The ingredients at the heart of our expertise

Each La Nouvelle Peau formula combines carefully selected active ingredients derived from biotechnology, dermatological research, and Korean expertise. Discover their role, their benefits, and the science that makes them so effective.

Glossary of ingredients: over 65 active ingredients explained

A luminous complexion, visibly smoother skin, refined pores, and deep hydration: Korean dermocosmetics have established themselves today as a global benchmark in the world of Korean beauty.

At the heart of this approach lies a fundamental conviction: long-lasting, healthy, and radiant skin relies above all on optimal hydration, supported by cutting-edge galenic technologies and high-performance active ingredients such as biomimetic peptides and regenerating complexes.

Discover the collection
25,000
Scientific research hours
1
patented complex: LNP-T01™
100%
Dermatologically tested formulas

What is an asset?

An active ingredient is the component of a formula that produces a visible change in the skin: soothing redness, supporting hydration, evening out skin tone, or softening the appearance of fine lines. Everything else (emulsifiers, preservatives, texture agents) serves to carry, stabilize, or transport the active ingredient.

This glossary covers the notable active ingredients in the La Nouvelle Peau Face and Body ranges, organized first by skin concern, then by biological function, and finally in alphabetical order for consultation. Common base ingredients, such as solvents, emulsifiers, simple preservatives, and thickeners including Aqua, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, and Disodium EDTA, are omitted, as they do not provide a targeted skin benefit on their own.

Note on nomenclature: in accordance with international practice, ingredient names are provided in their standard INCI denomination, which is not translated; this is also the standard on packaging sold in France.

Find active ingredients by skin concern

If you are starting from a concern rather than an ingredient name, use this index to go directly to the most relevant active ingredients for you.

Hydration & dehydration
  • Hyaluronic Acid & Sodium Hyaluronate Complex

Dual form of hyaluronic acid that acts both on the surface and deep down to trap water, plump, and maintain long-lasting hydration.

Present in:
  • Betaine

Natural humectant derived from beetroot that retains water in the skin, enhances its suppleness, and soothes discomfort associated with dehydration.

Present in:
  • Trehalose

A natural sugar with exceptional protective properties that shields skin cells from dehydration by forming an invisible moisturizing film.

Present in:
  • Raffinose

A plant-derived complex sugar that reinforces the skin's ability to retain water and supports its long-term moisture balance.

Present in:
  • Honey Extract

A natural active ingredient rich in sugars and enzymes that nourishes, softens, and helps the skin retain its moisture throughout the day.

Present in:
  • Panthenol

A vitamin B5 derivative that penetrates quickly to deeply hydrate, improve elasticity, and promote the repair of uncomfortable skin.

Present in:
  • Arginine

Essential amino acid that supports the skin's natural hydration by strengthening its natural moisturizing factor (NMF) and promoting cell regeneration.

Present in:
Fine lines & firmness
  • Adenosine

Moleculenaturally presentin the skinthat stimulates theproduction of collagenandelastin, reducesfinelines and redensifiesthe skin over time.

Present in:
  • Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4

One of the most well-documented anti-aging peptides, it sends a signal to fibroblasts to boost collagen synthesis and restore skin firmness.

Present in:
  • Copper Tripeptide-1

Biomimetic copper peptide that accelerates cellular regeneration, stimulates collagen, and visibly improves skin density and elasticity.

Present in:
  • Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

Dubbed "topical Botox," it acts on the repetitive muscle contractions responsible for expression lines to gradually diminish them.

Present in:
  • DMAE Bitartrate

Acetylcholine precursor that provides an immediate and visible tightening effect, while supporting skin tone and firmness over time.

Present in:
  • Tripeptide-1 Dimethylaminoethyl Ester

A biomimetic peptide exclusive to La Nouvelle Peau, a key component of the LNP-T01™ complex, it promotes cellular communication and deep regeneration.

Present in:
  • SYN®-AKE: Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate

Inspired by temple viper venom, this dipeptide inhibits the muscle contractions that cause expression lines for a targeted smoothing (Botox-like) effect.

Present in:
  • Creatine

Cellular energizing molecule that strengthens the skin cells' ability to regenerate, improves the skin's resistance to stress, and contributes to firmness.

Present in:
  • Carnosine

A natural dipeptide with powerful anti-glycation properties that protects collagen and elastin fibers from premature aging, preserving the skin's suppleness and tone.

Present in:
Hyperpigmentation & uneven skin tone
  • Tranexamic Acid

Clinically proven depigmenting active that interrupts the signals triggering melanin overproduction, visibly reducing dark spots and deeply evening out skin tone.

Present in:
  • Tranexamoyl Dipeptide-23

Peptide version of tranexamic acid that specifically targets dark spots while improving texture and overall skin brightness.

Present in:
  • Arbutin

Active ingredient of natural origin derived from bearberry that inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production, to gradually fade dark spots and even out skin tone.

  • Hexylresorcinol

Powerful depigmenting active ingredient with antioxidant properties that acts on multiple pigmentation pathways simultaneously to correct skin tone irregularities.

Present in:
  • 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid

A stable and highly bioavailable form of vitamin C that effectively penetrates the skin to inhibit melanin, brighten the complexion, and protect against oxidative aging.

  • Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate

A gentle and stable derivative of vitamin C that gradually corrects dark spots, evens out skin tone, and strengthens the skin's antioxidant defenses.

  • Resveratrol

A powerful grape-derived polyphenol that inhibits melanin production, protects the skin from oxidative stress, and contributes to a more even and luminous complexion.

  • Silkworm Extract

Rich in sericin and amino acids, this silkworm cocoon extract brightens the complexion, refines skin texture, and gives the skin a natural, satin-like glow.

  • Terminalia Chebula Fruit Extract

Ayurvedic fruit nicknamed "the king of medicinal plants," a powerful antioxidant that slows down skin aging and helps correct pigmentation irregularities.

  • Licorice root extract

A natural active ingredient containing glycyrrhizin with depigmenting and anti-inflammatory properties, it fades dark spots and soothes skin prone to redness.

  • Panax Ginseng Root Extract

Adaptogenic active ingredient from traditional Korean medicine that stimulates microcirculation, revitalizes skin cells, and restores radiance and uniformity to dull, tired complexions.

Sensitivity, redness & weakened barrier
  • Centella Asiatica Extract and its isolated triterpenes

A benchmark Asian medicinal plant whose active ingredients (madecassoside, asiaticoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid) soothe redness, repair the skin barrier, and stimulate collagen production for more resilient skin.

Present in:
  • Allantoin

A soothing, gentle keratolytic active ingredient of natural origin that accelerates healing, calms irritation, and promotes the renewal of damaged skin cells.

Present in:
  • Bisabolol

Natural chamomile extract renowned for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, it reduces redness, calms stinging sensations, and improves the tolerance of reactive skin.

Present in:
  • Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate

Derived from licorice root with powerful anti-inflammatory properties that soothes diffuse redness, reduces skin reactivity, and evens out the complexion of sensitive skin.

Present in:
  • Witch Hazel Water

Astringent and soothing floral water naturally rich in tannins that tightens pores, calms irritation, and reduces localized redness without being harsh on the skin.

Present in:
  • Aloe Barbadensis & Aloe Arborescens

A succulent plant exceptionally rich in omega-3s and antioxidants that soothes sensitive and reactive skin, reduces redness, and strengthens the skin's resistance to external stressors.

Present in:
Congestion & texture
  • Salicylic Acid

Liposoluble keratolytic active ingredient that penetrates pores to dissolve excess sebum, unclog comedones, and deeply smooth skin texture.

  • Lactic Acid

A naturally derived alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates dead surface cells, refines skin texture, tightens the appearance of pores, and gradually improves skin radiance.

  • Tea Tree Leaf Extract

Natural purifying and antibacterial active ingredient from the Australian tea tree that regulates excess sebum, prevents the appearance of blemishes, and cleanses congested pores.

Present in:
  • White Willow Bark Extract

A natural source of salicylic acid, it provides a gentle exfoliating and purifying action that unclogs pores, smooths skin texture, and refines the complexion without irritating sensitive skin.

Present in:
Barrier support (face & body)
  • Ceramide NP

A lipid identical to those naturally present in the skin that restores and strengthens the skin barrier, reduces water loss, and protects against external aggressors.

Present in:
  • Cholesterol

An essential component of the skin's intercellular cement which, combined with ceramides, restores the lipid barrier and lastingly improves skin resistance and suppleness.

Present in:
  • Phytosphingosine

Biomimetic lipid naturally present in the skin that regulates the cutaneous microbiome, strengthens the barrier, and provides a gentle anti-inflammatory effect, ideal for fragile or reactive skin.

Present in:
  • Squalane

Stable derivative of olive or sugarcane that mimics the skin's natural sebum, nourishes without leaving a greasy residue, strengthens the lipid barrier, and prevents dehydration.

Present in:
  • Jojoba Seed Oil

Technically a liquid wax with a structure very close to human sebum, it nourishes, protects, and balances the skin barrier without clogging pores.

