| Hyaluronic Acid | Holds water in the skin for plump, hydrated, supple comfort. | Used freely — well tolerated and barrier-supporting. | Layered with other actives to deepen hydration and glow. |
| Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) | Calms redness, supports the barrier, and refines pores over time. | Started at 2–4% and patch tested if there's any reactivity. | Used at 5–10% as a workhorse for tone and clarity. |
| Vitamin C | Brightens tone, supports collagen, and adds antioxidant defense. | Gentler forms like sodium ascorbyl phosphate or THD ascorbate. | L-ascorbic acid at higher percentages for visible brightening. |
| Lactic Acid (AHA) | Gently exfoliates and hydrates while smoothing texture. | Low percentage, short contact time, paired with calming agents. | Higher percentage with longer contact for resurfacing. |
| Salicylic Acid (BHA) | Clears congestion inside the pore and supports oilier or breakout-prone skin. | Spot-treated only, or swapped for a gentler option like willow bark. | Used across breakout-prone areas to keep pores clear. |
| Mandelic Acid | A larger-molecule AHA — exfoliates slowly and evens tone with less irritation. | Often the first choice when other AHAs feel too strong. | Layered into peels for gradual brightening and texture work. |
| Enzymes (Pumpkin, Pineapple, Papaya) | Digest dead surface cells without abrasion or strong acids. | Primary exfoliation method — safe, gentle, and effective. | Used between stronger treatments to keep skin smooth. |
| Peptides | Signal the skin to support firmness, elasticity, and repair. | Excellent — soothing and rarely reactive. | Combined with retinol-friendly routines for long-term support. |
| Retinol | Speeds cell turnover, smooths texture, and softens fine lines over time. | Avoided in-treatment; gentle alternatives like bakuchiol suggested for home. | Discussed for home care; avoided 5–7 days before active treatments. |
| Zinc Oxide (Mineral SPF) | Sits on the skin and reflects UV — the gentlest broad-spectrum option. | First choice — non-reactive and barrier-supportive. | Used daily for protection without disrupting other actives. |