Parsing through the skincare aisle or closely reviewing skincare ingredient lists can be incredibly confusing or become daunting if you don’t have a clue of the function or benefit of the ingredient - let alone how to incorporate it into your routine.
As a skincare enthusiast , I’ve become slightly overwhelmed by the slew of new skincare ingredients rapidly infiltrating the beauty market. Along with all the online buzz harping around certain skincare ingredients, I’ve become hesitant and delayed the process a tad bit when adding some of these powerful ingredients into my regimen.
Over the years we’ve seen skincare routines go from a simple two-step routine to multiple steps with layering a lot more products. We have the beauty industry to thank for that, where product innovation has skyrocketed over the years and brands developing numerous products for every single skin concern under the sun.
With an upgraded skincare closet and a multi-step routine, we’re slowly becoming what I like to call ‘mini skincare experts’ by investing in our skincare and educating ourselves while doing so (thanks google) by navigating that never-ending maze.
We’ve reeled in the experts alongside the help of our old friend Dr.Google to find out which ingredients should definitely be making an appearance in our skincare routine this season.
“Identifying the ingredients that are best suited to your skin type is imperative. However, it’s important not to overcomplicate. The sheer number of ingredients can be overwhelming so I recommend selecting one or two proven ingredients which target your specific concern and start incorporating them into your routine,” suggests Samantha Minnaar, Director of Herbswork.
VITAMIN C
What is it: An antioxidant that protects and minimizes environmental and sun damage. Anti-oxidants help neutralize free radical damage caused by sun exposure, pollution and other daily life encounters. “This is a great all-rounder that helps brighten and reduce damage by free radicals which causes aging,” says Samantha Minnaar. Vitamin C can be found in most citrus fruits. So, having a tall glass of OJ in the morning might not achieve that glow as opposed to a chemically altered Vitamin C in a serum- which is way more effective.
Why we love it: It protects and increases collagen production, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, diminishes hyperpigmentation, acts like an armor against pollution and other free radicals, and brightens complexion.
How to use it: It’s best to use it in serum form as it’s more concentrated and penetrates faster into the skin. Apply after you’ve cleansed and applied toner, then seal it with a moisturiser. In the daytime, apply sunscreen.
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RETINOL
What is it: Anti-aging ingredient that is a derivative of Vitamin A. “Retinol is chemically converted by enzymes to Retinoic Acid (biologically active form). The skin then uses what it needs and converts the excess back to storage form,“ says Lisa Breytenbach, Medical Trainer at Lamelle Research Laboratories. It increases the cell turnover and helps neutralize free radicals.
Why we love it: It’s a multitasking superhero and in our opinion ranks in the top tier of the best skincare ingredients out there. It brightens, rejuvenates, fights acne and increases collagen production which helps minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
How to use it: “Retinol works by speeding up the skin cell turn over so it can cause irritation when you first start using it,” explains Minnaar. “It’s always best to start a routine by phasing it in to avoid any redness, dryness, burning, itching and flaking. So using it in alternating evenings would be a great way of introducing the product,” suggests Lisa. We suggest the sandwich method - use a moisturiser before and after applying retinol - for beginners.
HYALURONIC ACID (HA)
What is it: Hyaluronic (pronounced hi-ah-lew-ron-ic) is a water- based ingredient and made up of sugar molecules that work to cushion and lubricate. It retains moisture by slowing down the rate of water evaporation so that water doesn’t escape from your skin’s surface.
Why we love it: It makes the skin look supple and plump reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s a fan favorite because it gives the skin that youthful radiance.
How to use it: This ingredient is great in both a moisturiser or serum. We recommend using it twice everyday and don’t forget to seal it with sunscreen! “Many of the products used to fight acne can cause the skin to dry out so its important to add a hydrating ingredient to your routine,” suggests Samantha.
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CERAMIDES
What is it: Ceramides are lipids (fatty molecules) found in skin cells. “Barrier repair is a big buzz word in skin care at the moment. Sensitivity, dehydration, dryness and breakouts are all symptoms of a compromised barrier. Ceramides can help repair the skin’s barrier and are essential for overall skin health,” explains Samantha.
Why we love it: It repairs dry, dehydrated skin, boosts moisture levels and protects and repairs the skin’s barrier.
How to use it: Use both at night and during the day.
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