TBH, when used right… these active skincare products are a big deal!
The list of active skincare ingredients is endless with Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Retinol, and so on. If you are into skincare, chances are that you have thoroughly researched active ingredients. We know you have watched blogs of specialists talking about the buzziest potions and elixirs and learnt from them.
These reasonably new skincare blessings have proven to be the skincare miracles that fight signs of ageing, treat hyperpigmentation, brighten skin, and improve skin health.
Who needs skin actives?
To maintain plump, youthful-looking skin, people with more mature skin need to use these potent ingredients. Teenagers need to use them to control blocked pores caused by excess sebum. To prevent skin cancers and pigmentation caused by sun exposure, sun-exposed individuals need active ingredients.
In a nutshell, active skincare is beneficial to all of us.
Benefits of Active Skincare Ingredients
Niacinamide: Say hello to one of the skin’s most beloved superheroes – Niacinamide Acid. This one active ingredient comes with many benefits. It fades away dark spots, reduces pigmentation, minimises pores, and does much more to improve your skin health.
Vitamin C: When used topically, Vitamin C is a powerful skin active ingredient that helps prevent signs of ageing and prevents skin from free radicals like pollution, infrared light and blue light. Vitamin C also fades hyperpigmentation and gives your skin a desired even tone glow.
Hyaluronic Acid: There are many miraculous skin benefits of using Hyaluronic Acid. This skin product works best with all skin types but is an elixir for dry and mature skin. Using hyaluronic acid topically helps to lock in moisture, making the skin look younger.
Glycolic Acid: You have probably heard about chemical peels and their exfoliating effect, right? Well, Glycolic Acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that has the same effect as skin peeling but is milder when used topically. It exfoliates the skin revealing youthful skin and improving skin texture.
Retinol: Often used in skincare products to stimulate collagen production, retinol is a derivative of vitamin A. This active skin ingredient triggers cell turnover, further promoting your skin’s natural renewal. It smoothes fine lines and wrinkles, giving you a supple, healthy-looking glow.
What are the Dos & Don’ts of using active skin ingredients?
Suppose you are planning to move from the traditional CTM skincare routine to a more advanced active ingredient. In that case, knowing the basics of active skin products is crucial. There’s a good chance you’ve been confused by the ingredient lists and percentages on the packaging of your skincare products if you don’t have a science background. It may be suitable for your skin to have a 20% concentration of one ingredient, but just two per cent of another may suffice.
So here’s a guide to using active skin ingredients to improve your skin health:
1. Start with the smallest dosage possible to ease your skin into new skincare active like retinol or glycolic acid. The lowest concentration may not be enough for those with tough skin or deep-seated concerns. You should consult your dermatologist or pharmacist regarding the appropriate strength before incorporating the active into your regimen.
2. For someone just starting out with skincare actives, make sure not to mix two products. If unsure, head to your derma and get the right direction to using the skincare actives. The best solution to using two actives can be when they are present in one.
3. Always be cautious when using at-home chemical peels with glycolic acid. Initially, use the smallest concentration for the shortest period. Be aware of your skin and stop the treatment at any sign of discomfort.
4. Hyaluronic acid is one of the most preferred acids. Still, when applying it, people make the most common mistake: putting it on a dry face. The acid known for its hydrating properties sucks away moisture if applied to dehydrated skin.
5. Vitamin C is hands down one of the most loved skincare products for Indian skin. However, this acid comes with its cons. If incorporating Vitamin C into your A.M routine, top it up with a generous amount of SPF.
6. Serums do not contain as many ingredients as cleansers or moisturisers. Instead, its potent active ingredients penetrate deeply and effectively into the skin. This concentrated formula will enhance your complexion and give it the natural boost and glow it needs.
So, now that you are one step closer to incorporating active skin products in your A.M or P.M. routine. Let us know if you love using active skincare ingredients in your regime. We’d love to know your skincare routine. Let us know in the comments.