You’ve likely heard plenty about the radiance-boosting benefits of vitamin C but did you know that azelaic acid is another ingredient that can be effective at brightening the skin? Here, facetheory Education Manager Claire Balas tells us all we need to know about the ingredient and their best-selling azelaic acid serum as found in The Brightening Box.

Niacinamide, also called nicotinamide, is a water-soluble vitamin and antioxidant. It is a widely used ingredient in skincare and is usually added to products to help combat blemishes and visible pores. Niacinamide is one of the two common chemical forms of vitamin B3 – nicotinic acid (niacin) and niacinamide (nicotinamide). The main difference between the two lies in their chemical structures - niacin contains an acid group and is therefore more acidic (lower pH), whereas niacinamide contains an ‘amide’ group and has a higher pH.

Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is a type of retinoid. Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives – some common examples are retinal, retinol and retinyl retinoate.  Retinoids are widely known as the gold standard for reversing the signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles. They can also reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and help to normalise skin function, reducing excess oil production and unclogging pores – making them beneficial for acne-prone skin.

One of the most recognisable ingredients over the past few years, vitamin C is a true powerhouse in skincare. Although its notoriety lies in its brightening capability, its antioxidant function makes it suitable for treating an array of skincare concerns.

Originally used in medicine for its wound-healing abilities, Polyglutamic Acid (PGA) is a humectant (attracts and retains water in the skin) and is touted for its ability to hold more moisture than popular fellow hydrator, Hyaluronic Acid.

If you find joy in putting mashed avocado on your face, fill your boots, but when it comes to whipping up your own vitamin c serum made from a concoction of items in your fruit bowl, we firmly advise not to. This is a fast-track, do not pass go, do not collect £200 pass to a compromised skin barrier and sensitised skin.