Skincare Ingredient Glossary

Understanding Botanical Bio-Actives & Clean Formulation

At LIISSÉ, transparency and ingredient integrity are central to everything we create. Every formula is developed in accordance with European COSMOS Organic and ECOCERT standards — utilizing cold-pressed plant extracts, biomimetic hydrators, and clinically proven botanical actives without synthetic silicones, parabens, phthalates, artificial fragrance, or mineral oils.

A — Adaptogens, Antioxidants & Cellular Bio-Actives

Bakuchiol
A plant-derived alternative to traditional retinol extracted from the seeds of Psoralea corylifolia. Bakuchiol stimulates cellular turnover and collagen synthesis, improving elasticity, smoothing fine lines, and refining skin texture without redness, peeling, photo-sensitivity, or irritation.

Ascorbyl Glucoside (Stabilized Vitamin C)
A stabilized, gentle derivative of Vitamin C bonded with glucose. It converts to pure L-Ascorbic Acid upon application, neutralizing free radicals, diminishing hyperpigmentation, and imparting a radiant, even-toned complexion.

Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil)
Cold-pressed from Moroccan argan kernels, rich in essential fatty acids (Omega-6 and Omega-9) and Vitamin E. Deeply nourishes dry skin, repairs lipid barrier integrity, and softens skin texture.

Aloe Vera Leaf Juice (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice)
A nutrient-dense botanical base containing polysaccharides, enzymes, and essential amino acids that instantly calm irritation, provide cooling hydration, and accelerate skin recovery.

C — Ceramides, Clays & Clean Exfoliants

Ceramides & Phytosphingosine
Bio-identical lipid molecules that form the foundational mortar of the skin barrier. Ceramides prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), defend against environmental aggressors, and restore compromised or sensitive skin barriers.

Centella Asiatica (Cica / Tiger Grass Extract)
An ancient restorative herb rich in madecassoside and asiaticoside. Clinically proven to soothe inflammation, strengthen micro-circulation, and boost wound healing and collagen synthesis.

Charcoal Powder (Activated Bamboo Charcoal)
A micro-porous mineral absorbent that draws out excess sebum, environmental pollutants, and micro-impurities from pores without stripping essential skin hydration.

Caffeine
A stimulating botanical alkaloid that constricts surface capillaries, reducing under-eye puffiness, dark circles, and morning fluid retention while energizing tired skin.

G & H — Glycolic, Hyaluronic & Hydration Matrix

Glycolic Acid (AHA)
The smallest molecular alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugarcane. It gently dissolves the desmosome bonds holding dull, dead skin cells together, revealing smooth, radiant, and renewed skin texture.

Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate)
A master humectant capable of binding up to 1,000 times its weight in moisture. LIISSÉ utilizes a dual-molecular weight matrix: high molecular weight binds moisture to the surface layer, while low molecular weight hydrolysed molecules penetrate deeply into the epidermis for cellular plumping.

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Ultra-low molecular weight hyaluronic acid that penetrates past the superficial stratum corneum to deliver long-lasting moisture reserves and enhance skin elasticity from within.

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein
A sustainable vegetable protein peptide rich in amino acids that fortifies skin collagen architecture, retains hydration, and enhances the smooth texture of delicate eye areas.

J, K & N — Jojoba, Kojic Acid & Niacinamide

Jojoba Seed Oil (Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil)
A biomimetic liquid wax ester structurally identical to human skin sebum. It balances natural oil production, conditions skin, and provides lightweight nourishment without clogging pores.

Kojic Acid (Kojic Dipalmitate)
A naturally derived brightening active obtained through the fermentation of organic rice. It inhibits tyrosinase activity to fade stubborn dark spots, sun damage, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
A gold-standard multi-functional bio-active. Niacinamide reinforces the lipid barrier by stimulating ceramide production, refines enlarged pores, regulates sebum, and balances skin tone.

P & S — Peptides, Plankton, Squalane & Sea Botanicals

Plankton & Marine Algae Extracts
Micro-algae extracts packed with essential minerals, amino acids, and marine polysaccharides that shield cells from oxidative stress and restore cellular vitality.

Plant-Derived Squalane
A weightless, biocompatible emollient sourced sustainably from plant lipids. Mimicking human squalene, it locks in moisture, improves elasticity, and leaves a silky, non-greasy velvet finish.

Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil (Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract)
A nutrient-dense botanical oil rich in rare Omega-7 fatty acids, carotenoids, and Vitamin C that promotes tissue regeneration, calms redness, and restores glow to dry, mature skin.

Salicylic Acid (BHA)
An oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates inside pores to dissolve sebum blockages, exfoliate trapped dead skin, and clear congestion.

Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter)
Organic, unrefined fair-trade shea butter rich in stearic and oleic fatty acids. Forms a breathable protective cushion that shields the skin from cold air, dehydration, and windburn.

Z — Zinc & Barrier Minerals

Zinc PCA
A physiological sebum-regulating complex pairing zinc with L-PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid). It soothes active blemishes, inhibits bacterial proliferation, and maintains moisture balance without dryness.