10 essential skincare ingredients explained
- 6 min reading time
Let’s talk about skincare. We are not dermatologists, but your trusted beauty guide, with a lot of collected “beauty data.” We can't ignore that finding the right skincare routine is hot and happening on social media. We understand it can be quite confusing to know which ingredients are a no-go and which are essential: hyaluronic acid, retinol, vitamin C... You’ve probably heard of them. These ingredients are found in the best skincare products.
But, what is what and why are these ingredients so amazing?
We are going to tell you everything about these 10 ingredients found in skincare products, what they are, what the benefits are, and when you should use them!
Retinol:
What is retinol? Retinol - vitamin A is used to achieve a noticeable reduction in wrinkles, refined skin texture, and improved firmness.
What are the benefits of Retinol? Retinol is especially known for its anti-aging benefits.
Retinol stimulates collagen production, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and improves skin texture. Additionally, retinol has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce acne and restore an even skin tone.
When should you use retinol? It is best to use retinol products in the evening because they can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Tip: Wear SPF daily, as retinol can increase the skin's sensitivity to sun damage.
Vitamin C:
What does vitamin C do? Vitamin C is a powerful vitamin and a true multitasker. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that reduces signs of skin aging, promotes collagen production, and protects the skin from external influences.
What are the benefits of vitamin C? Vitamin C brightens the skin and has a proven effect in reducing hyperpigmentation and evening out the skin tone.
But that's not all! Vitamin C also stimulates collagen production in your skin, making your skin firmer and more elastic. It also helps reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.
When should you use vitamin C? The best time to use vitamin C is in the morning. Vitamin C protects your skin from harmful external influences throughout the day and gives a healthy glow.
Hyaluronic acid:
What is hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid is a natural ingredient that hydrates your skin. This ingredient attracts and holds water molecules, keeping your skin hydrated and supple.
What are the benefits of hyaluronic acid? Hyaluronic acid helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improves skin elasticity.
When should you use hyaluronic acid? You can basically use hyaluronic acid at any time of the day, depending on your skin's needs. Apply a product with hyaluronic acid after cleansing your face and follow up with a moisturizer for the best results.
Niacinamide:
What is niacinamide? Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is very good for your skin. What are the benefits of niacinamide? It helps reduce redness, improves skin texture, and minimizes pores. This ingredient also helps reduce acne, regulate sebum production, and slows down skin aging.
When should you use niacinamide? You can use niacinamide both in the morning and in the evening. Use it after cleansing your face.
AHAs:
What are AHAs? AHAs stand for Alpha Hydroxy Acids. These are chemical exfoliants that remove dead skin cells and give you smooth skin. This ingredient works like a peel for your skin for a fresh and healthy complexion.
What are the benefits of AHAs? These acids reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and stimulate cell renewal. AHAs can also help fade pigmentation spots and even out your skin.
When should you use AHAs? The best time to use products with AHAs is in the evening because they can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Using AHAs for the first time? Start with a lower concentration and gradually increase to avoid possible irritation.
BHAs:
What are BHAs? BHAs are a bit different from AHAs. They stand for Beta Hydroxy Acid. This is a chemical exfoliant that penetrates deep into your pores and removes excess sebum and impurities. They are therefore especially suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
What are the benefits of BHAs? Products with BHAs are the best choice if you suffer from clogged pores and bumps on your face.
When should you use BHAs? Products with BHAs can be used both in the morning and evening, depending on your skin type and needs.
Peptides:
What are peptides? Peptides are a collection of small amino acids that improve your skin structure and skin elasticity.
What are the benefits of peptides? Peptides reduce fine lines and wrinkles, contribute to skin firmness, and improve hydration. They can also help reduce skin inflammation and repair the damaged skin barrier.
When should you use peptides? Peptides can be used in the morning and evening.
Ceramides:
What are ceramides? Ceramides naturally occur in your skin, helping to strengthen your skin barrier. This ingredient really ensures that your skin stays hydrated and also protects against moisture loss.
What are the benefits of ceramides? Ceramides strengthen the skin barrier, retain hydration, and protect your skin from harmful external influences.
When should you use ceramides? Ceramides can be used at any time of the day, depending on your skin's needs. Apply them after cleansing your face and follow up with a moisturizer.
Zinc oxide:
What is zinc oxide? Zinc oxide is a natural mineral that protects you from UV rays. This ingredient is (almost) always used in sunscreens. Because it is used in sunscreen, it also protects against skin aging. This ingredient also helps very well with soothing the skin.
When should you use zinc oxide? Zinc oxide is used in sunscreens and should be applied every morning, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Make sure to apply sunscreen frequently.
Green tea extract:
What is green tea extract? Green tea extracts are packed with powerful antioxidants (which remove radicals), so they help protect your skin from their damage.
What are the benefits of green tea extracts? Green tea extracts can help reduce inflammation, soothe the skin, and help reduce redness.
When should you use green tea extract? Green tea extracts can also be used in the morning and in the evening.
If all goes well, it is now clear what these 10 ingredients do to your skin.
All these ingredients are included in almost all skincare products. Take a look at our skincare offer : )
And remember: Every skin is unique, so everyone also needs different products/ingredients!
