I know this is the most brainstorming question when you want to buy a product, especially when you want to address your skin problem. The beauty market is flooded with products claiming to solve different skin problems. You have to be vigilant, especially when you are vulnerable and looking for something that can take care of your existing skin issue.
Also, I can not deny that companies make genuine skincare products, and there are hundreds of skincare ingredients that can solve the purpose you are looking for. For that, you need to learn the ingredients you should look for in a product that can solve a particular problem.
Let me see how can I help you with this.
How to shop for the product with the best skincare ingredients?
In my previous blog, I wrote about what ingredients to avoid to put on your skin – yes, by simply reading the ingredient list.
If you haven't, you can check here.
Almost everyone in this world faces minor skin problems at least once in their lifetime. Some face it situational; some face repeated skin problems, some face temporary or permanent (not curable) or genetic, where some of these skin problems can be life-threatening. However, many can be handled using medication and by keeping a close watch to one's lifestyle.
The very first advice for people with severe skin conditions is, to check with the dermatologist before using any skincare product and treating themselves. Skincare products are precautionary and hence provide a temporary solution and minor needs of basic skincare routine.
But how do you know which skincare ingredients are suitable for your skin type?
Let's discuss what ingredients to put according to your skin type or identify them in a product.
Ingredients For oily skin
Salicylic Acid – This anti-inflammatory beauty ingredient is your safest choice to keep acne at check over oily skin because it dissolves dead skin cells. This key ingredient will get deep into your pores to extract dirt and debris. It also prevents acne-prone and oily skin from blackheads and whiteheads, which are often seen on such skin type.
Hyaluronic Acid – It's a widespread misapprehension that oily skin doesn't need moisturisation. When rough cleansing or drying air strips moisture from the skin, its surface often needs hydration. It generates oil in response to signals sent by hormones, which is where Hyaluronic Acid comes in to take care of this issue. Therefore, it is imperative to keep the oily skin nicely moisturized so that it does not create any excess oil. For best results, layer your serum underneath your moisturizer. Sodium Hyaluronate is a water-soluble and natural form of Hyaluronic Acid, offering better skin penetration and stability, just like HA. It is naturally found in the skin's dermis, so the products that contain Sodium Hyaluronate, help to replace Hyaluronic Acid, which is lost due to the natural skin ageing process and sun exposure. That is why Sodium Hyaluronate is beneficial as a moisturizer for most skin types and can be combined with other hydrating ingredients in moisturizers. A protective layer is formed on the skin's surface and increases its ability to hold onto water. Sodium Hyaluronate is sufficiently mild, even for acne-prone types. Sodium Hyaluronate decreases the occurrence of wrinkles and helps to improve the skin's texture.
Benzoyl Peroxide – This ingredient is employed to treat mild to average acne. It conjointly works in combination with other acne therapy. Benzoyl peroxide makes the skin dry and peels and inhibit the acne-causing bacteria when applied to the skin.
Glycolic Acid – It is beneficial for skin treatments such as chemical peels (due to high percentages) if done safely and correctly. It brings rejuvenating benefits and mainly popular with facial washes, cleansers and toners. This ingredient is extracted from plants – such as sugar cane, pineapple and sugar beets, and it is believed to be the holy grail for exfoliation. It virtually eliminates the outer layer of dead cells and intensifies the complexion. It is often used to treat skin discolouration, signs of ageing (fine lines and wrinkles) and scars. Invest in an exfoliating treatment (once a week) which will help you to get brighter, fresher skin by reducing the effect of dullness, pigmented or ageing skin from your face. It redirects water molecules from the air into the skin tissue to replenish any lost moisture. Even the low strength of this ingredient makes a useful product when used in moisturizers, lotions and creams.
Niacinamide – Niacinamide is the one that everyone would want to look for on the label to add to their oily skin routine. The ingredient aka known as Vitamin B3 is a rocking star for all skin types because it helps soothe inflammation and support healthy collagen production. A small study founds that a little amount, say 2% Niacinamide in topical product lowers sebum excretion rates in a few weeks. So, a moisturizer loaded with Niacinamide helps hydrate the skin and prevent it from overcompensating with oils of its own.
