We believe you deserve to feel confident about every product you put on your skin. At Hark & Zander, transparency is a key pillar of our philosophy and empowers you to understand exactly what you are putting onto your skin!
Ingredient lists might look like a jumble of long, scientific names at first glance, but with a few helpful hints, you’ll be reading them like a skincare formulator in no time.
The Basics: Where to Begin
Every skincare ingredient list is ordered by concentration, from highest to lowest. That means the first few ingredients typically make up the bulk of the formula, while the ones at the bottom are present in smaller (yet often still impactful) amounts.
If you’re scanning a label, pay extra attention to the top five ingredients. These set the foundation for how the product will feel and function.
Water Isn’t a Bad Thing
Many natural skincare lovers are quick to question when water (aqua) appears at the top of a list. But water is often essential for helping ingredients absorb effectively, creating the right texture, or activating botanical extracts.
Rather than viewing it as a filler, think of it as a delivery system. Particularly in toners, serums, or moisturisers.
Recognising Botanical Ingredients
Botanical ingredients usually appear in their Latin plant names, which can make them tricky to identify at first glance. For example:
-
Calendula officinalis = calendula
-
Lavandula angustifolia = lavender
-
Melaleuca alternifolia = tea tree
-
Leptospermum scoparium = manuka
Look for these toward the middle of the list, where many active plant extracts are featured. If you're ever in doubt, a quick google search using the Latin name should always show you the english translation (or another translation if required).
What “Actives” Really Mean
Active ingredients are those included for a specific skin benefit—like hydrating, calming, or brightening. In natural skincare, this can include:
-
Manuka oil: calming, antibacterial
-
Kōakaheart oil: deeply nourishing, rich in essential fatty acids
-
Bakuchiol: a plant-based alternative to retinol
-
Vitamin E (tocopherol): antioxidant protection
-
Niacinamide (vitamin B3): barrier-supporting and brightening
Even if an ingredient is listed further down, it may still be effective—some actives work beautifully at low concentrations.
What We Leave Out Matters Too
We’re just as mindful about what we don’t include. You won’t find:
-
Synthetic fragrances or harsh alcohols
-
Parabens, phthalates, or silicones
-
Known irritants or endocrine disruptors
Our ingredient lists are intentional, and built to support your skin; Not overwhelm it.
The Hark & Zander Difference
We don’t hide behind complex jargon or buzzwords. Every ingredient in our formulations has a purpose, and we proudly list them all on our packaging and website. That’s because we want you to feel confident, informed, and connected to what you’re using on your skin.
Choosing skincare should feel like a ritual, not a risk, and when you can read your ingredients like a formulator, it becomes that much more empowering.
Ready to decode your skincare with clarity and confidence?
Explore our naturally active range and experience ingredients that are as honest as they are effective.
