Active substances

Renowned for its effectiveness on dark spots, hydroquinone is also controversial. Caught between strict regulation and risks to both health and the environment, its use is now restricted. Why does Typology not use it in its formulations? Let’s analyse this together.

Rice cooking water is no longer confined to the kitchen. Having become a popular homemade treatment, it is used to care for both skin and hair. However, its use requires certain precautions. How can rice water be utilised in cosmetics? Here is a practical guide.

Using rice water as a hair care treatment is an age-old practice in Asia. It has recently resurfaced and is attracting growing interest. But is rice water truly beneficial for hair? Let us explore this question together.

Easy to prepare and cost-effective, rice water has become an increasingly popular natural skincare remedy. Behind this ingredient, prized in Asian skincare routines, lies a bioactive compound with numerous benefits for the skin. How does rice water benefit the skin? Read on to find out.

Dry, chapped heels and rough skin are common issues for those who spend long hours on their feet. While many treatments promise to rejuvenate the skin, one ingredient stands out for its efficacy: glycolic acid. Recognised for its exfoliating properties, glycolic acid could be the key to smoother, suppler feet. But how does it work? Let’s explore the science behind this potent alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA).

Has glycolic acid found a new application in hair care? Known for its long-standing use in skincare for its exfoliating properties, this alpha hydroxy acid may also offer benefits for those with greasy hair. Whilst direct studies on its effects in this area are limited, its success in skincare applications suggests it could have potential for managing excess sebum production and improving scalp health.

Belonging to the neuropeptide family, “Pentapeptide-18” is a synthetic peptide that has only recently been adopted in cosmetics. What benefits does it offer the skin? Are there any known contraindications or risks? Continue reading to learn more about pentapeptide-18.

Glycolic acid is renowned for its ability to exfoliate the skin, while niacinamide soothes irritation and strengthens the barrier function. These two very different actives are frequently found in skincare routines. But can they be used together? And if so, does their combination offer additional benefits to the skin? Learn more in this article on the glycolic acid/niacinamide combination.

When it comes to skin-care acids, glycolic and salicylic acids are two of the most widely used, each characterised by its unique molecular structure, physicochemical properties and benefits. But how do you decide which is best for you? In this article, we will explore the differences between glycolic and salicylic acids, discuss their benefits and help you choose the most suitable option based on your skin type and concerns.

Although frequently overlooked in routine skin-care, the underarm area can derive significant benefit from targeted treatments that extend beyond basic hygiene. Glycolic acid, a potent alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) renowned for its demonstrable effects on facial skin, has attracted considerable interest for its potential in underarm care. If you are keen to address rough, dark patches beneath your arms, let us examine what scientific findings suggest about incorporating this noteworthy ingredient into your underarm skin-care regimen.

Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), is widely recognised for its exfoliating properties, making it a popular choice in skin care. But when it comes to sun exposure, should you exercise caution? This article examines the relationship between glycolic acid and photosensitivity, supported by scientific research.

Dandruff is a persistent condition that affects nearly half the population worldwide. The presence of white or yellow flakes, together with itching and irritation, can be both uncomfortable and frustrating. Recently, glycolic acid, renowned for its use in skincare, has begun to attract attention for its potential role in dandruff management. Could this versatile alpha-hydroxy acid help alleviate the symptoms of dandruff? Let us explore its potential benefits and the scientific rationale underpinning them.

Dark circles under the eyes are a common cosmetic concern. Contributing factors include genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, skin thinning and hyperpigmentation, all of which can alter the appearance of the under-eye area. A range of treatments exists, from topical agents to cosmetic procedures, with glycolic acid (GA) emerging as a popular chemical peel. But can GA effectively reduce dark circles? This article examines the scientific evidence on the use of glycolic acid for dark circles and its potential benefits.

Glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane, is renowned for its ability to exfoliate, brighten and moisturise the skin. Widely employed in facial chemical peels, its potential in lip care is now coming to the fore. But can glycolic acid be used safely as a chemical peel on this sensitive area? This article examines the prospective benefits, risks and safe application practices for using glycolic acid on the lips, drawing on current data and scientific evidence.

Beta-glucan and hyaluronic acid are among the most sought-after moisturising actives in cosmetics. But are their mechanisms of action similar? And is their efficacy comparable? Let’s explore how these two ingredients support the skin’s hydration.

Free radicals are highly reactive molecules capable of damaging the skin’s cellular components, thereby accelerating skin ageing. Fortunately, our body has a natural antioxidant system responsible for neutralising them. How does this defence mechanism operate? And what role do antioxidants play in protecting the skin? Find out in the rest of this article.

With age, sun exposure and excess sebum, pores tend to dilate, compromising the uniformity of the complexion. According to certain sources, glycolic acid, from the alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) family, may tighten them. Is there scientific evidence to support such an action? Let us explore whether glycolic acid is an effective solution for tackling enlarged pores.

Ciclopirox olamine is recognised for its efficacy against fungi, yeasts and bacteria. However, despite its generally good tolerability, some users may experience side effects. These are rare but worth being aware of. What are they and under what circumstances do they occur? Here is what you need to know.

Recommended for fungal infections, dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis, ciclopirox olamine is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent present in many products. Where can it be found and in which cases should it be used? Let us explore this topic together.

Ciclopirox olamine is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent, well known for its efficacy against fungal infections of the skin, scalp and nails. To enhance or fine-tune its activity, it may be appropriate to combine it with other ingredients. Which combinations of active compounds are most promising when used alongside ciclopirox olamine? Discover them in this article.

Ciclopirox olamine is a topical antifungal agent found both in dermatological treatments and in certain cosmetic products. How should it be used to maximise its benefits? Discover more information about the use of ciclopirox olamine in this article.

Piroctone olamine has established itself as a key ingredient in hair care, notably in anti-dandruff shampoos, which accounted for approximately 50% of its application segments in 2023. According to Verified Market Reports (2025), the global market for piroctone olamine–based hair care products exceeded USD 150 million in 2024, with further growth expected in the coming years. This rising popularity is grounded in its proven efficacy against dandruff and its good skin tolerance. But beyond its well-documented antifungal properties, piroctone olamine appears to offer additional benefits for scalp and hair health—a potential we will explore in this article.

Discolouration, thickening and brittleness of the nails… The signs of onychomycosis, or nail fungus, are unmistakable. Could ciclopirox olamine, a broad-spectrum antifungal agent, be prescribed in this case? Learn more about this topic in the following lines.

Often confined to cutaneous mycoses or scalp imbalances, ciclopirox olamine nevertheless exhibits a broad antifungal spectrum. Could it be used in cases of vulvar mycosis? That is what we invite you to discover.

Ciclopirox olamine is an active ingredient commonly used to treat infections of the skin and scalp. Some also credit it with the ability to act against eczema. But what is the reality? Find out in this article whether ciclopirox olamine is truly effective in cases of eczema.