Dimethicone – Have you ever felt satiny and lustrous using a makeup primer? It probably because your makeup primer has some form of Dimethicone (polydimethylsiloxane) in it. The silicone-based polymer molecules do not penetrate the skin and hair because they are too big to be absorbed; therefore, these products leave a thin layer behind. This the reason it gives you smoother-feeling and shinier-looking hair and skin. It is found mostly in many personal care products like moisturizer, diaper rash cream, liquid foundation and hand lotion, to name a few. It grants the products to spread smoothly. Dimethicone is considered a safe ingredient for skin that calms irritation, protects the skin from further damage and minimizes redness. However, Dimethicone is not deemed to be good for the environment, though researchers are still discovering the limits of the effects of Dimethicone on the environment.
Retinol – It has the ability to accelerate cell turnover by adding fresh, new cells to the surface of the skin and remove old, damaged or dead cells, making it a combatant for oily skin. It turnover the cells which help to unclog pores in acne-prone skin. Using this ingredient, you can quickly fix this problem of unclogging those pores that are clogged by a lot of old, dead skin. That's why dermatologists also recommend stuff like Retin-A and other topical vitamins A alternatives, for precisely what these types of products do. It is also observed that some retinoids (specifically tazarotene and tretinoin) can minimize pore size with topical application. Retinol reduces the amount of oil in the skin, as demonstrated by the dryness and dilatation that can occur after use. Retinols don't work equally well on everyone – avoid it if you suffer from rosacea, eczema, psoriasis or even sensitive skin.
L-ascorbic Acid ( Vitamin C) – The antioxidant attributes of vitamin C and its function in collagen formation make vitamin C a crucial substance for the skin's wellness. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant drug used therapeutically in dermatology to prevent and treat skin ageing transformations. It also helps in hyperpigmentation treatment. Vitamin C is one of the naturally occurring antioxidants in nature; however, it is still inadequate when taken orally; therefore, the topical use of Ascorbic Acid is preferred in dermatology. Vitamin C is a probable anti-inflammatory ingredient and can be used in cases like rosacea and acne vulgaris, which means it aids in the healing process and stop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A range of Vitamin C. variants in creams is available in the market. And it is essential to know that not all concoctions (DIYs) are safe and appropriate. Some don't get delivered into the dermis sufficiently, while others don't get chemically converted to the biologically active kind of Vit. C within the skin.
Clay – Clay is a smooth, loose, fine-grained earthy substance primarily found in mineral deposits that lie on or below the Earth's surface. Clay has a tiny particle size and is typically less than 2 micrometres in size. A micrometre is 1000 times smaller than a millimetre and is also known as a micron. There are several types of clays found in the beauty market for cosmetic use. Due to their specific chemical structure and properties, each clay has different attributes and offers a distinct advantage to the skin. - Rhassoul clays and Bentonite are ideal for oily skin and also for normal and combination skin. - French Green clay from the Illite clay family, is best known for oily skin These clays can be used on the face as Masks and Scrubs. To know more about "What is Clay?" click here To know more about "Types of Clays" click here
Aloe Vera – It is usually used to treat sunburn; however, it is also used to moisturize dry skin. It has an anti-bacterial property that assists in controlling and reduces acne-causing bacteria. It has a tendency to soak in quickly into the skin and is ideal for sensitive skin and also used to treat oily skin. It also aids to soothe irritation and reduce redness. It's safe and even found as an ingredient in a daily moisturizer for all types of skin. It deeply hydrates, soothes the redness and sensitivity of the skin.
Propanediol – It is also known as 1,3-propanediol and is a naturally extracted colourless, odourless liquid from corn glucose or corn sugar. It promotes the penetration of active ingredients such as Salicylic Acid into the skin and blends well with other ingredients. It has a hydrating property that can leave skin smooth and moisturized. Propanediol is a well-accepted component that is unlikely to cause sensitivity. Its emollient adds moisture to the skin and reduces the loss of water. On or upon the whole, the risk of reaction to the skin is low and side effects are not known.
