So, what exactly is an “active ingredient”? Active ingredients in skincare are functional ingredients that have a certain or desired effect on the skin. Think of the ingredients such as retinol, Vitamin C and Vitamin E which are known to have well documented effects when included in a skincare product. They are known to help fight free radicals, stimulate collagen production and may prevent melanin formation and so much more.
Here is a list of the most commonly used active ingredients found in skincare:
- Vitamins A, C, E, B5, B3-so many great benefits to Vitamins in your skincare products, you can read more about it HERE
- Botanical extracts such as essential oils, plant extracts-think frankincense, lavender, green tea, calendula, and cucumber
- Antioxidants such as Vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, alpha lipoic acid benefit the skin as well as delay the oxidation process and help lengthen the shelf life of oils and skin care products. (Antioxidants are not the same as a preservative.)
- AHAs-alpha-hydroxy acids-a type of exfoliating acid-best for mature skin, age spots, large pores, fine lines and wrinkles
- BHAs-stands for beta hydroxy acid-a type of exfoliating acid-best for acne and sun damaged skin.
Understanding the benefit of each active ingredient in your skincare will help you decide what product or ingredient will actually benefit your skin type.
Botanical extracts are known for:
- anti-ageing properties
- improve skin’s overall texture, appearance, and firmness
- promote cell regeneration
- overcome free radicals
Many botanical extracts also have lovely natural plant scent, so the benefit is not only for the skin, but makes a pleasing scent on the skin.
Free radicals, what on earth are they and how do they affect our skin? According to PubMed “Free radicals are responsible for breaking down our skin’s collagen, resulting in unflattering skin blemishes like wrinkling, dark spots, fine lines and loose, saggy skin.”
Having active ingredients in your skincare is a great way to ensure that your skin is being taken care of and nourished well. Let’s not forget the importance of what goes in our bodies as well, which also has an impact on the health of our skin. Drinking enough water, making healthy food choices, collagen are some things that have an impact on our skin.
What about you? Do you have a favorite ingredient that you have seen the benefit on your skin? Share below!
