Top Skincare Ingredients of 2021

Every year, we get a list of new skincare ingredients anticipated to dominate in the coming year. Since we’re approaching the halfway mark of 2021, I decided to take a look at the ingredients that have been all the rage since the beginning of this new year and give you my top skincare ingredients for 2021.

1. Hyaluronic Acid
   
   

I’m sure you’ve heard of hyaluronic acid and it’s intense hydration capabilities. There are a few ingredients that moisturize and hydrate as well as hyaluronic acid. The hydration powerhouse can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, plumping the skin with moisture, so it looks soft, smooth, and more youthful. A hyaluronic acid serum can replenish your skin and give you more soft, supple looking skin. This is one of my top skincare ingredients this year.

2. Niacinamide

Another ingredient that has gained a lot of eyeballs this year is Niacinamide. It is a form of Vitamin B3 and research has also shown that it:

• Strengthens skin barriers by building keratin and aiding growth of lipid barriers.

• Minimizes pores, redness and inflammation

• Treats hyperpigmentation and acne

• Reduces signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles

• Protects the skin from oxidative stress like UV Rays and pollution.

• Fights discoloration and brightens your skin.

This potent antioxidant can be used by people across all age groups and of all skin types.

 

 

 

 

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3. AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)

Exfoliation is an important tool for getting healthy skin. It is important to clean off the dead skin that accumulates overtime. AHA is a chemical exfoliator that helps you do just that. They remove the buildup of dead skin and make your skin appear brighter.

Some of the most common AHAs that offer these benefits are glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid. You can find these AHAs in a variety of different skin care product formulas, including moisturizers, toners, and serums. It is, however, important to remember that using AHAs will make your skin more sensitive to the sun, which is why it is essential to wear sunscreen everyday. My recommendation is a sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 or higher.

4. Retinol

Retinol has been a popular skincare ingredient for a while now. But it’s anti-aging properties are timeless. It is one of the best skincare ingredients to include in your routine. But before you start using retinol, it is important to allow for an acclimation period.

Retinol is a powerful ingredient which is why it takes time for your skin to get used to it. It also increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun which makes a sunscreen indispensable. There is no particular age to start using an anti-aging ingredient but it would be ideal to include one in your routine in your late 20s. Before you do start using retinol, consult your skin specialist to find the right concentration for your skin type.

5. Squalane

Squalene is a fairly new ingredient that has gained a lot of attention in the last few months. It is an emollient, a type of moisturizer that seals in moisturize and minimizes moisture loss by enriching the moisture barriers in your skin. It is an ingredient that is absorbed quickly and is suitable for all skin types. It is also super lightweight and has a non-greasy formula. It is a great way to keep your skin hydrated by locking in moisture.

With that, you have my 5 top skincare ingredients to include in your skincare routine. Before you include any of these in your regime, please consult a skin specialist near you to find out if the ingredient will be helpful for you. If you need help to chart out a skincare routine to help with specific concerns, you can book an appointment with us.