Allantoin – Allantoin is present in plants like sugar beet, chamomile, wheat sprouts and comfrey, a purple herbal flower. The leaves of the comfrey plants have been used for decades to treat minor cuts and swelling. Allantoin is naturally found in many types of bacteria and animals, in addition to plant sources. Allantoin has a relaxing and soothing effect. It moisturizes the skin to avoid dryness and discomfort. It is also perfect for sensitive skin due to its non-irritable nature. Allantoin is known for its healing properties for damaged skin and wound healing. It is also used for skin irritation and skin rash. It also prevents TEWL (transepidermal water loss) and can preserve water in the skin cells. It can make your skin feel chubbier and smoother again. Allantoin is a popular component used in many anti-ageing serums. It helps with the formation of collagen. Collagen is a spongy protein that binds skin cells together like glue. Collagen levels decline as you age, leaving your skin dropping. Allantoin assists not only in the removing of dead skin cells but also in cellular proliferation. Dull skin in older people is the outcome of accumulated dead skin cells. Allantoin helps with cell growth, thereby reducing dullness. Allantoin has no side effects whatsoever. It is non-toxic, healthy and appropriate for all skin types. Look for makeup that's got allantoin as one of the ingredients. It will not only have a moisturizing effect, but it will also be calming on your skin. Same with the sunscreen lotion, if your existing sunscreen is troubling you, turn to one that has allantoin. It protects and moisturizes the skin from harmful UV rays. Allantoin is a perfect fit for acne scars due to its calming properties. It decreases redness caused by acne and helps to rejuvenate cells. The restoration system can lighten the spots and result in an even skin tone.
Ingredients For Dry Skin
Shea butter – It is extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, the rich tree-nut oils in shea butter can soak into your skin, thus the moisturizing effect can last several hours. Few components which make Shea butter a most loved ingredient for skincare include Oleic acid, Stearic acid, Linoleic acid, etc.
Cocoa butter – Many skincare products contain Cocoa butter, including moisturizers and anti-ageing creams. They claim to have various benefits for skin health, such as easing up dry skin and boosting skin elasticity. Antioxidants called polyphenols found in Cocoa butter, a group of chemicals derived from plants with various positive health advantages. It also has upsides for better skin health, such as protecting the skin from the damage of harmful UV rays and easing inflammation.
Lanolin – Lanolin is a fatty yellow material produced from secretions (sebum) of sheep's skin glands to preserve their wool, so it's a wool derivative. It has positive and negative effects: it has moisturizing properties, but lanolin is shown to trigger respiratory problem and skin irritation due to wool. Don't use lanolin if you are sensitive and have allergic reactions towards wool. I thought to include this ingredient here because lanolin is such a hydrating and moisturizing champion (as long as you don't have such allergies). Please mind that it's not vegan and it's cruelty-free. If we talk about alternatives, the cheapest options are petroleum jelly (Vaseline), mineral oil and paraffin and I am sure you would not like to use these options. Consider Beeswax or plant-based ingredients such as vegetable waxes and hydrogenated vegetable oils if you want more natural alternatives. They are made from 100% plant-based ingredients. However, hydrogenated plant oil is not considered natural because it's chemically treated by passing through hydrogen gas to solidify an oil. To more about "Types of Waxes"? please click here. What is Natural according to you?? To read more click here.
Beeswax – Beeswax is often harvested for beauty products primarily since it's so soothing to dry skin. Beeswax is occlusive, which means it helps your skin retain, seals and locks its moisture in. Beeswax is also anti-inflammatory so that it may be right for skin conditions like eczema. It has an anti-bacterial property that helps to combat problems like acne. It calms the skin without clogging your pores if used in the right quantity. Beeswax generally works for all skin types. People with perspiration may find it uncomfortable or might not like this ingredient in their product.
