Today’s skin care products contain ingredients your grandmother certainly wouldn’t have recognized – in fact, you probably don’t recognize them either. That’s because most cleansers, lotions, sunscreens, and cosmetics are concocted of chemicals. Even the naturally-derived ingredients are listed by their chemical names, and are often utilized in a synthetic, or man-made, formulation.
There are literally thousands of different ingredients used in commonly available, over-the-counter skin care products. Here is what you need to know about the ingredients that work best for the five most common skin concerns.
Treating acne. For treating and preventing pimples, try salicylic acid for exfoliation. Benzoyl peroxide is another helpful option, which actually kills the bacteria that lead to acne. This ingredient can be drying, however, and might bleach dark towels or clothing as well. You will want to avoid any surfactant or detergent ingredients (normally found in soap bars as well as some liquid soaps), or alcohols (often included in toners or cleansing pads). These chemicals can strip the oil from your skin, potentially leading to increased breakouts instead of the clearer skin you’re after.
Anti-aging. Skin will lose its firm, smooth appearance mainly due to the passing of years and unprotected sun exposure. Environmental conditions, such as dry indoor spaces or polluted air will also take a toll. Natural substances top the list of protective, antioxidant ingredients. Look for kukui nut oil (aleurites moluccana seed oil), alfalfa extract, cranberry seed oil, and other plant-based emollients. A vitamin A derivative called retinol has the rare status of having the undisputed reputation of a superstar anti-aging ingredient, known to help diminish multiple signs of aging as well as shrink enlarged pores and smooth out roughened skin texture.
Moisturizing. Natural ingredients are another great choice when you are dealing with dry skin or skin that simply needs moisturizing, say the skincare and beauty experts at Adore Cosmetics. Seek out jojoba oil, borage seed oil, and sunflower seed oil. Coconut oil, popular in many personal care products these days, is another great option that happens to smell delicious as well.
Sun protection. There is no doubt that sun exposure leads to wrinkles, spots, and, yes, cancer. Avoid the sun as much as you can with clothing and a hat, and protect your skin every day with a good quality, high-SPF product. Mineral-based sunscreen ingredients include titanium dioxide and zinc. Chemicals can be effective against UV rays, but should be chosen with care because of possible side effects. Look for avobenzone and avoid oxybenzone.
Soothing irritation. Your skin can be naturally sensitive and therefore easily irritated. Specific stressors, such as allergens or harsh ingredients, can also lead to red, inflamed, or rashy skin. Plant extracts that offer soothing effects include oatmeal (also listed as beta-glucan), green tea, gentian root, and soy protein. Beta-hydroxy acid (also known as good old salicylic acid) is also a known skin-soother.
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