The global cosmetic industry has been rapidly growing over the past couple of years. With millions of products in the market, it’s hard to identify the top skincare ingredients that actually work.

We are all aware of the basic drill of skincare: cleanse, tone, moisturize and apply sunscreen. However, the main problem arises when we have to pick a product for the same. Amidst all the products and ingredients available for your skin, it is almost always intimidating and confusing to go to a store and buy a product. Celebrities and influencers add to the confusion by advertising a new product every day.

Image depicts the basic drill of skincare: cleanse, tone, moisturize and apply sunscreen.
So, if you are new to skincare, learning about the top 8 skincare ingredients might be a good place to start and clear your thoughts.

1. Retinoids
Retinoids are all forms of Vitamin A that are derived from the food you eat. We are all aware that Vitamin A plays an important role in maintaining vision and other bodily processes. However, when applied topically, these compounds can also stimulate cell turnover.

Retinoids are mainly used in skincare to help with the various signs of ageing. Retinoids can reverse the signs of ageing according to research. However, initially, topical retinoids can cause irritation that includes redness, itching, peeling and flaking as well. To know more about retinoids and other anti-ageing skincare ingredients talk to a dermatologist.

2. Niacinamide
Niacinamide, an ingredient with a handful of benefits, is definitely worth all your attention. To deal with sensitive and acne-prone skin, niacinamide is universally used by many people. However, its versatility allows us to use it for most skincare concerns.

Niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal ingredient to treat acne. Additionally, the water-soluble vitamin when applied to your skin, can also minimize pores, improve wrinkles and fine lines, diminish dullness and brighten skin. Various researchers also claim that niacinamide can reduce signs of environmental damage by improving the skin’s barrier.

Adding topical niacinamide to your skin regime is simple and low risk. However, as everything on your face might not be self diagnosable, it is always better to consult a dermatologist for the best treatment plan.

3. Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid in recent years has become the “it” ingredient of the skincare industry. Dermatologists frequently recommend the use of this skincare ingredient for its intense hydrating properties. Hyaluronic acid is another substance that is found naturally in our human body.

Dermatologists use hyaluronic acid in derma fillers, due to its ability to give skin a plump and hydrated appearance. People also use it topically as it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles due to its hydrating properties. Hyaluronic acid works with all skin types and is unlikely to cause a problem by itself. However, talk to a dermatologist to identify if hyaluronic acid suits your skin type.

4. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for optimal health and wellness. From improving the immune system to maintaining skin, ascorbic acid plays many vital roles in our body.

The world-renowned skincare ingredient that belongs to an antioxidant family also works to protect the structure of the skin by promoting the production of collagen. When applied topically, there isn’t anything Vitamin C can’t do for your skin. From diminishing blemishes to preventing UV damage, this powerhouse ingredient is used to treat various skin concerns across the globe.

However, before you start using this product, there are several things that you need to watch out for. Vitamin C is generally safe, but it could cause reactions when mixed with a few ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide and niacinamide. Vitamin C serums are also sensitive to light and air, so when exposed, these products can become less stable.

So, before you start looking for a Vitamin C product, it might be better to visit an aesthetic clinic.

5. Ceramides
Ceramides are fats that are naturally found in the uppermost layer of the skin. They retain moisture and protect the skin from irritants & pollutants. Ceramides play a vital role in protecting the skin by maintaining the skin barrier. Oftentimes, a low ratio of ceramides can lead to dryness, itching, and irritation.

Dermatologists recommend ceramides for people with dry skin or other skin conditions such as eczema. However, just about anyone can use a ceramide cream as it has no known side effects. Even those with sensitive skin will be able to enjoy this product without any adverse skin reactions.

And as always, if you want better guidance, we would recommend you to consult a dermatologist.

6. Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl Peroxide is one of acne’s biggest enemies. People often use it to treat mild to moderate acne breakouts. The chemical regulates acne by killing the bacteria underneath the skin. By effectively killing bacteria, benzoyl peroxide also reduces the number of breakouts on the skin. Another factor that makes this trending ingredient so popular is its ability to clear pores.

To avoid the growth of new bacteria, patients are usually recommended the use of benzoyl peroxide as a long-term treatment. Available over the counter, different products in the market contain different amounts of benzoyl peroxide. You should visit a dermatologist before using benzoyl peroxide as it is can cause dryness and irritation.

7. Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is a widely known ingredient that is used for treating several skin disorders such as acne, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. It acts as a chemical exfoliator by cleansing the hair follicles and unclogging pores. Salicylic acid belongs to the same class of drugs as aspirin. So, like aspirin, salicylic acid also has various anti-inflammatory properties which calm redness and inflammation.

8. Sulfur
Sulfur is an age-old ingredient that has been part of people’s skincare regimen for thousands of years. According to documents, even Romans and Egyptians used sulfur to treat acne and eczema.

Used on its own or along with other ingredients such as salicylic acid, sulfur is mainly used to treat psoriasis, eczema, and acne. Sulfur when applied topically, reduces acne by controlling the excess oil production in the sebaceous glands. It also controls acne breakouts as it also kills bacteria and clears out pores.

Similar to other acne treatments, when applied topically, sulfur can damage the top layer of the skin. Because sulfur is a strong chemical, it can lead to skin irritation and dryness. Some patients also suffer from allergic reactions and skin discoloration. So, before you grab a sulfur product, you may want to visit your dermatologist for the best treatment plan.

The image depicts a patient visiting a dermatologist for her skin concerns.
There are so many treatments and skincare ingredients out in the market that it is almost impossible to find what works for you. Most of the over-the-counter skincare ingredients and combinations don’t go through regular testing or research. Many companies make attractive claims only based on the limited research available.

So, basically, unless you opt for prescribed treatment, it is impossible to attribute your skin improvement to one particular product. With various risks involved with the over the counter products, it is important to be careful of the products you choose. If you have underlying skin conditions, you can find the nearest and best dermatologist on www.tabiib.com