Squalene vs Squalane – Squalene, with an e, is naturally made by the body, by the sebaceous (oil) glands in our skin called "The sebum". The sebum is made up of triglycerides, wax esters, and squalene help to keep the skin moisturized. Our oil glands naturally make squalene lipid or fat to moisten and protect the skin barrier. It has also been discovered that squalene battles as an antioxidant for a free-radical lesion in our skin. Our natural development of Squalene slows down after 30, which is why we all like to drench our face with it. Since Squalene is not very stable in its natural form, therefore it is used for skincare purposes via a saturation process. This saturation process turns Squalene into Squalane. Squalene is found in the high collection in shark liver — right, the ocean animal. Shark liver oil had been one of the most prominent Squalene options in cosmetics for a long time. Due to apparent ethical issues, many businesses have moved from shark-derived Squalene in their products to plants extracted Squalene such as rice bran, wheat germ, amaranth seed, olives, and even sugar cane. Every skin type can gain from its emollient property, including sensitive skin. This is most beneficial for people, especially with dry and mature skin. It works naturally by sealing moisture in the skin and helping with skin issues caused by the skin barrier's breakdown. It also aids in trans-epidermal water loss issues and other skin conditions.
Glycolic Acid – Sugar and fruits are excellent sources for finding glycolic Acid naturally and are a popular dry skin ingredient. It's useful for all skin types. It is usually found in cleansers crafted for dry skin. Glycolic Acid exfoliates and helps draw moisture to the skin that keeps the face staying moisturized all day long.
Aloe Vera – It is most frequently used to prevent sunburn, but it may also hydrate dry skin. It's easily soaked into the skin and is suitable for sensitive skin. It also aids in reducing redness and calm irritation. It's safe and even found as an ingredient in a daily moisturizer for all types of skin. It deeply hydrates, soothes the redness and sensitivity of the skin.
Lactic Acid – It might look strange and make you wonder what an exfoliating acid is doing on this list since it is often associated with drying skin. Ok, to let you know, peeling dead skin cells off is an essential step in keeping dry skin comfortable. It's needed because if you don't realize so; you're probably hydrating the dead skin. This means, all your hydrating goodies are unable to go under the surface of the skin to do their job, so choosing lactic Acid as your chemical exfoliant is one hell of an option. It made a positive impact than other alpha-and beta-hydroxy acids (such as Glycolic and Salicylic Acids) since it's the most hydrating acid plus it's brightening and gives you a glow in conjunction with removing the dead skin.
Hyaluronic Acid – If we are discussing dry skin, It's not possible to address it without referring to Hyaluronic Acid. It's an element that holds 1,000 times its weight in water. Because of its ability, it is among the most hydrating and well-known ingredients. It has different Hyaluronic Acid molecules' sizes to provide hydration to the skin's various layers: low and medium weight HA can go deeper into the skin to make it plump. On the other side, Ha with heavy molecular weight lie closer to the surface to hydrate the top layer. As HA holds water a thousand times its weight, it keeps the skin hydrated and plump, preserves moisture, and prohibits vaporizing moisture from the skin. With age, just like collagen and elastin, this naturally-occurring sugar (HA) found in our bodies also decreases. When used in creams and serums, Hyaluronic Acid adds moisture to the skin’s surface and keeps the skin moist during the day.
Urea – Urea is one of those exceptional, less-known ingredients used to soften the concerns of dry skin. Urea, being a humectant, draws moisture from the surrounding to moisten the skin. It is a fantastic ingredient in enhancing the skin's look and feel by restoring moisture.
Ceramides – It's a basic foundation of the skin barrier, and is vital in keeping the outermost layer protected —which can be devastated by factors like cold weather and dry air. Ceramides are fatty acids that naturally occur and function as bonds to keep the skin cells together, making skin a powerful barrier. A compromised skin barrier often leads to a loss of skin hydration; thus, using a Ceramide-rich moisturizer can help avoid this by preserving the skin's water and retaining its balance between water and oil on the surface of the skin. With age, the body develops fewer ceramides, so you need to apply topically.
