Skincare Ingredient Dictionary

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Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline)

A signal peptide that inhibits neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction, reducing facial muscle micro-contractions. Used to soften expression lines — crow's feet, forehead lines. Often called "topical Botox" in popular media. Results are subtle and require consistent use; not comparable to injectable botulinum toxin in magnitude. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Lift Creme.

Adenosine

A nucleoside naturally present in all living cells. In skincare, encapsulated adenosine increases cellular energy (ATP), increases intercellular lipids that strengthen the barrier, and stimulates the collagen matrix. Used in Lira Clinical formulas via Hydroxysome delivery for sustained release.

Algae Extract

General term for extracts from various marine algae. Benefits vary by species. Most provide antioxidant protection, minerals, and surface hydration. Laminaria digitata and Macrocystis pyrifera (sea kelp) are among the most studied for skin benefits.

Allantoin

A naturally occurring compound found in comfrey root. Soothes, smooths, and supports healing in irritated or damaged skin. Reduces the discomfort of sensitive and reactive skin conditions. Non-irritating at any concentration.

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe vera)

One of the most comprehensively studied botanicals in skincare. Anti-inflammatory, soothing, humectant, and supports wound healing. Works at the skin surface and does not penetrate deeply.

Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide

A prebiotic — food for beneficial skin bacteria. Selectively feeds the microbiome rather than moisturizing the skin directly. Promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria over pathogenic species. Often paired with inulin for a dual prebiotic effect. Distinct from beta-glucan, which is a hydration and anti-inflammatory ingredient.

Arbutin

A naturally derived tyrosinase inhibitor found in bearberry, pear, wheat, and other plants. Suppresses melanin production by blocking tyrosinase — the enzyme that catalyzes melanin synthesis. Effective for hyperpigmentation and dark spots with an excellent tolerability profile. Considered safe for deeper skin tones. Found in Lira Clinical PRO Lite Serum.

Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi Leaf Extract (Bearberry)

Natural source of arbutin. Also contains hydroquinone derivatives in their glycoside form, flavonoids, and tannins. Used for brightening and antioxidant protection.

Ascorbic Acid (Pure Vitamin C)

Pure L-ascorbic acid — the most bioactive form of vitamin C. Potent antioxidant, inhibits melanin production, and is required for collagen synthesis. Extremely unstable — oxidizes rapidly on exposure to air and light, turning orange and losing efficacy. Requires careful formulation and packaging to maintain stability. See also: Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate for a more stable alternative.

Ascorbyl Palmitate

Fat-soluble vitamin C ester. More stable than ascorbic acid. Penetrates the lipid layer of the skin. Converts to ascorbic acid in the skin. Good sustained antioxidant protection.

Azelaic Acid

Naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid found in grains. Dual-action: inhibits tyrosinase (brightening and PIH prevention) AND inhibits the bacteria that cause acne. Also reduces the redness and papules of rosacea through an anti-inflammatory mechanism. One of the few ingredients that addresses both PIH and PIE simultaneously. Safe for use during pregnancy.

Bakuchiol

Plant-derived compound from Psoralea corylifolia seeds. Activates retinoid receptors through a different mechanism than retinol, stimulating collagen production, pore minimization, and skin brightening without any of retinol's irritation potential. Clinical studies show comparable results to retinol for fine lines and pigmentation with significantly better tolerability. Safe during pregnancy. Found in Lira Clinical PRO Retinal-Plus Treatment Cream.

Beta-Glucan

A polysaccharide derived from oats, mushrooms, or yeast. One of the most powerful hydrating and anti-inflammatory ingredients available. Penetrates into the skin, holds up to 15 times its weight in water, and activates skin's immune defense. Reduces inflammation, redness, and sensitivity. Distinct from alpha-glucan oligosaccharide, which is a prebiotic that feeds bacteria rather than hydrating directly.

Bisabolol (L-alpha Bisabolol)

The active component of chamomile essential oil — extracted and purified. Anti-inflammatory, calming, and supports barrier healing. The L-alpha form is the chirally-correct version with superior activity. Found across multiple Face Reality and Lira Clinical formulas.

