Skincare Ingredients, Explained
Ingredient lists can feel like a chemistry exam. This skincare ingredients glossary keeps it simple: what each active does, who it suits, and how to fit it into your routine. Once you know your ingredients, choosing products gets a lot easier.
The Strength Is on the Label
At our laboratoire in Roubaix, France, we start every formula with one question: how much of this active does skin actually need? We build the texture around that number, and we show the strength of our key actives on the label, like the 18% in our Vitamin C Serum. No guessing, and no hiding a key ingredient at the bottom of the list.
Roubaix, France
Made in our own laboratoire
Since 1997
Professional skincare heritage
Concentrations shown
Key actives labeled on every product
Our Skincare Ingredients Glossary
Every active in our skincare ingredients glossary, explained in plain English. See what it does, who it suits, what the science says, and which ELAB FRANCE formulas put it to work.
EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor)
A protein your skin already makes, used in skincare for a smoother, firmer looking complexion.
Plant Stem Cells
Extracts from plant cells that help skin look renewed and more resilient.
Hyaluronic Acid
A water magnet that draws moisture into the skin so it looks plump and feels comfortable.
CICA (Centella Asiatica)
A calming plant extract loved by sensitive and freshly treated skin.
Collagen
Helps skin feel softer and more hydrated, with a smooth, cushioned finish.
Vitamin C
An antioxidant that brightens dull skin and helps tone look more even.
Niacinamide
A form of vitamin B3 that helps refine the look of pores and balance oily areas.
Cysteamine
A targeted active used to fade the look of dark spots and patchy tone.
Four Formulas That Do the Heavy Lifting
If you only add one new step this month, start here. Each formula is built around a single hero active, at a strength chosen to make a visible difference to firmness, renewal, hydration or glow.
Pair Them Right, Get More From Every Drop
The right combination makes two good ingredients work even harder. The wrong one can leave skin red and unhappy. Here is how to layer the pairings we get asked about most.
Hyaluronic Acid and EGF
Apply hyaluronic acid on damp skin first, then EGF, morning or night.
What people
write back.
★★★★★
"My skin stopped reacting to everything. Six weeks in, it just behaves. The Collagen Firming Cream is the only one I have repurchased four times."
Your Ingredient Questions, Answered
Still unsure what to use, or how much? These are the questions we hear most, from first time serum buyers to skincare regulars.
Each active has one main job. Hyaluronic acid hydrates, vitamin C brightens, EGF and plant stem cells support firmer, smoother looking skin, and CICA calms. Pick the job your skin needs most and start there.
Two or three is plenty for most people. Add new ones one at a time, a week apart, so you can see how your skin responds.
It tells you how much of an active is in the formula. Too little may do nothing, and too much can irritate. Showing it on the label lets you compare products honestly.
Hyaluronic acid, CICA and collagen are usually the gentlest place to start. Introduce vitamin C and cysteamine more slowly.
Find the Right Ingredient for Your Skin
Know what you want to change but not which ingredient to choose? Start with your concern and we will point you to the actives that fit.