Naturals Oils – Wondering if you should use a moisturizer or oil to heal dry skin? "Both." The reason is, your creams and lotions which are packed full of Hyaluronic Acid, deliver moisture to the skin and your oils help to lock it in, much like ceramides. The skin contains its natural oils that remain between the skin's cells. The skin acts as a barrier, block water to escape and stop unwanted material from entering the skin. And when you have dry skin, you need to apply those oils topically which tend to be lacking, for skin nourishment. Oils like Olive and Avocado oils are loaded with antioxidants and Vitamin E. Some oil, like Coconut oil and Jojoba oil, is a superb skin-similar alternative that offers the same benefits. However, Coconut oil is best used as body oil than facial oil.
Sodium PCA – It is Sodium salt of Pyroglutamic Acid. PCA is a part of the "Natural Moisturizing Factors" (NMF)of human skin which occurs naturally and keeping an epidermis healthy. Sodium PCA draws moisture from the ambient air and raises the skin's upper layers' water content. It also enhances the look and feels of hair by strengthening the quality and structure of hair that has been compromised by chemical and physical treatment.
Glycerin – also called glycerol, is a colourless, odourless, sweet-tasting liquid with a very thick, dense consistency and a by-product of the soap-making process. Glycerin is one of the most effective ingredients in any skincare product. It is a humectant that maintains or restore moisture and stop it from evaporating from the skin. A glycerin-containing moisturizer will keep the skin feeling smooth and moist if applied regularly.
Panthenol – Panthenol is the alcoholic form of Vitamin B5, a.k.a Pantothenic Acid and is naturally exist in all living cells. Panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5 because it gets converted into Vitamin B5 in the skin. However, it's used more than Vitamin B5 itself because it gets absorbed in the skin better. Panthenol is a humectant which makes it an excellent moisturizer. Moisture plumps the skin which lessens fine lines and wrinkles. It gives a smooth texture, and glowy complexion to the skin, that is why moisture is the foundation of healthy skin. Panthenol heals all kinds of skin damage. Adding Panthenol to your skincare regimen may help alleviate itchy problems and keep your skin safe if your skin is dry or sensitive.
Retinol – It can accelerate cell turnover by adding fresh, new cells to the surface of the skin and removing old, damaged or dead cells, making it a combatant for oily skin. Retinols don't work equally well on everyone – avoid it if you suffer from rosacea, eczema, psoriasis or even sensitive skin.
Dimethicone – Have you ever felt satiny and lustrous using a makeup primer? It probably because your makeup primer has some form of Dimethicone (polydimethylsiloxane) in it. The silicone-based polymer molecules do not penetrate the skin and hair because they are too big to be absorbed; therefore, these products leave a thin layer behind. This the reason it gives you smoother-feeling and shinier-looking hair and skin. It is found mostly in many personal care products like moisturizer, diaper rash cream, liquid foundation and hand lotion, to name a few. It grants the products to spread smoothly. Dimethicone is considered a safe ingredient for skin that calms irritation, protects the skin from further damage and minimizes redness. However, Dimethicone is not deemed to be good for the environment, though researchers are still discovering the limits of the effects of Dimethicone on the environment.
Propanediol –It is also known as 1,3-propanediol and is a naturally extracted colourless, odourless liquid from corn glucose or corn sugar. It promotes the penetration of active ingredients such as Salicylic Acid into the skin and blends well with other ingredients. It has a hydrating property that can leave skin smooth and moisturized. Propanediol is a well-accepted component that is unlikely to cause sensitivity. Its emollient adds moisture to the skin and reduces the loss of water. On or upon the whole, the risk of reaction to the skin is low and side effects are not known.