Biosaccharide Gum-1

A long-lasting soothing and anti-inflammatory polymer derived from sorbitol fermentation. Provides extended calming activity and maintains moisture for hours after application. Particularly effective for sensitive and reactive skin.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea)

One of the most comprehensively studied antioxidant botanicals. Catechins — particularly EGCG — are among the most potent plant antioxidants known. Anti-inflammatory, photoprotective, and has documented effects on sebum regulation. Found across multiple Face Reality and Lira Clinical formulas.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

A documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound derived from hemp. Calms inflammatory responses that can be triggered by active brightening ingredients, supports barrier function, and has growing clinical research for skin calming and sebum regulation. Found in Lira Clinical MYSTIQ Infused C Serum.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride

Derived from coconut oil. Lightweight, non-comedogenic emollient that creates smooth texture and delivers other ingredients without adding greasiness. Essentially inert — present for texture and delivery rather than active benefit.

Caviar Extract

One of the most nutrient-dense ingredients in skincare. Rich in omega fatty acids (3, 6, and 9), amino acids, vitamins A, D, and E, and minerals that nourish and replenish aging skin at a cellular level. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Caviar Creme.

Centella Asiatica Extract (Gotu Kola)

One of the most important healing botanicals in skincare. Contains asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid — compounds that stimulate collagen synthesis, reduce inflammation, support wound healing, and strengthen the skin barrier. Extensively studied for barrier repair and scar healing.

Ceramide NP, NG, AP

The three most important ceramides for barrier repair. Ceramides are lipids — fats — that make up approximately 50% of the lipid matrix between skin cells in the stratum corneum. Without adequate ceramides, the barrier cannot hold water or keep irritants out. Ceramide NP is the most abundant in healthy skin. NG and AP work alongside NP for a complete lipid matrix. Found in Face Reality Barrier Care Gel Cream.

Colloidal Silver and Gold

Precious metal colloids with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Colloidal silver has natural antimicrobial action. Colloidal gold promotes cellular renewal and has a subtle brightening effect. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Caviar Creme and BIO Hydra Infusion.

Copper Lysinate/Prolinate

Bioavailable copper peptide complex. Copper is required for the enzyme lysyl oxidase that cross-links collagen and elastin fibers for structural integrity. Also accelerates wound healing and has mild antimicrobial properties. Found in Face Reality Retinol Peptide Serum and Cran Peptide Moisturizer.

Cyclodextrin / Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin

Molecular cage structures that encapsulate and protect active ingredients — particularly retinol and retinaldehyde — from oxidative degradation. Protects stability from manufacturing to skin contact, then releases the active ingredient when it contacts the skin. Found in Face Reality Retinal B3 Serum and Retinol Peptide Serum.

Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI)

A penetration enhancer that significantly increases the depth to which active ingredients penetrate the skin. Carries actives to the deeper layers where they need to act. This is why professional-grade salicylic acid outperforms drugstore versions at comparable concentrations — it's not always the percentage, it's the delivery. Found in Face Reality Salicylic+ Serum and Retinol Peptide Serum.

Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root)

The potassium salt of glycyrrhizinic acid — the primary active compound in licorice root. Calms redness and inflammation. Inhibits tyrosinase for brightening. Contains glabridin, which has specific effects on post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Ectoin

A natural amino acid derivative produced by extremophile bacteria that survive in conditions — extreme heat, UV, salt — that would destroy normal cells. Forms a protective water shell around skin cells that shields them from UV radiation, heat, and pollution damage. Commonly found in pharmaceutical-grade products and relatively rare in retail skincare. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Lift Creme.

Ergothioneine

An amino acid antioxidant originally discovered in ergot fungus, found in high concentrations in mushrooms. Unique in that human cells have a dedicated transporter protein (OCTN1) that actively pulls it into the cell — your body treats it as a nutrient it needs rather than a foreign substance. Exceptionally stable. Protects mitochondrial DNA from oxidative damage. Rarely found outside pharmaceutical and advanced professional skincare. Found in Lira Clinical MYSTIQ Infused C Serum.

Glycerin

One of the most extensively studied and reliable humectants in skincare. Draws moisture from the environment and from deeper skin layers to the surface. Non-comedogenic, non-irritating, effective at any concentration. A fundamental ingredient in most effective skincare formulas.

