A-Z

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) — one of the 21 FDA-approved sunscreen chemicals with an approved usage level of 2 to 25 percent. When applied, titanium dioxide remains on the skin’s surface, scattering UV light. It is often used in conjunction with other sunscreen chemicals to boost the product’s SPF value, thus reducing the risk of irritation or allergies attributed to excessive usage of chemical sunscreens. Its incorporation into sunscreen formulations, makeup bases, and daytime moisturizers depends on the particular size of titanium dioxide employed. The smaller the particle size, the more unobtrusive TiO2’s application. 

Taurine — an amino acid used in skin care products, particularly anti-aging lines, where it is said to help calm the skin and when combined with glycolic acid it is also said to have an exfoliating effect that helps diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Taurine is believed to inhibit glycation [when sugars attach themselves to the amino acids in collagen—promoting wrinkles, sagging, and “creping,” one of the main causes of cellular aging]. Taurine modulates multiple skin-damaging pathways when applied topically, evidence suggests taurine repairs the skin barrier, rehydrates keratinocytes (the main cells of the upper skin layers), inhibits apoptosis (cell...

Transforming Growth Factor Beta 3 (TGF-b3), also known as sh-Polypeptide- 5 — My new personal favorite protein (encoded by the TGFB3 gene) is making waves in skincare in the field of wound healing. (See microneedling and microchanneling). TGF-beta 3 enhances glycosaminoglycan production by mesenchymal stromal cells and stimulates scar-free healing. In the following study, Occleston, Nicholas & Laverty, Hugh & O'Kane, Sharon & Ferguson, Mark. (2008). “Prevention and reduction of scarring in the skin by Transforming Growth Factor beta 3 (TGFbeta3): from laboratory discovery to clinical pharmaceutical,” Journal of biomaterials science. Polymer edition. 19. 1047-63. 10.1163/156856208784909345, it was found: “We have identified...

Tranexamic Acid - A synthetic derivative of the amino acid L-Lysine, that has shown promise in reducing unwanted pigmentation via tyrosinase inhibition and reduction in Prostaglandin E2 production. It also acts as a UV induced pigment inhibitor.  Tranexamic acid works especially well when used in combination with other brightening agents like niacinamide and vitamin C.  You can also use it in combination with retinoids; it can actually maximize the skin-enhancing benefits of these vitamin A derivatives, including helping fade sunspots and age spots.