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A gold-standard humectant that draws water into the skin.

A dimer of glycerin used as a humectant; provides hydration with a slightly richer, more substantive feel than glycerin.

A naturally occurring amino acid that acts as a humectant and supports the skin's own moisture-retention system.

An extract from the fruit (hips) of the dog rose rich in vitamin C, carotenoids and polyphenols, used for antioxidant and brightening benefits.

A high-molecular-weight polysaccharide extracted from Tremella fuciformis (snow mushroom), often marketed as a natural alternative to hyaluronic acid due to its exceptional water-binding capacity and film-forming properties.

An extract of common sage (Salvia officinalis) leaves rich in carnosic acid, rosmarinic acid, and phenolic diterpenes. Used for antioxidant, soothing, and skin-conditioning properties in toners and essences.

Extract from the leaves of Eriobotrya japonica (loquat/Japanese plum). Contains flavonoids (rutin, quercetin), ursolic acid, and tannins that provide antioxidant and soothing benefits. Used in Shiseido's d program acne-care range.

An extract of Astragalus sinicus (Chinese milk vetch), a legume plant used in Japanese traditional medicine (as rengesou). Provides anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-conditioning benefits in toners and essences.

Extract from the root of Ruscus aculeatus (butcher's broom). Contains steroidal saponins (ruscogenin, neoruscogenin) with vasoconstrictive, anti-inflammatory, and circulatory-supporting properties. Commonly used in eye creams and anti-puffiness formulas.

Extract from peppermint leaves. Contains polyphenols, rosmarinic acid, and flavonoids. Different from peppermint essential oil — extract is more water-soluble and gentler. Provides mild cooling and antioxidant benefits.

Extract from Cystoseira tamariscifolia, a brown marine algae (rainbow wrack). Contains polyphenolic phlorotannins and sulfated polysaccharides with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-conditioning properties.

Extract from the seeds of Cassia obtusifolia (sicklepod, known as 'Sennin-koku' in Japanese). Contains emodin, torachryson, and related anthraquinones with antioxidant and soothing activities.

Extract from the bark of Betula pendula (silver birch). Contains betulin, betulinic acid, lupeol, and other terpenoids with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and soothing properties.

Extract from the rhizome of Coptis japonica (Japanese goldthread). Rich in berberine and other isoquinoline alkaloids with potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Used in traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine.

An extract from Japanese mugwort (Artemisia princeps) leaves, known as yomogi in Japan. Rich in flavonoids, chlorogenic acid, and terpenoids; used in Japanese skincare for soothing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

A carotenoid pigment found in carrots, algae, and other plants. Functions as an antioxidant and as provitamin A (converts to retinol in the body). In skincare, also used as a colorant and antioxidant booster.

Extract from carrot root, rich in carotenoids (beta-carotene), vitamins, and antioxidants. Used for its antioxidant properties and contribution to a healthy skin tone.

A natural naphthoquinone pigment found in the roots of Lithospermum erythrorhizon and related plants. Has significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity. Used as a natural colorant and functional active.

A medium-chain polyethylene glycol (MW ~1450 Da) that acts as a humectant, solvent, and consistency agent in lotions and creams. Well-tolerated; used in Japanese toners and emulsions.

A short-chain polyethylene glycol used as a humectant and solvent to hydrate skin and improve the feel and spreadability of formulas.

Vitamin E; a lipid-soluble antioxidant that also conditions skin.

An AHA most often used in small amounts to adjust pH.

The smallest AHA; a potent surface exfoliant.