Allantoin – Allantoin is present in plants like wheat sprouts, chamomile, sugar beet and comfrey, a purple herbal flower. The leaves of the comfrey plants have been used for decades to treat minor cuts and swelling. Allantoin is naturally found in many types of bacteria and animals, in addition to plant sources. Allantoin has a relaxing and soothing effect. It moisturizes the skin to avoid dryness and discomfort. It is also perfect for sensitive skin due to its non-irritable nature. Allantoin is known for its healing properties for damaged skin and wound healing. It is also used for skin irritation and skin rash. It also inhibits TEWL (Trans-Epidermal Water Loss) and can preserve water in the skin cells. It can make your skin feel chubbier and smoother again. Allantoin is a popular component used in many anti-ageing serums. It helps with the formation of collagen. Collagen is a spongy protein that binds skin cells together like glue. Collagen levels decline as you age, leaving your skin dropping. Allantoin assists not only in the removal of dead skin cells but also in cellular proliferation. Dull skin in older people is the outcome of accumulated dead skin cells. Allantoin helps with cell growth, thereby reducing dullness. Allantoin has no side effects whatsoever. It is non-toxic, healthy and appropriate for all skin types. Look for makeup that's got allantoin as one of the ingredients. It will not only have a moisturizing effect, but it will also be calming on your skin. Same with the sunscreen lotion, if your existing sunscreen is troubling you, turn to one that has allantoin. It protects and moisturizes the skin from harmful UV rays. Allantoin is a perfect fit for acne scars due to its calming properties. It decreases redness caused by acne and helps to rejuvenate cells. The restoration system can lighten the spots and result in an even skin tone.
Ingredients For Sensitive Skin
It is difficult to suggest any product for sensitive skin because many factors may contribute to skin sensitivity. Allergy testing can assist in identifying specific ingredients or products that may cause or contribute to irritation. Alternatively, keep a close watch on the cosmetic products that cause you grief and try to stop them.
There are ingredients that are/or assumed to be safe for sensitive skin are –
Carrier Oil – These essential fatty acids are known to be occlusives because the molecules are too large to penetrate the skin layers. Hence, they sit on the surface layer where they form a thin membrane. This helps to enhance the skin’s protection and stop trans-epidermal water loss, whilst still enabling the skin to breathe. To know more about Carrier Oils, Click here.
Allantoin – Allantoin is present in plants like sugar beet, chamomile, wheat sprouts and comfrey, a purple herbal flower. The leaves of the comfrey plants have been used for decades to treat minor cuts and swelling. Allantoin is naturally found in many types of bacteria and animals, in addition to plant sources. Allantoin has a relaxing and soothing effect. It moisturizes the skin to avoid dryness and discomfort. It is also perfect for sensitive skin due to its non-irritable nature. Allantoin is known for its healing properties for damaged skin and wound healing. It is also used for skin irritation and skin rash. It also prevents TEWL (transepidermal water loss) and can preserve water in the skin cells. It can make your skin feel chubbier and smoother again. Allantoin is a popular component used in many anti-ageing serums. It helps with the formation of collagen. Collagen is a spongy protein that binds skin cells together like glue. Collagen levels decline as you age, leaving your skin dropping. Allantoin assists not only in the removal of dead skin cells but also in cellular proliferation. Dull skin in older people is the outcome of accumulated dead skin cells. Allantoin helps with cell growth, thereby reducing dullness. Allantoin has no side effects whatsoever. It is non-toxic, healthy and appropriate for all skin types. Look for makeup that's got allantoin as one of the ingredients. It will not only have a moisturizing effect, but it will also be calming on your skin. Same with the sunscreen lotion, if your existing sunscreen is troubling you, turn to one that has allantoin. It protects and moisturizes the skin from harmful UV rays. Allantoin is a perfect fit for acne scars due to its calming properties. It decreases redness caused by acne and helps to rejuvenate cells. The restoration system can lighten the spots and result in an even skin tone.
Propanediol – It is also known as 1,3-propanediol and is a naturally extracted colourless, odourless liquid from corn glucose or corn sugar. It promotes the penetration of active ingredients such as Salicylic Acid into the skin and blends well with other ingredients. It has a hydrating property that can leave skin smooth and moisturized. Propanediol is a well-accepted component that is unlikely to cause sensitivity. Its emollient adds moisture to the skin and reduces the loss of water. On or upon the whole, the risk of reaction to the skin is low and side effects are not known.
