6 Popular Skincare Ingredients Defined

When it comes to skincare, I get so confused with all of the different popular skincare ingredients that are touted to make you look younger, get rid of wrinkles, help with dry/oily/combination skin.  There seems to be a new one popping up all the time.  To diffuse my frustration as to what product is truly best for my skin, I took to the interwebs to define each of the most-heard of additives. Get ready for a skincare education!

CHARCOAL

When I saw that charcoal was a new “must try” ingredient in new skincare products, I had to look twice.  Charcoal – the same thing that goes in my BBQ, the same thing you get on Christmas morning in your stocking if you were bad that year.

Charcoal is actually helpful in absorbing excess oil and really cleaning your pores.  I’ve read a few articles that recommend you only use a product with this key ingredient once or twice a week max and be mindful if you have sensitive skin.

Masks containing charcoal are the best way to go, as you can use it on the particular areas of your face that are oil-prone.  I’ve tried a few (even tried one while chatting on Facebook Live) and my face feels the benefits after.  You can tell that this ingredient is no-joke, so use it as directed!

VITAMIN C

Ever since I had my little men, I have been noticing more and more spots on my cheeks and chin area.  My esthetician recommended using a product with Vitamin C, as it helps to protect my skin against free radical damage and also brightens my skin tone lessening the current spots I already have.

You can use serums and/or moisturizers with vitamin C, but test out a small area of your face first to check for any reaction.  Some people with sensitive skin may see a reaction to it.

RETINOL

I first heard of retinol in prescription skin lotions and now it is all over the department stores, cosmetic big-box stores and drugstores!  Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and known most popularly for treating fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol stimulates collagen production in the skin, helping to rid your face of wrinkles.

It is recommended that you add this to your nighttime skin routine and ease yourself into it as it is strong.

HYALURONIC ACID

Conventionally when I read the word “acid”, I think of something that is going to eat away at my skin.  Hyaluronic acid (as well as glycolic) are super gentle and can do wonders for your skin.  Hyaluronic acid is perfect for dry skin – me to a T!  It moisturizes and plumps my skin, hiding any fine lines.  My new favorite is by StriVectin.  I’ve been using it for about 2 weeks now and don’t feel the daily uncomfortable skin tightness I would normally experience.  I don’t have to use a lot of the product either.

GLYCOLIC ACID

Glycolic acid works in the same way as retinol in that it fights against fine lines and wrinkles.  It is the ingredient to look for if you have sensitivity issues with retinol.  Glycolic acid helps promote collagen production, smoothing out those pesky wrinkles.  Even though it is an acid, it isn’t rough on your skin.

Basically, it helps to shed your first layer of skin, allowing for a fresh, clean new layer to emerge.

RESVERATROL

Another anti-aging ingredient found in many skincare products, resveratrol is said to reduce wrinkles and increase skin firmness. It increases antioxidant defense within our skin to protect and smooth.  I don’t recommend washing your face with red wine, but I’ve read many an article on its efficacy.

What do you look for in your skincare products?