A plain reading of the ingredients worth knowing. What each one does, who it tends to suit, and where to read more. Cura is brand-agnostic: this explains the ingredients, not the products that contain them.
Actives
- Retinoids
- The family of vitamin A derivatives that speed cell turnover and, over months, soften fine lines and uneven texture. They range from gentle to prescription strength. Read more
- Retinol
- A milder, over-the-counter retinoid. The skin converts it to its active form, which is why it is gentler than prescription tretinoin. Read more
- Niacinamide
- A form of vitamin B3 that supports the barrier, moderates oil, and calms visible redness. Well tolerated by most skin. Read more
- Vitamin C
- An antioxidant that helps brighten, even tone, and defend against daily environmental stress. Usually used in the morning. Read more
- Peptides
- Short chains of amino acids that signal support for firmness and barrier repair. Gentle and easy to pair with other actives. Read more
- Bakuchiol
- A plant-derived ingredient often used as a gentler alternative to retinol, with less of the associated irritation. Read more
- Azelaic acid
- Calms redness, evens tone, and helps with breakouts. One of the better-tolerated options for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin. Read more
Exfoliants
- AHA (glycolic, lactic acid)
- Water-soluble acids that work on the skin surface to improve tone, smoothness, and dullness. Glycolic is stronger; lactic is gentler. Read more
- BHA (salicylic acid)
- An oil-soluble acid that travels into the pore to clear oil and dead cells. Best for blackheads, congestion, and oilier skin. Read more
Hydration and barrier
- Hyaluronic acid
- A humectant that draws and holds water in the skin for plumper, more comfortable hydration. Best applied to damp skin and sealed in. Read more
- Glycerin
- A quiet, reliable humectant found in many moisturisers. Draws water into the skin and pairs well with almost everything.
- Ceramides
- The lipids that make up much of the skin barrier's mortar. Replenishing them helps skin hold water and stay calm. Read more
- Squalane
- A lightweight, stable emollient that softens and smooths without heaviness. Suits most skin types, including oilier ones.
- Dimethicone
- A silicone that smooths texture and helps lock in moisture, giving products a silky finish. Non-comedogenic for most people.
Sun
- SPF
- A measure of UVB protection at a standard application amount. The number matters less than applying enough and reapplying. Read more
- Broad-spectrum
- Protection against both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays. More important than chasing the highest SPF number. Read more
Worth knowing
- Fragrance (parfum)
- Added scent, natural or synthetic. Fine for many people, but a common trigger for sensitive or reactive skin. Read more
- Skin barrier
- The outermost layer that holds water in and keeps irritation out. When it is working you do not notice it; when it is not, skin stings and flakes. Read more