Beauty Ingredient Glossary A–Z (UK)

This A–Z glossary explains the most common skincare ingredients on labels in the UK — what each is and how it’s typically used, in plain English. Each links to the matching range at Belvera, shipped UK-wide in GBP.

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic Acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains, commonly used in skincare for its exfoliating properties to help improve skin texture. Shop Azelaic Acid »

Bakuchiol

Bakuchiol is a plant-derived compound often used as a gentle alternative to retinol for improving the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone. Shop Bakuchiol »

Ceramides

Ceramides are lipid molecules found naturally in the skin, used in skincare to help maintain the skin's barrier and retain moisture. Shop Ceramides »

Centella (Cica)

Centella, also known as Cica, is a plant extract commonly used in skincare for its soothing properties and to help support the skin's barrier. Shop Centella »

Collagen

Collagen is a structural protein that is often included in skincare products to help improve skin elasticity and hydration. Shop Collagen »

Glycerin

Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, commonly used in skincare for its hydrating properties. Shop Glycerin »

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) used in skincare for its exfoliating properties to help improve skin texture and brightness. Shop Glycolic Acid »

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid is a hydrating substance naturally found in the skin, used in skincare to help retain moisture and improve skin plumpness. Shop Hyaluronic Acid »

Lactic Acid

Lactic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk, used in skincare for gentle exfoliation and to help improve skin texture. Shop Lactic Acid »

Mandelic Acid

Mandelic Acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from almonds, used in skincare for its exfoliating properties and to help improve skin tone. Shop Mandelic Acid »

Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 commonly used in skincare to help improve skin texture and even out skin tone. Shop Niacinamide »

Panthenol

Panthenol, a form of Vitamin B5, is used in skincare for its moisturizing and soothing properties.

PDRN

PDRN, or Polydeoxyribonucleotide, is a DNA-derived compound used in skincare for its regenerative properties to help improve skin appearance. Shop PDRN »

Peptides

Peptides are short chains of amino acids used in skincare to help support skin firmness and elasticity. Shop Peptides »

Retinol & Retinal

Retinol and Retinal are forms of Vitamin A used in skincare to help improve the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone; follow product directions. Shop Retinol & Retinal »

Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) used in skincare for its exfoliating properties to help improve skin texture. Shop Salicylic Acid »

Snail Mucin

Snail Mucin is a secretion from snails, used in skincare for its hydrating and skin-softening properties. Shop Snail Mucin »

Squalane

Squalane is a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil used in skincare for its moisturizing properties and to help improve skin texture. Shop Squalane »

Tranexamic Acid

Tranexamic Acid is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine, used in skincare to help improve the appearance of uneven skin tone. Shop Tranexamic Acid »

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant used in skincare to help brighten the skin and improve the appearance of uneven skin tone. Shop Vitamin C »

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant used in skincare for its moisturizing properties and to help protect the skin from environmental stressors.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral commonly used in skincare for its soothing properties and to help maintain skin balance. Shop Zinc »

Product information is for general reference only. Always read and follow the directions, warnings and ingredient list on the packaging. For any medicated or over-the-counter treatment product (such as minoxidil), follow the instructions and consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional if unsure.