Glowaiva · Glossary of actives

Decoding the actives,
one by one.

What it is, who it is for, at what concentration and when to apply it. Filter by what concerns you.

Hyaluronic acid

Antioxidants

A molecule that holds water in the skin's surface layers.

Dry skinDehydrated skinAll skin types

How — Morning and evening, on still-damp skin — otherwise it can dry you out.

L-ascorbic vitamin C

10–20 %Antioxidants

An antioxidant that works on radiance and evenness of tone.

Dull complexionHyperpigmentationAnti-ageing

How — Morning only. Boosts the effect of SPF by 30%. Start 2 to 3 times a week.

Niacinamide

5–10 %Antioxidants

A form of vitamin B3. Regulates sebum and calms inflammation.

Oily skinEnlarged poresRedness

How — Morning or evening. 5% maximum if your skin is sensitive.

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Salicylic acid (BHA)

2 %Specialty

An exfoliant that gets inside the pore, unlike AHAs.

AcneBlackheadsCongested pores

How — In the evening, 2 to 3 times a week.

Retinol

0,025 → 0,5 %Retinols

A vitamin A derivative. Speeds up cell turnover.

WrinklesLoss of firmnessDark spotsTexture

How — Evening only, ramping up over three months. Contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

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Alpha arbutin

2 %Specialty

Inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme that triggers melanin production.

Post-acne marksHyperpigmentation

How — Safer than hydroquinone. Allow 4 to 8 weeks.

Centella asiatica + aloe

Specialty

Rebuilds the skin barrier. Soothing, clinically demonstrated.

Inflammatory acneSensitive skin

How — Morning or evening, including on reactive skin.

Glycolic acid (AHA)

7–10 %Specialty

A surface exfoliant that smooths skin texture.

Visible poresTextureDull complexion

How — Evening only, 1 to 2 times a week maximum.

Sunscreen

SPF 50Sunscreen

Filters radiation before it reaches the skin. UVA, UVB and blue light.

All skin typesEvery day

How — In the morning, as the last step. Melanin only gives a natural SPF of 2 to 4.

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Growth factors

Growth Factors

Stimulate collagen production, the protein that gives skin its firmness.

WrinklesLoss of firmness

How — In the evening. Collagen production peaks between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m.

The Glow Ritual guide — 47 CAD