Collagen:
This is a structural protein that assists in the connection of tissues and ensures in strengthening and moisturizing your skin. It improves wrinkles and fine lines over time.
Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) and Beta-Hydroxy Acid (BHA):
AHA is a chemical compound that is either found naturally, in natural sugars from fruits and acids like citric, malic, glycolic, and lactic. This essentially eliminates the top layer of dead cells and reveals new, brightened skin. AHA is perfect for people with dry skin or acne scars, bringing a hydrated, elastic, and renewed look due to increases in blood circulation towards your face. Not only does this assist with exfoliation, but it also promotes the production of collagen in your skin. On the other hand, BHAs are best for oily skin types that are more prone to getting acne. While they are both exfoliants, they should not be used very often as they may become irritating to the skin, causing an excess of stripping off the outermost layer of the skin.
Hyaluronic acid:
It helps with promoting collagen and elastin production, keeps your skin hydrated, boosts elasticity, reduces scarring, fine lines & redness, and has anti-aging properties through the regeneration of skin cells. Products with hyaluronic acid are safe to use multiple times a day, and it is very rare for hyaluronic acid to cause allergic reactions.
Glycerin:
This is a humectant that’s naturally found in healthy skin, meaning it helps with moisturization and it relieves dry skin. While it keeps your skin hydrated, it prevents the production of sebum, which is one of the root causes of breakouts and acne. Although this is very similar to hyaluronic acid, use glycerin-based products if you want to increase moisture rather than locking moisture in.
Sulfate:
Sulfates typically have a bad rap, however in skincare, it acts as a great cleansing agent, getting rid of excess oils and sebum from the face. It also is very efficient for removing makeup and other products. This is especially good for people with an oily skin type, however, this may be irritating and possibly suffocating for acne and pores for people with sensitive and dry skin.
Antioxidants:
As many know, antioxidants are essential for protecting skin against environmental stressors such as free radicals, UV rays, and pollution. The most popular antioxidants used in a number of skincare products include vitamins E and C, retinol, niacinamide, and green tea.
Vitamin C:
This is an antioxidant that protects your skin against sun damage while also reducing dark spots, acne scars, and damaged skin over time. It also boosts collagen, which creates a more plump, livened look with glowing skin. See here for more information on vitamin C and what it can do for your skin.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a naturally produced antioxidant found in sebum, acting as a humectant-like skin strengthener and a protectant against cell damage. This assists with skin repair in conjunction with protecting the skin from free radicals.
Titanium Oxide:
A mineral often used in mineral-based sunscreens. It protects the skin from UVA and UVB radiation by reflecting the sun’s rays. This is recommended for people with irritative, redness-prone skin. When inhaled through airborne measures, this mineral may be very harmful, but topical sunscreen and TiO2 products are safe and adequate for use.
Retinoid and Retinol:
In terms of retinoids and retinol, many get confused about the differences between them. Let’s unpack! Retinoid is an umbrella term for chemical compounds that derive from Vitamin A. Retinoid ordinarily alludes to the stronger products which require prescriptions from your dermatologist, whereas retinol refers to the weaker over-the-counter products. Typically, if you have sensitive or dry skin, you should use an OTC retinol product, whereas if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you should get prescribed a retinoid product. Other benefits include even skin coloration, the fade of dark spots, and softening of rough skin. One thing you should keep in mind when using retinoids or retinol is to be cautious of combining it with AHA/BHA, benzoyl peroxide, and vitamin C since it will decrease the pH levels of both products, essentially reducing the overall effects of the products.
Niacinamide:
This is a form of vitamin B3 that is great for brightening dim spots, decreasing hyperpigmentation, reducing harm from free radicals, and smoothes skin texture. It is suitable for all skin types as this ingredient is very lightweight and gentle. Niacinamide is also an anti-inflammatory that works to diminish the swelling and redness related to skin breakouts, working to dwindle the sum of acne-causing oil being produced.
Ceramides:
Your skin naturally contains ceramides, otherwise known as fats or lipids. This is crucial for the retention of moisture and water. Therefore, ceramides in skincare products are suitable for all skin types. As a result, ceramides hold anti-aging properties and help towards a more hydrated, improved skin texture overall. In comparison to niacinamide, ceramides offer assistance to extend the boundary work of the skin and move forward dampness maintenance, whereas niacinamide makes strides in pore estimate and skin surface.
Salicylic acid:
Salicylic acid-based products are great for oily or acne-prone skin. It is also oil-soluble, so it is effective for blackheads and whiteheads. It can boost the generation of collagen in the skin as well.
Benzoyl Peroxide:
This is an antibacterial agent that kills and eliminates bacteria, making it very helpful for treating acne. It helps to keep your pores free of oil clogs. This is helpful for moderate breakouts, however, effects may vary depending on the severity of acne on one's skin.