We all know that skincare can be a little overwhelming. There are so many steps and directions to go in, not to mention an ingredient list as long as your arm (and way too difficult to remember).
So we’ve picked out some of the best ingredients you should be looking for when you’re buying your following beauty product. Look at this list before you buy anything new – your skin will thank us later!
Hyaluronic acid:
The ultimate moisturizer. This miracle worker attracts 1000x its weight in water and keeps skin hydrated for up to 72 hours. We love Vichy Aqualia Thermal Serum – it works just as well under makeup or on its own and is guaranteed to boost your skin’s hydration levels instantly.
Vitamin C:
It reduces the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. We love Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector, which is clinically proven to lighten under-eye circles in 4 weeks!
Retinol:
It stimulates cell regeneration for a super glowy complexion. This can be drying on your skin, so make sure you’re using an oil-free moisturizer with it – we love the Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads to fade pigmentation while you sleep!
BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid):
It gets rid of dead cells on the surface of your skin to leave it smoother and brighter. We love the Pixi Glow Tonic Exfoliating Toner – it’s gentle enough for daily use and transforms your skin in just four weeks!
Tea Tree Essential Oil:
This is an antiseptic oil that speeds up your skin’s cell turnover so it can heal itself much quicker, which means fewer breakouts. This one is a must-have in any skincare regime – we love Sainsbury’s brand, 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Tea Tree Oil. It contains no additives or chemicals, so you know you’re getting the real thing.
Glycolic Acid:
It is perfect if you struggle with dryness, dullness, pigmentation, or wrinkles. It boosts collagen production to plump your skin and smoothes out fine lines. We love Pixi Glow Tonic (again!) as it contains 5% glycolic acid to make you glow from within!
Green Tea:
A great antioxidant, green tea protects against UV damage and keeps your skin hydrated. It also helps the products you’re using sink into your skin better for a more efficient skincare regime. This one is a bit pricier but worth every penny – we love Mio’s Miracle Cleanser.
Rosehip Oil:
This multitasking oil hydrates, repairs, and firms all in one go! It is perfect for those with combination or oily skin. All these oils work best when applied at night, so you’re not left with a shiny face – we love Superdrug’s own Rosehip Oil, which is affordable too.
Hyaluronic Acid + Peptide Complex:
An intense combination of the molecules that keep skin supple and youthful, combating dehydration lines on your face to keep you looking fresh! We’ve already discussed one product containing this combo so let’s say it again… Vichy Aqualia Thermal Serum – it’s the perfect day/night beauty must-have.
Pumpkin Enzymes:
These speed up cell turnover, making your skin brighter and healthier almost instantly. It is perfect if you want an overnight facial or for problem areas like pigmentation or acne scars. We love the cult classic Origins Modern Friction – it’s super gentle on the skin and smells delicious too!
Retinol + Vitamin C:
If you’re struggling with dullness, why not try these two together? They work wonders for your complexion, keeping your skin tone even. We love our vitamin C serum from The Ordinary, although there are lots of great Vitamin C serums out there – if you’re buying on a budget, go for Boots’ brand.
Niacinamide:
It is perfect for those with an uneven skin tone that’s looking tired and sallow. It tackles dark circles around your eyes to leave you looking fresh-faced – we recommend using this one in the morning so it can do its magic while you wear SPF! We love Garnier Skin Naturals Revitalift Miracle Wake Up Cream – it’s been designed to tackle the first signs of aging.
