as Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil: Redness Relief Cream

An amino acid found in skin proteins like collagen and elastin. It helps improve skin elasticity, reduce signs of aging, and support overall skin health. Glycine also plays a role in promoting hair growth, making it useful in hair care formulations.

Products that have Glycine as Glycine Soja Germ Extract: Hair Restoring Shampoo & Conditioner, Hair Restoring Serum

An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells. This helps improve skin texture and unclogs pores, while also providing moisture to the skin.

Products that have Glycolic Acid: Acne Spot Cream, Exfoliating Foot Mask, Heel Balm, Heel Balm Platinum, Overnight Lip Repair, Sensitive Skin Wash

Known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and healing properties, Gotu Kola improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and supports collagen synthesis—helping to prevent scar formation and enhance skin repair. Used for centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine to treat wounds and calm irritated skin, it is now widely recognised in modern skincare under the name CICA — short for Centella Asiatica — and is commonly found in soothing formulations for sensitive, stressed, or damaged skin.

Products that have Gotu Kola as Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Leaf Extract: Redness Relief Cream

A humectant that draws moisture into the skin, improving hydration and the overall appearance of the skin. Its ability to retain water helps maintain skin elasticity and plumpness.

Products that have Hyaluronic Acid as Sodium Hyaluronate: Acne Control Lotion, Overnight Face Repair Cream, Overnight Lip Repair, Very Dry Face Cleanser, Very Dry Face Cream

A powerful oxidising agent known for its antimicrobial and bleaching properties. In skincare and nail treatments, it helps brighten discoloured skin or nails by breaking down pigments and stains through oxidative action. This makes it effective for lightening dark spots, removing nail discolouration, and promoting a clearer, more even-toned appearance. Its keratolytic effect also aids in exfoliating dead skin cells, supporting healthier skin and nail renewal.

Products that have Hydrogen Peroxide: Fungistop 3-in-1 Nail Treatment

A natural oil that moisturises the scalp and hair, providing hydration without leaving a greasy residue. Its composition closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum, making it ideal for maintaining healthy scalp and hair.

Products that have Jojoba Ester/ Oil as Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters: Very Dry Face Cleanser

Products that have Jojoba Ester/ Oil as Jojoba Ester: Anti-Itch Soothing Cream, Anti-Itch Soothing Lotion

Products that have Jojoba Ester/ Oil as Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil: Eczema & Dermatitis Lotion, Overnight Face Repair Cream, Sensitive Skin Lotion

An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the scalp, removing dead skin cells for a smoother texture and preventing reinfection by maintaining an acidic environment.

Products that have Lactic Acid: Acne Spot Cream, Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, Exfoliating Foot Mask, Fungistop 3-in-1 Nail Treatment, Hand Balm, Nourishing Foot & Leg Cream, Overnight Lip Repair, Psoriasis Cream, Sweat Control Roll On, Sweat Control Spray

A natural emollient derived from sheep’s wool, lanolin deeply moisturises and softens the skin. It is highly effective in restoring hydration and preventing skin from drying or cracking, making it perfect for treating dry, chapped skin.

Products that have Lanolin: Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, Chafing & Sweat Rash Prevention Cream, Hand Balm, Heel Balm, Heel Balm Platinum, Lip Balm Original, Lip Balm Berry, Lip Balm Mint, Lip Balm Enriched with Pawpaw, Lip Balm Original Tub, Lip Balm Enriched With Manuka Honey, Sanitising Hand Cream, Tinted Lip Balm Peach Nude, Tinted Lip Balm Cherry Red, Tinted Lip Balm Rose Pink, Very Dry Skin Cream, Very Dry Skin Lotion, Very Rough Hands

Products that contain Lanolin as Lanolin Oil: Heel Magic

Mint-family herb with antiviral and calming effects, commonly used for cold sores, stress relief, and insomnia.

Products that have Lemon Balm as Melissa officinalis dry herb top flowering: Cold Sore & Lysine+ Gel

An amino acid with antiviral properties that may help reduce anxiety and cold sores, supporting skin health and healing.

Products that have Lysine as L-Lysine hydrochloride: Cold Sore & Lysine+ Gel

Provides intense hydration, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial benefits, making it ideal for skin healing.

What does MGO 400 mean on Manuka honey?
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound in raw honey. This compound is primarily responsible for Manuka honey’s antibacterial and antioxidant properties. The MGO rating on a jar of Manuka honey reflects the amount of methylglyoxal it contains; a higher rating signifies a greater concentration of this beneficial compound.

Product that has Manuka Honey MGO 400+ as Honey: Lip Balm Enriched with Manuka Honey

Reduces moisture loss, improves hydration, minimises pores, and supports skin as a protective barrier.

Products that have Niacinamide: Acne Control Lotion, Acne Spot Cream, Hair Restoring Shampoo & Conditioner, Hair Restoring Serum, Redness Relief Cream

Derived from olive leaves and algae, it penetrates nails and fights fungal growth with antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Products that have Olile-Active™: Fungistop 3-in-1 Nail Treatment

An emollient rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, providing hydration and repair, especially beneficial for dry skin.

Products that contain Olive Oil as lea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil: Heel Magic

Provides a cooling and anti-itch sensation, helping relieve muscle pain and mild nerve discomfort.

