Active ingredients—these components draw the difference between an ordinary concoction and a magical potion.
In recent years, the demand for several skincare products has skyrocketed while others collect dust on store shelves. But have you ever wondered why? Well, it all comes down to the use of one component—active ingredients. If a skincare product constitutes the perfect mix of powerful active ingredients, it will make your skin grime-free, even-toned and radiant.
In simple words, actives are substances that ensure the product is working and fulfilling its purpose. These potent combinations of minerals, vitamins, and other naturally extracted substances can benefit your skin in multiple ways—delivering the desired results.
Explore seven popular activities that everyone is obsessed with and their benefits—to find out which awesome sauce will solve all your skin woes.
A combination of fatty acids or waxy lipids that occur naturally in the skin—ceramides can strengthen the skin barrier by promoting hydration. This popular active ingredient binds the skin cells together—to develop a strong skin barrier that can fight against damage. Shampoos, sunscreens, face serums, cosmetics and deodorants might have ceramides.
The human body naturally produces hyaluronic acid—it can be found in young skin, healthy tissues and joint fluids in the highest concentrations. However, over time, the levels of this substance begin to deteriorate in the body. Skincare products rich in hyaluronic acid help restore the depleted levels. Hyaluronic acid helps lock moisture, and keep the skin supple and hydrated, and it can also prevent premature ageing.
Niacinamide—a fragment of the vitamin B3 molecule—is a wonderful ingredient that has the brilliant ability to modify its effects on various skin cells. As a result, this active ingredient is suitable for all skin types. You can use a skincare product infused with Niacinamide to achieve even skin tone and to lock moisture.
Retinal aldehyde, retinyl esters and retinol—are types of retinoids that are extracted from vitamin A—and can commonly be found in a wider range of skincare products. It is used to minimise the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, treat pigmentation and uneven skin tone, and prevent dryness by hydrating the skin.
Salicylic acid can be deemed as a “magical potion” by people with oily and acne-prone skin! This beta-hydroxy acid is enriched with the power to get absorbed into the layers of the skin and eliminate excess dirt, oil, and gunk—leaving your skin sebum-free. Salicylic acid removes the yucky accumulation, unclogs the pores, and leaves the skin feeling smoother. The best attribute of this active ingredient is that it is milder on the skin than other substances that fight acne—like benzoyl peroxide.
Glycolic acid is touted as an almighty skin saver for a lot of people, and it is evident why. It can accelerate cell turnover, exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells, minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, tighten the pores, even out the texture of the skin and complexion, and dissolve the oil that clogs the pores. Plus, it suits all skin types.
Vitamin E is an incredible active ingredient for your skin—it is rich in powerful antioxidants that protect the skin barrier against pollution and other harmful environmental stressors such as UV rays. It can help nurture, replenish, and promote even skin tone. This active ingredient can be found in serums and sunscreens.
Do not forget to consult a dermatologist before adding new active ingredients to your skincare regimen. Seek professional guidance before you head out, to shop for skincare products with these activities.
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