Gluconolactone (PHA — Polyhydroxy Acid)

The gentlest category of chemical exfoliant. Larger molecular size than AHAs means slower, more even penetration with significantly less irritation risk. Uniquely also strengthens the skin barrier while it exfoliates — the only acid appropriate for rosacea-prone and genuinely reactive skin. Found in Face Reality Calming Facial Toner and Sal-C Toner.

Glycolic Acid

The smallest alpha hydroxy acid. Penetrates deepest of all AHAs. Accelerates cell turnover, resurfaces texture, unclogs pores, stimulates collagen. Most effective AHA for visible exfoliation results. Also the most likely to irritate — particularly for sensitive skin and deeper skin tones. Formulation pH determines activity — professional-grade formulas use lower pH than retail products. Found in Face Reality Glycolic-Lactic Toner and Glycolic Acid Serum 5%.

Glycosaminoglycans

The structural molecules of the skin's extracellular matrix — the scaffold in which collagen and elastin fibers are embedded. Include hyaluronic acid, dermatan sulfate, and others. Support firmness, hydration, and the organized structure of the dermis. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Hydra Infusion.

Glutathione

The master antioxidant produced naturally in every cell. Responsible for regenerating spent antioxidants including vitamins C and E. When glutathione is depleted, the entire antioxidant network collapses. Topical glutathione replenishes this foundation, extends the active life of vitamin C, and has documented brightening effects. Rare in retail skincare at effective concentrations. Found in Lira Clinical MYSTIQ Infused C Serum.

Globularia Alypum Leaf Extract

A rare extract from a Mediterranean shrub with exceptional redness-reducing and anti-inflammatory properties. Specifically targets the inflammatory pathways that produce visible redness and flushing — making it highly targeted for rosacea and reactive skin. Found in Face Reality Calming Facial Toner.

Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf Extract (Resurrection Plant)

A rare Balkan plant that can lose 90% of its water content, appear completely dead, and fully revive when rehydrated. The mechanisms it uses to survive this extreme dehydration — protecting cellular membranes, preventing oxidative damage, maintaining DNA integrity — translate into skin protection against dehydration stress and oxidative aging. Rarely found outside professional-grade formulas. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Hydra C Serum and MYSTIQ Infused C Serum.

Hexylresorcinol (4-Hexylresorcinol)

One of the most potent brightening ingredients available. Inhibits both tyrosinase AND peroxidase in the melanin production pathway — a dual mechanism that most brighteners lack. Clinical studies show it outperforms kojic acid at comparable concentrations for reducing hyperpigmentation. Rarely found in retail products at effective concentrations. Found in Lira Clinical PRO Lite Serum and PRO Anti-Aging Pads.

Homarine HCl

A naturally occurring osmolyte found in marine organisms that helps them survive fluctuating salinity. Protects skin cells from osmotic stress caused by dehydration and environmental factors. Rarely found in retail skincare. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Hydra Infusion.

Honey (Mel)

Natural humectant and antimicrobial with centuries of documented wound-healing and skin-soothing efficacy. Keeps skin hydrated and protected. Found in Skin Script Honey Brightening Cleanser and Lira Clinical MYSTIQ Cryo Face Masque.

Hyaluronic Acid / Sodium Hyaluronate

The most well-known humectant in skincare. Can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Standard sodium hyaluronate works primarily at the skin surface. The L-form (chirally-correct) penetrates more effectively. Crosspolymer form creates a longer-lasting film. Acetylated form penetrates deepest. Multiple molecular weights in a formula provide hydration at multiple depths simultaneously — as in Face Reality HydraRemedy which contains four forms.

Imperata Cylindrica Root Extract (Cogon Grass)

The root of this drought-resistant grass survives extreme water scarcity by concentrating potassium ions that draw water into cells. Applied topically, acts as a powerful humectant that draws and retains moisture deep in the skin. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Hydra Infusion and MYSTIQ Infused C Serum.

INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients)

The standardized global naming system for every ingredient used in cosmetics and skincare. Every ingredient on every product label worldwide uses the same INCI name. Ingredients are listed in descending order of concentration — highest amount first. This is why water (Aqua) is almost always listed first. Read the full explanation →

Inulin

A prebiotic — dietary fiber for beneficial skin bacteria. Selectively feeds the microbiome, promoting microbiome balance and barrier health. Found in Face Reality Barrier Balance Creamy Cleanser and Barrier Care Gel Cream.