Sodium PCA – It is a Sodium salt of Pyroglutamic Acid. PCA is a part of the "Natural Moisturizing Factors" (NMF)of human skin which occurs naturally and keeping an epidermis healthy. Sodium PCA draws moisture from the ambient air and raises the skin's upper layers' water content. It also enhances the look and feels of hair by strengthening the quality and structure of hair that has been compromised by chemical and physical treatment.
Glycerin – also called glycerol, is a colourless, odourless, sweet-tasting liquid with a very thick, dense consistency and a by-product of the soap-making process. Glycerin is one of the most effective ingredients in any skincare product. It is a humectant that maintains or restore moisture in your skin and stop it from evaporating. A glycerin-containing moisturizer will keep the skin feeling smooth and moist if applied regularly.
Hyaluronic Acid – When rough cleansing or drying air strips moisture from the skin, its surface often needs hydration. Therefore, it is imperative to keep the skin nicely moisturized. For best results layer your serum underneath your moisturizer. Sodium Hyaluronate is a water-soluble and natural form of Hyaluronic Acid, offering better skin penetration and stability, just like HA. It is naturally found in the skin's dermis, so the products that contain Sodium Hyaluronate, help to replace Hyaluronic Acid, which is lost due to the natural skin ageing process and sun exposure. That is why Sodium Hyaluronate is beneficial as a moisturizer for most skin types and can be combined with other hydrating ingredients in moisturizers. A protective layer is formed on the skin's surface and increases its ability to hold onto water. Sodium Hyaluronate is sufficiently mild, even for sensitive skin types. Sodium Hyaluronate decreases the occurrence of wrinkles and helps to improve the skin's texture.
Panthenol – Panthenol is the alcoholic form of Vitamin B5, a.k.a Pantothenic Acid and is naturally exist in all living cells. Panthenol, also known as pro-vitamin B5 because it gets converted into Vitamin B5 in the skin. However, it's used more than Vitamin B5 itself because it gets absorbed in the skin better. Panthenol is a humectant which makes it an excellent moisturizer. Moisture plumps the skin which lessens fine lines and wrinkles. It gives a smooth texture, and glowy complexion to the skin, that is why moisture is the foundation of healthy skin. Panthenol heals all kinds of skin damage. Adding Panthenol to your skincare regimen may help alleviate itchy problems and keep your skin safe if your skin is dry or sensitive.
Ceramides – It's a basic foundation of the skin barrier, and is vital in keeping the outermost layer protected —which can be devastated by factors like cold weather and dry air. Ceramides are fatty acids that naturally occur and function as bonds to keep the skin cells together, making skin a powerful barrier. A compromised skin barrier often leads to a loss of skin hydration; thus, using a Ceramide-rich moisturizer can help avoid this by preserving the skin's water and retaining its balance between water and oil on the surface of the skin. With age, the body develops fewer ceramides, so you need to apply topically.
Aloe Vera – It is most frequently used to prevent sunburn, but it may also hydrate dry skin. It's easily soaked into the skin and is suitable for sensitive skin. It also aids in reducing redness and calm irritation. It's safe and even found as an ingredient in a daily moisturizer for all types of skin. It deeply hydrates, soothes the redness and sensitivity of the skin.
Squalene vs Squalane – Squalene, with an e, is naturally made by the body, by the sebaceous (oil) glands in our skin called "The sebum". The sebum is made up of triglycerides, wax esters, and squalene help to keep the skin moisturized. Our oil glands naturally make squalene lipid or fat to moisten and protect the skin barrier. It has also been discovered that squalene battles as an antioxidant for a free-radical lesion in our skin. Our natural development of Squalene slows down after 30, which is why we all like to drench our face with it. Since Squalene is not very stable in its natural form, therefore it is used for skincare purposes via a saturation process. This saturation process turns Squalene into Squalane. Squalene is found in the high collection in shark liver — right, the ocean animal. Shark liver oil had been one of the most prominent Squalene options in cosmetics for a long time. Due to apparent ethical issues, many businesses have moved from shark-derived Squalene in their products to plants extracted Squalene such as rice bran, wheat germ, amaranth seed, olives, and even sugar cane. Every skin type can gain from its emollient property, including sensitive skin. It is most beneficial for people, especially with dry and mature skin. It works naturally by sealing moisture in the skin and helping with skin issues caused by the skin barrier's breakdown. It also aids in trans-epidermal water loss issues, including eczema, acne, and even.
