An informed beauty enthusiast is the best kind of hoarder out there! You like to keep yourself updated on the new developments in the beauty world, which comes in handy — afterall, a routine built on proper research is much better than randomly throwing pricey products together and waiting to see what happens.
The right ingredients in your skincare products can make all the difference, especially when dealing with a specific skin issue. For this list, we are looking at the best anti-ageing ingredients that you can, and should, invest in RN!
01. Retinol
An anti-ageing rockstar, if you may say — retinol has already made its way to being a skincare essential. Long term use of this mild exfoliator results in reduced appearance of wrinkles, faded lines, tightened pores and an overall even-toned complexion. It works best when included in your nighttime skincare routine and should always be accompanied with a moisturiser to counter its drying effects.
02. Hyaluronic acid
A staple for hydrated and glowing skin, hyaluronic helps maintain the collagen levels in your skin. Choose a product with a mixed molecular weight as its particle size is small and thus, can penetrate the skin better. While it is safe to use any time of the day, we recommend adding it to your morning routine to rock plump and dewy skin throughout the day.
03. Astaxanthin
Extracted from microalgae, astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radical damage in the skin, boosts collagen, protects the skin barrier and helps maintain youthful-looking skin with reduced wrinkles in sight. Primarily found in gel-based creams; it is best used in your nighttime skincare routine when your skin is in the recovery mode.
04. Niacinamide
A skin health-enhancing strain of vitamin B3, niacinamide helps boost ceramide levels in the skin. Ceramide makes it much easier for the dermis (top layer of the skin) to hold moisture, which is the basic requirement for delaying ageing of the skin. It is gentle on sensitive skin, can be used at
05. Peptides
Hugely popular for countering signs of ageing in the eye area, peptides are basically chains of amino acids that form a part of essential proteins present in your skin. They work by sending signals to your cells to repair themselves, resulting in a refined skin texture which is firm to touch. They are best used as eye creams, masks or essences.
06. Vitamin C
Yet another trendy ingredient that has achieved ‘essential’ status, vitamin C possesses several benefits for the skin, which includes warding off early signs of ageing. It is antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in nature and can go head-to-head with signs of ageing like discolouration, age spots, blemishes and fine lines. It is best used in the form of a balanced, potent serum that can absorb in your skin quickly.
07. SPF
None of the above-mentioned ingredients will hold ground if you do not include SPF in your anti-ageing routine.. Look for a mineral-based formula that has an SPF value of 30 or higher when seeking out sunscreens — it is sweat resistant and offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Always apply SPF during the daytime; whether you are stepping out or staying in — it is a must!
Written by Sumona Bose on Aug 15, 2020
Sumona Bose is a writer, skincare junkie and a self-professed makeup connoisseur. Equipped with a Master's degree in Fashion Management and over 3 years of experience writing in the beauty and fashion space, her passion for learning new things has no bounds. Working closely with dermatologists, beauty excerpts, makeup artists and hairstylists, she brings you the best of all things beauty. From trending skincare ingredients to makeup looks that help you slay, she manages to bring something new (and vital!) to our readers every single time. Her hobbies include home workouts, watching foreign films and binge-watching makeover shows!