RETINOL – Also known as a form of vitamin A, retinol increases cell turnover and boosts collagen production. As a result, loose skin is plumped up so lines disappear, and pigmentation is lightened so skin appears brighter. Since it stimulates cell turnover in the lower layers of skin and prevents pore clogging, it’s also an effective anti-acne ingredient.
BAKUCHIOL – A plant-derived retinol-like ingredient from seeds of the babchi plant. Also used for anti-aging in place of retinol (above). It might be less irritating than retinol itself.
NIACINAMIDE – Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is a great ingredient for any skin type, but is particularly beneficial for skin that needs soothing and balancing, as in rosacea. It helps to improve hydration, remove skin texture, and reduce blackheads, breakouts, and redness.
HYALURONIC ACID – Hyaluronic acid acts like a magnet to draw moisture into the skin. Each molecule can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, so it’s ideal for improving skin’s hydration levels.
CERAMIDES – Ceramides are basically the cement that holds skin together – they strengthen the skin’s barrier to prevent moisture from escaping in order to improve hydration levels. Our skin naturally produces ceramides, but as we age, it reduces production – this weakens the skin’s barrier and leads to loose, dry, and dehydrated skin.
ANTIOXIDANTS – Antioxidants are essential to maintaining healthy skin because they help to defend skin against damage from free radicals. They shield the skin’s surface and work to calm and repair stressed and damaged skin – resulting in skin that feels firmer and looks brighter. Popular antioxidants include vitamins C, A, and E.
AHAS – Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are chemical exfoliants (like glycolic and lactic acids), which exfoliate the top layers of the skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate cell renewal. These leave skin looking brighter and feeling smoother.
BHAS – BHA stands for beta hydroxy acid and is more commonly known as salicylic acid. It’s an oil-soluble ingredient, which helps to reduce excess oil and to prevent breakouts. It is beneficial for those with oily and congested skin.