Men’s Skincare from Açaí to Zarzaparrilla | The Complete A–Z Ingredient Guide by Setú®

October 9, 2025

The A–Z of Men’s Skincare Ingredients: Legendary Botanicals + Science

Introduction

When men search for the best skincare routine, they look for ingredients that work hard: helping with hydration, texture, tone, and overall skin feel. At Setú®, we combine legendary Latin botanicals with proven actives to help support the skin’s natural balance, radiance, and vitality, all in one routine.

This A–Z guide introduces key ingredients found in our men’s skincare essentials, explaining how each one helps the skin look and feel its best, and which Setú® product features it.

A – Açaí (Antioxidant Power)

Açaí, originating from Brazil, is renowned for its high content of anthocyanins and polyphenols, which help support the skin’s defense against daily environmental stressors. It may help improve the look of dull or tired skin, promoting a healthier-looking tone.

Present in: Setú® Moisturizer with Retinol.

B – Bixa Orellana (Achiote) (Revitalizing + Protection)

Also known as Achiote or Annatto, Bixa Orellana is a seed extract native to Latin America, valued for its carotenoids and natural antioxidants. It helps protect the skin’s appearance from environmental stress and supports a more radiant look. Traditionally used for its vibrant pigment and soothing qualities, it brings a sense of vitality and warmth to the skin.

Present in: Setú® Eye Cream.

C – Camu Camu (Vitamin C + Brightening)

Camu Camu, a Peruvian fruit, is known for its exceptionally high natural Vitamin C content, which helps brighten the skin’s appearance, supports a more even tone, and helps maintain firmness.

Present in: Setú® Vitamin C Serum.

D – Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate (Gentle Cleanser Base)

A sulfate-free cleansing ingredient commonly used in skincare is derived from natural fatty acids. It helps lift dirt and oil without over-drying, leaving the skin feeling clean yet comfortable.

Present in: Setú® Daily Cleanser (Lávate).

E – Ethylhexylglycerin (Clean Beauty Preservative Booster)

A gentle, plant-derived ingredient that helps keep skincare fresh and stable without using parabens or harsh preservatives in skincare. It also helps soften and condition the skin, resulting in a balanced feel.

Present in: All Setú® products—the Daily Cleanser, Vitamin C Serum, Moisturizer with Retinol, and Eye Cream.

F – Fructooligosaccharides (Prebiotic Skin Support)

Fructooligosaccharides are natural prebiotics that help maintain the skin’s balance by supporting a healthy-looking surface. They can help the skin feel smoother, calmer, and more comfortable after cleansing or shaving.

Present in: Setú® Daily Cleanser (Lávate).

G – Guaraná (Energizing + Brightening)

Native to the Amazon, Guaraná contains natural caffeine and plant compounds that help refresh the skin’s appearance. It may help diminish the look of tiredness and bring a more revitalized tone to the skin.

Present in: Setú® Eye Cream.

H – Hyaluronic Acid (Hydration + Plumping)

Hyaluronic Acid, commonly used in premium skincare, is a naturally occurring molecule in that helps the skin attract and retain moisture, promoting a smoother and more supple look. It helps maintain hydration without leaving a heavy or shiny residue.

Present in: Setú® Eye Cream and Setú® Vitamin C Serum.

I – Iron Oxides (Natural Mineral Color + Light Protection)

Iron Oxides are natural mineral pigments that provide a soft tint and help the skin look more even. They can also help reduce the visible effects of exposure to light and pollution, giving a more refined finish.

Present in: Setú® Moisturizer with Retinol and Setú® Eye Cream.

J – Juice (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice) (Soothing + Hydration)

Aloe vera juice is a common ingredient in skincare, known for its calming and moisturizing benefits. It helps soothe and refresh the skin, providing a cooling feel after shaving or sun exposure.

Present in: Setú® Eye Cream.

K – Karité (Shea Butter) (Softness + Comfort)

Known as Shea Butter in traditional skincare products, Karité is rich in emollients that help soften and smooth the skin. It helps improve comfort in dry areas and supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

Present in: Setú® Eye Cream.

L – Lens Esculenta (Lentil) Fruit Extract (Hydration + Pore Appearance)

Lentil Extract is a natural source of minerals and sugars that help the skin feel more hydrated and balanced. It helps refine the look of pores and supports a smoother texture.

Present in: Setú® Moisturizer with Retinol.

M – Maca Root (Resilience + Vitality)

Maca, from the Andes, is known for its adaptogenic properties that help support the skin’s natural resilience. It allows the skin look firmer, more balanced, and refreshed.