Present in:
  • Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)

Vegetable butter rich in unsaturated fatty acids and vitamins A and E that intensely nourishes, repairs the skin barrier, and protects dry and damaged skin from climatic aggressions.

Present in:
  • Beeswax

Natural ingredient with occlusive properties that forms a protective film on the skin, retains moisture, soothes irritation, and strengthens the skin's barrier resistance.

Present in:
Sun protection
  • Titanium Dioxide

Naturally derived mineral sunscreen that acts as a physical shield by reflecting UVA and UVB rays at the skin's surface, offering immediate broad-spectrum protection that is well-tolerated by sensitive skin.

Present in:
  • Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate

Chemical sunscreen that absorbs UVB rays and converts them into harmless heat, effectively protecting the skin from sunburn and photo-induced aging.

Present in:
  • Ethylhexyl Salicylate

Chemical sunscreen specifically targeting UVB rays that complements and strengthens the action of other filters, contributing to a more complete and uniform sun protection.

Present in:

How these active ingredients work: eight functions

Behind every formula, the active ingredients fulfill one of these eight functions.

1. Hydration: attract water to the upper layers of the skin and retain it there: Hyaluronic Acid & Sodium Hyaluronate Complex, Betaine, Trehalose, Raffinose, Panthenol, Honey Extract.

2. Barrier reinforcement: support the lipid layer that retains moisture and repels external aggressors: Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Phytosphingosine, Squalane, shea butter, Jojoba Seed Oil.

3. Peptide signaling: guide skin cells toward visible firmness and renewal: Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Copper Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Tripeptide-1 Dimethylaminoethyl Ester, the sh-peptide complex in Derma Repair Balm.

4. Soothing & repair: reduce the appearance of redness and support the skin through reactivity: Centella Asiatica Extract and its isolated triterpenes, Allantoin, Bisabolol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, purslane extract.

5. Radiance & antioxidant defense: even out the appearance of skin tone and neutralize exposure to free radicals: Tranexamic Acid, Tranexamoyl Dipeptide-23, Vitamin C derivatives, Resveratrol, Vitamin E, Ficus Carica Fruit Extract.

6. Gentle exfoliation: promote the visible removal of surface cells: Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, willow bark extract.

7. Photoprotection: reflect or absorb UV light: Titanium Dioxide, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate.

8. Emollience & conditioning care: soften the skin and provide a feeling of comfort, particularly on the body: Argan Oil, Marula Oil, Tamanu Oil, Babchi Oil, Black Seed Oil, Pumpkin Seed Oil, Rosehip Fruit Oil, Macadamia Seed Oil, Beeswax.

Glossary of ingredients from A to Z

A note on the peptides in this range.

  • Signal peptides (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Tripeptide-1 Dimethylaminoethyl Ester) direct skin cells toward a specific task, most often supporting collagen.
  • Carrier peptides (Copper Tripeptide-1) transport a trace element, in this case copper, to where the skin can use it.
  • Neurotransmitter-modulating peptides (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate) soften the appearance of expression lines.
  • Biomimetic peptides (the sh-peptide complex in the Derma Repair Balm) are designed to replicate the skin's own reparative signaling.
  • 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid. A stable derivative of Vitamin C, soluble in both oil and water, that converts into active ascorbic acid upon contact with the skin. It brightens the complexion and supports collagen production, without the instability of pure L-ascorbic acid.

  • Acetyl Hexapeptide-8. A neurotransmitter-modulating peptide, often known by its trade name Argireline, which softens the appearance of expression lines by gently limiting the signal that triggers small facial muscle contractions. Found in: T01 28 Days Anti-Aging Ampoule, R01 Rejuskin Mask

  • Allantoin. A soothing compound found in plants and animal tissues that calms irritation and promotes the appearance of repaired skin. One of the best-tolerated soothing actives in formulations. Found in: Skin Refresher, R01 Rejuskin Mask, Derma Repair Balm.

  • Arbutin. A skin-brightening tyrosinase inhibitor derived from bearberry and related plants. It works to visibly even out the complexion by interrupting excessive pigment production at the source.

  • Argan Oil. An oil rich in fatty acids and Vitamin E derived from the Moroccan argan tree, prized for softening and conditioning the skin without leaving a greasy film. Found in: Multi Purpose Oil.

  • Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid & Madecassic Acid (Centella triterpenes). The three purified active triterpenes isolated from Centella Asiatica. Together, they support the appearance of skin repair, comfort, and barrier resilience, and are considered the most concentrated form of the plant's benefits. Found in: R01 Rejuskin Mask, Derma Repair Balm, R01 Skin Perfecting Gel Cleanser.

