Know your ingredients
What the names on the label do, who they suit, and what to pair them with — then the products we stock that contain them.
Broad-spectrum sunscreen is the single most impactful daily step for protecting skin tone and slowing visible ageing. Reapply through the day when outdoors.
Lipids that are naturally part of the skin's barrier. In moisturisers they help skin feel less dry, tight, or reactive — a mainstay for sensitive and compromised skin.
An antioxidant used in serums for a brighter, more radiant look and to help with the appearance of dark spots over time. Usually used in the morning.
A form of vitamin B3 used widely in serums and moisturisers. In cosmetics it's popular for helping balance oil, soften the look of enlarged pores, and even out dull or blotchy tone.
A humectant that holds water, used to give skin a plump, hydrated feel. Sits well under moisturiser and suits most skin types, including oily.
A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, so it can get into pores. Common in cleansers and spot treatments aimed at acne-prone and congested skin.
Alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic and lactic acid gently exfoliate the surface for a smoother, brighter look. Usually used at night, a few times a week.
Centella asiatica, often called 'cica', is a calming botanical popular in K-beauty for looking after irritated, red, or post-blemish skin.
A gentler brightening ingredient used to target the look of dark spots and pigmentation over time — a milder alternative to harsher agents.
A vitamin-A derivative used in night care for skin texture and the look of fine lines. Start low and slow; it can cause dryness or purging early on.
Short chains of amino acids used in serums and creams as a gentle, supportive step in anti-ageing routines.
A botanical oil used in spot treatments and cleansers aimed at blemish-prone and oily skin.
A protein used in haircare to smooth, strengthen, and reduce the look of frizz and damage, especially for chemically-treated or brittle hair.
Zinc (often zinc PCA) is used to help balance excess oil and soothe blemish-prone skin; also a common mineral-sunscreen filter.
Ingredient notes are written by the Blac & Pink team from manufacturer information and general cosmetic-science references. They describe common cosmetic use only — not medical advice. Product matches are by name and label text we hold; concentrations are not verified. Patch test new products.