Kojic Acid

Derived from fungi during fermentation. Inhibits tyrosinase by chelating the copper ions the enzyme requires. Used for brightening and dark spot reduction. Most effective in formulas that combine it with complementary brightening ingredients. Found in Lira Clinical PRO Lite Serum and PRO Anti-Aging Pads.

Lactic Acid L (Chirally-Correct)

Chirally-correct alpha hydroxy acid. Unique among AHAs in that it simultaneously exfoliates AND hydrates — it is a natural component of the skin's NMF (natural moisturizing factor). Gentler than glycolic due to larger molecular size. The L-form is more bioactive than the racemic mixture. Found in Face Reality Glycolic-Lactic Toner and L-Mandelic Serum.

Linoleic Acid

An essential omega-6 fatty acid and key component of the skin barrier's lipid matrix. Linoleic acid deficiency has been linked to acne — the sebum of acne-prone skin is deficient in linoleic acid relative to oleic acid, which correlates with more comedogenic sebum. Topical linoleic acid supports barrier function and reduces microcomedone formation. Found in Face Reality Barrier Care Gel Cream.

Mandelic Acid L (Chirally-Correct)

Chirally-correct alpha hydroxy acid derived from bitter almonds. Larger molecular size than glycolic means slower, more even penetration with significantly less irritation. Naturally antibacterial — addresses acne and hyperpigmentation simultaneously. Preferred acid for sensitive skin and deeper skin tones. Found in Face Reality L-Mandelic Serum, L-Mandelic Face & Body Wash, and L-Mandelic Face & Body Scrub.

MASQ-tech™ (Pistacia Lentiscus / Mastic Gum)

Lira Clinical's proprietary ingredient technology derived from mastiha — a rare natural resin harvested exclusively from mastic trees on the Greek island of Chios. Used for over 2,500 years in Mediterranean medicine. Prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), minimizes pore appearance, increases cell proliferation, and neutralizes free radicals. Found in every Lira Clinical formula. Read the full MASQ-tech™ story →

Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7)

The original gold-standard cosmetic peptide complex. Multiple peer-reviewed clinical trials showing measurable increases in collagen production and reduction in fine lines. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 stimulates collagen and elastin. Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 is anti-inflammatory and reduces the signals that break collagen down. Found in Face Reality Antioxidant Peptide Eye Gel and Lira Clinical BIO Hydra Infusion.

Matrixyl Synthe'6 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38)

Third-generation Matrixyl. Stimulates six components of the skin matrix simultaneously: collagen I, III, and IV, fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, and laminin. The most comprehensive matrix-stimulating peptide available. Found in Face Reality Retinol Peptide Serum, Cran Peptide, and Lira Clinical BIO Lift Creme.

Micrococcus Lysate

A DNA repair enzyme derived from a UV-resistant bacterium that evolved in extreme UV environments. Repairs UV-damaged DNA in skin cells — one of the few ingredients with documented ability to reverse photoaging damage at the cellular level. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Caviar Creme.

Morus Alba Leaf Extract (Mulberry)

Natural tyrosinase inhibitor. Contains oxyresveratrol — a more potent form of resveratrol — alongside flavonoids. Well-studied for brightening and dark spot reduction.

N-Prolyl Palmitoyl Tripeptide-56 Acetate

A next-generation peptide targeting skin laxity and sagging. Supports production of key structural proteins that address loss of facial definition — a mechanism that standard collagen-stimulating peptides cannot fully address. Rarely found outside professional-grade formulations. Found in Face Reality Retinol Peptide Serum.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

One of the most versatile and well-studied ingredients in skincare. Strengthens the skin barrier by increasing ceramide production. Regulates sebum. Inhibits melanin transfer to reduce hyperpigmentation. Reduces redness and inflammation. Improves elasticity. Safe for all skin types. Compatible with almost every other active ingredient. Found across multiple Face Reality and Lira Clinical formulas.

Nonapeptide-1

A synthetic peptide that blocks the alpha-MSH receptor — the receptor that receives signals to produce melanin. Works upstream of tyrosinase, preventing the production signal from being received in the first place. Found in Face Reality GlowTone Corrective Serum and Brighten-C Mask.