  • Babchi (Bakuchi) Oil. A seed oil from the plant that is the source of bakuchiol, prized as a gentler, plant-derived alternative to conventional renewal actives. Found in: Multi Purpose Oil.

  • Beeswax. A natural occlusive that forms a breathable film on the skin's surface, locking in moisture and adding body and glide to balm formulas. Found in: Derma Repair Balm, Hydrating Body Balm.

  • Black Seed (Kalonji) Oil. A traditional botanical oil rich in fatty acids and antioxidant compounds, included for its conditioning and soothing properties. Found in: Multi Purpose Oil.

  • Caffeoyl sh-Decapeptide-9. A biomimetic peptide designed to replicate the skin's own signaling proteins, supporting the appearance of body firmness and elasticity. Found in: Hydrating Body Balm.

  • Carnosine. A naturally occurring dipeptide that helps fight glycation, the process by which sugar molecules stiffen skin proteins over time, promoting the appearance of resilient, youthful texture. Found in: T01 28 Days Anti-Aging Ampoule.

  • Copper Tripeptide-1. A carrier peptide, commonly referred to by its research abbreviation GHK-Cu, which delivers copper where the skin uses it for collagen production and visible repair. One of the most studied peptides for skin renewal. Found in: T01 28 Days Anti-Aging Ampoule, R01 Rejuskin Mask.

  • Creatine. An amino acid-derived compound that supports cellular energy metabolism, included to help fuel the skin's own renewal and repair processes. Found in: T01 28 Days Anti-Aging Ampoule.

  • Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate. A synthetic peptide developed to soften the appearance of expression lines by mimicking the muscle-relaxing action of peptides found in snake venom, without a paralyzing effect. Found in: T01 28 Days Anti-Aging Ampoule.

  • Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate. A licorice root derivative with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It promotes a visibly more even and comfortable complexion and helps balance formulas containing more potent actives. Found in: R01 Skin Perfecting Gel Cleanser, R01 Rejuskin Mask.

  • Ectoin. An osmolyte originally identified in extremophile bacteria, used in cosmetics to help protect skin cells against dehydration and environmental stress. Found in: Gentle Body Wash.

  • Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate. An organic (chemical) UV filter that absorbs UVB rays, used in combination with other filters to build broad-spectrum sun protection. Found in: W01 Brightening Sunscreen (SPF 44/PA+++).

  • Ethylhexyl Salicylate. A chemical and photostabilizing UV filter that helps protect the skin from UVB rays while stabilizing other filters in the formula. Found in: W01 Brightening Sunscreen (SPF 44/PA+++).

  • Ginkgo Biloba Nut Extract. A botanical extract prized for its antioxidant flavonoids, included to support the skin's defense against free radical exposure. Found in: W01 Brightening Sunscreen (SPF 44/PA+++).

  • Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract. A traditional brightening and soothing botanical that helps even out the appearance of the complexion while calming visible reactivity.

  • Hexylresorcinol. A brightening active that helps regulate the appearance of excess pigment, often used alongside other evening ingredients for a cumulative effect. Found in: W01 Brightening Sunscreen (SPF 44/PA+++)

  • Honey Extract. A naturally humectant and soothing ingredient that attracts hydration while promoting a calm and comfortable complexion. Found in: T01 28 Days Anti-Aging Ampoule.

  • Jojoba Seed Oil. A liquid wax derived from jojoba that closely resembles the skin's natural sebum, making it a well-tolerated emollient for both face and body. Found in: Multi Purpose Oil, Perfect Cleansing Oil.

  • Lactic Acid. A mild alpha-hydroxy acid, naturally present among the skin's natural moisturizing factors, which promotes the visible removal of surface cells while helping to maintain skin-friendly pH.

  • Marula Oil. A facial oil dense in antioxidants derived from the kernel of the marula fruit, prized for its fast-absorbing hydration and light, non-greasy finish.  Found in: Multi Purpose Oil.

  • Morus Alba (Mulberry) Fruit Extract. A botanical extract traditionally used for its brightening properties, contributing to a visibly more even skin tone as part of a broader antioxidant blend.  Found in: W01 Brightening Sunscreen (SPF 44/PA+++).

  • Nicotinoyl sh-Pentapeptide-19 & biomimetic peptide complex. A multi-peptide complex (including sh-Decapeptide-7, sh-Octapeptide-4, sh-Oligopeptide-9, and other related biomimetic peptides) designed to replicate the skin’s own reparative signaling proteins, supporting the appearance of repair on compromised or reactive skin.  Found in: Derma Repair Balm.

  • Panax Ginseng Root Extract. A revitalizing botanical extract long used in Korean herbalism, included to promote a healthier, more toned-looking complexion. 

