Understanding Skincare Ingredients
It’s challenging to map out the perfect skincare routine without being able to read the long, scientific ingredients list on the back of a bottle. Blindly trusting a product's advertising won’t always guarantee results; it is important to understand what you're applying to your skin. Let's break down some of the most common ingredients in skincare and what they do...
Hyaluronic Acid is among the most well-known ingredients in skincare. It is a naturally occurring molecule within the skin that binds to water in order to give it a dewy effect. Because of that, it keeps your skin more hydrated. Hyaluronic Acid is very gentle, so it is recommended for all skin types. While there is a small chance of negative effects, it is said to not trigger allergic reactions, acne, or any other skin concerns common for people with sensitive skin. A great way to add Hyaluronic Acid to your regimen is through a serum. The Lumière de Vie Hyaluronic Acid Serum reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and soothes skin. Added with a moisturizer, it acts as an extra hydration boost.
Niacinamide is another common ingredient in skincare because of its health benefits, but what is it and what does it do? Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B-3 that isn’t naturally occurring in your body. It can help prevent B-3 deficiencies, which can cause issues within the brain, skin, and kidneys. When topically applied, it can prevent acne, eczema, and other skin conditions. It also prevents wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, acne, minimizes pores, and more. The Lumière de Vie Super Soother is a Niacinamide lightweight serum that soothes and balances skin by helping control excess oil and reduces the appearance of redness and blemishes.
Retinol is one of the most effective ingredients in skincare and is a type of retinoid, which is made of vitamin A. The molecules that make up retinol penetrate the epidermis through to your dermis, and boosts the production of elastin and collagen. This reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and pores. Retinol prevents scarring, treats acne, balances hydration levels, and mildly exfoliates. Some risks to be aware of when using retinol include sunburns. It may aggravate eczema, and it may cause birth defects or miscarriage (do not use while pregnant). The Lumière de Vie Retinol Crème minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, as well as brightens and improves elasticity.
Alpha-hydroxy acids, commonly abbreviated as “AHA," are plant and animal-derived acids that are used in many skincare products. There are 7 different commonly used AHAs throughout the skincare industry: citric acid, glycolic acid, hydroxycaproic acid, hydroxycaprylic acid, lactic acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid. Most over-the-counter skincare products include glycolic and lactic acids, the most well researched and least likely to cause irritation. There are many benefits to AHAs including exfoliation, brightening properties, promoting collagen production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, preventing acne and discoloration, and promoting blood flow. Some people experience minor side effects as skin adjusts to AHAs, like burning and itching. As with retinol, remember to wear sunscreen and check with your doctor if you are pregnant. Skintelligence Alpha 24 Triple Revitalizing Complex is a great way to include AHAs in your routine. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, retains moisture, improves softness and reduces discoloration.
Make sure to do your research when choosing what skincare products you want to include in your routine. It’s helpful to know what ingredients can help your personal skin concerns, so you can get the results you want!