Knowing the ingredients in your skincare are just as important as the products themselves
Everyone knows that skincare can be a very tricky aspect of beauty. When it comes to shopping for skincare products, there are a multitude of factors that we take into consideration — its suitability for our skin type, our current skin concerns, its overall benefits for our complexion and many more. But we’re here to tell you that the shopping experience shouldn’t be so complicated. By redirecting your focus on some key ingredients to look out for, it will surely streamline your search to find the best product suited for your skin. These ingredients are the building blocks of any skincare formulation, which holds much more relevance than just admiring its beautiful packaging and reading through lengthy product descriptions. So if you don’t know where to start, we’ve rounded up five great and effective ingredients to look out for in your next skincare haul.
Ceramides are a type of fatty acid or lipid that are actually found in our own skin cells. They make up about half of the outer layer of our skin and are used to link important molecules together in order to create that firm and smooth complexion. While at it, they also ensure that our skin stays hydrated as well as safe from environmental damage and signs of aging. But if you ask, why do we need a product with ceramides if they’re already present in our own skin? Well sadly, due to aging and time, these lipids can be lost. Though lucky for us, we can always turn to external products to boost our skin with ceramides and ultimately bring back that hydrated youthful glow.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a very popular ingredient that many skincare brands have adopted due to its amazing hydrating properties. Chances are if you’re a fan of sheet masks, serums or essences, you’ve most likely applied HA onto your skin already. It is actually a bodily substance that is responsible for retaining substantial water levels in our skin so that it stays plump, fresh and hydrated at all times. But just like other natural components in our skin, they also decrease as we get older. So if you’re big on the dewy glass skin look, be sure to stock up on products that contain Hyaluronic acid.
For those who have oily and acne prone skin, you’ll be happy to know that we have just found your next best friend – salicylic acid. Renowned for being highly potent against those stubborn zits and dreadful breakouts, a product with this ingredient is one you should definitely keep in your arsenal. This beta hydroxy acid (BHA) is actually a great chemical exfoliant that comes from the bark of willow trees and has the characteristic of being oil-soluble. Thus allowing it to dive deep into your pores so as to break down all the extra dirt and oil in your skin. Doesn’t that sound great?
Since we’ve been talking a lot about exfoliants, here’s another one you should check out. Best for those with drier and less acne prone skin, glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is acquired from sugar canes. Due to its small molecular size, it can easily penetrate your skin barriers and slough off the dead skin cells sitting there. And for an added bonus, it effectively helps to stimulate the production of collagen and the growth of new skin, making it perfect for those who want to minimize wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
If your skin is easily irritated, enzymes can be your go-to ingredient. This substance is composed of amino acids and they work as a catalyst to speed up reactions in our body. But in the skincare industry, they’re heroes when it comes to breaking down the protein that links dead skin cells together so that they eventually fall to reveal healthy, smooth, and supple skin. Think of it as a mild and gentle way to exfoliate and brighten your complexion. So, for those with sensitive skin, take note of this ingredient and make sure to add it to your cart!
Interested in knowing more? Check out our Instagram Live Video, where our education manager and dermatologist gives us more insights on the benefits of these skincare ingredients and more — you’ll definitely learn a lot!
To shop for Mario Badescu products, you can visit any Rustan’s Department Store, contact a Rustan’s Personal Shopper via 0917-111-1952 or shop online at Rustans.com. Happy shopping!