Active ingredients play a central role in your skincare routine. These powerful substances are responsible for visible improvements in your skin, such as hydration for dry skin, tackling blemishes, or reducing fine lines. But what active ingredients are there, and how do they work in your favor?
Active ingredients vs. inactive ingredients
Active ingredients are specially selected substances that target specific skin concerns, such as pigmentation, dryness, acne, or fine lines. Their effectiveness is scientifically backed, and they are added to skincare products in specific concentrations to achieve the desired result.
Inactive ingredients, on the other hand, have a supporting role in the product without directly working on the skin. These include substances that improve texture, such as water or emulsifiers, and ingredients that provide a pleasant fragrance or improve shelf life.
Top 5 active ingredients in skincare
+ Vitamin C
In a world where we are frequently exposed to free radicals, vitamin c is a must-have in your skincare routine. This powerful antioxidant protects your skin from damage caused by free radicals, such as inflammation and skin aging, and helps improve the overall health of your skin. Does your skin need a boost? Check out the various vitamin c serums in our collection. The serums we offer are often enriched with vitamin c from the kakadu plum. This active ingredient has a wonderful protective, nourishing, and restorative ability. For more information about the benefits of vitamin c, refer to the article ‘5 reasons to love vitamin c in your skincare’.
+ Niacinamide
Niacinamide, or vitamin b3, is an active ingredient due to its powerful effects on the skin. It regulates sebum production, reduces inflammation, and contributes to improving the skin tone. Niacinamide has the ability to strengthen the skin barrier, reduce fine lines, and improve hydration. This makes it a versatile ingredient for almost every skin type. Two beautiful products containing this ingredient are the Sans [ceuticals] barrier restore butter, which can be used for the body and hands, and the ageless aha glow concentrate from Retreatment Botanics. Want to learn more about this fantastic ingredient? Read: niacinamide: a game-changing ingredient for a flawless skin.
+ (Phyto-)retinol
You’ve probably heard of retinol (also known as vitamin a) and the wonders it can do for your skin. This active ingredient has a skin-renewing effect, improves skin texture, and reduces hyperpigmentation and fine lines. Retinol also normalizes cell turnover and contributes to healthy collagen production. The Sans [ceuticals] activator 7 body + hair + face oil contains this active ingredient and can be used on the entire body. Looking for a milder form of retinol? Phyto-retinol is a great alternative! What makes it different from retinol? Phyto-retinol is a plant-based alternative to retinol, with similar benefits but gentler on the skin. The white tea phyto-retinol elixir from Ere Perez is one of our products where phyto-retinol is central. With backuchiol as the phyto-retinol source, this elixir ensures a radiant complexion. Want to learn more about phyto-retinol? Check out the articles ‘why your skin needs phyto-retinol’ and ‘it’s retinol, but not as you know it’ for all the information you need.
+ Hyaluronic acid
Let’s talk about hyaluronic acid, the ultimate thirst quencher for your skin. This active ingredient works as a moisture magnet and can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. Due to its ability to attract and retain moisture, hyaluronic acid helps strengthen the skin barrier and provides intensive, long-lasting hydration. Is your skin missing that healthy, radiant glow? A great product with hyaluronic acid is the organic hyaluronic hydration complex from INIKA, but the quandong green booster serum from Ere Perez also contains this powerful ingredient. Learn how to use this active ingredient correctly in the article ‘using a hyaluronic acid serum the right way’.
+ AHA
AHAs, or alpha hydroxy acids, are the exfoliating heroes of the skincare world. This active ingredient consists of fruit acids that are great for removing dead skin cells, improving skin texture and tone, and stimulating collagen production. The result? Smooth and hydrated skin with a healthy glow! In which products can you find this active ingredient? Among others, in the caviar lime aha resurfacing serum from RAWW cosmetics. You can learn more about AHA and how to best incorporate this active ingredient into your skincare routine in the article ‘the benefits of AHAs’.
The power of active ingredients in your routine
Active ingredients are the building blocks of an effective skincare routine. Due to their targeted action, they can address skin issues and transform your skin. By carefully choosing the right ingredients, such as vitamin c to protect your skin or niacinamide for repairing your skin barrier, you’re giving your skin exactly what it needs to stay healthy and radiant. Discover the power of natural skincare with our full collection.
