Skincare Ingredients

An active ingredient is the component in a formula responsible for the effect the product is designed to deliver, as distinct from the base ingredients that give a product its texture, stability and feel. In skincare, the most commonly discussed actives include retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, peptides and exfoliating acids. Concentration matters, but so does the way an active is formulated, stabilised and delivered, which is why both day creams and night creams listing the same ingredient can behave quite differently.

Several pairings are well established. Hyaluronic acid works alongside almost anything and is often used to help support comfort when introducing stronger actives. Niacinamide pairs comfortably with hyaluronic acid skincare, vitamin C and retinol. As a general rule, you can use face serums with antioxidants such as vitamin C in the morning and renewal actives such as retinol in the Liftactiv 0.2% Pure Retinol Serum at night, and introduce one new active at a time so you can tell what is working.

The most commonly discussed are niacinamide, which helps regulate the look of oil and supports a smoother surface; retinol, which supports skin renewal; and oil-soluble ingredients such as salicylic acid that help keep pores looking clear. Azelaic acid and weekly clay masks are also often used. No single ingredient suits everyone, so introduce one active at a time and give it several weeks. Consistent daily sunscreen matters too, since sun exposure can make the look of pores more pronounced over time.

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative and one of the most extensively studied ingredients in skincare. It is associated with supporting the skin's natural renewal process, which over time may help soften the appearance of fine lines and support a smoother, more even-looking skin surface. Results are gradual and depend on consistent use; retinol skincare is best for a long-term routine rather than a short-term fix.

Both are vitamin A derivatives, and the difference lies in how many conversion steps the skin needs to perform before the ingredient becomes active. Retinal, also written retinaldehyde, sits one step closer to the active form than retinol does, which means it can work more quickly or aggressively. Retinol takes an additional conversion step and is generally the gentler starting point, but both need to be introduced gradually and paired with daily sun protection.

Vitamin C is best known as an antioxidant, helping to defend the skin against the free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution. It is also widely used for helping to support a brighter, more even-looking complexion, and it plays a supporting role alongside more collagen-focused skincare. It is generally applied in the morning, before moisturisers and sunscreen, so it can work alongside your daily sun protection.

Vichy Volcanic Water is our signature ingredient, drawn from thermal springs in the volcanic region of Vichy in central France. Naturally rich in 15 minerals, including calcium, magnesium and silica, it is included across our range for its role in helping to strengthen and soothe the skin with natural antioxidant properties.

In skincare, "probiotics" usually refers to probiotic fractions and other microbiome-friendly ingredients rather than live cultures. These aim to support the skin's natural balance and help it stay resilient. Vichy uses probiotic fractions in its Mineral 89 range for this reason. A balanced skin microbiome is associated with a more comfortable, healthy-looking complexion, particularly for skin that reacts easily.