Products that contain Peppermint Oil: Little Bodies Eczema Relief Cream, Foot & Knee Pain Relief Gel

Also known as Octopirox is an antifungal agent commonly used in shampoos and hair care products to treat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It works by inhibiting the growth of fungi, particularly Malassezia, which is a primary cause of dandruff.

Products that contain Piroctone Olamine: Scalp Relief Shampoo & Conditioner

Utilsing stem cell technology, Redensyl® is a blend of active ingredients designed to stimulate hair growth and rejuvenation, helping to promote fuller and thicker hair.

Products that have Redensyl®: Hair Restoring Serum

Extracted from the Clary Sage plant, this ingredient has soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturising properties, perfect for maintaining skin hydration and comfort.

Products that have Salvia Sclarea as Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract: Sensitive Skin Wash

Products that have Salvia Sclarea as Salvia Sclarea (Clary Sage) Extract: Sensitive Skin Lotion

Derived from the leaves of the Maclura Cochinchinensis plant (also known as cockspur thorn), Seboclear™ helps control excessive oil production. By managing sebum, it helps prevent acne breakouts, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.

Products that have Seboclear™: Acne Control Wash, Acne Control Lotion, Acne Spot Cream, Sebum Control Dry Shampoo, Sebum Control Shampoo, Sebum Control Serum

Made from wild rose berries (Rosa canina), Sebocytine® reduces excess sebum and minimises pore size, combating shininess and imperfections. It’s a powerful anti-oil care ingredient for smoother skin.

Products that have Sebocytine® (Rosa Canina Fruit Extract): Sebum Control Shampoo, Sebum Control Serum

This botanical extract has a “botox-like” effect to regulate sweat production, It also offers anti-aging and brightening effects by reducing wrinkles and promoting an even skin tone.

Products that have Snowflake (Leucojum Aestivum Bulb Extract): Nourishing Foot & Leg Cream, Sweat Control Roll On, Sweat Control Spray

Derived from Indian frankincense, Soothex ISA™ provides a soothing action, reducing redness and irritation for sensitive skin types.

Products that have Soothex ISA™ (Boswellia Serrata Gum): Lip Balm Sensitive

SymCare® combines ingredients that soothe sensitive skin, helping reduce redness, strengthen the skin barrier, and maintain moisture.

Products that have Symcare O™ (Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract and Bisabolol): Lip Balm Sensitive

A microalgae-based ingredient that regulates scalp sebum while protecting hair fibers. It minimises oil production, reduces UV damage, and keeps hair fresh and healthy.

Products that have SymControl™ Scalp (Tetraselmis Suecica Extract): Sebum Control Shampoo, Sebum Control Serum

An essential oil with antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties, useful for treating skin infections and soothing inflammation.

Products that have Tea Tree Oil as Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: Heel Balm

A stable form of Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from free radicals, improving skin hydration and softness.

Products that have Vitamin E as Tocopheryl Acetate: Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, Heel Balm Platinum, Overnight Face Repair Cream, Overnight Lip Repair, Redness Relief Cream, Sanitising Hand Cream, Scar Treatment Silicone+ Gel, Very Rough Hands

Products that contain Vitamin E as Tocopherol Acetate (Vitamin E): Hand Balm, Heel Balm, Heel Magic, Very Dry Skin Cream, Very Dry Skin Lotion

Urea is a hydrator and gentle exfoliant in skincare, known for drawing moisture into the skin and gently exfoliating dead skin cells. This dual action strengthens the skin barrier, leaving it soft and smooth. It’s especially effective in maintaining hydration and preventing trans epidermal water loss (TEWL), ensuring the skin stays moisturised and resilient.

Products that have Urea: Anti-Ageing Hand Balm, Exfoliating Foot Mask, Hand Balm, Heel Balm, Heel Balm Platinum, Heel Magic, Lip Balm Original, Lip Balm Berry, Lip Balm Mint, Lip Balm Enriched with Pawpaw, Lip Balm SPF 50+ Stick, Lip Balm Original Tub, Lip Balm Original Stick, Lip Balm Enriched With Manuka, Lip Balm Green Apple Stick, Lip Balm Strawberry Stick, Lip Balm Watermelon Stick, Nourishing Foot & Leg Cream, Overnight Lip Repair, Psoriasis Cream, Sanitising Hand Cream, Scalp Relief Shampoo & Conditioner, Tinted Lip Balm Peach Nude, Tinted Lip Balm Cherry Red, Tinted Lip Balm Rose Pink, Very Dry Face Cleanser, Very Dry Face Cream, Very Dry Skin Cream, Very Dry Skin Cleansing Bar, Very Dry Skin Lotion, Very Dry Skin Wash, Very Rough Hands

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that brightens the skin, evens out skin tone, and provides protection against environmental damage. It works to reduce the appearance of dark spots, leaving skin looking radiant and refreshed, and helps defend against free radicals that can prematurely age the skin.

Products that have Vitamin C as Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate: Overnight Face Repair Cream, Overnight Lip Repair

Products that have Vitamin C as Ascorbyl palmitate: Lip Balm Sensitive, Lip Balm SPF 50+ Stick, Lip Balm Original Stick, Lip Balm Green Apple Stick, Lip Balm Strawberry Stick, Lip Balm Watermelon Stick

Products that have Vitamin C as Ascorbic Acid: Scar Treatment Silicone+ Gel

Back to top