The past few years have had a boom in people’s interest in skincare, and it feels like some people have gone from clueless to experts overnight. What used to mean facewashes and lotions now encompasses an endless catalog of substances that can clear your face.
Filled with buzzwords like “serums” or “acids,” the world of skincare may seem like complex science. However, after learning a few key rules, you can feel like a pro the next time you’re in Sephora.
There is no end to what you can learn about the world of making your skin better. The ingredients that make up much of these products are a good place to start.
Hyaluronic acid
You may have heard this word during a commercial or read it on the side of a face wash bottle. However, this substance is a lot less complicated than its long name may suggest.
Produced naturally by the body, hyaluronic acid is a versatile molecule that can help improve skin flexibility and elasticity, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Made of a long, complicated chain of molecules, hyaluronic acid is best known for its ability to absorb water, which is key in its moisturizing abilities.
It can help the skin in many qualities, particularly scarring, stiffness, drying and diseases like scleroderma.
According to Cetaphil, hyaluronic acid is best applied in a serum on damp skin.
Peptides
Peptides, a protein that occurs naturally in the skin, is used as a building block in many skincare products.
Peptides stimulate your skin to create collagen, according to Healthline, as collagen itself cannot penetrate the skin barrier. Collagen strengthens your skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
In addition to firmer skin, peptides can ease inflammation and help to clear blackheads.
Healthline recommends using a serum or moisturizer with peptides included.
Niacinamide
Made up of vitamin B3, niacinamide has long been seen as a “safe substance” to many working in cosmetics.
“Niacinamide is one of those ingredients found in many skin care products to brighten skin, prevent signs of aging and treat conditions like eczema or acne,” dermatologist Alok Vij told the Cleveland Clinic. “It’s a potent nutrient that rarely has side effects.”
Niacinamide builds up keratin, a protein that maintains skin health and strength. It also boosts hydration and can reduce the appearance of pores.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, some medical professionals believe it can help to prevent skin cancer from developing.
The Cleveland Clinic recommends adding Niacinamide to your routine through a moisturizer or a face mask for relaxation.
Ceramides
Ceramides are fatty acids in the skin that make up about 50% of its outer layer. As you age, your body has more trouble naturally producing them, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Synthetic ceramides exist in moisturizers and serums to make up for that.
Synthetic ceramides work to lock in moisture while also replenishing the skin’s barrier.
“Aging and certain skin conditions, like eczema, involve decreased ceramide levels, which can result in dehydrated or itchy skin,” dermatology physician assistant Clara Wilson told the Cleveland Clinic. “Products with ceramides help keep your skin healthy and hydrated.”
Ceramides are common in many over-the-counter lotions and creams.
Retinol
Best known for its anti-aging effects, retinol is a form of vitamin A that has been used in skincare since the 1970s.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, retinol can reduce fine lines through increasing collagen and also stimulate new blood vessels in skin, improving its color.
Retinol can have dramatic effects, but it can also cause skin dryness and irritation. Harvard Health Publishing says most doctors recommends using them only every other day at first. It is also imperative to wear sunscreen while using retinol, as they increase the skin’s light sensitivity.
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