Niacinamide To Hyaluronic Acid, Common Skin Care Ingredients And Their Benefits

Our skin is not only the largest organ in the body, but it is also one of the most sensitive parts. Besides the Sun, pollution, and water, your skin can also react to different creams, lotions, and face washes. Having said that, checking the skincare ingredients before buying a product helps identify potential allergens or irritants that may cause adverse reactions on the skin and can also help you choose products that are suitable for your skin type. But unless you're an expert, it could be difficult to read through and understand the list of skin care ingredients written at the back of the label of the beauty or cosmetic products. 

In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Vibhuti Dhaundiyal, an aesthetic physician, RV LUXE Clinic, Noida, explains some of the common skincare ingredients.

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Common Skin Care Ingredients

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an excellent antioxidant that helps combat free radical damage, reduces hyperpigmentation, works on anti-aging concerns, reduces dark spots, and promotes an even skin tone. As per a study published in the Indian Dermatology Online Journal, vitamin C has an 'excellent safety profile and is being increasingly used in 'photoageing, hyperpigmentation, tissue inflammation and promotion of tissue healing'. 

Niacinamide

Dr Vibhuti refers to niacinamide as a versatile ingredient known as a "jack of all trades." It functions as a great antioxidant, helps reduce sebum production, hydrates the skin, and addresses issues like dark spots, acne, and acne scars, she adds. 

Ceramides

Ceramides play a crucial role in improving the health of skin cells. They help create a protective barrier that prevents moisture from leaving the skin, thereby preventing dryness and irritation. By locking moisture into the skin, ceramides also offer protection against environmental damage.

Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid is beneficial for various skincare concerns. It effectively reduces excess oil production, helps with acne by controlling blackheads and whiteheads, decongests pores, gently exfoliates the skin, and even has some anti-aging properties. A study has found that salycylic acid is a safe and effective peeling agent for a number of dermatological and cosmetic problems, including acne vulgaris, melasma, photodamage, freckles, and lentigines.

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid provides instant hydration to the skin, making it look plump and supple. It helps in smoothing the skin's structures and offers anti-aging benefits by improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

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Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

AHAs help remove dead skin cells, leading to smoother, brighter skin and improved texture. Its humectant properties help attract moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. In addition, AHAs can help fade dark spots, sunspots, and hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even skin tone. According to a study published in the Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, the majority of the volunteers who used AHAs over a three-week period experienced significant improvements in overall skin texture.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is commonly used to lighten dark spots, melasma, and other forms of hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the production of melanin. Hence, it can help achieve a more balanced complexion. However, it's important to use it under the guidance of a healthcare professional due to potential side effects and long-term use considerations.

“While these ingredients have their benefits, it's important to note that individual reactions may vary. Everyone's skin needs are different, hence it is important to go for an ingredient that is tailored for your specific skin needs,” Dr Vibhuti concludes.