Active Ingredients

It sometimes feels like you need a science degree to decode skincare ingredients lists. So we thought it was time to explain some of the most common active ingredients and why you might want them.

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid helps skin to lock in moisture. By doing so, it makes skin plumper and softer, and smooths out wrinkles. If your skin feels dry, dehydrated or tight, you’d likely benefit from adding hyaluronic acid to your daily skincare routine. Don’t be put off by the name – hyaluronic acid won’t burn or irritate your skin.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3. It’s a real multitasker – keeping skin hydrated, improving texture and reducing redness, irritation and dark spots. It also helps to protect your skin and boost cell renewal.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)

There are several types of AHAs, the most common being glycolic acid and lactic acid. They’re mainly used to exfoliate skin – removing dead cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin. Be warned though, AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so always wear sunscreen, even on cold and cloudy days. If your skin is particularly sensitive, you might want to stick to lactic acid, which is less likely to cause irritation.

CBD (cannabidiol)

CBD is extracted from hemp. It calms and balances the skin, reducing inflammation, redness and acne. It’s also an antioxidant, so helps to protect your skin from environmental damage.

Retinol

A form of vitamin A, retinol boosts cell renewal to make skin look brighter and fresher. It can reduce fine lines, scarring and sun damage. On the downside, it can cause dryness and irritation, so you’ll want to start off with a low concentration and work your way up. You’ll also need to combine it with a decent moisturiser and SPF.

Vitamin C

While vitamin C can’t replace sunscreen, it does helps to protect your skin from UV rays, pollution and other environmental factors. It also helps skin to heal, reduces dark patches and makes skin more radiant.

Peptides

Peptides are a type of amino acid. They boost collagen and elastin so can make your skin look firmer and plumper.

Try these

Looking for a great all-rounder? Try Olay’s new Vitamin C + AHA24 range. It combines Vitamin C, niacinamide and lactic acid to brighten and soften skin, increase hydration and reduce uneven pigmentation. The serum and moisturiser cost £34.99 each from www.boots.com and have been gathering rave reviews since they were launched earlier this year. Bad Habit’s Repair Mode AHA/BHA Active Night Serum (£20, uk.morphe.com) gently exfoliates your skin while you sleep. Along with several different types of AHA and BHA (beta hydroxy acid), it contains magnesium and various plant extracts to soothe, brighten and hydrate your skin.

By Kate Duggan

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