The importance of knowing how to read and decode labels and ingredients listed on beauty products is undeniable. The first crucial thing is knowing which potentially toxic and harmful ingredients to steer clear of. The second and no less important knowledge to obtain is which ingredients to embrace and let nurture and care for your precious skin. These ingredients are not only the ones that make a skincare product effective but also safe to use.
So, it’s high time we learned more about these miracles that are dedicated to giving us that perfect care and protection.
Vitamins, vitamins
Doctors are always telling us how the intake of vitamin C is essential for our body. According to University of Maryland Medical Center, we need vitamin C for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body. Vitamin C is needed for healing wounds and for repairing and maintaining bones and teeth. Ok, we’ll definitely start taking our vitamins as of today.
So, if vitamin C is good for the body, it’s definitely good for skin as well. Products containing this lovely vitamin have both anti-aging and skin brightening properties. If you read “Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate” on a label, don’t be alarmed, this is just a form of vitamin C, so you’re safe. So, to say good riddance to premature skin-aging, pesky dark spots, and blackheads, the next time you go shopping for a face cleanser, definitely be on the lookout for this ingredient.
The magic bullet
Speaking of vitamins, an almost magic ingredient we all need in our lives is retinol. Apparently, as Vogue tells us, retinol is definitely not new. In fact, it was discovered 81 years ago and has been hiding in plain sight and has now made a grand comeback. So, what exactly is retinol and what makes it so amazing?
This little miracle is actually a vitamin A derivative, and it’s a much-beloved ingredient whose amazing properties and effects all dermatologists agree on. Jennifer Linder, M.D says: “Retinoids trigger a change in the skin to make it look clearer and more youthful; they actually help skin get back to a healthier place. And there’s strong, strong clinical data behind that.” It should be noted that retinol works best when it’s a dominant ingredient of a night serum, like the Skinceuticals Retinol 0.5, which helps create collagen. While you get your beauty sleep, retinol works overnight to give you that flawless wrinkle-free skin.
AHAs!
Alpha Hydroxy Acids or AHAs are a class of chemical compounds mainly derived from organic sugars, with glycolic acid (from sugar cane) and lactic acid (usually plant-derived). Aside from the fact that they can be found in many natural and organic products, there’s a bunch of other reasons to love them.
Products containing AHAs provide smoother skin texture without having to resort to harsh exfoliators. Since they act on the surface cells, they can reduce fine lines, dark spots, and acne scars. They’re particularly suitable for oily and acne-prone skin since they help rid skin of the dead cells that clog pores and trap bacteria, which in turn cause acne and blemishes. This is something everyone battling acne should embrace and never be separated from again.
Zinc Oxide
The name may sound a tad scary, but don’t you worry, this is a natural mineral which provides the safest and most effective protection against UVA and UVB rays. The importance of protecting your skin from the negative effects of the sun and even possible long-term damages simply can’t be emphasized enough.
However, unlike chemical sunscreens, zinc forms a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them, kind of like Wonder Woman’s shield. Because of this, it’s particularly beneficial for those dealing with such skin issues as rosacea. The important thing to note is that Zinc oxide is non-toxic, so if you have sensitive skin, or you simply always err on the side of natural products, this ingredient is right up your alley.
Hyaluronic Acid
We’re always told that hydration is paramount to our health as well as to radiant, healthy skin. Well, regular and plentiful water intake simply doesn’t cut it, and that’s where Hyaluronic Acid steps in. This acid is actually a lubricating, clear substance that’s produced by the body naturally. It helps retain collagen, increase moisture, and provide elasticity and flexibility.
So, using a product that contains an acid already present in your body can only improve the condition of your skin without causing any harm. By regularly applying a moisturizer containing this acid, the skin’s water content improves daily and wrinkles become plumper and less visible. It’s amazing for dehydrated and dry skin, but oily and combination skin can benefit from it as well.
Do you swear by any of these skin care ingredients?
Also by Sophia: These 4 Superfoods Are All You Need To Get Glowing Skin (You’re Welcome)
Related: Double Cleansing Keeps Lucy Hale’s Skin Breakout-Free. Try It For Yourself!
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