Do you get stressed by the long list of ingredients in your skincare products or find yourself wondering if the product will benefit you?
Skincare products are often a combination of several ingredients. Some benefit you, and some maintain the longevity of the product. Irrespective, you must understand if these elements in the product benefit your skin.
Today, we'll discuss some ingredients that are a must in your skincare products. We also share a list of elements you must avoid, along with tips and tricks to help you choose the right product for your skin.
What ingredients to look for while shopping for your skincare?
There are several natural and artificial ingredients found in daily skincare products. Understand their benefits to help you identify what your skin requires and choose a product accordingly. Here are some safe ingredients, even in the longer run:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant present in high concentrations in the dermis and epidermis of the skin. As you grow older, this concentration reduces due to exposure to sun and pollutants. Choose skincare products with Vitamin C to fight skin ageing and protect against the sun. It keeps the skin firm and plump.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that helps maintain skin health and appearance. It is readily available in many healthy foods. It is a powerful antioxidant that effectively reduces the damage caused by UV rays.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid or glycosaminoglycan has an effective property to slow down ageing. It naturally occurs in humans and animals, mostly in young skin, tissues and joint fluid. As you age, hyaluronic acid gets destroyed. Your diet and habits like smoking may accelerate this process. Products with hyaluronic acid help tackle fine lines, hydrate the skin and prevent sagging.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide or nicotinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that benefits the skin. It regulates oil produced by the skin and protects against sun damage. Skincare products with niacinamide often help reduce fine lines, hyperpigmentation and treat acne.
Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA)
Alpha-hydroxy acids may be of various types, including glycolic, lactic, tartaric and citric acid. These are popular in products that help with fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, enlarged pores and age spots. AHA may not suit everyone as it causes mild irritation and increases sun sensitivity. Choose products with a maximum concentration of 10-15% AHA.
Beta-hydroxy acid (BHA)
Beta-hydroxy acid or salicylic acid helps improve skin texture and get rid of dead skin. It is less irritating to the skin and suitable for acne-prone or oily skin. BHA helps get rid of blackheads, whiteheads and reduces discolouration. Its anti-inflammatory properties help heal the skin and even exfoliate it.
Ceramides
Ceramides make up 30-40% of the outer skin layer or epidermis. They retain skin moisture. However, as you age, it’s concentration decreases causing skin dryness and irritation. Choose products with ceramides to help fight external pollution and naturally moisturise it.
Ingredients to avoid
Several ingredients are extensively used in skincare but cause more damage than good. It is essential to be aware of these ingredients and avoid them in the products you choose for your daily skincare.
Fragrance/perfume
Added fragrances in skin care products may cause skin allergies. It is vital to avoid them, especially when you have underlying skin conditions or sensitive skin.
Sulphates
Sulphates are cleansing agents found in body washes and shampoo. It is not suitable for your skin as it removes all-natural oil, making your skin look dry, dull and irritating.
Parabens
Parabens in products help prevent bacterial growth. In the longer run, they harm the body and cause a hormonal imbalance.
Toxin-free (Petrolatum, Mineral oil, Drying alcohols, Nanomaterials)
Chemicals such as petrolatum and mineral oils are petroleum by-products. They coat the skin like plastic and clog the pores, eliminating the skin’s ability to remove toxins. It eventually increases acne, redness and swelling. Similarly, alcohol in skincare products can leave the skin flaky and rough. It also hinders the renewal process of the skin. Nanomaterials are extremely harmful to the skin and should be avoided at all costs.
Final word
Skincare is an essential part of many of our routines. Therefore, it is imperative to educate yourself about the ingredients that make these products and their long-term effects. Choose products that suit your skin type and always rely on a patch test to ensure your skin accepts the product.