Oligopeptide-51

A targeted peptide that firms skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines through structural protein support. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Caviar Creme.

Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl)

The original and most studied cosmetic peptide. Signal peptide that triggers fibroblasts to produce collagen, elastin, and fibronectin. Multiple peer-reviewed clinical trials. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Hydra Infusion.

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)

Converts to vitamin B5 in the skin. Soothes inflammation, supports wound healing, and maintains hydration. Used in post-treatment and sensitive skin formulas.

Phenyl t-Butylnitrone (PBN — Spin-Trap Antioxidant)

A spin-trap antioxidant that intercepts and stabilizes radical chain reactions — stopping the cascade before it starts rather than neutralizing individual free radicals. More efficient than single free-radical neutralizers. Found in Face Reality Antioxidant Peptide Face Serum.

Phyllanthus Emblica Fruit Extract (Amla / Indian Gooseberry)

One of the most vitamin C-rich plants known. Potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and brightening. Particularly studied for effects on hyperpigmentation and UV protection. Found in Lira Clinical PRO Lite Serum.

PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)

The brown or dark discoloration left after skin inflammation — caused by excess melanin production triggered by injury or acne. More common and persistent in deeper skin tones. Treated with tyrosinase inhibitors. Read: PIH vs PIE explained →

PIE (Post-Inflammatory Erythema)

The pink or red discoloration left after skin inflammation — caused by dilated or damaged blood vessels, not pigment. Treated with anti-inflammatory and vascular-targeting ingredients like azelaic acid. Often confused with PIH. Read: PIH vs PIE explained →

Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate

A water-soluble, stable derivative of azelaic acid. More soluble and stable than azelaic acid itself. Inhibits tyrosinase AND kills acne bacteria — the dual-action azelaic mechanism in a more bioavailable form. Found in Skin Script Honey Brightening Cleanser.

Resveratrol

A polyphenol antioxidant found in grape skin and red wine. Inhibits oxidative enzyme activity, potent anti-inflammatory. Fermented resveratrol — used in Lira Clinical Hydroxysome formulas — has significantly higher bioavailability than standard resveratrol.

Retinal (Retinaldehyde)

The form of vitamin A one step closer to retinoic acid than retinol. Converts with one enzymatic step in the skin (retinol requires two). Faster-acting and more potent than retinol while significantly gentler than prescription retinoic acid. Notoriously unstable — requires cyclodextrin or Hydroxysome delivery. Found in Face Reality Retinal B3 Serum and Lira Clinical PRO Retinal-Plus Treatment Cream.

Retinol

The most common over-the-counter vitamin A derivative. Two conversion steps from retinoic acid. Works well but slowly. Most associated with the "retinol purge" during adjustment. Gold standard of non-prescription vitamin A. Found in Face Reality Retinol Peptide Serum. Read: Retinol vs retinaldehyde explained →

Retinyl Palmitate

Vitamin A ester. Three conversion steps from retinoic acid. Very gentle, limited efficacy compared to retinol or retinaldehyde. Found in mass-market anti-aging products. Has some benefit for skin health but should not be expected to produce the results of stronger vitamin A forms.

Saccharide Isomerate

A long-lasting moisture-binding molecule derived from sugar. Bonds to skin proteins rather than simply sitting on the surface. Maintains hydration for up to 72 hours. Used in Face Reality vitamin A serums to counteract the drying effect of retinoids. Found in Face Reality Retinal B3 Serum.

Salicylic Acid (BHA)

A beta hydroxy acid naturally derived from willow bark. Oil-soluble — unlike AHAs, it penetrates the oily environment of the pore. Dissolves sebum and keratin plugs. Antibacterial against acne bacteria. Anti-inflammatory. The standard exfoliant for acne and pore congestion. Found in Face Reality Salicylic+ Serum and Sal-C Toner.

Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

A cross-linked form of hyaluronic acid. Forms a moisture-retaining film on the skin surface. Longer-lasting hydration than standard HA. Found in Lira Clinical MYSTIQ Infused C Serum.

Sodium PCA

Sodium salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid — one of the most abundant components of the skin's natural moisturizing factor. Attracts and holds water within skin cells. Depleted by harsh cleansers, acids, and environmental stress. Found in Face Reality Moisture Balance Toner and Barrier Care Gel Cream.

