What is Actives?

'Actives' is shorthand for functional, effect-driving ingredients in skincare — as opposed to solvents, thickeners, and preservatives. Examples: retinoids (retinol, tretinoin), AHAs/BHAs (glycolic, salicylic), niacinamide, vitamin C, peptides, azelaic acid. Actives change skin at a cellular level; passive ingredients (water, glycerin, emulsifiers) don't. 'Actives-forward' products (The Ordinary, Paula's Choice) lead with high-percentage actives; K-beauty often layers multiple lower-percentage actives across steps.