powerful actives. no irritation. real results.

skincare ingredients—explained

ingredients in the skincare world can be overwhelming. what's right for you?
what do they do?

at philosophy, our goal is to harness cutting-edge science to bring you skincare and “skinified” body
products you’ll love using.

we're here to help you explore the ingredients that power our products and decipher what will best
support your needs or concerns.

guiding principles  

our formulation principles are simple—we strive to target delivery for efficacy in a gentle way, using feel-good textures.    

my go-tos i recommend are always hyaluronic acid and exfoliation with salicylic acid or glycolic acid. deep hydration and gentle resurfacing that works for everyone.
– paul mitchell, philosophy’s senior director, global education & events

active vs inactive ingredients   

what is an "active" ingredient anyway? ingredients sometimes referred to as “actives” target a specific concern, working to provide results you can see and feel (think: retinol, ahas/bhas, vitamin c), whereas “inactive” or “functional” ingredients help support the aesthetic experience of the product and allow the actives to shine.    

discover what makes our products tick by exploring the ingredients and actives that power our unique formulas.

 

brightening + radiance 

vitamin c – a powerful antioxidant that helps to brighten, support collagen production, and aid in reducing the signs of aging in the skin.  

find it in microdelivery vitamin c resurfacing peel kit  

 

glycolic acid - an alpha hydroxy acid (aha) that gently exfoliates to renew skin, helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and rough texture. 

find it in hope in a jar smooth-glow multi-tasking moisturizer 

 

 

hydration + barrier support 

hyaluronic acid - a naturally occurring humectant that attracts and retains moisture and works to soften lines and wrinkles in your hands, face, and body.

glycerin – a humectant that draws in moisture and works to support a healthy skin barrier.  

find it in hope in jar hyaluronic glow moisturizer 

 

ceramide – naturally occurring lipids in the skin that replenish moisture and reinforce the skin barrier.  

find it in ultimate miracle worker nourish & rejuvenate face & neck cream 

 

 

resurfacing + anti-aging  

retinol – a vitamin a derivative that helps optimize the skin's natural collagen for firmer, more youthful-looking skin. learn more about the benefits of retinol.  

find it in ultimate miracle worker multi-rejuvenating cream broad spectrum spf 30 

 

peptides – amino acids which maintain or improve skin’s firmness and elasticity by supporting skin’s natural collagen and elastin production. 

find it in ultimate miracle worker resurfacing body serum 

 

blemish care + clarifying  

salicylic acid – a beta-hydroxy acid (bha) and exfoliating ingredient that helps unclog pores. Learn more about salicylic acid. 

find it in: clear days ahead oil-free salicylic acid acne treatment cleanser