Skincare based products are made from a mixture of natural based sources. These are all mixed together to provide the consumer with the 'holy grail' or the 'bestest' products on the market. On your search for a skincare product that suits your needs, some might find it rather overwhelming when the faced with big long words or terms that mean absolutely nothing to you.
There are a wide range of ingredients in skincare simply starting with water. Certain ingredients take on different roles such as moisturising, cleansing and absorbing oils.
Over the years, I have searched for products that target skin prone to breakouts/ or acne based. Here's a list of common ingredients I've come across:
Alpha -Hydroxy Acid (AHA's)
Pros:
In simple terms, these are active ingredients which come from fruit, milk, and sugar cane acids. Glycolic Acid, Citric Acid and Lactic Acid are the most common types of AHA's to look out for when searching for skincare. Those who have mild/ severe acne would benefit from these, as well as people who are prone to outbreaks. It helps to exfoliate the top layers of skin to promote moisture restoration. AHA's also widely used in anti - aging products but are recommended for spot fighting.
Cons:
If over used, AHA's can irritate skin leading to drying out the skin and further breakouts. Many brands can control the pH level in their products and can only advice on their usage. So if it says only use once a week - follow that instruction. In addition, AHA's can increase sun sensitively so using a good moisturiser with SPH will help
Aqua
I am hoping that everyone knows what aqua is. But just in case - it's water. The quality of aqua is an extremely important ingredient. It should be purified to the highest standard and goes through stringent process to ensure that all things living in the water, such as microorganisms, are killed in order to help other ingredients do their job.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Pros:
This is an antibacterial agent that kills germs that are responsible for developing breakouts. It is highly used as a chemical for acne products in skincare. It is a proven to be super effective for people can suffer from mid - severe breakouts and acne. It is available is different doses on prescription and over the counter.
Cons:
It can be drying and/ or irritating on the skin. A high dose can dry out the skin leading to more discomfort and skin problems. Some people are more sensitive to benzoyl peroxide and have different tolerance levels depending on the individual. When checking out product ingredients 2.5% is a good standard. Everything above that should be prescribed from your GP.
Hyaluronic Acid
Pros:
This is a natural substance in the body that regulates cell renewal, and maintains moisture. In skincare products, it helps to create a moisture barrier on the skin. It's excellent for people are suffer with dry skin. Cosmetically, it can be injected into skin for anti aging results.
Cons:
When used topically, for example in creams, the molecule is too large and will not penetrate the outer layers of skin to fill in wrinkles .
Retinol
Pros:
This is an active form of vitamin A. It is a power exfolliant that sheds dead skin to promote young, healthier skin cells. The increase the production of hyaluronic acid and collagen. This helps the skin to be come supple an smooth. Retinols improve firmness of the skin, treat acne and reduce hyperpigmentation.
Cons:
Some people suffering from skin conditions such as extreme dry skin and rosacea may be worsened if they use retinol. It can cause redness and irritation
Salicylic Acid
Pros:
A common ingredient that scares some people purely for it's name. Its a chemical used in 'spot fighting' treatments. It is a form of Beta Hydroxy Acid that is used as an exfolliant. Salicylic Acid is said to dissolve dead skin cells that clog pores, it reduces oiliness and the risk of further breakouts. Different strengths are used cosmetically in chemical peels.
Cons:
When high concentrations of salicylic acid are applied to a large area of the skin for a long period time. This can lead to damaged skin cells. Good news is, over the counter products to treat spots are low in salicylic acid so should not cause much trouble. The level of salicylic acid is designed to clear your skin and are tolerated well.
Sulfur
Pros:
Great at targeting spots individually as it's less abrasive used all over the face. Products with Sulfur kill certain types of bacteria on the skin improving common skin aliments such as acne, seborrhoea and psoriasis. Used commonly in soaps, shampoo's and topical acne treatments Sulfur helps reduce skin oiliness, and prevents pore blockages from forming.
Cons:
Drying, peeling, redness, burning, and skin irritation are the most common side effects. They tend to be worse when you first begin treatment. You may want to start slowly, and build up to the recommended dose.
Witch Hazel
A botanical ingredient that helps remove excess surface skin oils. It comes from a yellow plant. The leaves, bark and twigs are used to make medicine. This is used in skin care products with anti inflammatory properties. It's safe for most people to use.
There are plenty much that I could mention but these are just a few. Let me know what you think. Do you worry about the products you use?
.jpg)
.jpg)
0 comments:
Post a Comment