5 Under-The-Radar Ingredients That Keep You Looking Younger Longer

When it comes to antiaging products, it’s not about the pretty packaging—it’s what’s inside (really inside) that counts. In fact, smoother, brighter, younger-looking skin typically depends on a single ingredient. Not sure which magic potion is for you? No worries—we’re breaking down five of our favorite age-fighters you’ve probably never heard of, because we care about the future of your skin. Get ready to rake in the compliments.

Forever Young

Squalane

Much like collagen, our body produces a compound called squalane, which declines in volume as we get older—simply put, the more we age, the more squalane we lose, and the older we look. The simple fix, then, is to load up on products packed with the compound for a more youthful-looking glow.

Sea Buckthorn Oil

Native to Europe and Asia, sea buckthorn is a plant with nourishing orange berries rich in antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help rejuvenate skin and fend off free-radical damage. Sea buckthorn oil is also deeply moisturizing, thanks to a blend of omegas 3, 6, 7 and 9, plus it offers soothing, anti-inflammatory benefits.

Vitamin C

You already know drinking vitamin C is beneficial for the immune system, but when applied topically, it gives skin that boost of radiance you probably haven't seen since your early 20s. As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C protects against free-radical and pollutant damage that can wreak havoc and age your skin. It activates collagen production, lightens hyperpigmentation and accelerates the skin's natural repair system for an overall brighter, more youthful complexion.

Matcha

It's undoubtedly become a staple in your morning drink, but unless you're using beauty products infused with the miracle ingredient, you can be missing out on a serious glow. Because it's such a powerful antioxidant, it protects skin from environmental pollutants and can put a halt to classic signs of aging.

Retinol

Okay, you may have heard of this ingredient, but we can bet you're not exactly sure what it does, right? Retinol is a pure form of vitamin A, which your skin uses naturally in its repair and regeneration cycle. Its power to renew is why so many dermatologists recommend it as an antiaging ingredient. Benefits include a visible reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and dramatic improvements in texture, tone and radiance.