Skincare products come in a wide variety of formulations, and it can be challenging to understand what ingredients are in them and how they work. Here are some examples of skincare ingredients, their positive and negative effects, and the materials they are made of:
Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA): These are over-the-counter skin care products that contain glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric acids. They help with fine lines and wrinkles, irregular pigmentation, age spots, and enlarged pores. However, side effects of alpha-hydroxy acids include mild irritation and sun sensitivity.
Beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid): These are used to treat acne and oily skin. They exfoliate the skin and unclog pores, but they can also cause dryness and irritation.
Hydroquinone: This is a skin-lightening agent that can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. However, it can also cause skin irritation and sensitivity to the sun.
Kojic acid: This is another skin-lightening agent that can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. However, it can also cause skin irritation and sensitivity to the sun.
Retinol: This is a form of vitamin A that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and increase collagen production. However, it can also cause skin irritation and sensitivity to the sun.
L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C): This is an antioxidant that can help brighten the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protect against environmental damage. However, it can also cause skin irritation and sensitivity to the sun.
Hyaluronic acid: This is a humectant that can help hydrate the skin and improve its texture. It is often used in moisturizers and serums.
Water or aloe: These are often the first ingredients in skincare products, making up 70%–95% of the product. They are perfectly acceptable.
Vitamin E: This is an antioxidant that can help neutralize free radical damage caused by sun exposure, pollution, smoking, and other daily life encounters. It can also help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Ferulic acid: This is another antioxidant that can help neutralize free radical damage caused by sun exposure, pollution, smoking, and other daily life encounters. It can also help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Niacinamide: This is a form of vitamin B3 that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and reduce redness and blotchiness. It can also help regulate oil production and reduce the appearance of pores.
Lactic acid: This is another AHA that can help exfoliate the skin, draw water into the skin, and suppress melanin production. However, it can also cause sun sensitivity, so it is important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing when using it[[2]](...