  • Panthenol (Provitamin B5). A humectant vitamin that supports the skin barrier and converts to pantothenic acid upon contact with the skin. It hydrates while helping to calm the appearance of irritation.  Found in: W01 Brightening Sunscreen (SPF 44/PA+++)

  • Phytosphingosine. A lipid precursor and natural component of the skin barrier with mild antimicrobial properties that supports barrier structure and comfort.  Found in: Hydrating Body Balm.

  • Portulaca Oleracea (Purslane) Extract. A soothing botanical extract rich in omega fatty acids and antioxidants, used to calm the appearance of visible sensitivity. 

  • Pumpkin Seed Oil. A nutrient-dense seed oil rich in fatty acids and antioxidants that conditions and softens the skin as part of a facial oil blend.  Found in: Multi Purpose Oil.

  • Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Fruit Extract. An antioxidant-rich fruit extract included to help defend the skin against free radicals generated by sun and environmental exposure.  Found in: W01 Brightening Sunscreen (SPF 44/PA+++).

  • Raffinose. A naturally occurring plant sugar that acts as an osmolyte, helping to protect skin cells and support moisture balance under stress.  Found in: T01 28 Days Anti-Aging Ampoule.

  • Resveratrol. A polyphenolic antioxidant primarily associated with red grapes that helps defend the skin against oxidative stress and promotes a visibly more even skin tone. 

  • Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Fruit Oil. A regenerative facial oil naturally rich in essential fatty acids and Vitamin A precursors, prized for supporting skin texture and tone.  Found in: Perfect Cleansing Oil.

  • Salicylic Acid. A beta-hydroxy acid that is lipophilic by nature, allowing it to penetrate pores to remove excess sebum and surface dead skin cells. Included at a low dose to support brightening effects rather than as a primary exfoliant. 

  • Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract. A natural source of salicin, the plant precursor to salicylic acid, used for its gentle exfoliating and soothing properties.  Found in: T01 Nouvelle Cell Foaming Essence.

  • Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract (Baikal Skullcap). A soothing botanical extract used in traditional East Asian herbalism, prized in cosmetics for its antioxidant and calming properties.  Found in: T01 Nouvelle Cell Foaming Essence.

  • Silkworm Extract. A traditional ingredient in Korean skincare prized for its brightening and conditioning properties, often combined with other evening botanicals. 

  • Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate. A stable, water-soluble Vitamin C derivative that converts to active ascorbic acid upon contact with the skin. It brightens the complexion while remaining gentle enough for reactive or congestion-prone skin. 

  • Tamanu Oil (Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Oil). A traditional oil from the Pacific region prized for its conditioning and soothing properties, used in both facial oil blends and balm formulas.  Found in: Multi Purpose Oil.

  • Tea Tree Leaf Extract (Melaleuca Alternifolia). A purifying botanical extract traditionally used to help maintain a visibly clearer and balanced complexion.  Found in: Skin Refresher.

  • Terminalia Chebula Fruit Extract. An antioxidant-rich fruit extract used in traditional medicine and increasingly in brightening skincare, included here to promote a visibly more even complexion.

  • Titanium Dioxide. A mineral (physical) UV filter that reflects and scatters UV rays away from the skin’s surface. Generally well-tolerated and often combined with organic filters for broad-spectrum coverage.  Found in: W01 Brightening Sunscreen (SPF 44/PA+++).

  • Tranexamic Acid. An active ingredient originally studied for its role in visibly evening out stubborn pigmented spots. It works to visibly calm and balance an uneven complexion with regular use.  Found in: W01 Brightening Sunscreen (SPF 44/PA+++).

  • Tranexamoyl Dipeptide-23. A form of tranexamic acid conjugated to a peptide, developed to support skin tone evenness with improved formulation stability.  Found in: W01 Brightening Sunscreen (SPF 44/PA+++)

  • Trehalose. A naturally occurring sugar that acts as an osmolyte, helping to protect skin cells against moisture loss and environmental stress.  Found in: T01 28 Days Anti-Aging Ampoule.

  • Witch Hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) Water. A botanical distillate with natural astringent and soothing properties, used as a toning base that refreshes without drying.  Found in: Skin Refresher.

Use the glossary as a reference

This glossary is compiled from the INCI reference published by La Nouvelle Peau (July 2026) and general knowledge of cosmetic ingredients. The descriptions summarize the generally accepted role of each ingredient in formulation; these are not clinical claims regarding the performance of any specific product.

Miniature/travel sizes and gift sets share the same active ingredient profile as their full-sized equivalents. Ingredient lists are subject to change by the manufacturer; please always check the actual product packaging.