Glossary

Beauty, Explained

Understanding what goes into your products matters. Our Ingredient Glossary is designed to help you make informed choices by clearly explaining commonly used beauty and wellness ingredients — without the jargon.

At Face Up, transparency is essential.

We believe you should know what you’re putting on your skin, in your hair, and into your body. This glossary breaks down key ingredients found across our curated collection, explaining what they are, why they’re used, and how they support results-driven beauty and wellness.

What We Stand For

Every product on Face Up is carefully vetted for ingredients, ethics, and performance.

Clean Formulations

Thoughtfully created without unnecessary or harmful ingredients.

Ethical & Vegan

Cruelty-free, responsibly sourced, and aligned with conscious living.

Results-Driven

Chosen for performance — products that genuinely work.

Curated Marketplace

A selective platform for standout brands that deserve to be discovered.

Active Ingredients

Pure active ingredients for real results.

Explore our Ingredient Glossary to learn what’s really in your products.

AHA/BHA

What it is:
Chemical exfoliants derived from natural acids.

Why it’s used:
Helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve skin texture.

Key benefits:

  • Smoother skin

  • Brighter complexion

  • Reduced congestion

Best for:
Dull, congested, or uneven skin types.

Hyaluronic Acid

What it is:
A naturally occurring molecule that attracts and retains moisture.

Why it’s used:
Provides deep hydration without heaviness.

Key benefits:

  • Plumps skin

  • Improves elasticity

  • Supports skin barrier

Best for:
All skin types, especially dehydrated skin.

Niacinamide

What it is:
A form of vitamin B3.

Why it’s used:
Supports skin barrier function and balances oil production.

Key benefits:

  • Refines pores

  • Improves tone

  • Strengthens skin barrier

Best for:
Sensitive, oily, or combination skin.

Retinol

What it is:
A vitamin A derivative.

Why it’s used:
Encourages cell turnover and collagen production.

Key benefits:

  • Improves texture

  • Reduces fine lines

  • Supports skin renewal

Best for:
Experienced users seeking anti-ageing or skin renewal benefits.

Salicylic Acid

What it is:
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA).

Why it’s used:
Penetrates pores to clear congestion.

Key benefits:

  • Reduces breakouts

  • Clears pores

  • Calms inflammation

Best for:
Oily or acne-prone skin.

Vitamin C

What it is:
An antioxidant found naturally in many fruits.

Why it’s used:
Brightens skin and protects against environmental stress.

Key benefits:

  • Improves radiance

  • Supports collagen

  • Evens skin tone

Best for:
Dull or uneven skin.

Moringa Oil

What it is:
A nutrient-rich oil extracted from the moringa tree.

Why it’s used:
Supports hydration and nourishment.

Key benefits:

  • Strengthens hair

  • Soothes skin

  • Rich in antioxidants

Best for:
Dry or damaged hair and skin.

Shop by Category

Carefully curated categories built around performance, integrity, and modern beauty needs. Every product is selected to deliver results without compromising on ethics.

Testimonials

What our customers say

“I love that Face Up curates brands you don’t see everywhere. It feels premium, considered, and aligned with how I want to shop for beauty now.”

Sharon Bells