The skincare industry is thriving. Many products feature prominently in daily self-care routines, and various items — particularly those with natural and organic ingredients — have surged in popularity.
The sales of skincare products in the United States grew by 13% in 2018, reaching the $5.6 billion mark, according to The NPD Group, a market research company.
New skincare products are introduced each year. Consumers also have more skincare guides, such as social media, at their disposal, which encourages them to become more informed about which ingredients and products to use.
The following are some common skincare product ingredients and their purposes.
Vitamin C cientifically known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is found in many different anti-aging skincare products. Experts say that it protects skin from free radicals and can help brighten overall complexion. Rocio Rivera, Ph.D., and vice president of L’Oréal Paris Scientific Communications, says vitamin C can help combat fine lines, wrinkles and discoloration in the skin that leads to signs of premature aging.
A good skincare formula will contain 10-20% pure vitamin C. Look for a product that does not contain water, as that can deactivate the vitamin C.
Vitamin E his antioxidant also protects the skin against damage. It is marginally more effective in the natural form than synthetic.
Hyaluronic acid yaluronic acid is a powerful hydrator. It is a type of sugar molecule that keeps tissues in the body cushioned and lubricated. Birnaur Aral, Ph.D., director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab, says hyaluronic acid is found in skin, joints and connective tissue. Serums containing HA may help to plump up the skin by drawing hydration from the air into the skin.
Benzoyl peroxide his antibacterial agent is considered highly effective for killing bacteria that may contribute to acne. According to Healthline, benzoyl peroxide addresses bacteria under the skin and helps pores shed dead skin cells and excess sebum.
Collagen his fibrous protein acts as a water-binding agent to keep moisture locked into the skin.
Alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids
These are acids that gently unclog pores by removing dead skin cells. They are chemical exfoliators that, by removing dead skin, can help lead to more even skin pigmentation, improved texture and decreased inflammation.
AHAs are derived from fruits, dairy or sugar cane. BHAs are often derived from willow bark and salicylic acid is the most commonly known. BHAs are oil soluble and are able to penetrate more deeply into the skin than AHAs.
Coenzyme Q10 his fat-soluble ingredient is produced naturally in the body. The substance may have soothing antioxidant effects on the skin when topically applied. As a person ages, he or she makes less CoQ10, potentially leaving the skin more vulnerable to damage, offers WebMD. That’s the reason CoQ10 can be found in skin care products such as toners, gels and creams.
Understanding the ingredients in common skincare products can help consumers make more informed decisions. (MC)
