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The ScienceWe formulate around five hero ingredients. Here's exactly what each one does — and why it's in your K-Aurea bottle.
What it is. A traditional Korean beauty ingredient made by soaking and fermenting rice, rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids that have softened and brightened skin for centuries.
How it works. Fermentation breaks rice starches down into smaller, more bioavailable compounds — including ferulic acid and inositol — that penetrate the skin barrier more easily than raw rice extract, delivering antioxidant and brightening benefits.
The science. Studies on fermented rice water show measurable improvements in skin elasticity and moisture retention, attributed to its amino acid and vitamin B content combined with antioxidant ferulic acid.
Yes — it's one of the gentlest brighteners available and is commonly recommended for reactive or barrier-compromised skin.
Daily. Both our AM and PM cleansers are built on a rice water base for consistent benefit.
What it is. Also known as Vitamin B3, niacinamide is one of the most-studied ingredients in modern skincare — versatile enough for nearly every skin type and concern.
How it works. Niacinamide supports ceramide synthesis in the skin barrier, helping it retain moisture more effectively, while also regulating sebum production at the follicle level to visibly minimise pore appearance over time.
The science. Clinical research links consistent niacinamide use (2%+) with reduced sebum, improved barrier function and more even-looking skin tone within 4–8 weeks.
Yes — modern stabilised formulations, like our Vitamin C Radiance Moisturizer, layer safely with niacinamide-based cleansers.
Many people find niacinamide helps balance visible oiliness without over-drying, unlike harsher astringents.
What it is. A potent antioxidant that brightens dull, uneven-looking skin while helping defend against everyday environmental stressors like pollution and UV exposure.
How it works. At 20% concentration, our Radiance Moisturizer delivers a potent but stable dose of Vitamin C in a lightweight, non-greasy cream base — formulated to absorb quickly without irritation for most skin types.
The science. Topical Vitamin C is one of the most researched antioxidants in dermatology, shown to support collagen signalling and reduce the visible appearance of photodamage and dullness with regular use.
Yes — our formulation is designed for twice-daily use, morning and night, followed by SPF during the day.
Vitamin C itself doesn't increase sun sensitivity, but we always recommend daily SPF as part of any brightening routine.
What it is. A large-molecule alpha hydroxy acid derived from bitter almonds, prized for delivering gentle exfoliation with a much lower irritation profile than glycolic acid.
How it works. Mandelic acid's larger molecular size means it penetrates skin more slowly than other AHAs, loosening the bonds between dead skin cells gradually rather than all at once — which is why it's far less likely to cause redness or peeling.
The science. Dermatology literature consistently ranks mandelic acid among the best-tolerated AHAs for melanin-rich and sensitive skin types, making it especially suited to Indian skin tones.
Mandelic acid works on the skin's surface for texture and tone; salicylic acid goes into the pore itself to clear congestion.
Yes — it's considered one of the safest starting points for acid exfoliation.
What it is. A beta hydroxy acid that's oil-soluble, meaning it can travel inside the pore itself to clear out congestion — a key reason it's a staple in oil-control cleansers.
How it works. Unlike water-soluble acids, salicylic acid dissolves in oil — allowing it to travel past surface buildup and into the pore lining itself, where it breaks down the debris that leads to congestion and breakouts.
The science. Salicylic acid remains one of the most clinically validated ingredients for managing oily, congestion-prone skin, commonly used at 0.5–2% concentrations in leave-on and rinse-off formulas alike.
In cleanser form — like our Rice Water Face Wash Gel — it's rinsed off quickly, making it gentler than leave-on formulas.
Yes, in cleanser form. We recommend starting with your evening routine.