Present in: Setú® Moisturizer with Retinol.

N – Niacinamide (Balance + Clarity)

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a well-known ingredient in skincare. It helps support the skin’s natural barrier and balance sebum production. It helps reduce the appearance of uneven tone, leaving skin looking smoother and more refined.

Present in: Setú® Daily Cleanser and Setú® Moisturizer with Retinol.

O – Oleifera Leaf Extract (Purifying + Antioxidant Care)

Moringa Oleifera Leaf Extract, known as the “miracle tree,” is rich in natural antioxidants that help lift impurities and support cleaner-looking, refreshed skin.

Present in: Setú® Daily Cleanser.

P – Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract (Nourishing + Renewal)

Avocado Extract contains natural oils and vitamins that help nourish and condition the skin. It supports hydration and elasticity, helping skin feel softer and more comfortable.

Present in: Setú® Eye Cream.

Q – Quercetin (Natural Antioxidant Support)

Quercetin is a plant-based antioxidant found naturally in ingredients like Yerba Mate, Açaí, and Guaraná. It helps protect the skin’s surface from environmental stress and supports a healthier-looking complexion.

Present in: Setú® Daily Cleanser, Setú® Moisturizer with Retinol, and Setú® Eye Cream.

R – Retinol (Smoothness + Renewal)

Retinol is a form of Vitamin A that is used consistently in major skincare brands. It helps refine the look of texture and tone. It helps encourage smoother-looking skin and a more even appearance over time.

Present in: Setú® Moisturizer with Retinol.

S – Suma Root (Botanical Tradition + Balance)

Suma Root, from the Amazon, contains natural plant compounds that help the skin appear more energized and luminous. It supports the skin’s natural balance and resilience.

Present in: Setú® Eye Cream.

T – Tocopheryl Acetate & Tocopherol (Vitamin E) (Protection + Care)

Vitamin E is known for helping to protect the skin’s surface from environmental stressors. Tocopheryl Acetate and Tocopherol help maintain hydration and smoothness, supporting a healthy-looking barrier.

Present in: Setú® Vitamin C Serum and Setú® Moisturizer with Retinol.

U – Urea (Hydration + Smooth Texture)

Urea helps the skin attract and retain moisture. It supports a smoother feel and helps reduce roughness for improved comfort.

Present in: Setú® Daily Cleanser.

V – Vitamin C (Radiance + Brightening)

Vitamin C helps improve the look of dullness and uneven tone while supporting a more luminous appearance. In Setú®, it comes from Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate and Camu Camu, complemented by Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Callus Culture Extract and Citric Acid, which help refine texture and enhance skin radiance.

Present in: Setú® Vitamin C Serum.

W – Watermelon Extract (Hydration + Freshness)

Watermelon Extract helps refresh and hydrate the skin, leaving it with a cool, light feel. It’s ideal for men who prefer a lightweight, fast-absorbing moisturizer.

Present in: Setú® Moisturizer with Retinol.

X – Xanthan Gum (Texture + Stability)

A natural, plant-based thickener that helps keep formulas smooth and uniform. It ensures every application feels silky and even.

Present in: Setú® Daily Cleanser, Setú® Vitamin C Serum, and Setú® Moisturizer with Retinol.

Y – Yerba Mate (Invigorating + Refreshing)

Yerba Mate, a botanical from South America, contains natural caffeine and antioxidants that help energize the skin’s appearance. It provides a refreshed, awake look—perfect for morning routines.

Present in: Setú® Daily Cleanser.

Z – Zarzaparrilla (Clarity + Balance)

Zarzaparrilla (Sarsaparilla) is traditionally known for its purifying properties. It helps improve the look of clarity and leaves skin feeling clean and balanced.

Present in: Setú® Vitamin C Serum.

Conclusion: Putting It All Together

Men’s skincare doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs consistency and high-quality ingredients that help support the skin’s natural balance. With Setú®, you get dermatologist-developed formulas powered by Latin botanicals—Moringa, Yerba Mate, Camu Camu, Açaí, Suma Root, Zarzaparrilla, Maca, Guaraná, and Achiote—combined with proven cosmetic actives like Retinol, Niacinamide, and Hyaluronic Acid. Use them daily with SPF to help maintain smoother, clearer, and healthier-looking skin.

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To Learn More About Skincare

Setú® believes in education and transparency. For more information on skincare science, ingredients, and dermatologist-backed practices, explore these reputable sources: