You know the drill—every month a new miracle skincare ingredient dominates your social feeds and soon it’s available everywhere from eye creams to masks. While we love any opportunity to post a self-care selfie, skincare products are a serious investment, so it’s important to know exactly what you’re paying for. Here, we break down the seven ingredients worth your attention and money.
Recipe For Perfection
AHA/BHA
While they both exfoliate, AHAs (including glycolic, lactic and fruit acids) are water soluble and exfoliate the surface layer of the skin while BHAs (salicylic acid) are oil soluble and penetrate deeper to unclog pores and remove impurities. AHAs are ideal for dull complexions that need to be revived and brightened. BHAs are ideal for acneic skin to reduce bacteria and eradicate existing blemishes and discoloration. Talk to your derm about combining AHA and BHA products for double-duty exfoliation.
Peat
Not for the squeamish, peat is known as the fertilizer of skincare ingredients—it's literally dirt from old moors and glaciers around the world. But you won't mind getting it on your hands, face and body as it's rich in minerals and antioxidants that improve cell turnover, increase elasticity and tighten pores.
Ellagic Acid
Found in raspberries and pomegranates, ellagic acid is a natural source of antioxidants, making it a go-to ingredient to prevent discoloration as well as reduce existing signs of aging and environmental damage.
Peptides
These active proteins communicate with cells to signal elastin production (aka help the skin bounce back and look youthful). When applied topically, peptides enter the skin cells and encourage the production of collagen to minimize wrinkles.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
Vitamin C has maintained It status for ages due to its ability to even out skin tone and prevent further damage from free radicals. Unfortunately, it comes with some drawbacks, like the notorious post-application sting. Well, luckily for sensitive skin types, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate is a stable, no-sting form of vitamin C even the most finicky complexions can tolerate. When used daily it will lighten sun spots, eliminate blackheads and prevent damage from pollution.
Probiotics
Probiotics not only do wonders for your digestive health, they also can be quite the skin saviors, especially for those with sensitive skin, rosacea and acne. They reduces redness, inflammation and allow for faster healing by eliminating the bacteria that causes flare-ups.
Zinc Oxide
One of the most important steps in preventing damage is to protect the skin. The safest and most effective sunscreen ingredient is zinc oxide. It's a natural mineral that protects against UVA and UVB rays and, unlike its chemical counterparts, creates a physical barrier that reflects the sun's rays rather than absorbing them. Skin types that suffer from increased redness or rosacea flare-ups benefit the most.
