Niacinamide
For those not in the know, Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that is often used as an active ingredient in many skincare products. It can also be found naturally in foods like meat, fish, and yeast, to name a few. When applied to the skin, Niacinamide has been known to help improve fine lines, wrinkles, and any uneven skin tones. Additionally, niacinamide can also help to reduce any of the redness usually associated with acne and other inflammatory skin conditions. It is also very effective when it comes to restoring the lip layer in the top layer of the skin, in order to help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Another thing that niacinamide can do is to help lower the skin’s sebum production, which in turn can reduce the excess oil that is responsible for clogging pores which leads to breakouts. It also further be paired with other ingredients, such as hydrating ingredients or antioxidants such as vitamin C.
Hyaluronic Acid
This ingredient is specifically a molecule that is naturally found in the human body. It makes up a major component of connective tissues, and also plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. That being said, it is important to remember that the levels of hyaluronic acid decline when you age, which is why your skin gets dryer and has more wrinkles. This ingredient is commonly used in many skincare products like moisturisers and serums and can benefit all skin types – but especially dehydrated skin. Most importantly, hyaluronic acid acts as a humectant, meaning that it can pull moisture into itself. This means it hydrates without clogging pores and can pair well with several other important ingredients.
When applied topically, hyaluronic acid also has the ability to hold over 1000 times its weight in water, which means it definitely boosts your skin’s moisture levels to the max.
Retinol
This powerful nutrient is responsible for boosting collagen production, which can help to diminish fine lines and the appearance of wrinkles, as well as even out your skin tone. However, it is important that you use retinol products as exactly directed in order to achieve the best results. This is because overuse of retinol can actually harm the skin, so it is essential you follow the product’s instructions to the letter and read any labels carefully. Retinol is typically found in anti-ageing serums, and also has impressive benefits for those dealing with congestion and dull skin. For those with sensitive skin who have never used a retinol before, it is important that you choose a beginner-friendly formula since retinol can also increase your skin’s sensitivity, which can lead to irritation and dryness if used incorrectly.
Salicylic Acid
These acids are more specifically a beta hydroxy acid and are derived from willow bark. They specifically work to break down dead skin cells, which can help you to unclog any pores and prevent new acne breakouts from forming. As such, salicylic acid is typically found in toners, cleansers, spot treatments, and serums. It is often touted as one of the most effective ingredients when it comes to treating acne, alongside other skin conditions such as psoriasis and dandruff. If they are used correctly, they can help you to reduce inflammation and prevent further breakouts from happening. No doubt that oily and acne-prone skin will in particular benefit from using this ingredient!
Vitamin C
Similar to retinol, vitamin C is very effective when it comes to addressing certain signs of ageing, such as wrinkles, fine lines, loose skin, hyperpigmentation, and more. It is a very good antioxidant and can help you to fight free radical damage, in addition to brightening the skin and stimulating collagen production. However, it is important to note that vitamin C tends not to work well with other skincare ingredients, so you should avoid layering it with other ingredients like retinol and exfoliating acids. That being said, vitamin C does work well with complementing antioxidants such as vitamin E and ferulic acid. This is because they will boost the efficacy and stability of the molecule.
Ceramides
Ceramides have originally been in skincare products for years, but recently they have become increasingly popular due to a focus on ingredients that support and strengthen the skin barrier. On the whole, ceramides help to rebuild and restore the skin barrier, as well as improve visible signs of ageing and block other environmental damages. They are also well tolerated by all skin types while being perfect for those who have sensitive or dry skin. Additionally, ceramides are safe to use in conjunction with most, if not all ingredients out there. This means you do not have to worry about layering ceramide-rich products over active ingredients. Moreover, ceramide-based products tend to be a great addition to skincare routines that have also included ingredients such as retinol and glycolic acid, as they can counteract any of the sensitivity these ingredients cause.