Skin Encyclopedia

An evidence-based skincare reference by SYNC Beauty.

Encyclopedia

Ampoule vs Serum

two concentrated treatment products that are closely related, with an ampoule generally being a more potent, short-term version of a serum. Both deliver targeted actives, but ampoules often contain higher...

Ampoule vs Serum

two concentrated treatment products that are closely related, with an ampoule generally being a more potent, short-term version of a serum. Both deliver targeted actives, but ampoules often contain higher...

Essence vs Serum

two hydrating and treatment-focused steps that differ mainly in concentration and texture: an essence is a lightweight, watery layer that delivers gentle hydration and prepares skin, while a serum is...

Essence vs Serum

two hydrating and treatment-focused steps that differ mainly in concentration and texture: an essence is a lightweight, watery layer that delivers gentle hydration and prepares skin, while a serum is...

Essence vs Toner

two lightweight liquid steps applied after cleansing that have increasingly overlapping roles: toners traditionally rebalance and prep the skin immediately after washing, while essences focus on delivering a first layer...

Essence vs Toner

two lightweight liquid steps applied after cleansing that have increasingly overlapping roles: toners traditionally rebalance and prep the skin immediately after washing, while essences focus on delivering a first layer...

Serum vs Moisturizer

two steps that play different roles in a routine: a serum is a lightweight, concentrated treatment that delivers active ingredients into the skin, while a moisturizer is a richer formula...

Serum vs Moisturizer

two steps that play different roles in a routine: a serum is a lightweight, concentrated treatment that delivers active ingredients into the skin, while a moisturizer is a richer formula...

Chemical vs Physical Exfoliation

two approaches to removing dead surface skin cells: chemical exfoliation uses acids or enzymes to dissolve the bonds between cells, while physical exfoliation uses a scrub, brush, or tool to...

Chemical vs Physical Exfoliation

two approaches to removing dead surface skin cells: chemical exfoliation uses acids or enzymes to dissolve the bonds between cells, while physical exfoliation uses a scrub, brush, or tool to...

Azelaic Acid vs Salicylic Acid

two acne- and tone-focused ingredients with distinct mechanisms: azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid that calms inflammation, reduces bacteria, and fades post-acne marks, while salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid...

Azelaic Acid vs Salicylic Acid

two acne- and tone-focused ingredients with distinct mechanisms: azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid that calms inflammation, reduces bacteria, and fades post-acne marks, while salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid...