We have talked about the importance of skin care and how to get a basic start to your perfect skin care routine. Now let's take some time to dive deeper into products. The reality with skincare is that everyone has different skin. What my skin needs might be very different from what your skin needs. Take time to learn about your skin. Aside from face wash, sunscreen and moisturizer today we will talk about 3 ingredients you should include in your skin care routine.
I don't know about you, but I have felt overwhelmed with the amount of products out there. They all have very technical names and I never know where to even start. I want to help you feel confident in what products to add to your routine.
Retinol
I am sure you have heard that word before, but there is a good chance that you might not be all that sure on what it means. Retinol is an ingredient that has vitamin A, to help with many types of skin conditions such as acne, fine lines, wrinkles, age and sun spots, and many others.
Unlike other products, retinol does not remove skin cells. Instead, the molecules in retinol neutralize free radical to boost production of elastin and collagen by going into the skin. This creates a "plumping" effect that fills in lines and pores, reducing lines and wrinkles. Another benefit of using retinol is that when used, it also give the skin an exfoliating effect helping improve the texture of the skin. Retinol is also great to help maintain hydrated skin; this light exfoliating effect helps remove dead skin that leads to moisture loss. It is a simple way to help your skin maintain a healthy and natural hydration balance.
Remember that your best skin will take time. Retinol should be used daily and over a long period of time to see significant results. Some times, it will be a matter of weeks before you see results while other times it could be up to 12 months before seeing significance skin improvements.
Hyaluronic Acid
Do you feel your skin is dry and lacking hydration? If so, then maybe you need look a little more into using products that contain hyaluronic acid.
Hyaluronic acid is known for its ability to retain moisture. Most people think that dry skin only has to do with aesthetic, but it goes beyond that. According to an article published by everyday health, "Poorly hydrated skin is unable to maintain an appropriately intact skin barrier, leaving the skin more vulnerable to damage from external and environment sources."
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There are different types of hyaluronic acids, each one has different functions and can be found in different types of products.
- Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid is a type of hyaluronic acid that is broken down enough to penetrate the skin, leaving the skin moisturized but it is does not contain the highest level of moisture. If you have oily or combination skin, this might be the best type of hyaluronic acid for your skin in order to not over moisturize.
- Sodium Hyaluronate goes deeper into the skin to give even better results when it comes to hydration, this is typically found in serums. Although sodium hyaluronate delivers better results, they are not long lasting. Sodium hyaluronate is recommend for those that have normal skin.
- Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate has the same hydrating effect as sodium hyaluronate. The difference between the two is that sodium acetylated hyaluronate has long lasting effects. This is perfect for those with dry skin or those who live in places with dry climates.
Hyaluronic acid has become a very popular ingredient in many skin care products. Some products that may contain hyaluronic acid include: serums, sheet masks, eye creams, moisturizers and cleansers. I know you can easily find it at your local drug store at a very affordable price.
Vitamin E
Have you ever heard of Alpha-tocypherol? It is very likely that you have never heard of it. If you have, then great! If you haven't then no worries neither had I. Alpha-tocypherol is the form of vitamin E that humans can metabolize. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and an oil that can be found in natural sources such as avocados and pumpkins.
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Vitamin E helps heal skin, keep skin moist, soothe skin and protect skin from sun. If your skin is very sensitive to the sun, you can combine vitamin E under sunscreen with vitamin C and it can provide up to 4 times more protection than a regular sunscreen. The use of vitamin E can also help prevent black heads from occurring by discouraging sebum oxidation.
When using vitamin E, keep in mind that it is usually available in small concentrations. For the most part, you will have to test it out on your skin. Start out by testing it out on problem areas such as scars to learn how your skin reacts to it.
That's a Great Start
Now you know about 3 ingredients and how they can be beneficial to your skin. Don't be overwhelmed by the amount of products out there. Take some time and pay close attention to the ingredients in the products you purchase for your skincare routine.
Sources:
https://www.byrdie.com/vitamin-e-oil-uses
https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-beauty/hyaluronic-acid-definition-benefits-and-the-best-serums/
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-does-retinol-work#takeaway
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