Glycinted Azelaic Acid @10%

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains like barley and rye, and it’s also produced by the healthy bacteria that live on your skin.  Although originating from grains, it is a chemical component and thus does not contain gluten.

Glycinated azelaic acid is the latest evolution and a skincare game-changer.  Glycination improves the delivery of azelaic acid, helping it penetrate more effectively while reducing the dryness or sting often associated with traditional formulas.

Glycinated azelaic acid reduces breakouts by limiting bacterial proliferation.  It helps normalize the shedding of skin cells, preventing buildup inside pores.  The glycinated form enhances this exfoliating effect without making skin feel stripped—ideal for people who get regular congestion or whiteheads.

Glycinated azelaic acid slows melanin production, thus helping to reduce dark spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and melasma.

Lastly, it is the single most effective compound for treating rosacea.  It helps inhibit excess vascular activity and reduces reactive redness over time.  Rosacea often involves an imbalance of skin microbes (including overgrowth of Demodex mites in some cases).  Glycinated azelaic acid offers antimicrobial action that helps restore a healthier skin environment, without harshness or disruption.

Niacinamide @2%

Niacinamide (vitamin B3 or nicotinamide) is known in the skincare world as one of the BIG 3, along with vitamin C and retinol. It is a water-soluble vitamin that helps minimize enlarged pores, improve uneven skin tone, reduce UV damage, reduce fine lines & wrinkles, and strengthen the skin’s outer barrier. After niacinamide is applied to our skin, it is broken down into the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, which is easily absorbed and utilized by our skin to produce those incredible benefits. A coenzyme is a biological molecule (essential for human health) that efficiently facilitates the biochemical reaction in our body i.e. destroys toxins, supports collagen production, etc.It is one of the most versatile ingredients, benefiting almost all skin concerns and skin types.

Alpha Arbutin @1%

Alpha arbutin is a gentle, water-soluble compound derived from plants that is quickly becoming an effective but safe way to reduce blemishes, breakouts, and hyperpigmentation.  It is a glycosylated derivative of hydroquinone (essentially hydroquinone attached to a sugar molecule) that inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production.  Once applied to the skin, alpha arbutin gradually releases hydroquinone in very small amounts, enough to reduce pigmentation but without the harsh effects of pure hydroquinone.