Squalane

Derived from olives or sugarcane (shark-safe). A form of squalene — one of the skin's own natural sebum components. Non-comedogenic. Mimics skin's natural lipids, strengthens barrier function, absorbs without greasiness. Suitable for all skin types including oily and acne-prone. Found in Lira Clinical SPF EliōDrops and multiple other formulas.

Syn-Ake (Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate)

Synthetic peptide inspired by temple viper venom. Produces a subtle relaxation of facial muscle contractions that contribute to expression lines. Zero toxicity at cosmetic concentrations. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Lift Creme.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (BV-OSC — Stable Vitamin C)

The most stable and deeply penetrating form of vitamin C. Oil-soluble so it crosses the skin barrier more effectively than water-soluble forms. Converts to ascorbic acid within the skin. Does not turn orange or degrade in dropper bottles. Protects against blue light and oxidative stress. Found in Lira Clinical MYSTIQ Infused C Serum, BIO Hydra C Serum, SPF EliōDrops, and BIO Lift Creme. Why this form matters →

Totarol

A diterpenoid compound extracted from the heartwood of the New Zealand totara tree. One of the most potent natural antimicrobials known — effective against acne-causing bacteria. Also anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Found in Face Reality Clearaderma, Cran Peptide, and Hydrabalance.

Tranexamic Acid

A synthetic amino acid derivative originally developed to reduce bleeding. In skincare, blocks the UV-triggered signal from keratinocytes to melanocytes — preventing the communication that tells melanocytes to produce melanin. Works upstream of tyrosinase. Growing research for melasma and persistent hyperpigmentation. Found in Face Reality GlowTone Corrective Serum.

Trehalose

A natural sugar found in organisms that survive complete dehydration. Forms a protective matrix around cells that preserves their structure during extreme water stress. Protects skin cells from dehydration stress. Found in Lira Clinical MYSTIQ Cryo Face Masque.

Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract (Silver Ear Mushroom)

An extraordinary natural hydrator used in Chinese skincare for over a thousand years. Its hydrating polysaccharides have a smaller particle size than hyaluronic acid, allowing deeper penetration. Holds up to 500 times its weight in water. Provides plumping, smoothing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Hydra Infusion.

Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2

A peptide specifically targeting skin laxity and sagging by supporting key structural proteins. Addresses the loss of facial definition that collagen-stimulating peptides alone cannot fully correct. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Lift Creme.

Urea

One of the skin's own natural moisturizing factors. A powerful humectant that draws water into the skin. Also a gentle keratolytic at higher concentrations — it softens rough, thickened skin and enhances the penetration of other active ingredients. Found in Face Reality L-Mandelic Serum.

Xanthan Gum

A natural polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation. Used as a thickener and stabilizer in formulas. Gives gel textures their consistency. Skin-conditioning at higher concentrations.

Xylitylglucoside / Anhydroxylitol / Xylitol (Aquaxyl™)

A patented complex of plant-derived sugars that strengthens the skin's own water transport systems — the aquaporins — rather than simply adding water from outside. Reduces transepidermal water loss. Found in Face Reality HydraRemedy.

Yeast Polysaccharides / Yeast Extract

Beta-glucan rich ferments that provide deep hydration and energize skin cells. Anti-inflammatory and barrier-supportive. Found in Lira Clinical BIO Hydra Infusion and MYSTIQ Infused C Serum.

Zinc Oxide

A mineral UV filter that physically blocks and scatters UV radiation. Broad-spectrum — protects against UVA, UVB, and HEV blue light at higher concentrations. Non-irritating, reef-safe, non-comedogenic. The preferred UV filter for sensitive, acne-prone, and compromised skin. Found in Face Reality powerMineral SPF 50, Mineral Matte SPF 28, and Lira Clinical SPF EliōDrops 30.

Zymomonas Ferment Extract

A rare fermented extract from Zymomonas mobilis bacterium with exceptional antioxidant capacity. Produces levan — a polysaccharide that hydrates and brightens. Found in Skin Script Honey Brightening Cleanser.

Have a question about an ingredient not listed here?

Text Jasmine at (818) 669-0333 — ingredient questions are some of my favorite conversations.