In this modern day and age, skin care is no longer exclusive to women trying to look pretty. Almost every man and woman, young or old, have some form of skin care routine, even if it's just a daily face wash. Of course, a big part of skin care is what you eat, but what you apply externally should be just as important.
Yet, many people have been applying creams and essences to no fruition. Why is that? Perhaps it's not about how much you apply, but WHAT you apply. Let's have a look at which ingredients your skin really needs:
#Hydrate & Moisturize
1. Hyaluronic Acid
Where you're a skincare expert or novice, you've probably heard of hyaluronic acid. It's role as a powerful moisturizer promotes the growth of collagen while keeping the skin glowing and supple.
2. Amino Acid
Amino acid is a main component of protein, which helps strengthen the skin's immune system, regulate moisture and pH levels, and balance oil levels.
#Acne & Oil Control
1. Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid can be seen in many skincare products lately. It can eliminate excess oil on the skin and clean our pores to achieve a desirable oil level and prevent acne. At the same time, it also has anti-aging effects.
2. Chamomile
You've seen chamomile tea, but it's also getting more and more common in skincare products, especially for those treating sensitive skin. Chamomile contains calming and restorative capabilities, reduces redness and can soothe itching skin.
3. Tea Tree Extract
A must have ingredient in the fight against acne. Not only does it help cleanse the pores, its acne treating properties include bacteria and inflammation prevention.
#Whitening & Spot Removal
1. Nicotinamide
This ingredient might be a mouthful to pronounce but it's a must for any whitening products. It prevents and subdues spots and blemishes while preventing melanin precipitation in the skin.
2. Vitamin C
You might not have applied it to your skin, but you've definitely consumed Vitamin C before. Not only does it break down melanin, it stimulates cell regeneration and promotes other whitening effects.
#Restoration & Anti-Allergy
1. Squalane
Traditionally sourced from shark livers (now we use olive oil and sugar cane), squalane helps to delay skin oxidation, improve cell growth and forms a natural protective layer of the skin.
2. Centella Asiatica
Cantella Asiatica is a common Chinese herb which is known to effectively heal damaged skin and improve its immunity. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling effects.
3. Calendula
Have you heard of the latest superstar in the world of skincare? Calendula is known to heal wounds, treat inflammation and improve problems with large pores.
#Anti-Aging & Wrinkle Removal
1. Peptide
Peptide helps stimulate collagen regeneration, accelerating the absorption of skin care products and smoothening any fine lines.
2. Vitamin E
Another nutrient that is usually consumed, Vitamin E when applied externally helps smooth wrinkles. Aside from maintaining cell functions, it has anti-aging and anti-oxidation effects.
After looking at these ingredients, we hope you're more aware of which skincare products you actually do need and which are just marketing. Remember, skincare products are not a magical fix and should be used regularly in order for its effects to take place.