Dimethicone – Have you ever felt satiny and lustrous using a makeup primer? It probably because your makeup primer has some form of Dimethicone (polydimethylsiloxane) in it. The silicone-based polymer molecules do not penetrate the skin and hair because they are too big to be absorbed; therefore, these products leave a thin layer behind. This the reason it gives you smoother-feeling and shinier-looking hair and skin. It is found mostly in many personal care products like moisturizer, diaper rash cream, liquid foundation and hand lotion, to name a few. It grants the products to spread smoothly. Dimethicone is considered a safe ingredient for skin that calms irritation, protects the skin from further damage and minimizes redness. However, Dimethicone is not deemed to be good for the environment, though researchers are still discovering the limits of the effects of Dimethicone on the environment.
Niacinamide – The ingredient aka known as vitamin B3 is a rocking star for all skin types. It is one of that ingredient which everyone would want to look for in the product because it helps soothe inflammation and support healthy collagen production. A moisturizer loaded with Niacinamide helps hydrate the skin and prevent it from any environmental atrocities.
Urea – Urea is one of those exceptional, less-known ingredients used to soften the concerns of dry skin. Urea, being a humectant, draws moisture from the surrounding to moisten the skin. It is a fantastic ingredient in enhancing the skin's look and feel by restoring moisture.
Hydrosols – Hydrosols are also known as hydrolats, herbal waters, floral waters, distillate water or flower waters. They can be used to great effect in face washes, mouthwashes, compresses, creams, and lotions perfumes, toners and spritzers, diffusers, and pot pouris. Their therapeutic action is mild, and aromatic quality is light, which is beneficial for people with sensitivities.
Extracts - Roots, berries, leaves, stems, flowers and barks of a plant are the sources of these natural ingredients. They possess antimicrobial, insecticide, or repellent properties. And substances of natural origin represent an eco-friendly alternative to skincare. These extracts don’t have a prominent aroma. These Extracts are in powdered form, a liquid form, and CO2 extracts.
Some clays like kaolin clay and Bentonite can be helpful.
People with sensitive skin need to be vigilant about a few ingredients. A patch test will be helpful before using products including ingredients, like…
Butters – Check the source of butter for safe use.
Lanolin – Some may be allergic to wool because it comes from a substance made from secretions (sebum) from the glands of sheep's skin.
Beeswax – Some may be allergic to natural beeswax. Purified or treated may work well.
Chemical exfoliants like – Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid
Actives – Retinol, L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids). There are many other active ingredients present in different skincare products.
Alcohol - Products containing alcohol can be very drying, so avoiding it will be the best advice.
Essential oils – Check for allergens in essential oils before use (advisable for all skin type). Allergens are not good for any skin type; however, sensitive skin is more prone to it.
Perfumes/fragrance – Not advisable for any skin type, especially for leave-on products.
Ingredients for Normal skin
Normal skins have to work out their way to the products. People with normal skin are lucky that they don't have to be worried about what to use and what not to. They can go as per their skin requirement; however, allergies are still allergies, and it comes out of nowhere, without seeing what kind of skin it is. So, precautionary measures should be taken at all times by people of any skin types.
Ingredients for Combination skin
People with combination skin have the choice of both oily and dry skin products. They can use them as per the respective skin type of a face. For example, the T zone of the face is usually either oily or dry, and the rest of the face part is the opposite of the T zone. So, if a person has oily skin on the T zone and the rest is dry, he/she can use a product, which is meant for oily skin on the T zone, and a product for dry skin can be used on the rest of the face.
The above-provided information is purely based on my research and study and hope this is a useful resource for you! We'd also love to hear your thoughts and suggestions and if you have any additional ingredients you think should be added to the list!!
We will keep updating this list when we come across any update or information regarding more safe skincare product ingredients.
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