Looking at long lists of skin care ingredients can be overwhelming. And getting to grips with what’s important and actually works is even more of a challenge. So here we’ve attempted to make life a little easier.
Here’s the lowdown on some of the most effective skin care ingredients that deliver great results:
AHA’s:
Stands for “alpha hydroxy acids”. These include salicylic acid (which reduces excess oil levels in the skin and removes dead cells), and lactic acid (which stimulates the production of collagen, improving skin texture and diminishing fine lines).
AHA’s are acids derived from fruits and you’ll find them in things such as: apple extract, grape extract and lemon extract.
Antioxidants:
No doubt you’re familiar with this word already. Antioxidants work to eliminate skin-damaging ‘free radicals’ from our cells. Plus they help to regenerate skin cells too, to offset the signs of aging.
Vitamins A, C, E, selenium and zinc, polyphenols (found in tea), and co-enzme Q10 are all examples of antioxidants.
Lipids:
These are important in creating a barrier to sun damage, and the effects of the cold and pollution. They are especially recommended to people with either sensitive or dry skin.
Essential fatty acids (Omega-3 or Omega-6), as well as ceramides are good examples of lipids.
Moisturizing Accelerators:
Glycerin, hyaluronic acid and urea are all moisturizing accelerators. And they are particularly powerful in making skin looking younger. Their main function is to restore moisture levels to dry and dehydrated skin.
They serve an important purpose in keeping skin cells hydrated and plump.
Retinol:
This is a source of ready-to-use Vitamin A. Not only does it help reverse sun damage, it removes dead skin cells, and renews both the texture and tone of skin by boosting collagen production and improving skin elasticity. (Be aware that it can be quite drying, so combining it with hyaluronic acid is a great way to rehydrate cells while still enjoying the benefits of retinol).
Can’t see what you’re looking for? Why not check our more extensive glossary of skin care terms?