13 Most Researched Ingredients in Skin Care & Our Top Picks

This week on the blog, we've curated a list of 13 skincare ingredients meticulously paired with 15 of our favourite products, all available here at BSE. Learn more about the powerful benefits of these ingredients and explore the diverse range of products we adore–all inspired by our latest chat with Joanne Hendry on the SKNKRE podcast!

  

VITAMIN A

 

Vitamin A (commonly found in skincare as retinol or prescription-grade retinoids) promotes cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and helps fade hyperpigmentation, making it effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Retinols are known to enhance skin texture and promote a smoother complexion by encouraging the shedding of old, damaged skin cells. It also regulates sebum production, making it beneficial for managing acne. 

 

However, due to its potential for skin sensitivity, especially during initial use, it is recommended to introduce vitamin A gradually into skincare routines and to use sun protection, as it increases the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight.

   

ZO SKIN HEALTH RADICAL NIGHT REPAIR (1% RETINOL)

 

ALASTIN SKINCARE RENEWAL RETINOL .5

 

VITAMIN C + VITAMIN E

 

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and vitamin E (tocopherol) are often paired together in skincare formulations due to their complementary antioxidant properties. This powerhouse combination is found in many of our best-selling serums, such as the Skinceuticals Serum C+E or the SkinMedica Vitamin C + E Complex.

 

Vitamin C and E are both powerful antioxidants that help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, promoting the formation of this essential protein that maintains skin elasticity; meanwhile, Vitamin E complements this process by supporting the skin's overall health and function.

  

NIACINAMIDE

 

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3. It helps improve the skin's barrier function, reduces inflammation, and addresses concerns such as hyperpigmentation, making it a versatile ingredient for overall skin health. 

 

It is generally well-tolerated, but there are still some skincare ingredients it should not be paired with to avoid potential interactions. Niacinamide can be destabilized or its efficacy compromised when combined with products containing vitamin C at very high concentrations, Combining niacinamide with certain acids, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), may also cause irritation in some individuals.

    

EMINENCE ORGANICS BAKUCHIOL + NIACINAMIDE MOISTURIZER

 

DR. BARBARA STURM THE BETTER B - NIACINAMIDE SERUM

 

HUMECTANTS

 

Humectants are a category of skincare ingredients known for their ability to attract and retain moisture. They play a crucial role in hydrating the skin and are often included in moisturizers, serums, and other skincare products. Two common humectants are glycerin and hyaluronic acid.

• Glycerin draws moisture into the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum) from the air and deeper layers of the skin. It is well-tolerated by various skin types and supports the skin's natural barrier function, preventing water loss and enhancing the protective layer of the skin.

 

Glycerin is found in many skincare products that effectively lock in moisture, such as the Vivier Skin Ultra Foaming Cleanser or the Esthederm Extra-Firming Hydrating Lotion.

• Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that has an exceptional ability to retain water, making it effective in providing intense hydration to the skin. This helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by adding volume and firmness to the skin.

   

PCA SKIN HYALURONIC ACID OVERNIGHT MASK

 

EMINENCE ORGANICS STRAWBERRY RHUBARB HYALURONIC SERUM

 

ALPHA/BETA HYDROXY ACIDS 

 

AHAs and BHAs are beloved skincare ingredients for their abilities to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover each in their own way––leading to smoother, more even-toned, and clarified skin.

 

Glycolic acid, for example, is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin's surface, promoting cell turnover, reducing hyperpigmentation, and improving overall skin texture. Lactic acid, another AHA, is milder than glycolic acid, offering gentle exfoliation, hydration, and brightening effects while being suitable for sensitive skin types.

 

On the other hand, salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), is oil-soluble, making it effective in penetrating and unclogging pores, treating acne, and reducing inflammation, making it particularly suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.

     

HIGHER EDUCATION SKINCARE EASY A GLYCOLIC ACID EXFOLIATING PADS

 

BIOPHORA LACTIC ACID SERUM

 

IMAGE SKINCARE CLEAR CELL CLARIFYING SALICYLIC MASQUE

 

GROWTH FACTORS, CYTOKINES, PEPTIDES

 

Peptides, Epidermal Growth Factors (EGF), and Keratinocyte Growth Factors (KGF) are proteins that each play essential roles in skin physiology and wound healing. 

 

• EGF promotes the healing of wounds and injuries by accelerating the production and regulating the turnover of skin cells.  In skincare, EGF is often included in formulations to support collagen synthesis and promote smoother, more youthful-looking skin.
• KGF is a member of the fibroblast growth factor family and primarily acts on keratinocytes, the predominant cells in the epidermis. KGF supports the growth, differentiation, and migration of keratinocytes, contributing to the maintenance of the epidermal barrier. It is involved in the wound healing process and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, helping to regulate immune responses in the skin.

 

The SkinMedica TNS Recovery Complex® is a product that we carry with the highest level of naturally occurring growth factors. It is clinically shown to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, skin tone, texture and resiliency.

 

ROSEHIP

 

Rosehip oil, derived from the seeds of rosehips, is renowned for its richness in essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, as well as antioxidants like vitamin C. Rosehip oil helps nourish and moisturize the skin, and its antioxidant properties contribute to protecting the skin from free radical damage, potentially reducing signs of premature aging. It is a versatile ingredient in skincare routines and can be mixed with other ingredients. 

   

EMINENCE ORGANICS ROSEHIP TRIPLE C+E FIRMING OIL

 

CENTELLA ASIATICA

 

Centella Asiatica is a herbaceous plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Asian cultures. In recent years, Centella Asiatica has gained popularity in the skincare industry for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. It is also 

 

Centella Asiatica is commonly found in various skincare products like serums, creams (such as our Yonka Paris Anti-Redness Cream), toners, and spot treatments. Products featuring Centella asiatica are often marketed for sensitive, irritated, or acne-prone skin.

 

Until next time,

 

The BSE Team