Written by Dhatri
Everyone is busy buying skincare products endorsed by celebrities and referred by friends. Skincare products are evolving at the same pace as technology development. We are given a wide range of options to choose a product from the vast array of brands in the market. This makes us feel happy and we choose to use beauty products with the solution it provides. However, this is not the right way to purchase a skincare product.
All cosmetic products are not made with the same ingredients. And, not every ingredient suits all skin types. But we can’t predict what may turn out to be an allergen or what ingredients are necessary for healthy skin. Skincare products are a combination of various chemical compounds and ingredients. And some of which are naturally produced in the body.
To enjoy delicious food, we need to prepare it with the right ingredients in the right proportion. The same as that, to adore beautiful skin, we need to pamper it with the right ingredients.
There are many wonderful skincare ingredients available. In that sense, some are essential for healthy skin.
Here, we break down 5 popular ingredients. Next time you purchase a skincare product, look out for the ingredients in the product that is helpful for your skin.
#5 Wonderful ingredients for a healthy and glowing skin
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Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is a powerhouse of hydration. It is a substance that is naturally produced in our body and it holds 1000x its weight in water. The antioxidant-rich acid helps protect our skin from dust and pollution. It locks moisture in the face, which results in soft and supple skin that retains more moisture for a long time. It is advisable to use serums and moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid, and they are suitable for all skin types, especially dry skin. Regular usage of products with hyaluronic acid makes your skin plump and prevents all skin problems. -
Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA)
Alpha-hydroxy acids, which are considered chemical exfoliants, are water-soluble acids that are derived from plants and fruits. It aids in the attainment of even-toned, bright, and smooth skin. It is a great ingredient for removing the outer layer of the dead, making the skin smooth. It also even tones skin pigmentation irregularities. AHA is present in products like creams, moisturizers, toners, peel masks, etc. But not all AHAs work for every skin type. There are a few that help to achieve the skin's goals.
- Glycolic acid: This is suitable for skin with signs of ageing and acne-prone skin. It works best on normal, combination, and oily skin. Glycolic acid penetrates the skin and gives a glowing complexion.
- Lactic acid: This improves the overall texture and tone of the skin and reduces the appearance of large pores and age spots. It is suitable for all skin types, particularly sensitive and dry skin, as it is a mild AHA. It gives you smooth and bright skin.
- Mandelic acid: This is gentler and can work on sensitive skin. It reduces the appearance of acne scars and spots, giving an overall bright complexion.
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Ceramides
Ceramides are a part of fat or lipids called sphingolipids; they serve as a barrier to protect the skin and keep it hydrated. These are found in cleansers, toners, and serums. It protects us from the chemicals that are used in our makeup products and keeps us away from the symptoms of dryness, dehydration, and premature signs of ageing. Ceramides are an ideal ingredient for all skin types.
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Vitamin C
Vitamin C is recommended for inclusion in your skincare routine because the antioxidant protects the skin from pollution and UV rays. It gives an overall youthful look, fading spots and brightening the skin. There are vitamin C serums, sunscreens, moisturizers, and masks available on the market. This ingredient is more beneficial for oily and normal skin types.
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Retinoids
Retinol is nothing but a derivative of vitamin A and is on the top list of skin ingredients for its anti-ageing benefits. It boosts collagen production while reducing acne, wrinkles, and fine lines. It addresses the issues of ageing conditions and environmental effects on the skin, which makes it an "essential skincare" ingredient. This ingredient works for every skin type, but people with sensitive skin should use low concentration products.
Bottom line:
All the ingredients are naturally occurring substances in our bodies. But as we keep ageing, these substances keep diminishing in our bodies, resulting in dryness, acne, dark spots, and pigmentation. That’s why these ingredients are synthesized and used in skincare products. Follow a healthy skincare regimen by including the right skincare ingredients beneficial for your skin.
Sources:
Press, Dove, et al. “The Efficacy of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Gluconolactone, and Lic | CCID.” The Efficacy of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Gluconolactone, and Lic | CCID, dovepress.com, dovepress.com/the-efficacy-of-glycolic-acid-salicylic-acid-gluconolactone-and-licoch-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-CCID. Accessed 17 Apr. 2022.
“Topical Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications - PMC.” PubMed Central (PMC), www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, 1 July 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5605218/.
“Advantages of Hyaluronic Acid and Its Combination with Other Bioactive Ingredients in Cosmeceuticals - PMC.” PubMed Central (PMC), www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, 1 Aug. 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8347214/.